All year round, from gas supply to the delivery of natural gas service at the meter, Atmos Energy is preparing for winter weather.
Here are some of the activities that we do to prepare for the winter heating season: Establishing this year’s natural gas supply plan and confirming gas storage inventory for winter demand; Confirming employee staffing levels and training requirements for winter tasks; and Continuing system fortification projects to address growth and enhance capacity.
Colder weather may impact the amount of natural gas a home uses. By making a few household changes, anyone could make a big difference in how much they spend on energy bills. Consider these energy-saving tips where safe to do so: Lower the thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and 58 degrees when away from home; Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees. Water heating accounts for as much as 25% of the energy consumed in a home; Change or clean the heating and air conditioning unit filter regularly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Equipment will use less energy if it ‘breathes’ more easily; Unplug electronic devices and turn off lights that are not in use; Reduce shower and bath time. Showering and bathing can account for 40% of a home’s hot water use; Operate the clothes washer, dryer, and dishwasher only when fully loaded; Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Leaving the damper open is like keeping a window wide open, warm air goes right up the chimney: and If there is a pool, do not use the pool heater. Instead, run the pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.
To help keep your home and family safe during snowy or icy weather follow these safety tips: Snow and ice buildup can damage gas meters and pipes and make them difficult to reach in an emergency; Carefully remove snow and ice from meters and pipes by gently using a broom or brush; Do not use ice-melting chemicals, salt, shovels, or sharpedged tools. Never kick or chip snow and ice away with a hard object; Make sure that external vents for dryers and other natural gas equipment are clear. Blocked vents for dryers and other gas appliances can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide gas. If someone has questions about proper venting, contact a licensed plumber or qualified contractor; Make sure the meter is visible to snowplow drivers if it is near a street or sidewalk; Make sure snow and ice from your roof does not land on or bury the gas meter; Repair leaky gutters and make sure water does not drip onto the meter and freeze; Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat a home; Minimize the risk of frozen pipes. Leave faucets running at a trickle, leave cabinet doors open, and close all doors and windows to keep heat inside; and Make sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are in working condition. If there is a smell gas, act fast Leave the area immediately and from a safe distance call 911 and the Atmos Energy emergency number at 866.322.8667. Do not turn on or off any electric switch; this could cause a spark, igniting the gas. Do not use a cell phone, telephone, garage door opener, doorbell, or even a flashlight. Do not smoke, use a lighter, or strike a match. Do not start or stop a nearby vehicle or machinery. Do not try to shut off a natural gas valve.