Common Questions
How much does a used 2000 kVA pad-mount transformer cost?
Used 2000 kVA pad-mount units typically run $80,000–$90,000, depending on winding material (copper vs. aluminum), tank configuration, and condition. New-build units in this class currently carry lead times of up to four years, so used inventory is priced against availability as much as condition. Our current 2000 kVA units are listed at $84,500 and $87,500 — see current inventory for full specs.
Is a reconditioned transformer riskier than buying new?
The real risk in a used or reconditioned unit is almost always about documentation, not the equipment itself — knowing what testing has been done, what condition the unit is in, and what (if anything) is covered if something goes wrong. We tell you what documentation is available for a given unit before you buy, rather than assuming every unit has the same paper trail. For most commercial and industrial applications, a well-documented used unit is a reasonable alternative to new — the main tradeoff most buyers are actually making is lead time, not risk.
What does "non-PCB" mean, and why does it matter?
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) were used in transformer oil before being banned by the EPA in 1979 for health and environmental reasons; PCB-contaminated units carry real disposal and liability costs. A non-PCB certification means the oil has been lab-tested below the regulatory threshold, removing that liability for the buyer. Ask us about current oil testing status for the specific unit you're considering — it varies by unit and we'll tell you what we have.
Can a 14,400V transformer serve a 12.47kV system?
Yes. Our units ship with a 5-position tap changer (14400/13800/13200/12470/12000), which lets the same transformer serve 14.4kV, 13.8kV, 13.2kV, or 12.47kV class primary systems by selecting the correct tap. This is standard practice for matching a unit to your system voltage — not a compatibility workaround.
What should I check before buying a used transformer?
At minimum: a recent oil sample with DGA (dissolved gas analysis) results, a turns-ratio test, insulation resistance (megger) test, a visual inspection for leaks, rust, or tank damage, nameplate verification against the stated specs, and a function check on the tap changer. Ask us what documentation already exists for a given unit and what would need to be arranged before you buy — it varies unit to unit.
What are current lead times for new pad-mount transformers?
New high-capacity transformer lead times currently run up to four years, driven by an estimated 30% power transformer shortfall (Wood Mackenzie) and surging demand from data centers, domestic manufacturing expansion, and EV charging buildout. The shortage in three-phase pad-mount units specifically is expected to worsen before it improves.