Mesa is the largest city in the East Valley, and its housing runs from 1950s and 1960s homes around downtown and the older neighborhoods west of Gilbert Road to Dobson Ranch, Red Mountain Ranch, Las Sendas and new construction in Eastmark.
Older wiring in central Mesa
Mid-century Mesa homes can have original panels, ungrounded outlets, undersized service and wiring that has been added to by several owners. Panels from that era, including Federal Pacific and Zinsco, deserve an evaluation. An older home doesn’t have to be rewired all at once, but it does need a clear picture before new loads are added.
Two utilities in one city
The City of Mesa runs its own electric utility in parts of central Mesa, while SRP serves most of the rest of the city. Your bill tells you which one is yours, and that’s who to call for meter, service drop and outage problems.
City of Mesa permits
The City of Mesa issues electrical permits and inspections inside city limits. Some county islands within Mesa’s borders are permitted by Maricopa County instead.
Mesa questions
Asked in Mesa.
Does the City of Mesa provide my electricity?
It depends on your address. The City of Mesa operates an electric utility serving parts of central Mesa, and SRP serves most of the rest of the city. Your electric bill shows which utility you have.
My Mesa home has two-prong outlets. Is that a problem?
Two-prong outlets mean the circuit has no equipment ground. Options include running a ground, or protecting the circuit with GFCI devices labeled “No equipment ground”, which code allows. An electrician can tell you which fits your house and what you plan to plug in.
Should I replace the original panel in my 1960s Mesa house?
If it’s a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, or it shows heat damage, rust or no spare spaces, replacement is usually the right call. Otherwise, have it evaluated first; some older panels are still serviceable.