GARLAND, Texas – With the school year in full swing and holiday gatherings on the horizon, Atmos Energy is urging local families to start winter preparations now. The utility’s Winter Warm‑Up Checklist offers practical steps to ensure natural‑gas service remains safe, reliable, and affordable throughout the colder months.
Confirm service and stay connected
First, verify that your natural‑gas account is active. If service has been disconnected for any reason, contact Atmos Energy promptly to schedule a reconnection before temperatures dip. The company’s customer‑service line (888‑286‑6700) is open Monday‑Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central time, and account management is also available online.
Atmos Energy also recommends signing up for text alerts in the Account Center under Notification Preferences. These alerts provide timely updates about service interruptions, safety notices, and weather‑related information.
Manage costs with budget billing
Natural gas remains roughly three times cheaper than electricity, but winter heating can raise bills. To help families budget, Atmos Energy offers a free Budget Billing plan that spreads estimated annual costs into equal monthly payments, making household finances more predictable.
Take advantage of rebates
Customers in Texas, Colorado, Louisiana, and Mississippi can apply for rebates on high‑efficiency gas appliances, energy‑saving devices, and weatherization upgrades. Details and application instructions are available at atmosenergy.com/rebates.
Winter safety tips for homeowners
Homeowners are responsible for the gas piping and appliances on their property, from the meter to the furnace. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential. Follow these safety reminders:
- Check that smoke detectors and carbon‑monoxide alarms are functional.
- Ensure snow and ice do not cover or damage the gas meter.
- Inspect piping and appliances for signs of wear or leaks.
For a full list of safety recommendations, visit Atmos Energy’s website.
Emergency response
If you smell gas, leave the area immediately, call 911, and then contact Atmos Energy’s 24‑hour emergency line at 866‑322‑8667.
When extreme cold is forecast, Atmos Energy monitors weather conditions closely and positions crews to respond quickly. The utility will keep customers informed before, during, and after severe weather events through text alerts and social‑media channels.
About Atmos Energy
Atmos Energy Corporation, headquartered in Dallas, is an S&P 500 natural‑gas distributor serving more than 3 million customers in over 1,400 communities across eight Southern states. The company emphasizes safety, reliability, and environmental stewardship while investing in infrastructure modernization and community outreach.
Original reporting: Blue Ribbon News (Rockwall) — read the source article.