Question by Ryan H: Transformer Smoking? PCBs? Danger?!?
Theres one of those really old transformers outside my house and its been smoking and girgling and make a horrid smell. Smells like acid. We had the police here and they only put caution tape around it. I read about PCBs and im actually very worried because i have 3 dogs. What should I do???? I am getting very worried.
Its been very hot outside btw.
Best answer:
Answer by Andrew
I’d keep away from it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzbQjd_Oo4Q
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If you’re in the US, the police probably can’t do anything about PCBs, if in fact there are any in the transformer. Is this a pole-mounted transformer, or one at ground level? Is it leaking any liquids? If it’s just gurlging, there are probably not any PCBs (assuming the transformer oil contains any) being released – the boiling point for PCBs is around 300 to 400 degrees C (depending on the Aroclors involved). Call the power company (or whomever owns the transformer) and let them know your observations.
If the thing is leaking fluids, then call the power company, your state environmental agency, AND the US EPA. (US EPA has jurisdiction over PCBs, the state does not.) You don’t need to tell the power company that you’ve called anyone else (state and EPA) – if they’re honest, they’ll fix it quickly – if not, they might get hefty fines.