Having been a licensed electrician and an electrical engineer in a previous life, I am always on the look-out for unsafe electrical practices. Occasionally, I come across an external panel that is locked. I really wish the homeowner knew how dangerous this situation really is. All electric panels must have free and unrestricted access at all times! Your property, life or that of a loved one could be at risk.
Here are some of the things that I encounter with locked panels.
- The home owner does not know the combo code.
- The owner has to rifle through a drawer for several minutes looking for the key!
- They cannot find the key.
- The lock is frozen.
- I wind up cutting the lock off with bolt cutters.
I understand that in some neighborhoods, kids play pranks by flipping the main breaker. Some feel that it adds to their security. If a crook wants to get into your property, most locks are no match for a good grade of bolt cutter!
If you feel you must lock your panel follow these simple guidelines:
- Use a high grade brass lock instead of a cheap steel one. Good brass locks are not as likely to seize or rust in the locked position.
- Periodically open and close the lock several times a year. This will ensure that it will operate properly.
- Keep the key in a readily accessible location by an entry door. In an emergency, seconds count!
- Keep access to the panel clear and unrestricted.
If you find this information helpful, feel free to pass it on to a friend or colleague.
This comment has been brought to you by Michael Thornton - Tennessee's Favorite Home Inspector. I am an ASHI certified inspector and president of Complete Home Inspections, Inc.. We are serving the greater Nashville Metro area one satisfied customer, one house at a time.
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Is it common to have the electrical panal on the outside of the home? I do not see this very often in my area. Just curious.
I have never heard of the box being outside - That in itself sounds very dangerous. Thanks for another great posting.
Hi, Michael
We don't see exterior panels all that often here. Generally the only exterior connection is at the main service panel. Locking it is definitely never a good idea. Where I've seen it locked, I always tell the owners that a cable tie would be a better option. Any kitchen knife could remove it but it would stop the twits who would do something to it out of convenience... much like the little locks on luggage. Definitely not secure, but perhaps secure enough to make someone think twice. Merry Christmas, Michael!