Power Outages and Service Problems

How do I report a power outage?

Power outages or emergencies (such as a downed power line) should be reported to your local distribution utility, or Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP), AEP. Call toll free 1-866-223-8508. Representatives are available to help you 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week.

What should I do if I see a downed power line or a broken power pole?

Call the AEP emergency toll-free phone number 1-866-223-8508 immediately and describe exactly what you see. Representatives are available to help you 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. Energized lines are extremely dangerous, so please stay away from the area and keep others back at a safe distance.

My lights were turned off! How can I get them turned back on?

If you have been disconnected due to non-payment of your electric bill, call our Customer Care center toll free at 1-866-322-5563. Representatives are available to help you Monday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, CST. Once you have paid your outstanding balance in full, service will be reconnected. For payments received between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on a business day, WTU will send a reconnect order to the local Transmission and Distribution Service Provider, who will reconnect service no later than the close of the next business day. The TDSP must have access to the meter in order to reconnect service.

If your disconnection is not related to a non-payment issue, please contact your TDSP, AEP toll free at 1-866-233-8508. A premium charge may be applied by the TDSP to turn on your meter outside of normal business hours.

What causes my power to go out during a storm?

The most common causes of power outages are trees and tree limbs falling on electric wires and lightning striking transformers.

What are some of the things I should do before and during a power outage?

To be prepared for a power outage, have flashlights, blankets and a battery-operated radio easily accessible. During a power outage, leave your refrigerator and freezer closed to prevent the loss of cold air. Turn your air conditioner, television and any computers off until electric service has been restored.

How can my neighbor's lights be on, but my electricity is still out?

Your neighbor's electrical service may be provided by a different circuit that was not affected by the storm, or your trouble may be isolated to the transformer serving your house and not your neighbor's.