Surviving the Winter

Well, we’ve had our first snow of the season and much more is on the way. Winter is here and I’m already freezing my toes off, so the spirit of the season better come with some hot chocolate, fuzzy socks, and propane.

Settle in, kick back, keep warm, and enjoy this guide to surviving the winter season.

Propane: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

‘Tis the season of giving, but that doesn’t just apply to gifts under the tree. If you use propane to heat your home, you might want to give your propane tank some attention this month. Seriously. No one wants to wake up on a 3° morning to discover they’re out of fuel.

Pro tip: If your tank isn’t monitored, check it early and often. If you’re anywhere near 30%, it’s time to call for a refill. Remember, demand rises when the temps fall; not to mention poor road conditions due to accumulating snow. You want to ensure we can get to you long before you run out. Plus, you can’t bake those holiday cookies without your propane oven…and I love cookies.

Save Money While Staying Warm

You’ve got a lot going on in December. Between the holiday shopping, wrapping of gifts, baking, and trying to win your neighborhood’s unofficial decorating contest, the last thing you need to do is worry about high heating bills.

We all know the drill: you turn up the thermostat to 75° because it’s cold outside, and before you know it, our delivery driver is at your door, filling up your tank…again. Fear not! You can keep warm without draining your bank account (or your propane tank) by layering up, throwing on a hat, and wrapping yourself in a blanket like a giant burrito. Or maybe, you can take less drastic measures:

Turn down your thermostat a degree or two.
Close the doors and turn down the thermostat in unused rooms so the heat stays where you need it most. Sorry guest room, you’re on your own!
Seal up those drafty windows and doors.
As we know, heat rises. So, turn on your ceiling fans to help circulate that warm air throughout your home instead of keeping your ceiling nice and toasty.
Make sure your vents and filters are clean.

One quick note: if you have guests staying for the holidays, don’t turn down the thermostat in your guest room. Yes. I know it’s really funny, but they won’t think so.

Snowstorms and Preparation

There’s a snowstorm outside, but you’re safe and warm inside your propane-powered home; sipping on a hot beverage and munching on something delicious. Sure, you could be out there shoveling snow and braving the cold to stock up on eggs and bread, but instead, you’re wrapped up in a blanket, living your best life.

Here’s the catch: If you rely on propane to heat your home and you are in need of a delivery, it’s time to get up off the couch and brave the elements. Unless you planned ahead like I mentioned before (hint, hint), you’ll have to get a little cold. Propane delivery drivers are tough, but they’re not superheroes. So please, shovel and salt your driveway and make sure there’s a clear path to your propane tank. If we can’t safely make a delivery, we’ll, unfortunately, have to come back when we can.

Safety First

Safety is important, even if we’re having a little fun here. Test your carbon monoxide detectors and make sure your propane system is in good working order. Propane is safe when handled correctly, but it’s always a good idea to keep your eyes peeled for any signs of leaks. If you smell gas, stop what you’re doing:

Extinguish Open Flames – Do not use electronics or appliances. This includes cell phones. Do not turn your lights on or off. ANYTHING that can cause static or a spark can trigger an explosion.
Leave the Building – Make sure all people and animals are out of your home and are a safe distance away.
Turn Off the Gas – If you can safely do so, turn your main tank valve clockwise until it’s completely closed.
Report the Leak and Stay Away – Call Keystone Propane at: (800) 598-5047.
If you can’t reach us immediately, call 911 or your local fire department. Stay away from the area until a Keystone technician checks your system and gives you the “All Clear”.

Stay Warm, Stay Safe

December can be stressful, but your propane-powered home doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation, some strategic layering, and a few safety checks, you can enjoy a cozy, efficient, and toasty-warm winter. So, here’s to propane: the unsung hero of the holiday season. May your tank never run low, your furnace forever hum, and your holiday cookies always turn out with just the right amount of crispy-around-the-edges.

Happy Holidays, Everyone! 🎄🎅🔥