As temperatures drop, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for heating season. A few simple steps can keep your family safe, your home cozy, and your utility bills steady all winter long.
1. Check Your FurnaceSchedule an appointment with a licensed professional to inspect your furnace. A quick tune-up can help prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and make sure your system is ready for the months ahead.
2. Be Alert for Natural Gas Odors
Natural gas has an added odor that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. If you ever notice this smell, leave the area immediately and call Citizens Energy Group right away at (317) 924-3311. Never try to find the source yourself.
3. Keep It at or Above 65 Degrees
When you’re away from home, set your thermostat to at least 65 degrees to help prevent pipes from freezing. It’s an easy way to avoid costly damage while still saving a little on heating costs.
4. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be dangerous. Make sure you have working CO detectors on every level of your home and check batteries at least twice a year. If your detector ever sounds an alarm, leave your home immediately and call 911.
5. Space Heater Safety
If you use a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, and anything else that can catch fire and burn. Always turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
6. Don’t Use Your Oven for Heat
It might be tempting to warm up the kitchen by leaving your oven open, but it’s not safe. Using a natural gas oven for heat can cause a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in your home.
Need Help Staying Warm?
If you’re currently without heat and cannot afford to have your natural gas service reconnected, please call us for assistance. Help may be available through local assistance programs.
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
Citizens Energy Group
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com