SMTP Error: Could not connect to SMTP host

Okay — my hostprovider has already checked everything. They claim the only way it can be resolved is if I run WP Super Cache and CloudFlare free (I am already running CloudFlare free). The Error 524 points to a Host Error, not a CloudFlare error.

–WP Mail SMPT settings are correct and verified by hostprovider
–EMAIL DELIVERY ERROR: the plugin WP Mail SMTP v2.6.0 logged this error during the last time it tried to send an email:
–SMTP Error: Could not connect to SMTP host.
–Currently using “Other SMTP”, authentication On, Encryption TLS

This problem began during the Texas energy meltdown and it persists today.

I cannot send a Test Email.

Maybe I should try sending through SendGrid?

The page I need help with: [log in to see the link]