Meter boxes are not what they once were, so let’s take a look at how they have evolved.
Where it all started
The first electricity meter was invented in the late 1800s in response to the need to measure electricity consumption and charge customers accurately. They took inspiration from existing gas meters and were predominantly installed outside buildings with little protection from the elements. Designers went back to the drawing board and a ‘reason meter’ followed, introducing the idea of users topping up a meter.
From trial and error to precision
A design that offered precise direct current readings, also known as DC, came about in the late 1880s. With these more accurate meters becoming widespread, it became standard to build boxes to encase them. While these were initially crafted from wood, it wasn’t long until the metal meter box was introduced, offering protection and security.
Enhanced durability
By the mid-20th century, it became a race to make meter boxes as durable as possible. Different materials, including various types of metal, were considered; however, as many of them either rusted or corroded, they were eventually replaced by fibreglass and polyethene. These offered much longer lifespans and far improved insulation. You can buy modern meter boxes from companies such as www.meterbox.co.uk/.
The digital 21st century
It will come as no surprise that most meters are now electronic and digitalised smart meters. The massive benefits of smart technology are that users can see how much energy they are using in real-time and be more conscious of their carbon footprint.