Atmos Energy asking customers to reduce energy consumption

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

“The demand for natural gas remains at unprecedented levels. We appreciate your conservation efforts during this historic winter storm, which will continue with record low temperatures and additional snow overnight. “

Historically low temperatures will continue for several days, and Atmos Energy is focused on providing safe and reliable services to its most critical customers, including homes, hospitals, churches and other humanitarian organizations. Industrial customers who have been asked to restrict the use of natural gas must comply, and we can all help by taking small steps to support our community.

Follow these steps to reduce energy use now:

• Lower your thermostat to at least 68 degrees. Consider using additional layers of clothing and lowering the thermostat further.
• Companies should minimize energy use as much as possible.
• Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees, because it can account for up to 25% of the energy consumed in your home.
• Disconnect electronic devices and turn off lights that are not in use. By conserving electricity, you also help conserve natural gas, which keeps the energy on.
• Reduce bath time and avoid bathing. Bathing is responsible for about 40% of the use of hot water in your home.
• Avoid using large appliances, such as a washer, dryer, oven and dishwasher, in the coming days. When in use, limit the opening of the oven door to avoid wasting energy.
• Keep the fireplace damper closed unless there is a fire. Leaving the damper open is like keeping a window open – hot air rises through the chimney!
• If you have a pool, do not use the pool heater. Instead, turn on the pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.

Atmos Energy reminds customers that they should follow the guidance of local leaders and be aware of changing weather conditions in their area. Our teams are working to provide a safe and reliable service and we appreciate your patience during this historic weather event. In addition to reduced energy use, remember 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 weatherproof; however, to ensure that the meter continues to run smoothly, remove snow and ice from the natural gas meters with a broom or brush. Never kick or chip snow and ice with a hard object.
• Minimize the risk of frozen tubes. Leave the taps running slowly, leave the cabinet doors open and close all doors and windows to keep the heat inside.
• If you think you 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.

Remove snow build-up from gas meters, pipes and vents

The accumulation of snow and ice can damage gas meters and pipes and hinder access in an emergency. Blocked vents for dryers and other gas appliances can lead to dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide gas.

To help keep your home and family safe during snow or ice weather:

• Remove accumulation of snow and ice on gauges and pipes.
• Make sure that the external openings for dryers and other natural gas equipment are unobstructed.
• Safely remove snow and ice using a broom or brush. Do not use chemicals to melt ice, salt, shovels or sharp-edged tools.
• Make sure the meter is visible to snowplow drivers if you are near a street or sidewalk.
• If you remove snow from the roof, make sure it does not land or bury the meter.
• Repair leaking eyes that may drip water on the meter and freeze.

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