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Padmount Transformer Inspections

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padmount landscaping clearance illustrationMany people have padmount equipment in their backyards, usually indicated by a green metal box. This equipment, which provides power for you and your neighbors, sits on an easement with which OPPD and other service providers can perform necessary work.


In order to function properly and allow quick access when repairs are needed, the equipment requires a clearance of 10 feet at the front (padlock side) and a minimum of three feet for each side (larger units require four feet). When this clearance is not adhered to, avoidable problems are created.


Customers are also asked to refrain from painting the equipment a different color. Ensuring that the equipment is the appropriate color reduces crew confusion and contributes to a safe working environment.
Notice
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OPPD contractor crews will be inspecting and repairing OPPD’s padmount electrical equipment in your area. This work is part of an ongoing inspection program to help extend equipment life and avoid outages.

If you have any questions regarding the inspection and construction program, please call OPPD Consumer Relations at 636-3747 or 1-800-648-2658.

Examples of Improper Clearance

As you can see from the pictures below, bushes, fences and other landscaping must be removed when servicing the equipment, adding time and cost. In particular, trees and vegetation that are planted too close will grow into the equipment, damaging the pad and transformer and causing unnecessary outages. By keeping this area free from debris, vegetation, fencing and building structures, you can help avoid outages, quickly return service in emergency situations, and avoid unnecessary costs.
padmount buried within landscaping  padmount within shrubbery  padmount surrounded by fence
padmount surrounded by landscaping  padmount surrounded by fence  padmount uprooted by tree  

More Information
    
padmount brochure coverFor more information, please view our Landscaping Around Padmount Transformers brochure. (Link opens in new window as PDF.) (Please note: The Adobe Acrobat Reader browser plugin is required to open PDF documents. Download it for free from Adobe's website)

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