A load limiter is a device installed on an electricity meter when a retailer wishes to limit the amount of power available to a property without fully disconnecting the service. When a limiter is installed, it will allow a home to run its furnace, fridge, one stove element and a few light bulbs.
If too much electricity is used at one time, the limiter will 'trip' and turn off your power. Depending what type of limiter is on your meter, you may be able to reset the power yourself or you may have to wait an allotted amount of time before electricity or natural gas services are restored. This time differs between distribution companies and can vary from about 15-30 minutes.
If you have a limiter installed at your property, please refer to your distribution company’s website to determine what type of limiter you have and how to work with it.
Remember:
- If you have tripped your limiter, reduce your electrical usage before the meter turns on again. This means unplugging devices and chargers that are use electricity without a power switch.
- Appliances that need 240 volts/15 amps of power (e.g. electric stove or dryer) will exceed the limiter cap and cause the power to turn off.
- Tampering with the limiter is illegal, extremely unsafe and will result in additional service fees and full disconnection of service. Repeated tampering could result in removal of your meter.
If you require electric medical equipment, ensure you have a back-up power supply as continuous electricity service is not guaranteed when a load limiter is installed.
How to restore your power:
- The only way to remove a load limiter from your meter is through your retailer. Contact your retailer directly to set up payment arrangements, make a payment, or advise of previous payments. If you have paid your bill in full, you still need to reach out to your retailer to request the removal of the limiter.
- Reconnection typically takes up to two (2) business days, which do not include weekends or holidays. If you require same day reconnection, you can request an urgent reconnection but there will be additional costs associated.
- Full power will return once the limiter is removed.
If your account remains unpaid at the end of the winter rules period, the distribution company will remove the limiter and fully disconnect your services.