Demand for natural gas continues to be at unprecedented levels, as some of the coldest weather ever recorded has descended across Texas.
Atmos Energy is urging residents and businesses to continue to conserve energy to help maintain service for the most critical humanneeds customers.
Conservation efforts include:
• lowering the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
• minimizing business usage as much as possible.
• lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
• unplugging electronic devices and turning off lights not in use.
•reducing shower times and avoiding baths.
• refraining from using large appliances like a washer, dryer, oven and dishwasher for the next few days.
• keeping the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning.
• avoid using natural gas fireplaces, if possible.
Atmos Energy reminds customers to heed the emergency guidance of local leaders and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
“Our teams are working around the clock to provide safe and reliable service, and we appreciate your patience during this historic weather event,” said Randy Hartford, Atmos Energy’s public affairs manager.
Atmos Energy officials also issued these reminders for staying safe at home:
• Protect natural gas meters. The meters are weather-proof; however, to ensure the meter keeps working smoothly, remove snow and ice from the meter with a broom or brush. Never kick or chip snow and ice away with a hard object.
• 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.
• 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.
Customers who need assistance keeping up with their monthly natural gas expenses may contact Atmos Energy’s customer service team at 888-286-6700 or visit the account center at https://www.atmosenergy.com/accountcenter/logon/login.html.