What Is a Weatherhead?
Weatherhead is a protective fitting at the top of an overhead electrical service mast. The fitting directs service entrance conductors into a building while its shaped opening and cover help keep rain away from the conductors and mast. A Weatherhead works with the service mast, conduit, and utility connection as part of the service entrance.
Quick Facts About Weatherhead
Category
Electrical service entrance fitting
Used for
Protecting overhead service conductors
Common confusion
Confused with the service mast or disconnect
Also called
Service Entrance Cap, Service head
Often discussed with
Electrical Service Upgrade
Key Takeaways About Weatherhead
- It sits at the top of an overhead service mast.
- Its opening faces downward to help shed rain.
- It is not the same as a service disconnect.
How Weatherhead Works
A Weatherhead forms the upper end of an overhead service entrance. Service entrance conductors pass through the fitting before reaching the utility connection. The fitting points the entry downward, which helps water drain away from the conductors and conduit. A cover and sealed openings also reduce exposure to rain.
Related glossary terms: Service Disconnect, Conduit, Electrical Grounding.
The Weatherhead connects to the service mast or conduit above the building. Its position supports the required path for conductors entering the structure, while the mast supports the overhead connection. During an electrical service upgrade, an electrician checks the fitting, conduit, conductors, and attachment points as one connected assembly. Damage, corrosion, loose parts, or an incorrect position can affect the service entrance and may require correction.
From the GMB Electric team
When we inspect a Weatherhead during an electrical service upgrade, we check its cover, entry opening, conduit connection, and visible signs of water entry. We also examine how the fitting aligns with the service mast and conductors. These checks help us identify service entrance issues before work continues.
Weatherhead in Practice: A Real-World Example
During an electrical service upgrade, a Weatherhead may remain attached to the service mast while the electrician checks its condition and connection points. If the fitting is damaged or allows water toward the conductors, the upgrade may include correcting that part of the service entrance.
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Related Terms
Service Disconnect
Service Disconnect is the main device that separates a building’s electrical system from the utility supply…
Conduit
A conduit is a protective tube or channel that routes electrical wires and shields them from…
Electrical Grounding
Electrical Grounding is the intentional connection of electrical equipment and systems to the earth through a…
Main Breaker
A Main Breaker is the primary circuit breaker in an electrical panel that controls power entering…
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Have Questions About Weatherhead?
Contact GMB Electric for practical guidance on Weatherhead and related 24 hour electrician work in Indianapolis.