March 2007

Don't get an

Extreme Yard Makeover

Walton EMC really doesn’t want to disturb your landscaping. But sometimes we have no choice.

Underground electrical service came on the scene in the 1970s. Until then, the only choice for getting vital power to homes and businesses was to install all the wires, transformers and other equipment on poles.

If the wires or connections inside this underground junction box fail, our line technicians will have no choice but to remove this decorative fence surrounding it.

As technology grew, manufacturers developed insulating materials that allowed electric wire to be directly buried in the ground. Although still more expensive than overhead construction, underground wiring became a viable choice in some situations–like subdivisions, for example.

Even though wire could now be hidden, some things still couldn’t be–like the transformer that reduces voltage between primary electric lines and the wires leading into your home.

The electric industry developed a transformer configuration to work with underground wiring. A simple, unobtrusive shape keeps the device from drawing undue attention.

The standard color for underground transformers is a deep green, blending well with most environments and keeping the unit from detracting from its surroundings, commonly yards.

Since the transformer sits on the ground within easy reach, it had to be totally enclosed for protection. A door on the front opens to give utility workers access.

From time to time, line technicians need to access these transformers. As with any man-made equipment, they sometimes fail and need repair or replacement. Periodically we perform maintenance to keep them from failing in the first place. Or they may be damaged by a car or lightning.

If you’ve planted or landscaped right up to the transformer, chances are it’s going to be dug up or cut down.

So why can’t you just work around my plants?

• Underground transformers are heavy, weighing several hundred pounds. It takes big machinery to move them. To safely manipulate all this weight, WEMC employees need a clear area.
  
• The area inside a transformer is dangerous. Our line technicians need an unobstructed view to see exactly what they’re doing.
  
• It takes room to open the transformer door and more room for workspace. The insulated stick that technicians use to de-energize the transformer is several feet long.
  
• Transformers hidden by plants slow down outage restoration. It takes time to find camouflaged transformers and then more time for technicians to cut their way to them.

State law prohibits planting close to underground transformers. We have the right to remove these obstructions without notice (although both you and Walton EMC will be happier not having to destroy your landscaping).

So save money, time and heartache by avoiding an extreme yard makeover.

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