Carson City, Nev. - Southwest Gas is your energy partner throughout the year and especially during the cold weather when natural gas provides warmth and comfort. As a highly efficient form of energy and the cleanest fossil fuel, natural gas is greener than you think.
Southwest Gas reminds its customers that a few energy-savings steps today can help them save energy and money tomorrow. "Today's consumer chooses natural gas because it's efficient and a natural choice for the environment," said Southwest's Byron Elkins, director of operations. "Natural gas is considered the energy solution for a greener tomorrow, and we want to be there for our customers to help them manage their energy use wisely while saving money on their bills."
Elkins recommends the following energy and money saving tips:
•Have the furnace inspected by a licensed professional heating contractor to help ensure its safe and efficient operation. Regularly change or clean the filters to improve airflow so that the furnace works as efficiently as possible.
• Install a programmable thermostat and set it between 65ºF and 68ºF when home, health permitting. To help keep warm air inside the home and the cold air out, seal leaks and cracks around doors, windows and other openings with caulk or weather stripping.
• Open drapes and shades on the south-facing windows during the day to take advantage of the sun's heat, and close them at night to reduce the chill from the cold air.
• Install foam insulating gaskets inside wall outlets and switch plates adjacent to the home's exterior. Gaskets are available at most hardware and home improvement stores. They are easy to install with a screwdriver and by following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Keep outside gutters free of leaves and debris, including those above or near the natural gas meter and outdoor appliances.
The company recommends installing a shelter over the natural gas meter to protect it from the accumulation of snow and ice. If any accumulation or build-up occurs, use a broom instead of a
shovel to clear the natural gas meter and any other outdoor appliances, including regulators, associated piping and propane appliances. When shoveling or plowing snow, keep the meter and all outdoor appliances free of snow since a build-up on them can create a hazardous leak.
Southwest Gas is also your safety partner 24/7 and reminds anyone who suspects the release of natural gas to call the company immediately. Indicators of a natural gas leak are the smell of rotten eggs, even if it is slight or momentary, and/or a hissing noise coming from the ground or an above-ground pipeline. In the event a leak is suspected, avoid doing anything that would create a spark, such as lighting a match or turning an electrical appliance switch off or on, leave the area immediately, and call 911 and Southwest Gas at 1-800-772-4555 from a safe location.
Southwest Gas provides natural gas service nearly 1.9 million customers in parts of Arizona, California and Nevada.
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