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Padmount Transformer Inspection Program
Padmount transformers are the green boxes you see in yards and near buildings. This program checks their condition regularly. Inspectors look for signs of wear or damage, such as rust, holes, shifting pads, erosion or leaks.
If an inspector finds a problem, they report it to our specialists. The specialists decide what to do next.
Most transformers are checked every 10 years. Each year, about 10% of all underground padmount transformers are inspected. This means more than 25,000 checked every year.
How Inspections Work
Look for the markings on contractors' vehicles. This shows they're approved.
Inspectors check each transformer and record details, such as:
- The transformer’s physical location
- Whether the transformer has been replaced
- The type of cabinet (steel, aluminum, etc.)
- The transformer’s voltage capacity
- The condition of the cabinet lock
- The condition of warning decals
- The condition of the cabinet body
- Whether there are any holes in the cabinet
- Whether rust is present
- The condition of the cabinet paint
- The condition of the pad
- Any issues with space around the cabinet that could keep it from being opened
- Vegetation concerns
- Signs of erosion around the cabinet
- Any oil smell or signs of leaking
- Noise level
If inspectors find an emergency, they report it right away so specialists can act.
Once the inspection is done, a decal with the date is placed on the transformer.
