Imagine designing a beautiful outdoor space, only to have it marred by unsightly power pedestals and exposed wiring. Or picture being a facility manager constantly dealing with failed outdoor electrical installations after every harsh winter. These scenarios highlight a persistent challenge in outdoor design and infrastructure: providing reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing power solutions that can withstand the elements.

At Pedoc Power Solutions, we’ve been addressing these challenges for over 15 years. Our journey began with a master electrician’s vision to create better outdoor power pedestals. Backed by Marcres Metalwerks’ 45 years of metal fabrication experience, we’ve developed innovative solutions that combine durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal.

In this article, we’ll explore how Pedoc is revolutionizing outdoor power solutions. You’ll discover our unique features, manufacturing process, and the versatility of our products. By the end, you’ll understand why Pedoc is the preferred choice for outdoor power pedestals. And how we can solve your outdoor electrical challenges.

The Genesis of Innovation

The story of Pedoc begins with a vision born from frustration. Picture a seasoned master electrician, surveying yet another landscape marred by makeshift power solutions – conduits jutting awkwardly from the ground, topped with fragile junction boxes that seemed to invite disaster. This electrician, driven by years of witnessing the shortcomings of existing products, decided it was time for a change. His vision? A power pedestal that could withstand the harshest outdoor conditions while maintaining both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

This vision materialized into Pedoc’s first groundbreaking product a  direct bury pedestal. It was designed to tackle one of the most persistent challenges in outdoor electrical installations – the destructive freeze-thaw cycle. In regions where temperatures fluctuate dramatically, traditional power pedestals often fall victim to the relentless expansion and contraction of the surrounding soil. Wires get pulled, connections fail, and before long, what was meant to be a reliable power source becomes a liability.

Pedoc’s innovative design addressed this issue head-on. By allowing for ample slack in the wiring and creating a pedestal that could flex with the ground’s movement, Pedoc created a solution that maintained integrity even in the most challenging conditions. This wasn’t just a minor improvement; it was a paradigm shift in outdoor electrical design.

Building on a Foundation of Expertise

While the inception of Pedoc was rooted in electrical expertise, its growth and success are built on a much broader foundation. Pedoc Power Solutions is a division of Marcres Metalwerks, a custom manufacturer with over 45 years of experience in metal fabrication. This deep well of manufacturing knowledge has proven invaluable in creating power pedestals that aren’t just electrically sound but structurally superior.

Mike Palmer, Pedoc’s production manager, brings this expertise to the forefront of every product. “Our background in metal fabrication gives us a unique advantage,” he explains. “We’re not just assembling components; we’re engineering every aspect of our pedestals from the ground up.” This holistic approach to design and manufacturing is evident in every Pedoc product, from the seamless welds to the precision-engineered internal components.

The Pedoc Difference: More Than Just Metal

At first glance, a power pedestal might seem like a simple structure – a metal box designed to house electrical components. But dig deeper, and you’ll find that Pedoc pedestals are marvels of engineering, each element carefully considered and meticulously crafted.

Take, for instance, the choice of material. While many competitors opt for mild steel or even plastic to cut costs, Pedoc insists on using high-grade stainless steel for all their pedestals. “Stainless steel isn’t just about durability,” Mike notes. “It’s about longevity and safety.” In outdoor environments where exposure to moisture is constant, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel isn’t just a feature – it’s a necessity. This choice ensures that Pedoc pedestals maintain their structural integrity and electrical safety year after year, even in the most challenging environments.

But the innovation doesn’t stop at material selection. Pedoc’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of their design. Take their welding process, for example. Unlike bolt-together panel pedestals that can loosen or pop off over time, Pedoc pedestals are fully welded, creating a seamless, tamper-resistant unit. This not only enhances security but also provides superior protection against water ingress. This is a critical factor in maintaining electrical safety outdoors.

The attention to detail extends to seemingly small features that make a big difference. The self-closing and lockable hinge-top design of most pedestal models, for instance, is a testament to Pedoc’s understanding of both form and function. This feature allows for easy access to internal components for maintenance. It also maintains a safe and sleek, low-profile appearance when closed. It’s a perfect example of how Pedoc marries practicality with aesthetics.

Safety: The Non-Negotiable Foundation

In the world of electrical installations, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s the foundation upon which everything else is built. Pedoc takes this responsibility seriously, going above and beyond industry standards to ensure their products are not just safe, but industry-leading in their safety features.

Every Pedoc pedestal undergoes rigorous testing to achieve cULus listing, a stringent safety certification that’s recognized and respected worldwide. This isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s an ongoing commitment. “UL doesn’t just test our products once and call it a day,” Mike explains. “They conduct quarterly inspections of our manufacturing processes to ensure we’re consistently meeting their stringent standards.”

This commitment to safety extends to the pedestal’s ability to withstand environmental challenges. All Pedoc products carry a NEMA 3R rating, certifying their suitability for outdoor use. This rating ensures that the pedestals can withstand falling rain, sleet, and even external ice formation without compromising their protective properties.

But for Pedoc, safety isn’t just about meeting standards – it’s about setting them. The company’s ISO-certified facility operates under strict quality control procedures. This ensures that every pedestal that leaves their factory meets their exacting standards. “We’re not just building power pedestals,” Mike says. “We’re building trust. When someone installs a Pedoc product, they need to know it’s going to perform safely and reliably for years to come.”

