Atlanta Gas Light is committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy for the communities we serve.  That’s why as cooler weather approaches, we’re providing energy efficient tools and resources to help energy users adjust to the season change.

Natural gas users are encouraged to remain mindful of the following conservation, seasonal checkup and weatherization tips to have more control over their energy consumption and bills.

Conservation:

Ranges

When you’re cooking, adjust the flame to fit the bottom of the pot or pan. Turning up the flame beyond the bottom only wastes energy.

Keep the burner surfaces clean.

Cover pots and pans with lids when cooking.

Washers and Dryers

Use a water-level setting that matches the size of the load you’re washing.

In your dryer, separate heavier clothes (towels, heavy cottons) from the lightweight fabrics (synthetics) for more efficient drying.

Clean the dryer’s lint filter before every load.

Be sure the outside dryer vent is free of any obstructions and the vent cover fully opens when the dryer is in use.

Water Heaters and Furnaces

Lower the temperature setting on your water heater to 120 degrees.

Lower the thermostat when no one is home.

Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature each day.

Keep heating and return vents free of all obstructions for proper airflow.

Seasonal Checkups:

Make sure your furnace stays in winter-ready condition. We recommend an annual inspection by a qualified contractor, which should include:

Making sure the blower bearings and blower motor are lubricated according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Visually inspecting all vents, heat exchanger, and motor.

Clearing the furnace area of any dust or combustible materials.

Testing the thermostat.

Cleaning dust from the blower compartment.

Checking the flue to make sure it’s clean and open.

Checking the pilot light, if your furnace has one.

Weatherization

Weatherization is one of the easiest ways to make your home more energy efficient. By making sure your home is sealed properly and that you’re not wasting water, you can drive down your energy costs.
 
With safety always top of mind, Atlanta Gas Light is also providing the following guidelines on how to recognize
a potential natural gas leak:
 
LOOK for blowing dirt, discolored vegetation or continued bubbling in standing water.

LISTEN for a hissing or roaring noise near a natural gas appliance or line.

SMELL for the distinctive “rotten-egg” odor associated with natural gas.

LEAVE the area immediately and move a safe distance away from the potential leak.

AVOID using any sources of ignition, such as cell phones, cigarettes, matches, flashlights, electronic devices,
motorized vehicles, light switches or landlines, as natural gas can ignite from a spark, possibly causing a fire or explosion.

CALL Atlanta Gas Light at 877.427.4321 or 911 once you are out of the area of the suspected leak and in a safe place. Stay away until Atlanta Gas Light or emergency personnel indicate it is safe to return.