Winter storms don’t wait. One minute you’re enjoying a crisp, sunny afternoon, and the next minute your weather app is announcing a nor’easter, a deep freeze, or one of those legendary mixes of snow, sleet, and whatever else Mother Nature feels like throwing at you. And while there’s no stopping winter from doing what winter does, you can make sure your home is ready—especially when it comes to your propane system.
Whether you’re new to propane or a longtime homeowner with years of winter prep under your belt, having a go-to checklist makes all the difference. Reliable propane supply, clear delivery access, safe ventilation, working equipment, and a little preventative planning help ensure your home stays warm, safe, and fully powered—even when the forecast gets complicated.
At Tankfarm, we make winter easier with smart monitoring, transparent pricing, autofill, and real-time insights into your usage. But there are also simple steps you can take today to stay ahead of the storm.
Here’s your complete Propane + Home Prep Checklist to get ready before the snow hits.
1. Check Your Propane Levels Before the Storm
This sounds simple, but every winter we hear from homeowners who realize too late that their tank is lower than they thought.
If you're a Tankfarm customer, you're already covered—our team monitors your tank remotely and schedules fills before you ever get close to running out.
If you're not with Tankfarm, make sure your tank is at least:
- 40% before light snow or cold snaps
- 50–60% before major storms
Heavy snow and icy roads can delay deliveries, and you don’t want to cut it close when temperatures are dropping.
2. Clear a Path to Your Propane Tank
Snowfall can make it difficult (or even impossible) for delivery teams to access your tank. A blocked tank equals delayed filling, especially after big storms.
Before snow arrives:
- Shovel a clear, safe path to the tank
- Mark the path with tall driveway markers or stakes
- Brush off snow buildup on and around the tank
- Ensure your tank is easy to locate if it's buried under heavy snow
If your tank becomes fully covered, use a broom—not a metal shovel—to avoid damaging valves or regulators.
Tankfarm delivery tip: Our teams appreciate safe access. The clearer the path, the faster and smoother your delivery.
3. Keep Your Regulator, Vents & Gas Lines Clear
This is one of the most important safety steps during winter.
Make sure to:
- Keep the regulator free of snow and ice
- Clear all exhaust and intake vents (especially for propane boilers, heaters, and water heaters)
- Remove snow buildup around gas lines
Blocked vents can create dangerous carbon monoxide conditions, and heavy snow can put stress on equipment that’s designed to stay unobstructed.
Safety reminder: Never try to chip ice off the regulator using metal tools. Stick to soft brushes or call a pro.
4. Set Your Thermostat Wisely Before the Temperature Drops
Extreme cold can cause propane usage to spike, especially once temperatures dip below freezing. To stay ahead:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees higher before the storm
- Avoid drastic temperature drops—you’ll use more energy reheating your home later
- Keep interior doors open to help heat circulate
- If you have rooms you do not use, keep them at a safe minimum temperature to prevent pipes from freezing
Balanced, steady heating is more efficient during winter weather.
5. Prep Your Backup Heat & Power Sources
Even with the most reliable propane system, winter storms can knock out power unexpectedly.
If you have propane-powered backup systems, check them:
- Test your standby generator
- Ensure propane supply is adequate
- Keep extra batteries and flashlights ready
- Run a quick safety check on carbon monoxide alarms
Propane generators kick in automatically and keep critical systems running: heat, refrigerator, sump pumps, medical equipment, and more. Winter peace of mind starts here.
6. Insulate and Winterize Problem Spots
Propane appliances run most efficiently when your home is buttoned up against the cold.
Quick winterization checklist:
- Seal drafts around windows and doors
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Add weatherstripping to exterior thresholds
- Close basement vents if appropriate
- Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down
A well-sealed home helps your propane system work smarter—not harder. Click here for the full winterization checklist.
7. Store Outdoor Propane Equipment Safely
If you use propane for:
- Outdoor heaters
- Fire pits
- Grills
- Patio appliances
Make sure they’re safely stored, covered, or properly winterized. Disconnect portable cylinders and keep them upright in a dry, well-ventilated space.
Bonus: On milder winter days, propane patio heaters and fire pits let you enjoy your outdoor space without freezing.
8. Know Who to Call If You Smell Gas or Have an Emergency
It’s rare, but it’s essential. If you ever smell propane (a sulfur or “rotten egg” odor):
- Leave the home immediately
- Avoid turning lights on or off
- Move away from the area
- Call your propane supplier or emergency services
Better to be over-cautious, especially during winter when ventilation is limited.
9. Make It a Habit: Quick Winter Checks After Every Storm
Winter storms often come in waves. After each one:
- Re-clear the tank and paths
- Recheck vents and regulators
- Recheck tank levels
- Look for heavy snow or ice buildup on roofs above tank areas
A few minutes of maintenance saves hours of stress.
Winter Comes Fast — Prep Now, Stay Safe All Season
Homeowners across the Northeast and Midwest know one truth well: winter rewards those who prepare early. Whether you’re navigating your first major snowfall or your fifteenth, your propane system is central to keeping your home warm, safe, and running smoothly.
Tankfarm makes that easier with smart technology, transparent pricing, reliable deliveries, and the customer service you deserve. We’re here to keep you warm—no matter what winter brings.
Ready to join Tankfarm? Check your zip code here and get an instant quote.
