Community Corner

SoCalGas Urges Conservation as Winter Cold Weighs on Natural Gas Supply

By Patch Editor Maggie Avants

Recent and continuing record cold weather in Southern California and across the U.S. has placed a strain on natural gas supplies, prompting SoCalGas on Friday to ask its customers to do their part to converse.

Low overnight temperatures in the 30s are forecast for Orange County throughout the weekend. Rain is expected throughout the day on Saturday, with highs in the upper 50s through Monday.

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“We know a typical home’s natural gas use for heating increases, sometimes up to three times more during colder months. SoCalGas is asking our customers to conserve energy to help ensure we have enough natural gas supply to get us through this cold weather,” said Rodger Schwecke, vice president of customer solutions for SoCalGas.

In a news release, SoCalGas suggested some "simple precautionary steps" that customers can take to help ensure supplies are sufficient to meet demand created by severe weather.

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SoCalGas advises the following energy conservation tips:

  • Use extra blankets and sweaters to stay warm and lower your furnace thermostat by three to five degrees (health permitting). This can save up to 30 percent on heating costs.
  • Limit use of non-essential gas appliances, fireplaces and spas.
  • Reduce your water heating usage: use less hot water, turn down the water heater thermostat or insulate your water heater.

For additional conservation tips, visit SoCalGas.com.

SoCalGas also encourages customers to follow these important safety tips when heating their homes to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning:  

  • Never use your oven, range or outdoor grill to heat your home because these appliances are not designed for this purpose and can emit dangerous carbon monoxide
  • Install a CO detector or change the batteries in your CO detectors.

Symptoms of CO poisoning can include unexplained nausea, headaches, drowsiness, mental confusion and flu-like symptoms. Those who suspect that themselves or a loved one is suffering from CO poisoning were encouraged to immediately call 911.

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