[mindslight]

DC-DC converters can be much simpler than PFC [0] AC-DC converters.

There are actually scant few things in modern houses that inherently want to run on 60Hz single phase AC - basically just fixed-speed induction motors [1]. And the amount of those are shrinking as more and more appliances get "inverter" technology for the energy savings.

The transformers on the poles are bona fide 60 Hz devices (and I'll take the electricity I can get). Industrial customers with large 3 phase induction motors want 60Hz AC. But for household use, DC would be straightforward.

I agree about the self-extinguishing arcs, although it seems like moving to solid state switches would solve much of that.

[0] power factor correction

[1] And actually, "single phase" induction motors don't even want to run off of a single phase. They all contain capacitors to create a second phase so the motor rotates.