Check natural gas equipment for ice

SaskEnergy is reminding customers to work safely when clearing snow from around buildings, including rooftops, so as to not bury or damage natural gas meters or risers.  Homeowners and businesses are also reminded to check their natural gas meters and rooftop heating equipment, as melting snow can cause ice buildup when it freezes overnight.
SaskEnergy’s natural gas equipment is designed to operate safely in Saskatchewan winters. However, each winter, SaskEnergy responds to gas leaks caused by damage to meters due to heavy snow, ice buildup, or snow removal. Ice buildup can also affect the operation of the natural gas regulator, which is a safety design feature which prevents pressure from building up on gas supply lines inside a facility.
In order to avoid damage, SaskEnergy has the following winter safety tips:
• Keep the meter, regulator and shut-off valve free of snow and ice. Heavy amounts of snow or ice caused from sleet, freezing rain or a leaking eavestrough can cause damage to meter fittings and pipes, which can increase the risk of a natural gas leak.
• Remove any built-up snow by hand – do not use a sharp instrument to scrape or chip off the ice or snow. Do not hit or kick the meter to break the ice or remove the snow build-up.
• Do not use a snowplow or snowblower near your meter. Make sure you know where your gas meter is before you start your snow removal.   
If you have any concerns about possibly damaging your natural gas equipment this winter, please contact SaskEnergy at 1-888-7000-GAS (427) to have the equipment checked and ice safely removed by one of our technicians.