NEWARK, N.J., Aug. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PSE&G is recommending that its gas heating customers test their heating systems now, before the chilly weather arrives. If there's a problem, PSE&G will come out to start the unit -- at no charge -- through September 12.

"Chilly weather will be here soon, and one of the best things customers can do now is to check their heating system to ensure safe and efficient operation before the colder weather arrives," said Joe Bassolino, manager of business development at PSE&G. "By testing their heating systems early, customers will be prepared for the cold weather ahead, and we'll be able to respond more quickly now than before a large volume of calls come in on that first chilly morning."

PSE&G customers are advised to first inspect their gas fired heating systems to ensure the units start and run properly. Use these steps to proceed.

Check your heating system:

Verify the area surrounding the unit is free of combustible items like boxes, paper, clothing, paint, etc.

    --  Make sure the flue pipe is connected and in good condition
    --  If you have a hot water boiler, verify the indicator on the pressure
        gauge falls into the normal range (12-15 lbs cold)
    --  If you have a steam heating system, check the water in the sight glass.
        If it is low, turn on the water supply valve to bring the water level up
        to the half-way mark. Turn off the valve.
    --  For warm-air furnace systems, check and replace dirty air filters.
        Verify the blower door is closed tight and correctly secured.
    --  Verify all controls, valves, and electrical switches are in the "On "
        position

Start it up:

    --  If the unit is equipped with a pilot, confirm that it's lit.  If the
        pilot light is out, follow the instructions on the heating unit to
        relight it. Let the pilot light burn a few minutes before continuing.
    --  Many units use a form of automatic ignition.  Review the starting
        instructions located on the unit before continuing.
    --  Set each thermostat mode to "heat" (if equipped) and raise the setting
        five degrees above room temperature. The heating system should start
        within a minute or two.
    --  Let the unit run a few minutes to ensure it's operating normally and
        then return all controls to their previous settings.

Problems?

    --  Need help lighting the pilot? PSE&G will perform this service
        free-of-charge through September 12.  PSE&G will charge $25 for this
        service from September 13 through October 31.
    --  Not working properly? PSE&G customers can call the utility, at
        1-800-350-PSEG (7734) or go to www.pseg.com to register their account,
        and schedule repair services online for assistance from our appliance
        service technicians.

The utility is also asking customers to keep their homes and yards safe, well lit, and free of clutter so that our workers can safely access the meters and their equipment. Customers are asked to:

    --  Warn PSE&G workers of any hazardous conditions on your property, such as
        loose steps or railings.
    --  Make sure the path leading to your meters is clear and properly lit -
        especially stairways.
    --  Keep dogs and other pets secured away from our workers and service
        areas.
    --  Keep the area around your furnace, meter and appliances free and clear
        of clutter. Trim bushes and shrubs in the vicinity of meters located
        outdoors..

Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) is New Jersey's oldest and largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state's population. PSE&G has won the ReliabilityOne National Achievement Award for superior electric system reliability the last two years in a row. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) (NYSE: PEG), a diversified energy company (www.pseg.com).

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SOURCE Public Service Electric & Gas Company (PSE&G)