TOLEDO CHRONICLE – CEDAR RAPIDS (SPECIAL) – With snow and freezing rain combined now with melting and re-freezing, Alliant Energy wants to remind customers not to forget about clearing snow and ice from their gas and electric meters as well as their furnace vents and other vents around their home.

“With all the snow on the ground across much of Iowa and Minnesota, it’s important to remember that snow accumulation and shoveling can sometimes cause electric and gas meters to be covered,” says Mark Hawley, manager – Safety & Heath Services, Alliant Energy. “This could affect the operation of the meter.”

Hawley suggests keeping the following tips in mind:

•Don’t pile snow on or near the meter when shoveling or using a snow blower

•Use your hands, not a shovel, to clear snow and ice from the meter

•Never bang on the meter or pipes

•Don’t let dripping water or freezing rain build up on the meter.

The vent can becomeplugged when ice and snow melt during the day and refreeze at night

Remove icicles hanging above the meter

Check furnace and water heater exhaust pipes. If an exhaust pipe is blocked, the furnace or water heater could malfunction or stop working

Natural gas regulators have a vent to allow gas to escape; if this vent is blocked, gas flow into the home could be compromised.

“It just takes a few minutes, and it can prevent a lot of problems,” adds Hawley. “We want all our customers to stay safe and warm during the winter season. We appreciate everyone who helps us keep the energy flowing safely and reliably.”