Anamosa, IA, June 13, 2008– Natural gas meters and appliances that have been submerged in floodwaters must be inspected by a technician before service is restored to homes, an Aquila official said today.

Many Aquila customers have experienced flooding in their homes this week in the Anamosa area. As a result, many gas appliances and meters also have been damaged by flooding.

“Flood waters carry silt and other contaminants that damage gas meters and appliances such as water heaters, furnaces and air conditioners,” said JimWurster, operations supervisor in Dubuque. “An Aquila technician must inspect the metering equipment and an appliance repair professional must inspect gas appliance equipment before gas service can be restored.”

Wurster said that for safety reasons, an Aquila technician would replace a customer’s gas meter that has been submerged in water. He also added that appliance manufacturers’ safety guidelines also recommend that gas appliances be replaced when they have been flooded.

“We will perform a safety inspection, restore gas service and relight appliances free of charge for our customers,” Wurster said. “However, repairs to equipment will be charged on a time and materials basis. It’s important for homeowners to contact their insurance carrier to see if this cost is covered under their home insurance policy.”