Mayhap you should try a different host. I switched to fatcow.com a year ago and they've been the best host i've used since '96. I pay for the large account, but you can opt for a smaller service (the MiniMoo) and buy extra storage as an when you need it.
The only downtime I've experienced is when they upgrade the services and they email you at least twice, one of those a week in advance to let you know when it's happening. I've referred many a client to them and they've nothing but praise for the host.
Their email support is a little slow, but they always respond within a few days if you have a problem that is beyond the realms of their FAQ. They also do surveys to see what their clients would like to see improved or added as they're constantly improving their hosting.
BTW, if Cows aren't dark enough for Kult, just imagine them in the meatworks. It works for me!