Idaho Power in Action
Idaho Power visited our home remodeling project in Middleton, Idaho to install a new underground 400-amp electrical service. The existing panel is being tied into a brand-new pole that will support a larger transformer and modernized utility setup.
Removing the Old Pole
A new pole has been installed, and the old one is being removed to make way for the upgraded system. The new configuration includes a larger transformer to handle the increased service capacity. Crews began by preparing the area, securing the overhead lines, and setting up the top connection hardware.
Instead of a traditional grounding rod, a grounding plate was installed at the base of the trench. The ground wire connects to this plate and runs upward through the pole to ensure proper grounding throughout the system. Once the plate was in place, the team raised the new pole and carefully set it into the hole.
To ensure perfect vertical alignment, crews used a plumb bob to check the pole from multiple angles. The old pole leaned several feet compared to the new one, making the upgrade a clear improvement. With the new pole properly aligned, the team began attaching the wires—starting with the ground line.
Transformer installation
The grounding wire runs from the bottom plate to the midpoint of the pole, connecting to the transformer ground. A road base was brought in and compacted around the pole for stability. The crew also installed a fiberglass sweep and attached the low-voltage conduit to a bracket to accommodate future overhead cabling.
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A 50-kVA transformer was prepared for mounting on the new pole. It’s significantly larger—nearly three times the size of the old 10-kVA transformer—providing increased electrical capacity. Once prepped, the transformer was lifted into place and secured.
The crew then pushed the service wire through the conduit sweep and into the J box, feeding it toward the panel. After the wire was cut to length, it was fished through the trench to the proper termination points. Idaho Power used a mini excavator to safely remove the old pole and complete the installation area.
Wiring and Meter Base Connection
Approximately four to five extra feet of wire were pulled through the panel conduit to allow for easy handling and termination. The wire entered through the three-inch conduit and connected to the bottom of the meter base. The crew replaced an undersized lug with a larger one to ensure a secure, code-compliant connection.
Completion and Teamwork
The Idaho Power crew finished installing the new service and left. It was impressive to watch the linemen. They removed two poles, installed a new pole, and looped underground to the J box and meter in about two and a half hours.
If you need help building a custom home, ADU, or whole-house remodeling, request a project consultation with us. We have offices in Ramona, California, serving the San Diego County area, and Middleton, Idaho, serving the Boise Metro area. You can also explore our comprehensive collection of similar videos on our YouTube channel, The Real Property Show.
