South Burlington, Vermont – The cold weather is upon us and Vermont Gas is offering easy ‘do-it-yourself’ safety and efficiency tips to ensure customers are safe and comfortable in their homes all winter long.
Report suspected gas leak – above all, if you think you smell natural gas, report it right away. Natural gas and propane have an odor similar to that of rotten eggs. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area, call 911 and contact Vermont Gas at 1-800-639-8081.
Keep gas meters free from snow and ice – with snow predicted, it’s very important to keep your meter clear of snow and ice. Use a broom, not a shovel, which could cause damage, to clear snow from your meter assembly and vents.
Keep heating vents clear – if a vent becomes buried in snow or blocked, equipment may shut down or draw potentially dangerous exhaust fumes into a home. Use a broom to keep vents clear.
Test smoke alarms – it is important to have working smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside each sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Test alarms to be sure they are functioning properly and have battery power if necessary. Make sure you change the batteries annually.
Test carbon monoxide alarms – carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Exposure to even small quantities of CO can cause flu-like symptoms. Higher levels can be dangerous. Test and replace CO detectors as needed. Properly maintain and vent your appliances. If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911and seek fresh air and remain outside. Learn more about CO safety here.
Check to make sure your heating system’s emergency switch is turned on – sometimes they can be inadvertently turned off.
Program Thermostats – Turning down thermostats seven to 12 degrees, while you are at work, can save up to 10% on annual heating bills. Bonus feature: some programmable thermostats come with an app that allows you to monitor your home’s energy usage all day long.
Energy Escape Routes – Sealing air leaks could save up to 10 percent on the average household’s monthly energy bill. Common escape routes are: floors, walls, ceilings, ducts, fireplace, plumbing penetrations, doors, windows, fans and vents, electrical outlets.
Let the Sun Shine In – On sunny days, open draperies and blinds to let the sun’s warmth in. Close them at night to insulate against cold air outside.
For more efficiency and safety tips, visit VermontGas.com.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com