Ride Along: CoServ Gas Techs Provide Exceptional Service

CoServ Gas Operations Field Supervisor Alex Copeland putting in a new gas meter at a business in McKinney. Photos by BRIAN ELLEDGE
CoServ Gas Operations Field Supervisor Alex Copeland putting in a new gas meter at a business in McKinney. Photos by BRIAN ELLEDGE

Whether it’s installing a meter, helping a customer with a high bill concern or turning on the gas, providing quality service is at the heart of everything CoServ Gas does.

They also respond to emergencies, such as hit gas lines or leak investigations, which means they’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Every day is different, but it all comes down to helping our Customers and ensuring they have reliable, safe, and affordable natural gas service,” said Alex Copeland, a Gas Operations Field Supervisor.

We rode along with Alex to learn more about how our Gas Operations teams are serving Customers
every day.

COMMERCIAL METER SET

For a commercial meter set, the maximum gas load must be assessed first to know what size meter is needed. At The Veg Palace restaurant in McKinney, there are multiple flattop grills, fryers, burners, and a tankless water heater. The appliances are rated for a combined 2 million British thermal units (Btu), which means a larger meter needed to be set.

The next step is to check for leaks by pressurizing the system with a regular air compressor, ensuring it can hold the pressure for five minutes.

Then, Alex did a dry run of the installation, making sure the pipes and elbow joints fit perfectly. Next, he disassembled it and used plumbers tape and sealant to permanently seal each joint. Using a large wrench, he tightened the connections, tested the pressure, and switched on the gas.

Now, with the gas flowing, The Veg Palace was ready to fire up its kitchen to serve fine vegetarian cuisine. Soon after, CoServ set their electric meter, powering the lights and air conditioning.

Taking a look at a residential gas meter.
Checking pressure on a residential meter and talking with the homeowner during a new move-in.
CoServ Gas Operations Field Supervisor Alex Copeland talking to a homeowner while checking the pressure on a residential meter for a new move-in.
Natural-Gas-Utility-Workers-Day_logo

Join us in recognizing our skilled CoServ Gas crews on Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day on March 18.

RESIDENTIAL RECONNECTION

This work doesn’t stop because of cold temperatures and howling wind – that’s when CoServ Gas Customers need us the most.

We stopped by a rental house in Allen where the tenant had recently moved out. The landlord needed the gas turned back on so he could fix the house and sell it.

Just as with the commercial meter, Alex pumped compressed air into the system, checking for leaks. Finding none, he reconnected the meter and turned on the gas for the home. The final step is to fire up the furnace, a welcome relief with temperatures below freezing.

HIGH BILL CONCERN

Alex also visits with Customers who have concerns about high bills.

On this day, he stopped to chat with a Customer who had questions about a higher-than-expected bill. During the visit, he reviewed the situation with the Customer, and quickly identified the issue. He was able to resolve the Customers concern and answer all their questions before leaving.

It’s just another way that CoServ goes above and beyond for our Members and Customers.

Whether they’re installing meters for businesses, reconnecting gas for homes, or resolving Customer concerns, the techs demonstrate dedication and a customer-first attitude.