What are common signs of transformer failure?

Unusual noise, overheating, and oil leaks are indeed common signs of transformer failure. Each of these symptoms can indicate specific problems within a transformer:

1. Unusual Noise: Transformers typically operate quietly. If there is an increase in noise, it may suggest issues such as internal arcing, mechanical failures, or vibrations caused by loose parts.

2. Overheating: Transformers are designed to manage a certain amount of heat through their cooling systems. Overheating can occur due to overloading, insulation failure, or blocked cooling mechanisms, which can ultimately lead to catastrophic failure.

3. Oil Leaks: Many transformers use oil for insulation and cooling. A leak can indicate damage to the tank or seals, and can lead to reduced cooling efficiency and increased risk of fire, as well as environmental hazards.

Recognizing these signs allows technicians to perform timely maintenance and prevent catastrophic failures, ensuring reliability and safety in power distribution systems. In contrast, persistent low power output might point to operational inefficiencies but doesn't specifically indicate failure, while frequent clear weather has no relevance to transformer performance. High efficiency reports, while desirable, do not pinpoint any immediate failure signs and could indicate a well-functioning transformer rather than issues.