Outdoor natural gas and electric meters are designed to withstand winter weather conditions, but heavy or hard-packed snow and ice can present a safety hazard.

Accumulated snow can place unnecessary stress and strain on your gas meter piping which can increase the chance of a gas leak.

Blocked regulator vents, which allow your system to “breath”, can affect operation and interrupt service.

To avoid problems, follow some basic meter protection tips:

Meter Protection Tips:

Keep you meter clear of snow and ice.
Do not shovel snow up against your meter.
Take care in using a snow blower or plow near your meter.
NEVER kick or hit a meter to break away built-up snow or ice.
Remove icicles from overhangs.
Protect your meter from dripping water which could freeze.

If you find your meter or pressure regulator covered in frozen ice or snow, do not attempt to remove the ice or use de-icer, contact your Utility.

It is always a good idea to keep a clear path to your meter to avoid estimated meter readings. If you can’t get to your meter, the individual who reads your meter will not be able to either.

These helpful tips provided by Realgy Energy Services