As a blanket of cold weather prepares to enshroud the area, Atmos Energy has issued a series of energy-saving directives to help residents navigate the big freeze, CBS Austin reports. The energy company's tips range from the proper maintenance of natural gas meters to the implementation of cost-effective heating practices amidst the plunge in temperatures. According to a release from CBS Austin, significant savings can be found through several household adjustments, like never using an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home.
With the forecast promising a streak of frost that could increase gas consumption, Atmos insists on preemptive measures such as keeping the gas meters free from snow and icicles and to ensure outdoor vents remain unblocked to prevent the dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide, The Owensboro Times outlines, they also recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and a lower 58 degrees when away from home, so long as it's safe to do so as navigating the storm from inside implies a vigilance against the elements, the goal is to stave off the bitter cold without putting undue strain on household energy systems or the broader natural gas infrastructure.
To contend with the risk of frozen pipes, Atmos advises keeping faucets running at a trickle and cabinet doors open, ensuring snug closures of all doors and windows to retain heat; these small acts can be the difference between weathering the storm in comfort or confronting the harsh bite of winter's deep chill, advice that is echoed on their website and via their Storm Center page. The commonality of their guidance stands stark against the backdrop of potentially perilous weather, and it reflects a central preoccupation with public safety and fiscal prudence.
Though outages are rare occasions, Atmos is prepped to respond to calls regarding disruptions to gas service or low gas pressure, staffing their emergency line around the clock at 866.322.8667 for such events. And, in the dire instance one detects the scent of a gas leak, the company urges immediate departure from the area before safely reaching out to 911 and Atmos's emergency response team to report the issue, confirmation of this protocol has been obtained by both the previous articles referenced with the understanding that tepid preparations today could very well forestall complete freezes or crises tomorrow.
