Enbridge tells Ontarians to keep gas meters and vents clear during snowstorm
Enbridge warns snow and ice can block gas meters and appliance vents, risking heating interruptions and carbon monoxide. Clear meters carefully and call Enbridge for help.
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By Torontoer Staff
Enbridge Gas Ontario is advising residents to keep natural gas meters and appliance vents free of snow and ice as a winter storm moves through the province. The company says buildup can interfere with gas pressure, disrupt heating and increase the risk of carbon monoxide entering homes.
The warning comes as heavy snowfall raises the chance that meters or vents will become buried, or that melting water will refreeze and block exhaust outlets. Enbridge is stressing careful removal to avoid damaging equipment and to preserve safe operation of gas appliances.
What Enbridge is asking homeowners to do
Enbridge says natural gas meters are built to withstand winter weather, but snow and ice can compromise their ability to regulate gas pressure. Blocked appliance vents can prevent combustion gases from venting properly, which may allow carbon monoxide to accumulate indoors. The company also notes that excessive snow around meters can slow emergency access if crews need to reach equipment.
Clearing snow and ice from your gas meter and appliance vents is essential for safety. Doing so prevents dangerous blockages, keeps your appliances running efficiently, and ensures emergency crews can access your meter quickly if an unexpected situation occurs.
Anita Chiappetta, Manager of Utilization, Enbridge Gas Ontario
Safe ways to clear snow and ice
Enbridge recommends careful, manual removal of snow and ice. Take steps that protect you and the equipment.
- Use a soft brush or broom to sweep snow away from meters and vents.
- Avoid using sharp tools, scrapers, metal shovels, or pickaxes on or near meters and pipes.
- Do not kick, strike, or apply force to meters or associated piping.
- Do not pile snow against meters, external pipes or vents when clearing driveways or walkways.
- Clear icicles and melting water from eavestroughs and overhangs so runoff does not freeze over vents.
- Keep a clear path to the meter so service or emergency crews can access it quickly.
When to call Enbridge or get professional help
Contact Enbridge immediately if you see damage to a meter, piping or vent, or if you smell gas. Also call if you cannot safely clear snow and ice, if a carbon monoxide alarm activates, or if appliances are not working properly after clearing. Emergency crews need unobstructed access to respond quickly.
Enbridge provides more safety information on its website. Customers with questions or concerns can reach Enbridge Gas at 1-866-763-5427.
Quick checklist
- Sweep snow away from meters and vents with a brush or broom.
- Do not use sharp tools or hit the equipment.
- Avoid piling cleared snow next to meters or pipes.
- Remove icicles and clear eavestrough runoff paths.
- Keep access to the meter clear for emergency crews.
- Call 1-866-763-5427 or visit Enbridge's website for help.
Keeping meters and vents clear is a straightforward step that reduces the risk of heating disruption and carbon monoxide exposure during a storm. If you are unsure how to clear equipment safely, contact Enbridge or a qualified technician rather than attempting risky methods yourself.
Enbridgewinter safetycarbon monoxidehome safetyOntario
