10 Propane To-Dos Before the First Freeze

As temperatures start to dip, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for winter’s first freeze. Whether you’re a longtime propane user or just made the switch, a little early prep goes a long way in keeping your home warm, safe, and efficient all season long.

Propane is one of the most reliable, affordable, and energy-efficient ways to heat your home — but like any system, it needs a bit of attention before the cold hits. Here are 10 propane to-dos every homeowner should check off before the first freeze.

1. Check Your Tank Level

Before temperatures drop below freezing, make sure your propane tank is at least 60–70% full. Cold weather increases demand, and delivery schedules can fill up fast once the first frost hits. Tankfarm customers can track their levels in real time using smart tank monitors, so you’ll never have to guess when it’s time to refill.

Pro Tip: Schedule a fill when prices are lower in the early fall — before the mid-winter rush drives demand and costs higher.

2. Schedule a Propane Delivery Early

The best time to book your propane delivery is before you need it. As soon as temperatures start dropping, delivery routes get busy. Scheduling your propane delivery early ensures you’re at the top of the list when demand spikes.

With Tankfarm, there's no need to schedule. We constantly monitor your levels and automatically schedule you for deliveries. You can rest easy knowing our Never Run Out Guarantee has you covered.

3. Inspect Your Tank for Damage or Corrosion

Take a quick walk around your tank and check for rust, dents, or leaks. Even small signs of corrosion can worsen in freezing temperatures. If you notice anything unusual — or smell gas — call your propane supplier immediately and don’t attempt to repair it yourself.

Tankfarm’s technicians can perform a full safety inspection before winter to make sure your tank and lines are in top shape.

4. Clear the Area Around Your Tank

Snow, leaves, and branches can block access to your propane tank, making deliveries difficult and even dangerous. Before the season’s first storm, clear at least a 3-foot radius around your tank and mark the path with stakes or a flag if it’s hard to spot under snow.

This not only helps your delivery driver but also keeps your tank safe from debris buildup and ice damage.

5. Test Your Heating System

Before you need it, turn on your furnace or boiler to make sure everything’s running smoothly. Listen for unusual noises, uneven heating, or delayed starts — these can all be signs your system needs service.

Tankfarm customers can request a service appointment or system inspection to ensure peak efficiency before the deep freeze hits.

6. Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Safety first: make sure your carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries. Propane burns cleanly, but a blocked vent or malfunctioning appliance can cause dangerous CO buildup. Test each unit and replace batteries at least twice a year.

7. Protect Your Propane Lines

Exposed propane lines can become brittle in freezing weather. Inspect and insulate exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves or pipe wrap, especially if they run along exterior walls. This small step can prevent costly damage or disruptions in service.

8. Review Your Payment or Budget Plan

Winter heating costs can fluctuate depending on usage and weather conditions. Tankfarm’s Even-Payment Plan spreads your propane costs evenly over the year, so you’re not hit with big bills in the coldest months. Take a few minutes to review your plan or enroll before the first freeze — it’s one less thing to worry about when the temperature drops.

9. Refresh Your Emergency Plan

Severe winter weather can lead to power outages and icy road conditions that delay deliveries. Keep an emergency plan in place:

• Make sure you have enough propane to last at least a week.
• Store extra blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food.
• Keep your propane supplier’s contact information handy.

10. Know the 80% Fill Rule

Propane expands as temperatures rise, so tanks are filled to 80% capacity for safety. If your tank appears “not full” after a delivery, that’s intentional and standard practice. Understanding this rule helps avoid unnecessary service calls and keeps your propane system operating safely.

Bonus Tip: Stay Informed All Season Long

Bookmark your local weather and propane pricing updates. Tankfarm publishes regular insights on propane price trends and winter forecasts to help customers plan ahead.

Final Thoughts

A little preparation now can save you stress, money, and time when the temperatures start to plummet. Propane is one of the most dependable and efficient energy sources for New England and beyond — but staying proactive is key to a worry-free winter.

From automatic deliveries and smart monitors to budget plans and emergency protection, Tankfarm is here to keep your home warm and your family comfortable all season long. Learn more at https://www.tankfarm.io/