Winter Propane Tank Safety Tips

Outdoor propane tanks are built to withstand the extreme hot and cold temperatures we experience with the changing of the seasons. The freezing temperatures of the winter are no match for an outdoor propane tank – in fact, you don’t even have to cover your tank in the winter! Although propane tanks are built to withstand the extreme cold temperatures of winter, there are some safety measures you should know about to protect your household.

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Indoor Safety Tips:

• Make sure all adults in the house know how to shut off the propane supply in the case of an emergency. If you don’t know how to do this. Get in touch, we’d be happy to help!
• Teach kids and other household members what propane smells like so they know what to keep a nose out for. Propane has a strong unpleasant smell, like rotten eggs or a skunk’s spray. Gross!
• Check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors and replace old batteries with new ones.
• Never use an outdoor propane appliance for indoor heating or in enclosed spaces. If you use an outdoor propane heater in your garage, be sure to crack a window for better ventilation.
• You should never store an outdoor propane tank for your grill indoors. Did you know we fill grill tanks? Check out our location in Hanover, PA!

 

Outdoor Propane Tank Safety Tips:

• If there is a winter storm in the forecast and you are not already on an automatic delivery plan, check the gauge on your propane tank and schedule a delivery right away if you need one.
• Clear snow from on and around an outdoor propane tank and the regulator using your hands or a broom. DO NOT kick or hit tank parts as this could lead to a leak.
• Make sure there is no snow or debris blocking any chimneys, flues, and vents to prevent a carbon monoxide buildup in your home.
• Attach a bright flag or a stake to the top of your tank so it’s visible to delivery drivers and during snow removal. This is especially important for an underground propane tank.
• If your propane tank is inside a fenced-in yard, make sure you clear a path and make sure any gates are able to be opened. A propane hose can weigh up to 150 lbs, imagine dragging that in 2 feet of snow and fighting obstacles!
• If you’re expecting a propane delivery after a storm, please make sure your driveway is clear of snow and ice

 

If your area is expecting a large winter storm, it’s best to plan ahead and schedule a delivery if you need one. Our general rule of thumb is to keep tanks above 30% during the winter. In the case of a major snowstorm where roads may be impassable and unsafe, our delivery drivers may not be able to get to you for a few days. You can conserve your propane supply by lowering your thermostat to a temperature where you’re still comfortable and closing off rooms that don’t need to be heated.

 

If you have questions regarding propane safety or need assistance with propane tank maintenance or propane deliveries please don’t hesitate to reach out! Give us a call at 855-734-0290 or send us an email at [email protected].

Are you worried about running out of propane this winter?

We have a variety of plans to choose from so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Plus, our automatic deliveries come with a worry-free, no runout guarantee! That means you’ll never have to worry about being without heat during the coldest months of the year.

Automatic propane plans come with our priority delivery service. Don’t wait any longer, sign up today and rest easy knowing Shipley Energy has you covered this winter!

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