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About Underground Utilities

So, what's that green box in my yard? If you don't have overhead power lines, you will see a green box, called a pad-mounted transformer, in your yard or the neighbor's yard. Transformers change voltage from higher levels to a level people use in their homes for their electronics, appliances and lighting. Each of these transformers are vital to providing electricity to at least one home, but usually to several.

While overhead power lines are mounted on utility poles and substations are protected by security fences, pad-mounted transformers, switch boxes and pedestals are at ground level. Burying power lines reduces potential system damage from high winds and severe storms.

Pad mounted transformer

Example of a pad-mounted transformer.

Pad mounted transformer with plants too close and a planter on top

This is an example of what NOT to do!

transformer with tall grasses planted too close

Tall grass has been planted TOO close to the transformer.

Pad mounted transformer hidden by plants

Don't do this! If linemen need access, they will have to cut down the vegetation.

Tree is too close to pad mounted transformer

This tree is too close. Take into consideration how large or wide the plant may get.

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While members seldom see technicians working on the transformers unless there are power outages, they are regularly inspected by co-op crews riding through neighborhoods. Co-op technicians need at least 10-feet of clearance at the opening side of a pad-mounted transformer. That distance allows for tool use, including hot sticks - typically eight feet in length, used to work with energized equipment. It also ensures that one or two technicians working on a transformer have space to maneuver should they have to back away if problems occur. Therefore when considering landscaping, keep in mind how wide any bushes or shrubs you plant will grow and make sure there is plenty of clearance around the transformer in your yard (see graphics).

Pad-mounted transformers are connected to primary high voltage lines, and secondary lines can extend in several directions to distribute power to homes and businesses. That's why it's important to call 8-1-1 before you dig or plant shrubs or trees, set fence posts or install sprinkler systems where it might damage underground lines.

Never touch, climb or play on pad-mounted transformers.

Keep shrubs and structures at least 10 feet away from transformer doors

Never dig near a pad-mounted transformer

Report any problem you see with a transformer

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©2021 Boone Electric Cooperative. All Rights Reserved.

  • Home
  • My Account
    • SmartHub
    • About SmartHub
    • SmartHub One-Time Bill Pay
    • Pay Invoices
    • Payment Options
    • Disconnection Policy
    • Filing For An Extension
    • Utility Bill Assistance
    • Rates
    • Billing Cycles
  • Member Benefits
    • Bylaws
    • Refund of Capital Credits
    • Your Co-op, Your Vote
    • Annual Meeting
    • Energy Programs & Rebates
    • Rural Missouri
  • Services
    • Service Requests
    • Dusk to Dawn Lights
    • Viasat™ Satellite Internet
    • Right-of-Way Management
    • Engineering
      • New Service
      • Meter Base
      • Call Before You Dig
      • Underground Utilities
      • Easements
    • Medical Alert
    • BCRSD - Sewer District
  • Community
    • Boone Electric Community Trust
    • Operation Round Up
    • Youth Leadership
    • Scholarships
    • Night at the Ballgame & Theater
    • Energy in Today's Classroom
    • BEC Event Calendar
    • Revolving Loan Fund
    • Green Tree Partnership
  • Education
    • Outage Tips
    • Energy Education for Schools
    • Space Heater 101
    • Generator Safety
    • IREC Solar Panel Safety
    • First Responder/Media Safety
    • Downed Line Safety
    • Seasonal Savings TIps
    • Surge Protection
  • Energy Solutions
    • Take Control & Save®
    • Energy Efficiency Review
    • Ground Source Heat Pumps
    • Dual Fuel
    • CMCA Weatherization
    • Renewable Energy
      • Renewable Choice
      • Community Solar
      • Renewable Choice Calculator
    • Renewables for Home & Business
    • Energy Usage
    • Electric Vehicles
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Employment
    • Member Bylaws
    • Board of Directors
    • History of Boone Electric
    • Our Service Area
    • Department Managers
    • Co-op Links
    • Our Power Supply
    • Mission Statement
  • Future Building