Atmos Energy is urging customers to prepare for extreme winter weather that is expected to impact the region in the coming days.
The company said it is monitoring conditions and positioning technicians across its system to maintain safe and reliable natural gas service. Officials encouraged customers to activate text alerts, follow the company on social media, and visit atmosenergy.com for updated safety and weather information.
Atmos Energy noted that colder temperatures can increase natural gas usage. While natural gas typically costs one-third as much as electricity, higher usage during extreme cold may increase utility bills. The company offered several tips for staying safe and conserving energy:
• Inspect natural gas piping and appliances. Customers are responsible for piping from the gas meter to their home or business and should schedule regular inspections and maintenance.
• Operate appliances according to manufacturer instructions, and never use ovens or gas stovetops to heat a home.
• Adjust thermostats to 68 degrees during the day and 58 degrees when away, where safe to do so.
• Shorten showers and baths, which account for up to 40 percent of a home’s hot water use.
• Keep warm air inside by closing fireplace dampers when a fire is not burning.
• Clear snow and ice from natural gas meters using a broom or brush. Do not kick or strike meters with hard objects. Concerns can be reported to Atmos Energy’s emergency line at 866-322-8667.
• Ensure external vents for dryers and natural gas equipment are clear to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Reduce the risk of frozen pipes by letting faucets drip, opening cabinet doors, and keeping exterior doors and windows closed.
Additional tips are available at atmosenergy.com/storm-center.
Natural gas outages are uncommon, but customers experiencing loss of service or low pressure should call the Atmos Energy emergency line at 866-322-8667. The line is staffed 24/7.
The company also reminded customers of the safety mantra “smell gas, act fast.” Anyone who suspects a natural gas leak should leave the area immediately, then call 911 and Atmos Energy’s emergency line from a safe distance.
