A Service Entrance is the main point where electrical power enters a building from the utility company's power lines. It's like the 'front door' for electricity in a building. This includes the cables, conduit (protective tubing), meter socket, and main electrical panel. When this term appears in resumes, it usually refers to experience with installing, maintaining, or upgrading these main power connection points in homes or commercial buildings. Other common names for this are 'electrical service entrance' or 'main service'.
Installed Service Entrance systems for new residential construction projects
Upgraded outdated Service Entrance equipment to meet current electrical codes
Performed maintenance and repairs on Service Entrance and Electrical Service components
Certified in Service Entrance installation and Main Service upgrades
Typical job title: "Electrical Service Installers"
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Q: How do you determine the appropriate service entrance size for a large commercial building?
Expected Answer: A senior electrician should explain how they calculate power needs based on the building's size, equipment, and future expansion possibilities. They should mention load calculations, code requirements, and coordination with utility companies.
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when upgrading a service entrance?
Expected Answer: Should discuss utility company coordination, proper shutdown procedures, safety equipment, permits required, and how to ensure the safety of both workers and building occupants during the upgrade.
Q: What are the main components of a service entrance and their functions?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic parts: service drop/lateral, meter base, main disconnect, grounding system, and service panel, in simple terms with their purposes.
Q: How do you ensure a service entrance installation meets code requirements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss familiarity with local electrical codes, proper documentation, inspection processes, and common compliance issues.
Q: What safety equipment is required when working on a service entrance?
Expected Answer: Should list basic safety gear like insulated gloves, safety glasses, proper tools, and understanding of lockout/tagout procedures.
Q: Explain the difference between overhead and underground service entrances.
Expected Answer: Should describe basic differences in installation methods, materials used, and when each type is typically used in residential settings.