Meters and appliances

Your electricity meter

ESB Networks owns your electricity meter and main fuse, including smart meters. These are sealed and must never be interfered or tampered with.

• Never open, move or interfere with your meter or its seals.
• Keep the area around your meter clear so it can be reached in an emergency.
• If you notice damage, a burning smell or sparking, keep clear and call the ESB
• Networks 24-hour emergency number on 1800 372 999.

Tampering with a meter is dangerous and illegal. You can report suspected tampering in confidence to ESB Networks on 1800 211 827

Your fuse board and wiring

You are responsible for the safety of the electrical wiring in your home. Your fuse board controls the electricity supply to the circuits in your home. Make sure you know where it is and how to switch off the power in an emergency.

• If a trip switch keeps going off, don't keep resetting it. Contact a Registered Electrical Contractor.
• Only a Registered Electrical Contractor should carry out electrical work in your home. It is the law.

Using appliances safely

You are also responsible for how you use electrical appliances. Simple everyday habits can help prevent fires and electric shocks:

• Replace frayed wires, loose connections or damaged plugs immediately.
• Always switch off and unplug electrical items when not in use.
• Don't overload sockets with adaptors or extension blocks.
• Unwind extension leads fully to avoid overheating.
• Always use plugs and switches with dry hands.
• Keep heaters away from clothes, bedding and curtains.

If you rent, tell your landlord about any problem with wiring or appliances they supplied. Don't try to repair it yourself.

Safety checks

Carry out these checks twice a year, when the clocks change: