GAS SAFETY TIPS

Natural gas is one of the safest fuels available when used properly. Follow these simple safety tips to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of your natural gas equipment and appliances.

Smell Gas

If you small gas, call your local gas company immediately. The gas leak phone number for Con Edison is 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633).

Also follow these precautions:

Check to make sure the burners on your range and in your oven are in the off position.
If you still smell gas, do not operate any electrical appliances or switches, thermostats or flashlights. Do not smoke or light matches. Call the local gas company immediately.
Open doors and windows.
If the odor is strong, do not use your phone (including cellular). Leave the building and call from a neighboring home or business.

Installation and Maintenance

Natural gas heating and water heating equipment and appliances should only be installed and serviced by trained professionals. For installation or service, you can reach Northeastern Energy’s service department at 212.687.8699.

Homeowners and businesses can and should handle routine maintenance on their gas equipment and appliances themselves.

Additional Safety Tips

Follow all manufacturers’ instructions when operating natural gas equipment and appliances.
Make sure gas equipment and appliances that require venting are properly vented. If you are unsure, call Northeastern Energy at 212.687.8699.

Change the filter on your gas furnace at least twice annually.
Keep your chimney flue and vent piping clear. Have your heating system and flue checked by a trained professional once annually.
Keep the area around your gas heating equipment and appliances clear to allow proper airflow. Never store flammable liquids near gas heating equipment or appliances.
Do not set the temperature of your water heater too high. 120 degrees is optimum.
Never use your range or oven to heat your home.
Like all fossil fuels (including oil, propane, kerosene and wood), natural gas produces carbon monoxide (CO) when burned. When equipment is properly installed, operated and vented, this poses no threat to homeowners and businesses. Install one or more CO detectors in your home.