So you’ve moved into a new home and are a bit confused as to what power lines are poles it is for you to maintain. If you have a power line that is private, then you need to take care of it and maintain it as well. Defects have to be fixed along with clearing trees and branches that might be a hazard. Maintaining a clear power line reduces risks of electrocution and also reduces chances of bushfires.

This maintenance should be done with help from level 2 electrical contractors. They are licensed and reputable people with extensive knowledge of all things electrical. Maintaining a power line is not something you should try on your own. It calls for a certain degree of finesse and practicality which most people don’t have.

Sometimes, you might also need power pole replacement. This usually happens in the aftermath of a storm, and once again, these trustworthy technicians are the ones to call. There will be a network provider’s power line, to which is attached a meter. The power lines connecting the house to the network provider are private power lines, and these are linked with private power poles. I hope you got the picture.Moving on, the private power line starts from the first low voltage pole on your property. Now it is your responsibility to maintain and take care of this pole and all other poles that are further connected to your house, along with maintenance of the meter. If you find that your connection comes from a high voltage power line and a transformer, you would require advice from the Department of justice as to who’s responsible for the maintenance and repair.

There are three types of poles. The first, treated hardwood, are the most common and preferred ones. They last around 40 years and are maintained by 3 year cycles. The second kind is natural wood poles; they have an expectancy of 7-8 years. Inspection takes place on a three and a half year cycle. Steel poles round off the list, they last around 20 years and are affected by ground and service conditions prevalent. These are inspected once every 3.5 years.

You can help to increase the life of a pole by carrying out weed and bush removal at regular intervals around its base. All vegetation should be at least 3 meters from the overhead power lines. Vegetation management should only be undertaken by a contractor who has experience in dealing with active power lines.You could also check the pole for structural strength by checking to see if it’s leaning, any missing nuts and bolts, loose and hanging steelwork, or broken insulators or wires. Contact your electrical contractor right away if so.