As the leaves change and temperatures begin to drop, fall is the perfect time to get your home and propane system ready for the colder months ahead. A little preparation now can help you avoid unexpected problems, improve energy efficiency, and keep your family safe and warm throughout the season. This step-by-step checklist is designed to guide Pennsylvania homeowners through essential fall propane preparations.

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Step 1: Check Your Propane Tank Levels

Before the first cold snap arrives, take a look at your propane tank gauge. Running low when demand is high can be stressful and costly. Topping off your tank in the fall ensures you have enough fuel on hand to get through early winter cold spells and can help you avoid mid-season delivery delays. It’s also a good time to estimate how much propane you’ll use this winter so you can plan ahead.

Step 2: Schedule Your Propane Delivery Early

Fall is one of the busiest times of the year for propane suppliers. Scheduling your delivery early helps you secure fuel before demand spikes in the winter. Whether you choose will-call deliveries or sign up for automatic delivery, being proactive now can save you from emergency fees or delays later in the season.

Consider a Pre-Buy Program

One of the best ways to prepare for winter is to lock in your propane price ahead of time. Many suppliers offer pre-buy programs that allow homeowners to purchase propane in advance at a fixed rate. This can protect you from price spikes during the peak winter months and make budgeting easier. By signing up for a pre-buy program in the fall, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your heating costs are under control.

For details about our pre-buy program and how to enroll, click here. The deadline is September 30^th, so hurry before it’s too late!

Step 3: Inspect and Service Your Propane System

Regular inspections are an important part of keeping your propane system safe and efficient. Fall is the ideal season to schedule a professional check of your tank, regulators, valves, and connections. Inside your home, it’s also a good idea to have your furnace, water heater, and other propane appliances inspected and cleaned. Routine service now can help prevent breakdowns when you need heat the most.

Step 4: Clear the Area Around Your Tank

Over the summer, leaves, branches, and other debris may have built up around your propane tank. Clear away any clutter to maintain safe airflow and make sure your tank is accessible for deliveries. As fall turns to winter, consider placing a stake or marker near your tank so it’s easy to find in deep snow.

Step 5: Test Your Heating Appliances

Don’t wait until the first freezing night to turn on your furnace or space heaters. Run them in the fall to ensure everything is working properly. Check your thermostat settings, confirm the pilot light is functioning, and listen for unusual noises that could signal a problem. Testing early gives you time to schedule repairs before the cold sets in.

Step 6: Prepare for Emergencies

Pennsylvania weather can be unpredictable, and power outages are more common in the fall and winter. If you have a propane-powered generator, make sure it’s fueled and ready to go. Keep extra propane cylinders for grills or patio heaters on hand so you can cook and stay comfortable if the power goes out. Having an emergency plan ensures your family is prepared for the unexpected.

Step 7: Review Propane Safety Practices

Take time to review safety basics with your household. Remind everyone what propane smells like (a strong odor similar to rotten eggs) so they can recognize a leak. Ensure family members know how to shut off the propane supply in case of an emergency, and keep the contact information for your propane supplier and local emergency services readily available.

Step 8: Improve Energy Efficiency Around the Home

While propane is an efficient fuel, your overall energy use also depends on your home’s condition. Take time in the fall to seal drafts around windows and doors, add insulation where needed, and clean or replace air filters. Small improvements in energy efficiency can reduce the amount of propane you use and lower your overall heating costs.

Step 9: Plan for Outdoor Living with Propane

Fall in Pennsylvania is a beautiful season, and propane can help you enjoy it longer. Consider using propane patio heaters, fire pits, or outdoor kitchens to extend your time outside as the evenings get cooler. Stocking up on propane cylinders now means you’ll be ready to entertain, cook, or relax by the fire without interruption.

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Act Now to Stay Warm This Season

Fall is the perfect time to get ahead of winter by preparing your propane system and home for the colder months. By checking your tank, scheduling deliveries, inspecting your system, signing up for a pre-buy program, and reviewing safety procedures, you’ll be ready to enjoy a warm, worry-free season. Taking these steps now can save you money, prevent headaches, and give you peace of mind as temperatures drop.

Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives—make propane preparation part of your fall routine. Contact our team today to schedule your propane delivery and ensure your home is ready for the season ahead.