1:5:10:365 EcoTip Blog

June 13, 2008

:165 PCB’s in Transformers

Welcome to today’s 1:5:10:365 Tip for becoming a better steward for our home and planet.

1:5:10:165 EcoTip: Many, but not all PCB containing power transformers have been phased out. Some public utilities are placing “No PCB” labels on their transformers once they have been certified as being PCB free. If you have a power pole transformer near your property, you may be able to see the label with a pair of binoculars. If not you may want to call the public utility and ask about their PCB transformer policy. If you give them the location of the transformer, or the number stenciled on the equipment, they should be able to tell you if it contains PCBs. If it does, ask them about their plans for getting it switched out. These transformers were all manufactured prior to 1980, so they are about at the end of their useful service life and need to be changed before they begin leaking. If a transformer is already leaking PCBs then the site is a potential hazardous materials situation.

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 Additional Information:

Suggested Review: :163. :164

You can find out how your zip code area rates for PCB releases by going to the EPA PCB scorecard site 

Once there you can enter the type of release and your zip-code to see how your area ranks.

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