Learn how to help prevent frozen pipes and ensure safe home-heating—along with how to apply for financial assistance with utility bills.
INDIANAPOLIS – Citizens Energy Group is well prepared to deliver natural gas service for customers under different weather scenarios, including the forecasted snow event and frigid temperatures.
As part of a portfolio approach to natural gas supplies, Citizens owns and operates natural gas storage facilities in Greene County, Indiana. In addition, Citizens contracts with multiple interstate natural gas pipelines for access to both natural gas storage and production across the country.
Citizens also advises customers—both renters and homeowners—to prepare their homes ahead of expected frigid temperatures in the coming days. The simple steps below can help ensure that customers stay safe and warm.
Safe Home-Heating
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Keep space heaters away from flammable items such as furniture and draperies. Avoid using fuel-burning space heaters indoors as they can create deadly carbon monoxide.
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Place a working smoke alarm on each level of the home and at least one carbon monoxide alarm within the house. Batteries should be checked each month.
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Never heat a home using a natural gas oven.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
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Leave a thin stream of water running from faucets when the temperature is below freezing.
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Insulate pipes that may be exposed to cold air, and/or open cabinet doors below sinks to let warm air from the home circulate around pipes.
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Ensure the lid of the water meter pit is tightly secured.
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For water meters located in a basement, ensure the area is heated. Check for broken windows, which may allow cold air inside.
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For water pipes in a garage, ensure the garage doors stay closed.
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Locate the water shut-off valve in case a pipe burst requires the water service to be quickly turned off. Shut-off valves may be in various places of the home, including the garage, basement, utility closet, or the main entry of the water line into the house.
Reacting to a Frozen Pipe
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Turn off the water at the shut-off valve.
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Open the faucet attached to the frozen pipe to allow water to flow through and relieve pressure on the pipe. Running water through the pipe can also help melt any remaining ice.
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Apply gradual heat to the section of frozen pipe until the water pressure is restored and the water freely flows. This can be done by wrapping the pipes in bath towels or using a space heater to heat up the area where the pipes are located. Never apply direct heat to the affected area.
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If a pipe is bulging or the location of the blockage is unknown, call a licensed plumber.
Managing Utility Bills this Home-Heating Season
Citizens has compiled information regarding multiple sources of financial assistance on its Assistance webpage for those who may have difficulty paying their utility bills. This information is translated into nine languages.
Citizens customers who have trouble paying their utility bills have flexible options for payment and may additionally have access to financial assistance. Citizens encourages customers to determine if they are eligible to receive assistance through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) or the local Winter Assistance Program (WAF) available through the United Way of Central Indiana.
Information on these two programs and all financial assistance options are available on the Assistance webpage, or by calling (317) 924-3311.
About Citizens Energy Group
Citizens Energy Group provides safe and reliable utility services to about 900,000 people in the Indianapolis area. Citizens operates its utilities for the benefit of customers and the community.
Media Contact Information
Ben Easley
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com