The first cool morning of fall has a way of sneaking up on you. One day the windows are open, and the next you’re reaching for the thermostat.
Before colder weather arrives, now is a good time to make sure your home’s propane system is ready for another heating season. A little preparation in early fall can help you avoid inconvenient deliveries, unexpected problems, and that dreaded moment when you realize the tank is much lower than you thought.
Here are seven simple things every propane homeowner should check before winter.
1. Check Your Propane Tank Level
Start with the easiest one: take a look at the gauge on your propane tank.
If your tank is getting low, scheduling a delivery before the first real cold snap can save you some stress. Propane use can increase quickly once your furnace starts running regularly, especially if propane also powers your water heater, stove, fireplace, generator, or other appliances.
Getting ahead of the rush also gives you one less thing to worry about when temperatures begin dropping.
2. Make Sure We Can Reach Your Tank
Think about the path your delivery driver takes to reach your propane tank.
During fall, that may mean clearing away:
- Overgrown weeds or brush
- Fallen branches
- Outdoor furniture
- Lawn equipment
- Trailers or vehicles
- Other obstacles around the tank
Once snow arrives, keeping driveways and access routes clear becomes even more important.
Easy access helps propane deliveries go smoothly and safely.
3. Take a Look Around the Tank
You don’t need to be a propane technician to give the area around your tank a quick visual inspection.
Look for anything unusual, including damaged components, heavy rust, leaning tanks, loose-looking fittings, or vegetation growing too close to the equipment.
Never attempt to repair propane equipment yourself. If something doesn’t look right, contact a qualified propane professional and have it inspected.
4. Test Your Heating System Before You Need It
There’s a much better time to discover your furnace isn’t working than the first 30-degree night of the year.
Turn your heating system on briefly before cold weather arrives and make sure it starts and operates normally.
If something seems wrong, you’ll have time to schedule service without trying to find a technician during the first major cold spell of the season.
5. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Any home with fuel-burning appliances should have properly functioning carbon monoxide detectors.
Test your detectors, replace batteries when needed, and replace older units according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
While you’re at it, test your smoke alarms too. It only takes a few minutes and is one of the easiest fall safety checks you can make.
6. Think About Everything in Your Home That Uses Propane
Your furnace may be the biggest propane user in your home, but it might not be the only one.
Propane can also power:
- Water heaters
- Ranges and cooktops
- Clothes dryers
- Fireplaces
- Garage or shop heaters
- Pool heaters
- Outdoor kitchens
- Standby generators
Understanding everything connected to your propane supply can help you estimate how quickly your tank level may drop during colder months.
7. Don't Wait Until the Tank Is Empty
Running completely out of propane can create more headaches than simply scheduling another delivery.
Instead of trying to squeeze every last gallon out of the tank, keep an eye on your gauge and plan ahead.
Fall is also a good time to ask about delivery options that can make propane management easier throughout the year.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Preparing your propane system for winter doesn't need to be complicated.
Check your tank level, clear the delivery area, test your heating equipment, and make sure your safety detectors are working. Taking care of those basics now can make the transition into heating season much easier.
And when the first genuinely cold morning arrives, you'll be able to turn up the thermostat without wondering whether your propane tank is ready.
Need a Propane Delivery?
Baker's Propane is here to help keep your home comfortable throughout the heating season. Click here to schedule your next propane delivery or learn more about propane service for your home.
