Did you get a notice in the mail about your phone line rates going up — or being shut off completely?

You’re not alone. Across the U.S., phone companies are phasing out traditional analog copper lines (POTS). Why? The FCC issued a federal mandate that removes the requirement for carriers to maintain these outdated systems. Since they’re expensive to support, carriers are decommissioning them — raising rates or ending service altogether. That includes lines used for elevators, fire panels, pools, and other life safety systems.

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What’s Behind the POTS Shutdown — And What You Can Do About It

1. Why This Is Happening:

  • POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) lines are being phased out across the U.S.
  • The FCC removed the requirement for carriers to support copper systems.
  • Carriers are moving to fiber and 5G, which are cheaper and more scalable.
  • Central offices and copper lines are being shut down or sold off.

2. What It Means for Businesses:

  • POTS rates are rising fast — up to 150% increases with short notice.
  • Some regions now charge over $140 per line, per month.
  • Outages are taking longer to resolve — often days or weeks.
  • Many businesses are still paying for legacy lines they don’t need.

3. The Risk of Delaying:

  • Some areas may lose service entirely by summer.
  • Carrier diversity and availability are shrinking in rural or hard-to-reach zones.
  • Delays can force emergency installs at much higher cost.

4. Transitioning Off POTS:

  • Available solutions include:
    • Wireless POTS (POTS-in-a-Box)
    • VoIP over Broadband
    • Cable POTS
    • Fiber Voice (where available)
  • Modern replacements are more reliable, monitored, battery-backed, and code-compliant.
  • They can also reduce costs by 20–60% per site.

5. Implementation & Strategy:

  • Start with an inventory of all POTS lines and their purpose.
  • Prioritize sites based on urgency, risk, and spend.
  • Work with a specialist to plan, quote, and deploy solutions quickly.

6. Don’t Go It Alone:

  • DIY replacements often lead to compliance risks and delays.
  • Partnering with experts gives you:
    • One team to manage install, testing, and support
    • Code-compliant and pre-tested solutions
    • Centralized billing and issue resolution

Talk to a Life Safety Connectivity Expert Today

We’ll help you make the switch — fast, compliant, and ready before services are decommissioned.

📞 1-888-839-0080

✉️ sales@criticalpathcommunications.com

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