ARE YOU AT RISK FOR A METER LOSS? INCIDENTS OF TAMPERING & THEFT OF ELECTRIC METERS ARE ON THE RISE. PROTECT YOURS!
For an explanation of why it is legal to guard your existing analog meter see our post at: https://michiganstopsmartmeters.com/2014/06/23/smart-meters-to-guard-or-not-to-guard/
A meter can only be tampered with or removed if the meter box cover can be opened. There are two alternative devices we can recommend to prevent opening of the meter box cover by unauthorized persons.
(1) The “Tatar Guard”
(2) Custom cage by A/C Stolen Company
Each device has its advantages and disadvantages.
(1) The Tatar Guard: An ingenious device (shown below) made from two pieces of 3/16″ thick angle iron steel will make it very difficult and time consuming for anyone to remove your meter!
The bars are locked together with a shackle padlock (shown below) that is included in the price of the guard. The pivot is made of hard stainless steel and cannot be unscrewed. When locked there is no room to apply a bolt cutter to the lock. When the two 3/16″ thick angle bars are locked together the bolts that hold the device to side of house become inaccessible!
To get yours we ask that you participate in our survey. Just email us at [email protected] or phone us at (248) 604-7545. Let us know your address, how many meters you want to guard, and if they are the original utility installed analog meters or analog meters you installed. We will put you in touch with the inventor of the guard pictured above so that you can arrange for installation. You will need to give him the dimensions of your meter box, your name and address and contact information. Meter box must be clear of projections, cables or conduits on one of the side edges (left or right).
(2) Custom cage by A/C Stolen Company (Florida): Custom designs built to your specifications, 10-12 gauge steel frames. Easy to service.
Each cage is 100% welded, heavy duty 12 gauge steel. Hinges made from heavy duty rolled steel.
To get a quote on a custom cage contact Chuck Barlowe:
(239) 823-3066
To see their full line of meter cages go here: http://acstolen.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57&Itemid=62
Pros and Cons of Each Device: (1) The “Tatar Guard” is by far the lower cost option, and the price includes installation. Over 500 of these have been installed in southeastern Michigan and, so far at least, only a few have been defeated. However we are aware of certain vulnerabilities in the design and in the installation method. See our previously published discussion of these issues: https://michiganstopsmartmeters.com/tatar-guards-still-a-good-investment/
(2) The A/C Stolen custom built cages would be harder for anyone to defeat. However the price of one of these custom built cages is more than double the cost of the Tatar Guard, and installation services would have to be obtained locally at your own expense.