Are you planning to install a hot tub, electric vehicle (EV) charger, welder, shop heater, or other large electrical equipment at your home or business? Before you power up, it’s important to make sure your electrical system – including your transformer – is properly sized to handle the additional load.
When you add high-load equipment without notifying MEA, you risk overloading the transformer – which can have serious and costly consequences.
When you add high-demand equipment without notifying MEA, you risk overloading your transformer. This can lead to:
A transformer converts high-voltage electricity from MEA’s power lines into the lower voltage used at your home or business. It’s typically sized to match the average energy needs of your property. When new, high-load devices are added, your transformer may no longer be sufficient — putting your equipment, and our system, at risk.
• Fire Hazard: Overloaded transformers can overheat, posing a real fire risk to your property and nearby infrastructure.
• Equipment Damage: Sensitive electronics, appliances, and HVAC systems can be damaged due to voltage drops or power quality issues caused by an overloaded transformer.
• Expensive Repairs: If a transformer fails due to unreported load additions, the member or property owner may be held financially responsible for the damage and repair costs.
If you're planning to install high-demand electrical equipment, call us at (907) 761-9300 or submit a request through email at: info@mea.coop. Our team is here to help ensure your service is safe, reliable, and ready for whatever your next project brings. Below are the tariffs regarding additional load and the responsibilities of each member regarding service upgrades. To review the rules and regulations related to service upgrades and added electrical load, please click the button below.
