The main PECO customer service number is 1-800-494-4000

PECO (Philadelphia Electric Company) is the utility that supplies electricity and natural gas to the Philadelphia area and surrounding counties in Pennsylvania. If you need to report an outage, pay a bill, ask about your account, or request service, 1-800-494-4000 is the number to call. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

When you call, have your account number ready — it appears on your bill and speeds up the process. PECO's automated system can handle many requests without connecting you to a representative, including reporting outages and checking account balance. If you need to speak with someone, the wait time varies depending on call volume, but the system will tell you the estimated wait before you enter the queue.

Key Takeaways

  • PECO's main customer service line is 1-800-494-4000, available 24/7 for outages, billing questions, and account changes.
  • You can report a power outage through the automated system without waiting for a representative, and PECO will text you updates if you provide your phone number.
  • Your account number (found on your bill) speeds up service when you call or use PECO's website or mobile app.
  • For billing disputes or complex account issues, ask to speak with a representative rather than relying only on the automated menu.
  • PECO also offers online account management at peco.com, where you can pay bills, report outages, and view usage without calling.

What you can do by phone versus online

The phone line handles urgent issues like outages and service interruptions, but many routine tasks are faster online. PECO's website at peco.com lets you pay your bill, view your account history, set up automatic payments, and report an outage without waiting on hold. The PECO mobile app (available for iOS and Android) offers the same features and sends push notifications about outages in your area.

If your issue is time-sensitive — a gas smell, a downed line, or no power for several hours — call 1-800-494-4000 when ready. For non-urgent questions about your bill, a rate change, or account setup, the website or app often gets you an answer faster than the phone queue. PECO's website also has a chat feature during business hours if you prefer typing to calling.

Reporting a power or gas outage

When you call 1-800-494-4000 to report an outage, the automated system will ask for your account number or the phone number associated with your account. It will confirm your address and add you to the outage list. You do not need to wait for a representative — the system processes outage reports when ready.

After you report an outage, PECO will send text message updates about the estimated restoration time if you provide your cell phone number. You can also report an outage through the PECO website or app, which shows a map of known outages in your area. If you smell gas or see a downed power line, mention that when you call — PECO may dispatch a crew faster for safety hazards.

Billing questions and payment options

Call 1-800-494-4000 if you have questions about your bill, want to dispute a charge, or need to set up a payment plan. PECO representatives can explain rate changes, discuss budget billing (which spreads your costs evenly across the year), and help you understand your usage. If you are having trouble paying, ask about PECO's hardship programs — some information may be available depending on your household income.

You can pay your PECO bill by phone, online at peco.com, through the mobile app, by mail, or in person at a payment center. Automatic payments from your bank account are free and may support you never miss a due date. If you pay by phone with a credit or debit card, PECO charges a convenience fee, but paying through the website or app does not.

Service requests and account changes

Call 1-800-494-4000 to request new service, move your account to a different address, add or remove a name from your account, or change your billing address. You can also make many of these changes online through your PECO account. If you are moving, contact PECO at least three business days before you leave so the company can schedule a final meter reading and close your account.

For new service connections or service upgrades (like adding a second meter or increasing capacity), PECO will schedule an appointment and explain any fees. The company may require a deposit if you are a new customer or if your credit history is limited. Ask about deposit waiver programs if cost is a barrier.

Alternative ways to reach PECO

Beyond the main phone line, PECO offers several other contact methods. You can visit peco.com to manage your account, pay your bill, or start a chat with a representative during business hours. The PECO mobile app provides the same online features plus outage notifications. If you prefer mail, you can send written correspondence to PECO, 2301 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, though responses take longer than phone or online contact.

PECO also has social media accounts on Facebook and Twitter where you can message the company with questions or complaints. Response times on social media vary, so use this method for non-urgent issues. For accessibility needs — large print bills, braille documents, or relay services for deaf or hard-of-hearing customers — call 1-800-494-4000 and ask about accommodations.

What to have ready before you call

Before calling PECO, gather your account number (on your bill), the phone number associated with your account, and your address. If you are calling about a specific charge or issue, have your bill in front of you. For outages, have your street address ready so PECO can confirm the outage in your area.

If you are calling about a service request or account change, have any relevant documents nearby — a lease, proof of address, or identification. For billing disputes, be ready to describe the charge you are questioning and when it appeared on your bill. Having this information ready shortens your call and reduces the chance of errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I smell gas?

Leave the area when ready and call PECO's emergency line at 1-800-494-4000 from a safe location away from the building. Do not use electrical switches, lighters, or anything that could create a spark. PECO treats gas leaks as emergencies and will dispatch a crew right away.

Can I pay my PECO bill over the phone without a fee?

No. Paying by phone with a credit or debit card incurs a convenience fee. To avoid the fee, pay through PECO's website, mobile app, automatic bank draft, or by mailing a check. Paying in person at a PECO payment center is also free.

How long does it take to get a new PECO account set up?

PECO typically schedules service within five to seven business days of your request. If you need service sooner, call 1-800-494-4000 and ask about expedited options, though these may carry additional fees. New service requires a meter installation, which takes a few hours.

What if I cannot reach a person on the phone?

Try calling during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) when wait times are shorter. For non-urgent issues, use PECO's website, app, or online chat instead. If your issue is truly urgent and you cannot reach anyone, contact your local government's utility commission for guidance.

Does PECO offer payment information for low-income households?

PECO has hardship programs and works with community organizations to help customers who struggle to pay. Call 1-800-494-4000 and ask about income-based information or payment plans. You can also contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) to learn about utility information programs in your area.