Frequently Asked Questions

These phones are for free public use?

Yes, PghTel phones work just like any phone. While they are payphones, they have been refurbhished and updated to not require money to make calls. These phones were typically in use between 1980-2010. Calls are free to most numbers in the United States. Donations can be made at each phone by depositing coins in the coin slot.

I can call anyone & for as long as I want?

You can call almost any number within the United States. Calls to premium numbers, international calls, and some high-cost rate centers are not supported.

Calls are limited to 30 minutes except for calls to known public service agencies. Instead of 30 minutes, there is a 4 hour time limit on those calls.

Can the phones receive incoming calls?

No, phones are not setup to accept incoming calls. We do have a shared incoming phone number that is setup to accept voicemails from callers. Voicemail boxes are provided by request to users of our phones.

How is PghTel funded?

PghTel is operated by volunteers and funded entirely by donations. If you would like to donate, please check out our donations page for options!

We do not play advertisements during phone calls.

How much does each phone cost to setup?

Right now, the cost of each phone is around $300-$700. This includes the cost of the phone case, a payphone circuit board or a new board that emulates a payphone board, instruction cards, and signage.

Mounts, pedestals, and solar power equipment (if no power available) adds an additional $50 - $500.

All in, the cost of each phones ranges from $350 - $1200.

How much does each phone cost to operate?

The monthly cost of each phone varies between $5/month - $50/month depending on if internet is available at the installation location or if a cellular internet connection is necessary.

What other costs are involved?

There are some minor costs associated with running a server ($15/month) that runs a VOIP system that each phone connects to in order to route calls to the PSTN.

The other cost varies based on how many minutes of calling were used each month. There is a cost of approximately $0.004 per minute.

Are calls recorded?

We do record calls. We do capture the phone number dialed and the call duration, but this data is not kept long term.

Can I donate old payphones & parts to you?

Yes! Please reach out to us at our contact page!