Okay, you're asking about alternatives to the Square D EZ Meter-Pak system for a 9-unit multi-family building, and whether exploring those alternatives is a worthwhile endeavor considering both cost and labor. Let's break this down.

Alternatives to the EZ Meter-Pak System (9 Gang)

Here are some common alternatives, along with their pros, cons, and cost considerations:1.

Individual Meter Sockets with Separate Gutters



Description

Nine individual meter sockets (each rated for the appropriate amperage) are mounted, and a separate gutter (wireway) is installed above or below them to house the service conductors and feeder conductors.

Pros



Flexibility

Easier to customize and adapt to unusual building configurations.

Component-Based

You can select specific brands and models for each component.

Potentially Cheaper Upfront Cost

Depending on the brand of meter sockets and gutter, individual components might be slightly cheaper than a complete EZ Meter-Pak. This is heavily dependent on market pricing.

Easier Repair/Replacement

If one meter socket fails, you only replace that one.

Cons



More Labor

Significantly more time spent installing each individual component (meter sockets, wireway, connectors).

More Parts & Inventory

Need to manage and source more separate parts.

Higher Risk of Errors

More connections, more potential points of failure if not installed correctly.

Code Compliance Issues

More chances to violate NEC requirements regarding conductor fill in the gutter, bonding/grounding, and proper support. You must be diligent with your calculations and adhere to the NEC.

Appearance

Can be less aesthetically pleasing than a single, integrated unit.

Cost-Effectiveness

Generally, this approach is not more cost-effective, especially when factoring in labor. The potential slight material cost savings are often eaten up by the increased installation time.2.

Custom-Built Meter Center Enclosure



Description

A fabricator builds a custom metal enclosure that houses all nine meter sockets, the main disconnect (if required), and the necessary wiring space.

Pros



Highly Customizable

Can be tailored to very specific space constraints or aesthetic requirements.

Potentially Enhanced Security

A well-designed custom enclosure can be more secure.

Centralized Maintenance

Everything is in one location.

Cons



Highest Upfront Cost

Custom fabrication is expensive. You'll need engineering drawings and potentially UL listing/labeling.

Long Lead Times

Fabrication can take weeks or months.

Dependence on Fabricator

You're relying on the quality and expertise of the fabricator.

Cost-Effectiveness

Almost always the least cost-effective option unless there are very specific and compelling reasons (e.g., historical building restrictions, extreme space limitations).3.

Ganged Meter Socket Assemblies (Non-EZ Meter-Pak)



Description

Using a manufacturer like Milbank, Eaton, GE, or Siemens, and using their components to assemble a 9 gang meter system.

Pros



More Brand Choice

If you don't like Square D, you can use a different brand.

Similar install: Usually will bolt together similarly to a EZ Meter-Pak Component-Based

You can select specific brands and models for each component.

Cons



Availability: You may have to call around for stock or wait for it to be produced. Cost-Effectiveness

Will likely be similar in cost to EZ Meter-Pak systems.4.

Combination of Meter Centers



Description

Use a 5 gang meter center + a 4 gang meter center.

Pros



Availability: If stock is an issue, you can potentially get 2 separate meter centers faster than one. Easier to handle: Less weight than a 9 gang meter center. Cons



Aesthetics: May look awkward. Extra feeder: You may need to run a separate set of feeders to the extra meter center. Cost-Effectiveness

Will likely be more expensive due to extra parts needed.

Is Exploring Alternatives Worth It?

Here's how to decide: Time is Money

How much is your electrician's time worth per hour? The increased labor for alternatives (especially individual meter sockets) will quickly offset any potential material cost savings.

Quantity Discount

Can you get a volume discount on the EZ Meter-Pak if you're buying multiple units for other projects?

Project Complexity

Is the building layout straightforward? If so, the EZ Meter-Pak is likely the best choice. If there are unusual angles or obstructions, individual sockets might provide more flexibility (but at a cost).

Aesthetics

Does the client have specific aesthetic preferences? A custom enclosure can address this, but again, at a premium.

Long-Term Maintenance

EZ Meter-Paks are readily replaceable if a complete failure occurs. Individual components are generally easy to source as well.

Inspectors

Consider the familiarity of your local electrical inspectors with different types of installations. A well-executed EZ Meter-Pak installation is less likely to raise red flags than a complex, custom setup.

When Alternatives Might Make Sense



Extremely Tight Spaces

If a standard EZ Meter-Pak won't physically fit, individual sockets with a gutter or a custom enclosure might be necessary.

Specialized Features

If you need very specific features that aren't available on the EZ Meter-Pak (e.g., specific surge protection devices, advanced metering options), alternatives might be required.

Phased Installation

If you need to install the meters in phases, individual meters are an option, but is usually not worth it.

My Recommendation

In the vast majority of cases, for a standard 9-unit multi-family building, the

EZ Meter-Pak system (or similar pre-assembled meter center from another reputable manufacturer) will be the most cost-effective and efficient solution. The time savings in installation, reduced risk of errors, and ease of maintenance typically outweigh any potential material cost savings from individual components.

Here's what I would do


Get a Quote

Get a firm quote for the EZ Meter-Pak system from your local supplier.2.

Estimate Labor

Accurately estimate the labor hours required to install the EZ Meter-Pak.3.

Research Alternatives

Get preliminary quotes for the individual components and a very rough estimate of the labor hours to install them.4.

Compare Total Costs

Compare the total cost of the EZ Meter-Pak (material + labor) to the estimated total cost of the alternatives.5.

Consider Intangibles: Factor in the risk of errors, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic considerations.You'll likely find that the EZ Meter-Pak is the best value for most situations. Don't be afraid to explore alternatives, but do so with a clear understanding of the potential costs and benefits.Good luck with your project! Let me know if you have any other questions. Flag for review