METER READING

A: Although we strive to read all of our gas meters each month, there are times when we cannot do so. During severe weather or at times when we have ill meter reading personnel, it may be necessary for us to estimate your gas usage. These estimates are based on your usage from the same month in the previous year and then adjusted for changes in the weather. The following month when we do get an actual reading from your meter, the estimate is checked and your account will be adjusted if necessary.

A: Many of the meters installed by Citizens are equipped with remote reading devices called ‘ERTs’. Basically these are small radio transmitters, which transmit the meter reading to the handheld computer that the meter reader carries. The meter still has the standard dials to read manually. The use of these ERTs helps reduce labor costs by enabling each meter reader to read more meters in a day.

A: You can plant shrubs near your gas meter if you follow the specification for clearance around the gas meter.  Plan for the mature size of the shrub and make sure you have an 18-inch clearance on each side and 36-inch clearance in front or above the gas meter.  Please click here for more information.  It is very important for Citizens Gas or Emergency Personnel to have clear access to the gas meter for meter reading, maintenance or in case of an emergency.  Please make sure the shut-off valve, which is located at the base of the gas meter, does not become covered with dirt, stone, mulch, concrete or asphalt. 

A: Our customers are separated into several billing cycles. All customers in a cycle will have their gas bills due around the same day each month. According to the rules published by the Michigan Public Service Commission, you are entitled to have your bill at least 21 days before it is due. So, we will normally read your meter anywhere from seven to eleven days before you receive your bill. The actual reading date is printed on your bill.