Atmos Energy asks customers to reduce their energy consumption

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – Atmos Energy issued the following statement on Tuesday evening:

“The demand for natural gas continues to be at unprecedented levels. We appreciate your conservation efforts during this historic winter storm, which will continue with record high temperatures and additional snowfall overnight. “

Historically low temperatures will continue for several days, and Atmos Energy is focused on providing safe and reliable service to its most critical customers, including homes, hospitals, churches, and other organizations with human needs. . Industrial customers who have been asked to reduce their natural gas consumption are encouraged to comply, and we can all help by taking small steps to support our community.

Take these steps to reduce energy consumption now:

• Lower your thermostat to at least 68 degrees. Consider wearing extra layers of clothing and turning the thermostat down even more.
• Businesses should minimize energy consumption as much as possible.
• Lower the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees, as it can represent up to 25% of the energy consumed in your home.
• Unplug electronic devices and turn off lights that are not in use. By saving electricity, you also help conserve the natural gas that keeps the electricity going.
• Cut down on shower time and avoid baths. The shower represents about 40% of the hot water consumption in your home.
• Avoid using large appliances like your washer, dryer, oven and dishwasher for the next few days. When in use, limit the opening of the oven door to avoid wasting energy.
• Keep your fireplace log closed unless a fire is burning. Leaving the damper open is like keeping a window wide open – hot air rises straight up the chimney!
• If you have a pool, do not use the pool heater. Instead, run your pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.

Atmos Energy reminds customers to heed the advice of local leaders and to stay alert to the changing weather conditions in their area. Our teams are working to provide safe and reliable service, and we appreciate your patience during this historic weather event. In addition to reduced energy consumption, don’t forget these ways to stay safe at home:

• Never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home.
• Protect natural gas meters. Natural gas meters are weather resistant; however, to ensure that the meter continues to run smoothly, remove snow and ice from natural gas meters using a broom or brush. Never kick snow and ice with a hard object.
• Minimize the risk of frozen pipes. Let faucets run smoothly, leave cabinet doors open, and close all doors and windows to keep the heat in.
• If you think you smell gas, act quickly! Leave the area immediately and from a safe distance, dial 911 and Atmos Energy’s emergency number 866.322.8667.

Remove snow accumulation on gas meters, pipes and vents

Accumulation of snow and ice can damage gas meters and pipes and make them difficult to access in an emergency. Blocked vents for clothes dryers and other gas appliances can lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.

To keep your home and family safe in snow or ice conditions:

• Remove snow and ice from meters and pipes.
• Make sure that the external vents of clothes dryers and other natural gas equipment are clear.
• Remove snow and ice safely by gently using a broom or brush. Do not use chemicals to melt ice, salt, shovels or sharp tools.
• Make sure the meter is visible to plow operators if it is near a street or sidewalk.
• If you are removing snow from the roof, make sure it does not land or bury the meter.
• Fix any leaky veins that could cause water to run on the meter and freeze.

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