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Cable failures can occur when lightning, rocks and/or moisture makes contact with the underground cable. Then, as the cable ages, cracks begin to form in the cable insulation. As these cracks expand, they cause the cable to fail, cutting off electricity to our customers.
Providing our customers with reliable service is a top priority for APS. To improve service reliability, APS is replacing more than 4,000 miles of underground electric cable. The utility industry has made significant advances since we began installing electric cable underground in the 1960s.
We are now installing the latest technologically advanced underground cable, and installing it inside conduit -- a hard, hollow tubing. Conduit ensures the longest possible cable life, now estimated to be 40 years or more.
Our cable is replaced by priority based on performance -- in other words, we repair the worst cable first. APS keeps detailed records of when, where and why cable failures cause power outages.
APS understands that cable replacement in your neighborhood can be an inconvenience. We are committed to making every effort to ensure that the work goes smoothly and our customers know what to expect during this process.
If you have questions or concerns about cable replacement, please call the APS Cable Replacement Program at (602) 371-6781. If you live outside the Phoenix metropolitan area, please visit your local APS business office.
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