For more information, contact:
Ann Thelen, Director of Media Relations, at 515-281-2785
Mark Reinders, Communications Manager, at 712-277-7866
DES MOINES, Iowa – (Nov. 13, 2008) – As temperatures cool and furnaces are turned on, MidAmerican Energy is reminding customers about natural gas safety.
Natural gas is a quiet, clean and efficient source of heat for your family, but natural gas also can be dangerous.
“Since natural gas is colorless and odorless, a chemical agent – mercaptan – is added, which smells like rotten eggs and makes the gas detectable when a leak occurs,” said Barry Campbell, vice president of delivery services at MidAmerican. “If a natural gas leak is suspected, all family members should get out of the house immediately, and then call MidAmerican Energy.” To report a suspected natural gas leak, call 800-595-5325.
If you suspect a natural gas leak in your home, do not use any devices that might create a spark, such as light switches, telephones, cell phones, flashlights or computers. A spark could ignite the gas and cause it to explode. Simple maintenance can ensure gas appliances are working safely.
Natural Gas Range
- Keep the range and burners clean. Make sure the range top is clear of debris that can catch fire. Wash burners with water and mild detergent.
- Make sure the proper connector is installed. Older ranges may have an uncoated brass connector that can break and cause an explosion or fire. If you do not know if the proper connector is installed, contact a heating and cooling service representative to have it checked.
Water Heater
- Perform a basic safety check. Make sure the drainpipe from the relief valve on the top of the water heater is unobstructed.
- Keep flammables away. Keep the area around and under the water heater clean and free of combustible materials. Never store flammable liquids in your home because the vapors can be ignited by pilot lights.
- Insulate carefully. Be sure to follow instructions when installing an insulation blanket. Do not block controls, air intakes or the water heater flue.
Furnace
- Replace air filters. Clean or replace furnace air filters regularly before they become clogged with dirt. Monthly replacement is recommended.
- Keep flammable materials away. Keep the area around the furnace clean and free from litter and combustible materials. Never store flammable liquids in your home because the vapors can be ignited by pilot lights.
- Schedule annual inspections. Every year, contact a heating and cooling service representative to perform heat exchanger, flue and vent inspections. The heat exchanger separates the combustion area from the heated air, and a crack can allow toxic carbon monoxide to mix with air circulated in your home. Furnace vents, connections and chimneys should be inspected for corrosion and blockages. Newer high-efficiency gas furnace flues are subject to corrosion and should be inspected more often.
For more information about MidAmerican’s natural gas safety tips and home inspection programs, visit the company’s Web site at www.midamericanenergy.com.
