Atmos Energy is asking Texans to reduce their energy consumption as freezing temperatures continue.
Atmos released the statement on Sunday, as the dangerous cold will continue throughout the week throughout Texas.
Atmos Energy asked customers of industrial companies to reduce the use of natural gas and was asked to comply.
Atmos Energy offered the following tips for reducing energy:
• Businesses and large consumers of public services should minimize energy use as much as possible.
• Lower your thermostat to at least 68 degrees. Consider using additional layers of clothing and lowering the thermostat further.
• Lower the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees, because it can account for up to 25% of the energy consumed in your home.
• Reduce bath time and avoid bathing. Bathing is responsible for about 40% of the use of hot water 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.
• Avoid using large appliances like 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 is also reminding Texans how 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 are smelling gas, act quickly. Leave the area immediately and, from a safe distance, call 911 and the Atmos Energy emergency number at 866-322-8667.
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