Meter cans might seem like small, unimportant boxes, but they play a significant role in keeping your electricity flowing. In a place like Pompano Beach, FL, where the weather can shift from sunny skies to heavy storms in no time, these meter cans face a range of harsh conditions. Over time, the elements wear them down, affecting how long they last and how well they function. Let’s break down how different weather factors impact their lifespan.
The Sun: Slowly Chipping Away
The Florida sun is relentless. The kind of heat makes you rethink your decision to step outside some days. For your meter can, constant exposure to the sun is no less harsh. UV rays beat down on it daily, causing the material to weaken over time. It’s similar to leaving something plastic outside—it gets brittle, cracks, and eventually starts falling apart. Even if it’s built to withstand some of this exposure, no material lasts forever under the sun’s glare. Over time, these effects leave the meter can vulnerable to further damage, such as rust or leaks.
Humidity and Moisture: Quiet but Destructive
Humidity might not seem a big deal at first glance, but it’s a constant companion in Florida. The air is thick with moisture, slowly making its way into every crack and seal in your meter can. That moisture leads to corrosion—rust forming inside the can and breaking down the internal components. In a coastal area like Pompano Beach, you’re dealing with salty air, too, which speeds up the process. Rust isn’t just an aesthetic problem; it can interfere with how the meter can functions, leading to electrical issues down the line.
And once rust takes hold, it doesn’t stop. It spreads, weakening the can’s structure and shortening its life.
Hurricanes: Weather’s No Time to Prepare
Hurricanes are a fact of life in Florida. When one hits, it’s not gentle. These storms bring winds strong enough to knock over trees, and they don’t spare meter cans either. Flying debris, torrential rain, and high winds seriously strain your meter can. It might not stand a chance if it’s already been weakened by sun or moisture. Even if it looks fine after the storm, hidden damage could mean trouble later. Wires could be loose, or connections might be damaged, leading to electrical failures or even fires down the road.
That’s why checking your meter can after a significant storm is essential—catch problems early before they worsen.
Rain: Persistent, Silent Damage
While hurricanes grab attention, the regular downpours in Pompano Beach cause wear and tear. Heavy rain can sneak into small openings in the meter can, especially if the seals have worn down over time. Once water gets inside, it can lead to short circuits and corrosion.
It doesn’t take a massive storm for rain to cause problems. Even more minor leaks, left unaddressed, can damage the internal components of your meter can, reducing its ability to function correctly and potentially leading to costly repairs.
What You Should Do
The weather in Pompano Beach isn’t going to change anytime soon, but you can take steps to protect your meter can. Regular maintenance and inspections will help you catch issues early, like rust or cracks, before they become more significant. Don’t wait for a total breakdown to find out something’s wrong. Keep your meter can in good condition, and you’ll avoid the hassle of unexpected repairs or power outages.
And if you do spot something off, don’t put up with any malarky. Call Service Minds Mister Sparky to make sure your meter can stay weather-ready, no matter what’s coming next from the sky.