The electric lines to the customer usually consist of two 120-volt lines and a neutral line from which customers can get 120 or 240 volts of power (see diagram 9). The device that measures and records electricity usage each month is called a meter.
There are two kinds of electric lines on the distribution system: three-phase or single-phase. Customers who need large amounts of electricity to run heavy machinery require three-phase service. Residential customers use single-phase service (see diagram 9).
Customers receive electricity through either overhead or underground lines. In underground service, distribution transformers are installed at or below ground level. Transformers and other equipment in the overhead system are mounted on poles or other supporting structures.
Although reliability of service is almost 100 percent, there can be service interruptions. Usually, falling tree limbs, animals, lightning, wind or car accidents are responsible.
Stay away from fallen power lines and anything the lines may touch, such as a fence or metal building.
Find out more about electricity and generation from the glossary of terms.