Customers encouraged to monitor natural gas meter area
Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. is encouraging customers to inspect their natural gas meters throughout the winter season to make sure there is not a build up of snow and ice. Customers are encouraged to clear the snow and ice away from the meter set.
Also, anyone operating snow removal equipment needs to be aware of objects buried under the snow, which can include natural gas meters and risers.
Accumulations of snow and ice can cause the regulator and meter to malfunction and result in a hazardous situation. A buried regulator may become clogged, affecting the supply of gas to the appliances. When melting occurs and the snow becomes wet and heavy, it can put pressure on the meter setting and cause strain on the associated piping. In extreme cases, the possibility exists that the piping could break.
If you believe damage has occurred around the meter set, please call Montana-Dakota at 1-800-MDU-FAST (1-800-638-3278) so the problem can be repaired.
Sept. 15, 2009 – Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. natural gas customers can expect to spend about 12 percent less than last year to heat their home during the upcoming heating season, which runs from November through March. The decrease amounts to about $65 for the heating season.
“Natural gas prices are down because of increased domestic production and decreased demand resulting in natural gas in storage being at record high levels,” said Dave Goodin, Montana-Dakota president and chief executive officer. “Fortunately, our service territory is adjacent to one of the lowest priced supply regions in the United States and in recent years our customers have enjoyed prices that were lower than most of the country. We anticipate passing along savings to our customers again this winter.”
“While we were able to purchase natural gas over the summer months at these lower rates and place it in storage to help meet the winter heating season demand, customers need to be aware that future supply and demand can create price changes.”
The price outlook for this year’s heating season assumes no serious supply disruptions or extreme weather impacts on supply and demand. Prices also are subject to monthly changes based on the fluctuations in the wholesale market.
Montana-Dakota continues to encourage customers to use energy wisely and continue individual conservation efforts. Conservation tips and other useful information can be found here.
For customers anticipating payment difficulties, call 1-800-MDU-FAST (1-800-638-3278) to make payment arrangements.
