Frequently Asked Questions
The answers to the questions below have been extracted from discussions with PECO representatives, and from information found on the PECO web site. They summarize the most common questions residents have raised to PVCA. The PECO web site contains expansiveinformation on the power outage reporting and repair process, and we recommend anyone with additional questions consult this reference as a starting point for more information
Q1. I have reported a power outage and was given an estimated time of completion for the repair, but now the time has been moved back? What is going on?
A1. When a crew comes to make a repair, they may encounter a situation that requires more time than initially estimated. Alternatively, after one repair is made, another faulty point in the distribution network is identified, adding time to get service restored.
Q2. Our power is out, and my neighbor called. Why is it taking so long to get power restored?
A2. PECO prioritizes repairs by the number of customers affected. If only one person in a neighborhood calls about an outage, it may appear as if only one house is affected. A clearer understanding of the scope of the outage can be gained if all affected resident call PECO. Also, from outage patterns, PECO can trace likely places where the failure has occurred, expediting repairs. In summary, ALWAYS call if you experience an outage.
Q3. Why do I have wires down in my yard after PECO restored my power?
A3. The electrical service wires are the highest wires on the pole. Lower wires are placed by communications companies, such as Comcast or Verizon. These providers need to be informed of the problem, as communications between companies is not always effective.
Q4. I have a cracked pole. Who do I contact?
A4. Each pole has a small dog tag on it to identify who is responsible for pole maintenance. This tag has a serial number proceeded by “PECO” or “Bell” (indicating which utility placed the pole). When reporting problems at a pole, you must report the street address of the pole, and the location (rear yard, curb). Including the information on the dog tag can help as well, but is not necessary.
Q5. PECO trimmed my trees and they are a mess! Why do they cut back so harshly?
A5. A major pruning by PECO occurs on a rotating basis every five years. Because PECO only does major work every five years, they are more aggressive than if they pruned a little every year. In cases where a particular line which is not currently scheduled for maintenance begins to show an unacceptable number of tree-related outages, it will be maintained sooner.
Q6. Can I prune the trees and vines near the wires myself?
A6. Pruning around power lines should only be attempted by trained professionals. Serious injuries and even fatalities have occurred when untrained individuals do this work without the assistance of a qualified professional. Please contact PECO for an evaluation of the trees and vegetation around power lines prior to any removals.
Q7. Why am I the only one with power out? PECO says it is not their problem.
A7. The homeowner is responsible for the line that brings electric service from the pole to the home. If this line is damaged or downed, you need to seek help from a qualified electrician to restore service. Never touch or approach a downed wire!