Service entrance

 two common ways to connect a home to the electrical grid: Aerial Service Entrance and Buried Service Entrance. Let's break down the key elements:

1. Aerial Service Entrance:

* Service Drop: This is the overhead line that connects the utility pole to the house. It typically consists of three wires: two "hot" primary wires carrying electricity, a neutral wire, and a ground wire.

* Weatherhead: A protective fitting on the side of the house where the service drop connects.

* Splice Point: A point where the service drop may be spliced to connect to different parts of the house.

* Meter Panel: The location where the electricity meter is installed and the connection to the house's electrical system is made.

2. Buried Service Entrance:

* Conduit to Bottom of Pole: The electrical wires are enclosed in a conduit (protective pipe) that runs from the utility pole to the ground.

* Service Laterals: Underground cables (typically three insulated conductors) carry the electricity from the conduit to the meter panel.

* Meter Panel: Similar to the aerial service, this is where the meter is installed and the connection to the house's electrical system is made.

Key Differences:

* Overhead vs. Underground: The most obvious difference is how the wires are routed: overhead for aerial service and underground for buried service.

* Aesthetics: Buried service entrances are generally considered more aesthetically pleasing as they don't have overhead wires.

* Cost: Buried service entrances are typically more expensive to install due to the excavation and trenching required.

* Safety: Buried service entrances are generally considered safer as they are less susceptible to damage from storms, tree branches, or other hazards.

If you'd like to learn more about specific aspects of electrical service entrances or have any other questions, feel free to ask!