Hurricanes, thunderstorms and other severe weather conditions can cause power outages lasting anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. For Florida homeowners, this can be extremely inconvenient. But for businesses unable to serve customers or otherwise generate income, it can be downright devastating. Fortunately, natural gas provides nearly 100% reliable service—ensuring homes basic comforts (like hot water and home‑cooking) and enabling businesses to stay up and running—even when the power goes out.
Natural gas is a mixture of simple hydrocarbon compounds and consists primarily of methane. It also contains trace amounts of hydrocarbons, such as ethane and propane and other gases, after being delivered via pipeline. Natural gas is usually found in deep underground reservoirs formed by porous rock. According to the prevailing scientific theory, natural gas was formed millions of years ago when plants and tiny sea animals were buried by sand and rock and continued to build up until the pressure and heat from the earth turned them into natural gas.
NATURAL GAS GENERATORS
- Turn on within seconds of a power outage & shut off once the power returns
- Eliminate the need to buy & store fuel
- Cost up to 50% less to operate than non‑gas generators
NATURAL GAS WATER HEATERS
- Natural gas tank‑style water heaters operate automatically while tankless models require a simple battery
- Natural gas tankless water heaters also provide endless hot water & up to 50% water heating energy savings—essential for larger homes & commercial applications
NATURAL GAS RANGES
- Most natural gas stovetops continue to operate during power outages
- Natural gas ranges are preferred by more than 9‑out‑of‑10 chefs, & cost up to half as much to operate as non‑gas models
- Performance benefits also include precise temperature control, even heat & instant on/off
NATURAL GAS GRILLS
- Natural gas grills provide an uninterrupted fuel supply
- Many models feature additional side burners for pots & pans, which can be extremely handy in the event of a power outage
- Natural gas grills also provide “instant on” for grilling without the wait—plus there’s no tanks to fill, charcoal to buy, or ashes to clean up
NATURAL GAS LIGHTS
- Continue to provide functional light & added safety in the event of a power outage
- Help alleviate the need to use flashlights & candles
- Provide a soft, attractive glow & unlike non‑gas lights, help repel insects
- Available in a large variety of styles & designs
The City of Tallahassee’s gas distribution system serves over 31,000 customers in Tallahassee and surrounding counties. Because our distribution system does not rely on electricity to operate, our customers enjoy virtually uninterruptible service. Many Floridians are turning to standby home generators to make sure they have the power they need during an outage. If you are considering home generation or have questions about these units, contact your local generator dealer or the City of Tallahassee Natural Gas Utility at 850‑891‑5112. 
