As natural gas generators have become an item of interest to western New Yorkers following the October snowstorm and power outage, National Fuel offers the following information and advice to those contemplating such a purchase.

It is important for customers to ensure that their existing natural gas line and meter are sufficient to provide the additional volume of natural gas that a generator will require. Customers should call National Fuel's customer response center at 1-800-365-3234, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., to begin the investigation process. I

n some cases, a field visit will be required and if an upgrade is necessary, the customer will be responsible for the costs associated with the facilities. The associated costs will vary for each customer, but in most cases the cost of a new meter will range from $135 and up, while the cost for a new service will begin around $1,000. The cost for a new service is ultimately determined based on the length and size of the pipe required.

Customers should be sure that this evaluation has been conducted before having a generator installed, as an insufficient flow of gas to a generator may cause it or other natural gas appliances in the home to malfunction and can create an unsafe situation. If a customer has had a natural gas generator installed without having this evaluation completed, they should contact National Fuel's Customer Response Center at 1-800-365-3234.