With winter weather approaching, Southwest Gas is encouraging customers in areas that experience heavy snowfall to prepare their homes and natural gas equipment before snow and ice arrive. A few simple steps taken this fall can help protect natural gas meters and appliances, improve energy efficiency, and keep households safe and comfortable throughout the colder months.
In communities where snow and ice are common, winter preparation starts outside. Snow and ice can place significant weight on natural gas meters, regulators, and surrounding piping, potentially damaging equipment and creating safety concerns. Snow sliding from a roof or accumulating around a meter can also put infrastructure at risk.
Southwest Gas encourages customers in heavy snowfall areas to install a structurally engineered snow shelter. A properly installed shelter helps prevent snow and ice from accumulating directly on natural gas equipment and reduces the potential for damage that could interrupt service used for heating, cooking, hot water, and other everyday needs.
For the safety of customers and the community, Southwest Gas will suspend service if snow or ice damage is discovered at a natural gas meter or surrounding piping. Service can be restored once snow and ice have been cleared, adequate meter protection has been installed, and applicable local requirements have been met.
Southwest Gas also encourages customers to take the following precautions throughout the winter:
- Gently clear snow and ice from meters, regulators, and outdoor appliances with a broom when possible
- Avoid shovels and other hard tools that can unintentionally damage equipment
- Do not pile snow on or around natural gas meters when shoveling, plowing, or using a snow blower
- Keep air supply and exhaust vents clear of snow, ice, leaves and other debris
Natural gas appliances need adequate airflow to operate properly. Blocked vents can affect appliance operation and may contribute to carbon monoxide accumulating indoors.
Prepare Your Heating System for Winter
Fall is also a good time to have natural gas appliances and heating equipment inspected by a licensed professional. Southwest Gas does not perform appliance inspections, but customers can find licensed contractors through the company’s Contractor Referral Program. From October 1 through November 30, customers can also take advantage of a $100 Residential Home Heating Inspection per unit from a participating licensed contractor.
Know the Signs of a Natural Gas Leak
Winter preparedness also means knowing what to do in an emergency. If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the area immediately and from a safe location call 911 and Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020.
A natural gas leak may be detected by:
- A strong odor, similar to sulfur or rotten eggs
- A hissing or roaring sound near the ground or appliances
- Blowing dirt, bubbling water, or unexplained dead vegetation
For natural gas safety information, contractor referrals, energy-saving tips, and other resources, visit swgas.com.
About Southwest Gas
Southwest Gas Corporation is a dynamic energy company committed to exceeding the expectations of our over two million customers throughout Arizona, California, and Nevada by providing safe, reliable, and affordable service while pursuing innovative sustainable energy solutions to fuel the growth in its communities. For more information about how Southwest Gas is supporting a sustainable energy future, please visit www.swgas.com.