Why meters need to be replaced

Electrical meters typically expire six to ten years after installation. Federal regulations require all meters used for electrical billing to be regularly verified for accuracy by an accredited service provider. 

Meters that are not verified within the required timeline are considered expired and cannot legally remain in service. 

Replacing expired meters helps: 

• Ensure fair and accurate billing and measurement of electricity use
• Ensure that all electricity measurement devices are compliant with federal trade measurement laws

What to expect during the meter exchange

If the meter is located inside your home or behind a locked area, someone will need to be present. If it is outside and easily accessible, you do not need to be home. During a meter exchange you can expect:

• The process takes approximately 10 minutes.
• Meter exchanges are completed by qualified ENMAX crews or ENMAX contractors. If you ever feel unsafe or have concerns about crews on your property, please let ENMAX know right away and we can help verify the crew on site.
• Power is briefly disconnected during the work.
• Electricity is restored immediately after the meter exchange.
• There is no cost to you for the meter exchange.
• ENMAX disposes of the expired meter safely and responsibly, with most components recycled where possible.

There may be times when our crews identify an electrical code violation during the meter exchange, which delays the reconnection of power until a certified electrician has fixed the issue. We will support with explaining the concern, outlining next steps and work with your to ensure the power can be safely turned back on once work is completed.

What happens when we can’t access your meter?

If the meter has expired and is not easily accessible, we will make several attempts to contact you to arrange a meter exchange. 

Booking in advance is the best way to avoid service interruption and ensure a smooth and timely replacement. 

To book an appointment:

• Email: msc@enmax.com
• Phone: 403-514-2807
• Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Please ensure ENMAX crews have safe, clear, and unrestricted access to the meter. 

Power will be disconnected if an expired meter could not be replaced after multiple contact attempts, including phone calls, letters, registered mail, and site visits. 

To restore power, a meter exchange must be completed. Once the exchange is done and the site is confirmed safe, power is typically restored as soon as possible.

Measurement Canada oversight

Measurement Canada, a federally regulated body, ensures meters are accurate and approved by:

• Requiring rigorous testing before meters are approved for use
• Mandating periodic reverification
• Conducting audits and enforcing compliance by ensuring all measurements trace back to national standards

Federal law does not allow expired meters to remain in service. Customers may raise concerns about a new meter with Measurement Canada.

Have more questions about meter replacement?

Contact ENMAX at msc@enmax.com or 403-514-2807