Keep your gas meter looking like this....

Pictured above is a gas meter, with an arrow pointing to the meter’s gas pressure regulator vent.

Keep the vent dry and clear of snow and ice at all times to avoid the potential for dangerous indoor natural gas buildup.

The vent can become plugged when ice and snow melt during the day and refreeze at night.

Xcel Energy recommends keeping the entire meter assembly clear of snow and ice as well. Accumulated snow can prevent the meter from operating properly by stopping the flow of natural gas. Gently remove snow or ice from the natural gas meter and any associated piping. Carefully shovel around a meter and move snow away from it. Avoid using a snow blower near a meter. A snow-covered meter, in addition to being potentially dangerous, can also lead to a loss of service and freezing of inside pipes as a result of lost heat.

Pictured above is an example of a natural gas meter exposed to dripping water that froze when temperatures dipped below freezing.

In this case a leaky hose connection was the source, but during winter, after heavy snows, melting precipitation can produce the same result.

Xcel Energy strongly recommends that you keep your gas meter free of ice and snow, especially if the meter is exposed to melting precipitation. If  you notice ice on your meter or are concerned that the meter's regulator vent may be blocked, please call Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-2999.