If your meter box door is broken, weak, or even just looking old and tired, it may need replacing. Luckily, replacing the door on your meter box is a quick, easy fix that only takes a couple of minutes.
In this guide we’ll show just how straightforward this task is, covering all the information you might need to know before you start. We’ll explain who can fit these replacements and what door you’ll need, alongside a step-by-step guide to fitting.
So if you need to fit a new meter door for your overbox, read on.
When do I need to replace my meter door?
There is no set time frame for when you will need to fit replacement doors on your meter box. In many cases, faulty or damaged meter boxes can be fixed with a much easier, more cost-effective fix like replacing the hinges or the door latch.
However, if the door itself cracks or warps, or if the hinges snap off completely, you may need to replace your meter box door.
Ordering A Replacement Meter Box Door
Before you buy a replacement new meter box door, you need to make sure you’ve found the right one. To do this, you’ll need to know a couple of things including what size and type of door you need.
What is the difference between a replacement gas meter box door and one for an electric meter?
The first thing you need to know before ordering a replacement door is whether you’re replacing a gas meter box door or one for an electric meter box.
A gas meter box will need vents in it somewhere – partly for safety reasons and partly to let any condensation out so that it doesn’t damage the energy meter itself. In most cases, those vents are put in the door – you can usually see them on the front of it.
If your existing meter box is electric, having an unvented door is best to prevent moisture from getting in. We stock both types of doors here at Repair My Meter Box, and it is usually very easy to tell which type you need for your replacement.
Are meter box doors a standard size?
Not all meter boxes are a standard size, and even gas meter or electric meter boxes will differ. This means it’s always important to measure your meter box door before ordering a replacement – luckily you only need width and length measurements making this a very quick process.
When ordering your new door, you will also need to know whether your current meter door opens to the left or the right then order the new door accordingly. One final thing to check is what type of hinges your door uses.
How to measure for a new meter box door
Wherever possible, measure the old door itself rather than the opening. The best way to do this is to open it up, and then measure the inside of the door using a tape measure.
Fitting A New Meter Box Door
When your new door arrives on your doorstep, the task of fitting it begins. This is usually a simple and straightforward process, but we thought we’d answer some of the questions people need to know before they start.
Who can fit a replacement meter box door?
Much like most other meter box repairs, fitting a replacement door is an easy task that any competent DIY’er can do. The doors themselves aren’t particularly heavy either so you should be able to complete the task alone too.
How long does it take to replace a meter door?
Being so straightforward, it shouldn’t take long to replace your meter door either. In fact, our video shows how to get your new door fitted and working in only a few minutes.
What tools do I need to replace a meter box door?
All our meter box repair options, including replacement doors, are designed to be easy to fit. This means you won’t need any specialist tools or add-ons to get your door fitted. It will arrive on your doorstep with everything you need including pins. Your existing frame should also have pre-drilled holes to fit them into as well.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Meter Box Door
To fit your meter box door, follow these instructions:
- Make one final check on the size of your new meter door
However carefully you’ve taken and checked your measurements, it’s usually worth giving your door one final check just in case. - Remove your old door (if necessary)
- Find your the pre-drilled holes for the door pins
These could be on the left or right-hand side of the door frame. Hold the door firmly and insert the solid stainless steel pin into the bottom/top recess. - Release the spring pin
Press the brass spring pin in fully and slide it into the top recess, allowing the pin to spring back into the pre-drilled hole. - Close the door as normal and turn the latch
And there we go, your new door is installed and your energy meter is protected once again. It really is that simple.
Easy to Install Replacement Doors
Sometimes, all you need to get your meter box fully functioning again is a new door. With our range of replacement meter box doors, you’ll get one that is long-lasting and easy to install all without breaking the bank.