In the coldest days and nights of winter, running out of propane can feel like a nightmare.
This emergency situation leaves you without heat, hot water, increases the risk of pipes bursting and can even affect your cooking
Don’t worry! Great Valley Propane has you covered.
In the following article, we’ll walk you through the steps to survive the coldest days when you run out of propane. Whether you’re in the middle of a snowstorm or just need a refill, these practical tips will keep you warm and safe.
Always Put Your Safety First
When you run out of propane, safety should be your top priority.
As propane is a flammable gas, every step should be taken to ensure it is not mishandled.
If you run out of propane, ensure all of your gas appliances are turned off. After completing a delivery your propane provider should complete a pressure and leak check to verify there are no propane leaks in your system. If you smell gas or suspect a leak after shutting off all appliances, turn off the main gas supply valve and evacuate your home immediately.
Then, from a neighbors house or safe, warm location, call for professional help to assess the situation.
What to Do If You Run Out of Propane In Cold Weather
Once you’ve ensure the safety of everyone in your household (even your pets), you should take these necessary steps for corrective action:
Call Your Propane Provide for an Immediate Refill
As soon as you’ve assessed the situation and confirmed that you’re out of propane, you should call your supplier immediately.
At Great Valley Propane, we understand that emergencies can happen at any time. That’s why we offer a 24-hour emergency propane delivery service.
Call our dedicated team at any time and they’ll ensure you have propane when you need it most.
Keep an Emergency Kit Close at Hand
Running out of propane isn’t the only emergency situation your household may encounter. Power outages, especially during the summer, are also disruptive to your comfort, convenience and safety.
That being the case, you should always have an emergency kit prepared and close at hand in case of a propane or power outage.
To make your emergency kit, gather essential supplies like blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit. Keep them in a duffle bag or storage container that is easy to access and retrieve when needed.
You should keep a battery-operated radio and fresh batteries in the kit or nearby, too. Having access to a radio allows you to stay informed of weather conditions and any emergency updates in your area.
Keep Yourself and Everyone in Your Household Warm
Losing your propane supply means your heating system won’t work. This can result in plummeting temperatures inside your home or property.
If this happens, dress in warm clothing, including layers and insulated materials, to conserve body heat.
Additionally, you can use alternative heating sources, such as electric heaters, until your propane supply is replenished.
However, you should use these types of heaters cautiously, following all safety instructions. Also, you should ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide build-up while using them.
Proactive Planning
While the steps mentioned above are vital for addressing an immediate propane shortage, proactive planning can help you avoid running out of propane in the first place:
Regularly Monitor Your Propane Levels
One of the best preventative steps you can take to avoid running out of propane is to take frequent gauge inspections.
Keep an eye on your propane tank’s gauge. When it reaches around 20%, it’s time to schedule a refill. This is especially important if you are enrolled in a Will-Call propane delivery service.
Schedule Regular Propane Deliveries
One way to avoid running out of propane during the middle of winter, or any time of the year, is to enroll in an Automatic Delivery service. With this service, Great Valley Propane’s expert team will monitor your propane levels and schedule deliveries for you when needed. This option helps ensure you never run out of propane.
Other Preventative Measures
As we mentioned above, running out of propane during the winter can result in a host of other concerns besides lack of heating and hot water.
Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage to your home. To avoid this scenario, you can use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect exposed pipes from the cold.
Additionally, you can help prevent frozen pipes by leaving faucets open slightly to allow a small, continuous flow of water. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
To help keep your home feel less frigid while you’re waiting for a propane refill, you can use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps around windows and doors. Temporary window insulation kits can also help trap heat inside your home. They’re easy to install and can make a big difference in maintaining warmth.
If you have an electric stove or hot plate, you can still cook meals without propane. Plan your meals accordingly. Or, you can use your outdoor grill. Please remember: both of these cooking solutions are not an option if your propane emergency is due to a leak.
Out of Propane This Winter? Call Great Valley Propane!
Running out of propane during the coldest days of winter is a situation no one wants to face.
However, being prepared and knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and comfort.
At Great Valley Propane, we are dedicated to providing you with reliable propane services and support when you need it the most. Our 24-Hour Emergency Propane Refill service is just a phone call away, ready to assist you in your time of need.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of running out of propane during winter, remember to stay warm, prevent frozen pipes, contact us for an emergency refill, maintain communication, and prepare an emergency kit. In addition, consider proactive planning to avoid such situations in the future.
Don’t let the cold catch you off guard.
Contact us for all your propane needs so you can stay warm and safe throughout the winter.
