As cooler temperatures approach, Ameren Illinois is urging natural gas customers to prioritize safety by having their furnaces inspected before turning them on for the season. Ameren recommends that both homeowners and businesses arrange for a professional HVAC technician to check for potential leaks and operational hazards. While natural gas is colorless and odorless in its natural form, Ameren adds a distinct rotten egg-like odor, using the chemical mercaptan, to help detect leaks more easily. 

Eric Kozak, Vice President of Gas Operations and Technical Services at Ameren Illinois, speaks on vigilance and immediate action if customers suspect a gas leak. Ameren Illinois responds to gas leak calls swiftly, averaging a response time of about 22 minutes, with a guaranteed response within 60 minutes at any time, day or night, at no cost to the customer. Kozak advised that if anyone detects the smell of gas, they should leave the premises immediately and contact Ameren Illinois at 1-800-755-5000.

To further ensure safety, Ameren Illinois recommends annual inspections of natural gas appliances, piping, and fittings. The company highlights potential hazards such as corrugated stainless-steel tubing, which must be properly bonded to prevent gas leaks in case of nearby lightning, and flared gas fittings, which may weaken over time and pose leak risks. Customers are advised to have a licensed electrician or qualified professional inspect these components.

Ameren Illinois warns of the danger posed by unplugged gas lines that are no longer in use, as they can accidentally release gas if left improperly capped. If a gas leak is suspected, the company outlines strict safety measures: evacuate immediately, avoid using anything that could spark, and wait for Ameren crews to assess the premises from a safe distance. The company’s round-the-clock response protocol is intended to reassure customers of their commitment to safety throughout the colder months.

Visit www.ameren.com/illinois for more information.