Patent ID: 7611366

Claim:
A method of disconnecting electric service using a meter socket bypass disconnect device, comprising the steps of: a. removing a meter socket cover to expose a meter socket containing an electric meter; b. measuring electric current at electric terminals within said meter socket; c. if measurement of said current exceeds 100 amps, discontinuing the method; d. if measurement of said current is less than 100 amps, operably engaging a bypass handle to allow line current to bypass said meter socket; e. removing said electric meter; f. connecting a meter socket bypass disconnect device with a meter socket extender; g. operating a switch on said meter socket bypass disconnect device to a load closed position and electrically connecting said meter socket bypass disconnect device and meter socket extender with said meter socket; h. confirming load closed and proper electrical service phase status using meter socket bypass disconnect device indicators; i. operably moving a bypass handle to allow line current to flow through said meter socket; j. operating a switch on said meter socket bypass disconnect device to a load open position and confirming load open status using meter socket bypass disconnect device indicators; k. again measuring electric current at electric terminals within said meter socket to verify current of zero amps; l. replacing meter socket cover; m. removing meter socket bypass disconnect device from meter socket extender, leaving meter socket extender in place in said meter socket; n. installing disconnect sleeves on load terminals of said electric meter; o. installing said electric meter in said meter socket extender; p. installing a sealing ring on the electric meter/meter socket extender assembly, and; q. sealing the meter within a meter cover.