Learn About Pad Mounted Transformers

A Hancock-Wood Lineman working on the inside of a pad mounted transformer

What does it do?

A pad mount transformer takes medium voltage electricity and lowers it to a safe level so it can be used by your home.

How long do they last?

Typically, a pad mount transformer will last an estimated lifespan of 30+ years.

Are they safe?

Any electrical equipment has the potential to be dangerous, but industry standards and safety practices at HWE make sure they are safe. There are safety precautions everyone should take around pad mount transformers:

  • Do not let children play on or around them.
  • The same goes for pets, keep animals away from the pad mount transformer.  
  • Report any concerns with your transformer to 800-445-4840.
  • Be mindful when landscaping, do not plant anything within three feet on the sides and 12 feet in front of your pad mount transformer. 
  • Do not try to fix your transformer on your own! Give us a call at 800-445-4840 and we will come assist you as soon as possible. 

Your pad mount transformer has our safety label on the outside of it. 

Hancock-Wood Electric safety label. "hazardous voltage inside, KEEP OUT! can shock, burn or cause death. If opened or damaged, notify: Hancock-Wood Electric Coop 800-445-4840. WARNING underground power cables are located in this area. BEFORE DIGGING CALL 811. can shock, burn, or cause death. NOTICE we need room to work safely on this device. please keep shrubs and structures 12 feet away from the side with doors and 3 feet from other sides. Obstructions may be damaged or removed during service restoration or maintenance.

 

Why is it called "pad mount"

The name "pad mount" comes from the pad the transformer is mounted upon. 

 

What's inside it?

There are a few parts inside that allows your pad mount transformer to safely deliver electricity. Check out the diagram and pictures below to learn more. 

single phase transformer diagram. single phase transformer.close up of the inside of a single phase pad mount transformerPad mounted transformer piece attached during installation. Pad mounted transformer piece attached during installation.

 

I have questions or concerns about my pad mount transformer...

If you have any questions and especially if you have any concerns about your pad mount transformer, please contact us! 

800-445-4840 (if there is an emergency situation, please call instead of emailing us!)

info@hwe.coop

 

Information adapted from:

 https://elexiconenergy.com/resource-hub/pad-mounted-transformers-the-green-box,

https://daelim-electric.com/pad-mounted-transformer/#:~:text=pad%20mounted%20transformers%20are%20a,mounted%20on%20a%20concrete%20pad.