Appliance maintenance can help customers save energy and stay safe

Simple tips to keep your family cosy and warm this fall

SURREY, B.C., Nov. 25 /CNW/ - With colder weather here, Terasen Gas is encouraging customers to get their natural gas appliances and homes ready for a safe and comfortable heating season.

"Regular inspection and maintenance of natural gas furnaces by a licensed gas contractor will ensure they operate as safely and efficiently as possible," said Tom Loski, Vice President, Customer Service, Terasen Gas and FortisBC. "It is also important that the gas contractor locate and inspect the gas piping from the meter to the appliance to ensure it is functioning safely and free of any corrosion or damage."

Space heating in a typical home may account for between 40 and 60 per cent of a customer's annual energy consumption. "This winter, home heating will account for a significant portion of a customer's energy bill. Customers making home renovations, or shopping for new appliances, may want to consider upgrading to an energy efficient natural gas model to help keep energy costs down," said Loski.

Terasen Gas offers residential customers rebates and incentives on natural gas appliances such as EnerChoice™ fireplaces. Customers may also qualify for a $1,000 cash rebate if they change their oil or propane heating system to natural gas and install a new ENERGY STAR® rated heating system. More information is available in the Offers section on www.terasengas.com

In addition to regular appliance inspection and maintenance, there are many ways customers can lower energy costs, while also staying safe.

Home energy saving tips:

• Install a programmable thermostat. Set the thermostat to 20 degrees Celsius during the day and 17 degrees Celsius at night. This can save customers up to 15 per cent on their home natural gas bills. Try getting comfortable by putting on a sweater or slippers instead of turning up the thermostat.
  
  
• Go low-flow. A five minute shower with a low-flow showerhead uses as little as 45 litres of water. A
  standard showerhead uses as much as 135 litres.
  
  
• Change the filter. Replace furnace filters every three to six months. This will help ensure the furnace operates at peak efficiency.

Safety tips:

• Smell gas? Report it fast. If you smell the distinct rotten egg, or sulphur-like odour of natural gas, leave the area immediately and call the Terasen Gas 24-hour emergency line at 1-800-663-9911, or 911.
  
  
• Keep kids safe around a gas fireplace. Consider installing an adjustable safety gate or screen and a fire-resistant hearth guard to better protect young children around a gas fireplace. A safety screen would ensure children do not touch the glass panels of a natural gas fireplace. Visit your local hearth products retailer to find a safety screen that's right for your home.
  
  
  
• Keep your meter clear of ice and snow. Remove any built-up snow by hand until the regulator and shut off valve are clear. If ice builds up on your meter, call Terasen Gas at 1-888-224-2710. Terasen Gas reads natural gas meters regularly, but you can also provide your own meter readings. Contact us at 1-888-224-2710 for more information.
  
  
• Ask the experts. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from natural gas appliances is extremely low, however regular maintenance checks by a licensed gas contractor is the best prevention.

For more tips and information on natural gas safety and energy conservation, visit www.terasengas.com.

Terasen Gas is composed of the operations of Terasen Gas Inc., Terasen Gas (Vancouver Island) Inc., and Terasen Gas (Whistler) Inc. Terasen Gas is a leading integrated energy solutions provider, focused on the safe and reliable provision of natural gas, propane and alternative energy solutions. Terasen Gas serves approximately 939,000 residential and commercial customers in more than 125 B.C. communities. Terasen Gas employs more than 1,280 people in British Columbia and is indirectly wholly owned by Fortis Inc., the largest investor-owned distribution utility in Canada. Fortis Inc. shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade under the symbol FTS. Additional information can be accessed at www.fortisinc.com or www.sedar.com.

For further information:

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