Frequently Asked Questions

I think I smell gas in my house. What should I do?

Natural and propane gases are colorless and odorless. Clearwater Gas System adds a distinctive odor resembling rotten eggs, so that you can smell the gas immediately should a leak occur. A faint odor of gas may be attributed to a pilot light that has gone out and should be re-lit. A strong gas odor indicates that you should leave your home at once. To report a gas leak, leave your home immediately and then call Clearwater Gas System using an outside phone at our 24/7 emergency number (727) 462-6633.

What are the advantages of using natural gas?

Gas is a safe, reliable and efficient energy source. Natural gas continues to be the best value for your energy dollar. Compared to electricity, natural gas appliances can cost less than half as much to operate. As a gas customer, you will enjoy savings of up to almost 50 percent on your heating, water heating, clothes drying and cooking costs.

Do you only provide natural gas to the City of Clearwater?

No! We serve many communities in North Pinellas and Pasco Counties. Check out our territory map to see if your home or business is within the Clearwater Gas System service area.

How is natural gas reliable?

Florida's natural gas pipeline distribution system provides one of the state's most reliable energy sources. It has historically had very few service disruptions, even during natural emergencies and tropical storm events. Florida's underground pipeline delivery system supports this reliability.

Where does our natural gas come from?

Most of Florida's natural gas supply originates from wells in Texas, Louisiana, and the Gulf of Mexico. Over 97% of the natural gas used in the United States is produced in North America (around 84% is produced in the United States, while the remaining 13% is produced in Canada). The use of natural gas helps reduce America's dependence on foreign oil. Domestic natural gas production supports the livelihoods of countless Americans and keeps more than $1 billion in energy dollars in this country.

I am a new customer. Why is there an additional charge to turn my gas on?

The additional charge covers the cost of performing the required safety test, turning on the meter, lighting the gas appliances, and the Utility Customer Service costs to establish the account and process the deposit.

I've decided I want natural gas at my home. What is the next step?

Contact our sales department at (727) 562-4980 to begin the intake process.

Does the city turn off its natural gas distribution during or after a hurricane?

No. Natural gas service is highly reliable and has historically performed at a 99.9% service rate. It is very unlikely to be interrupted during a storm. Natural gas is ideal for powering a backup generator. This level of reliability is why many services – such as hospitals, emergency services, and nursing homes – rely on natural gas to power their water heaters, cooking equipment, and standby generators.

How much does it cost to convert to natural gas?

This varies depending on the scope of work. Several factors impact the cost of providing service to a home or business. The good news is Clearwater Gas System does provide several incentive programs. There are different programs for different municipalities. Incentives for appliances purchased from Clearwater Gas will reduce your out-of-pocket costs for a conversion or new construction project. To get an accurate estimate, please get in touch with the sales team at (727) 562-4980 to begin the quote process.

I've left a message, and no one has called me back.

Our sales team strives to return calls and emails as promptly as possible. Please call (727) 562-4980 to follow up on any order or have an exploratory call.

How much does it cost to pull a permit for gas installation?

This varies depending on different factors, including the scope of work, type of installation, and the location of the property. Different municipalities have different permit fees. The fees for new construction will differ from those for a conversion.

It is best to call the Clearwater Gas Sales Department at (727) 562-4980 to get an accurate estimate of expected costs and fees.

How long does it take to have natural gas service connected to my home?

Several factors impact our ability and the timeline to provide service to a home or business. This may include getting the necessary easements, permits, construction crews, and materials in place. Factors such as inclement weather may also impact delivery. It is best to call the Clearwater Gas Sales Department at (727) 562-4980 to get up-to-date information regarding our current delivery time.

Who decides what gas rates will be, and how are they established?

After review in public hearings, the gas rates are set by ordinance for gas service, excluding the fuel charge, which is the actual cost for Clearwater Gas to purchase the gas from its supplier. The gas rates are set to recover our cost to serve each customer class.

Are there incentives for converting to gas?

Yes, our energy conservation allowance program can help you save up to $1,000 when you convert costly electric appliances to money-saving gas appliances. Call us at (727) 562-4980 for complete details. A list of our qualifying incentives may be found here.

Does Clearwater Gas System sell gas appliances?

We do! Clearwater Gas Systems sells appliances at fantastic prices! We have several tankless gas water heaters as well as pool/spa heaters. An additional assortment of gas-powered appliances are available by special order. We also offer outdoor leisure living appliances like gas lights, logs, fire pits, fire tables and grills. Before you check out the box store, call (727) 562-4980.

Am I required to have my gas appliances installed by Clearwater Gas System?

No, you may contact any licensed gas plumbing contractor.

Does Clearwater Gas System install gas piping or repair gas appliances?

Yes, we have a complete installation and service department to install and maintain residential and commercial gas piping and appliances. Call the Clearwater Gas Service team at (727) 562-4900 for expert installation, maintenance and repair services.

My gas bill is much higher now than last year. Why?

Many factors contribute to the fuel consumption of an appliance, such as the age of the equipment, efficiency/maintenance, lifestyle of the occupants, number of people in the home, type of appliances and weather conditions. Usage may vary for each customer.

How much gas does an average family consume?

Each customer has different usage values. For example, not everyone likes the same water temperature or room temperature. So, there are several factors to consider when estimating potential gas usage. Refer to the Clearwater Gas Fuel Use and Cost Comparison Chart for average cost and consumption rates.

Does Clearwater Gas System offer compressed natural gas (CNG) for CNG vehicles?

Yes, please call us at (727) 562-4900 for additional information and/or if you are new to fueling your vehicle at our CNG station.

How do natural gas vehicles work?

On the vehicles, natural gas is stored in tanks, usually in the trunk area. A natural gas fuel system transfers high-pressure natural gas from the storage tank to the engine while reducing the pressure of the gas to the operating pressure of the engine's fuel management system. The natural gas is injected into the engine intake air the same way gasoline is injected into a gasoline-fueled engine. The engine functions the same way as a gasoline engine. The fuel-air mixture is compressed and ignited by a spark plug, and the expanding gases produce rotation forces that propel the vehicle.

Why did we build a CNG Station?

Clearwater wanted sensible options to advance energy and reduce environmental impact while saving money. We want to be less dependent on foreign oil. Every gallon equivalent of natural gas used in vehicles is one less gallon of crude oil that has to be imported. Using compressed natural gas is economical, energy-efficient, and eco-conscious. The station provides a place for privately owned and city vehicles to get this fuel.

Where will I find other filling stations if I purchase a natural gas vehicle?

The city's filling station was the first public/private station in the Tampa Bay area. There is one at Tampa International Airport, Clean Energy Tampa, Trillium Tampa, GAIN Clean Fuel Tampa, Milton and Ft. Lauderdale.