Versatility: Meeting the Needs of a Changing World

As the use of outdoor spaces evolve, so too does power needs. Pedoc has positioned itself at the forefront of this evolution, creating pedestals that cater to a wide range of applications. From charging stations for personal devices and electric vehicles to power supplies for food trucks and outdoor festivals and fairs, Pedoc pedestals are designed to meet the diverse needs of modern outdoor spaces.

One area where Pedoc has seen significant growth is in the realm of event spaces and temporary installations. “We’re seeing a huge uptick in requests for pedestals that can power outdoor concerts, festivals, and pop-up markets,” Mike notes. “These events require reliable power, but they also need solutions that can be easily installed and removed without leaving a trace.”

Pedoc’s response to this need exemplifies their approach to product development. Rather than creating a one-size-fits-all solution, they’ve developed over one thousand pedestals that can be customized to meet specific event needs. All pedestals are designed for quick installation and removal. Some models feature multiple outlet configurations to accommodate several types of equipment power requirements. 

But it’s not just temporary installations where Pedoc shines. Their pedestals are becoming increasingly popular in more permanent settings as well. City parks, commercial spaces, multi-family residences, university campuses, and corporate headquarters are all utilizing to Pedoc. These solutions blend seamlessly into their carefully designed landscapes.

“One of the things we’re most proud of is how our pedestals can disappear into their surroundings,” Mike says. “We work closely with landscape architects and designers to create pedestals that complement, rather than detract from, the overall aesthetic of a space.” This commitment to design flexibility is evident in the range of colors and finishes Pedoc offers. Their willingness and ability to create custom solutions for unique projects is a testament to this commitment. 

Made in the USA: A Commitment to Quality and Community

In an era where offshore manufacturing is commonplace, Pedoc’s commitment to American-made products stands out. Every Pedoc pedestal is manufactured in their facility in Mount Prospect, Illinois, a fact that the company takes immense pride in.

This isn’t just about patriotism – it’s about quality control and responsiveness. “Being a US manufacturer gives us a level of oversight and flexibility that you just can’t get with overseas production,” Mike explains. “If a customer needs a custom solution or a quick turnaround, we can make it happen because we control every aspect of the manufacturing process.”

This control extends to the sourcing of materials as well. Pedoc’s supply chain is predominantly domestic, ensuring that they’re not just assembling products in the USA, but truly manufacturing them here. This approach supports American jobs and the local economy. It also allows Pedoc to maintain strict quality standards throughout their supply chain.

The benefits of this approach are multi-fold. Customers benefit from shorter lead times and more responsive customer service. The environment benefits from reduced shipping distances and adherence to strict US environmental regulations. And the community benefits from the jobs and economic activity that Pedoc brings to the region.

“We’re not just building pedestals,” Mike says. “We’re building relationships – with our employees, our suppliers, and our customers. Being made in the USA is a big part of that.”

Customer Support: The Human Touch in a Technical World

In an industry increasingly dominated by automated systems and chatbots, Pedoc stands out for its commitment to personal, human-centric customer support. This isn’t just about having a phone number to call. It’s about creating a support system that understands the unique challenges of outdoor electrical installations and can provide expert guidance at every step.

“We believe that our job doesn’t end when we ship a pedestal,” Mike explains. “In many ways, that’s where it begins.” Pedoc’s support team is composed of individuals with deep knowledge of both electrical systems and the specific features of Pedoc products. This means that when a customer calls with a question, they’re not just getting a scripted response. They’re getting insights from someone who understands the nuances of electrical landscape projects.

This level of support extends to the design phase as well. Pedoc regularly works with customers to create custom solutions for unique applications. “We’ve had customers come to us with hand-drawn sketches on napkins,” Mike laughs. “And we’ve turned those into fully realized, cULus listed products. That’s the level of collaboration we strive for.”

This collaborative approach has led to some of Pedoc’s most innovative products. The company’s willingness to engage with customers, understand their specific needs, and develop tailored solutions has not only solved immediate problems but has also driven the evolution of their product line.

The Future of Outdoor Power

As we look to the future, the need for reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor power solutions is only going to grow. From the increasing adoption of electric vehicles to the rise of smart cities and the Internet of Things, outdoor spaces are becoming more electrified and connected than ever before.

Pedoc is positioning itself at the forefront of this evolution. “We’re not just reacting to changes in the market – we’re anticipating them,” Mike says. The company is already exploring ways to integrate smart technologies into their pedestals. They are developing solutions that can monitor power usage, detect faults, and even communicate with centralized systems.

But even as they look to the future, Pedoc remains committed to the core principles. They have driven their success: quality, safety, and customer-centric design. “No matter how advanced our pedestals become, they’ll always be built on the foundation of durability and reliability that Pedoc is known for,” Mike says.

As outdoor spaces continue to evolve, becoming more dynamic and multifunctional, the need for flexible, reliable power solutions will only grow. With their commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service, Pedoc Power Solutions is well-positioned to meet these needs. Pedoc powers the outdoor spaces of today and tomorrow.

From the bustling food truck parks energized by Pedoc pedestals to a serene university quad where students charge their devices while studying under ancient oaks; from the sleek corporate campus where Pedoc units blend seamlessly into the landscape to the vibrant city park hosting a summer concert series powered by these reliable units – Pedoc is there, quietly and efficiently providing the power that brings these spaces to life.

Conclusion 

In the end, that’s what the Pedoc difference is all about. It’s about knowing that when you specify or install a Pedoc pedestal. You’re not just getting a power solution. You’re getting a partner committed to the success of your project and the safety of those who will use it.