With wintery weather conditions, it is important to be mindful of proper home maintenance.
That is why SaskEnergy is reminding customers to check their natural gas meters, external vents and rooftop heating equipment for snow and ice buildup.
You should also be cautious when clearing snow from around buildings, including rooftops, so you do not bury or damage natural gas meters or risers.
Each winter, SaskEnergy responds to gas leaks caused by damage to meters due to heavy snow, ice buildup, or improper snow removal.
Ice buildup can also affect the operation of the natural gas regulator, which is a safety design feature which prevents pressure from building up on gas supply lines inside a facility.
SaskEnergy has provided the following winter safety tips:
- keep the meter, regulator and shut-off valve free of snow and ice;
- remove any built-up snow by hand — do not use a sharp instrument to scrape or chip off the ice or snow and do not hit or kick the meter to break the ice or remove snow build-up; and
- do not use a snowplow or snow blower near your meter.
It is also important to keep chimneys and external vents free of snow and ice. This allows for proper ventilation and air supply for equipment such as your furnace. Blocked vents can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide.
For more information, visit www.saskenergy.com. If you smell natural gas, please contact SaskEnergy at 1-888-7000-GAS (427).
