Preparing for Cold Temperatures, Atmos Energy Offers Tips to Use Energy Wisely for Arlington Residents

By Atmos Energy Communications

Posted on February 18, 2025, February 18, 2025

As the forecast calls for extreme winter weather to arrive in the coming days, Atmos Energy remains focused on year-round preparations for the winter heating season. They also have tips to help you stay safe and conserve energy so you can be ready for winter too. When the forecast calls for extreme cold to arrive, Atmos Energy will closely monitor the weather and stage qualified, well-trained employees across our system.

Use Energy Wisely

Cold weather may impact the amount of natural gas you use. To save energy and money, please consider these energy-saving tips, where safe to do so:

• Lower your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and 58 degrees when you are away from home.
• Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home.
• Protect natural gas meters. Natural gas meters are weather-proof; however, to help keep the meter working smoothly, remove snow and ice from natural gas meters with a broom or brush. Never kick or chip snow and ice away with a hard object. Call Atmos Energy's Emergency Number,866.322.8667, if you have concerns about your meter.
• Make sure external vents for dryers and other natural gas equipment are clear. Blocked vents can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide gas. If you have questions about proper venting, contact a licensed plumber or qualified contractor.
• Reduce your shower and bath time. Showering and bathing can account for 40 percent of your home's hot water use.
• Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees. Water heating accounts for as much as 25 percent of the energy consumed in your home.
• Do not use a pool heater. Instead, run your pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.
• Operate your clothes washer, dryer, and dishwasher only when fully loaded.
• Unless a fire is burning, close your fireplace damper to prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney.

Stay Safe

Although natural gas outages are infrequent, if you experience loss of natural gas service or low gas pressure, contact the Atmos Energy emergency line at 866.322.8667 – agents are ready to assist 24/7.

Service Reconnections

If your natural gas service lapsed for any reason and you need to reconnect service, contact Atmos Energy now to schedule an appointment – before cold weather sets in. The Atmos Energy customer service team is available at 888.286.6700, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central time – or visit the Account Center anytime at www.atmosenergy.com.

Sign-up for Text Alerts

To sign up for text alerts, adjust your notification preferences in your Account Center. Atmos Energy will communicate regularly with customers and communities before, during, and after extreme weather events.

For more information on how you can get ready for winter, visit atmosenergy.com/winterready.