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Ten Tips to Conserve Propane If You Are Running Low
December 7, 2022
Written By Adam Buckallew
In February 2021, millions of people were hit by power outages as a massive winter storm swept across the country and a polar vortex plunged temperatures to record lows. While propane is independent of the electrical grid, the storm’s snow and ice made for treacherous road conditions that delayed propane deliveries in many areas.
In the event of future winter storms, it’s always good to know what you can do to conserve propane in your tank while you await delivery.
- Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the temperature setting on your thermostat can help you conserve a considerable amount of gas. Dropping the temperature may make your house chillier than normal, but you can always use extra layers of clothes or blankets to help stay warm.
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans wisely. In just one hour, a hard-working bathroom or kitchen fan can expel a houseful of warm air, according to the Department of Energy. Turn exhaust fans off within 20 minutes.
- Keep the fireplace damper closed. Heat rises, and an open damper is like a hole in the roof. When your fireplace is not in use, remember to close the damper to prevent warm air from escaping.
- Close off rooms you aren’t using. If you have rooms that are not used often, shut the vents and close the doors to those rooms, so heat is not wasted on them.
- Keep heating vents clear. Vents blocked by rugs and furniture prevent heated air from circulating efficiently.
- Use your curtains to your advantage. Curtains and shades should be opened during the day to allow the sun’s rays to help heat your home. At night, close the curtains to reduce the chill you feel from cold windows.
- Block any drafts. Door sweeps can be used to close spaces under exterior doors, and caulk or tacky ropecaulk can help block drafty spots around window frames. Apply weatherstripping to movable joints. Outlet gaskets can easily be installed in electricaloutlets in a home’s outer walls, where cold air often enters.
- Winterize your windows. If you don’t have storm windows, put plastic film on windows where a clear view isn’t crucial. The film can curb drafts.
- Dress in layers. Adding an extra layer or two of clothes plus a pair of thick socks or slippers for your feet can help keep your body warm when it’s colder than usual inside your home. You can also snuggle up in a blanket whenever you are seated.
- Don’t forget your bed. Putting flannel sheets and extra blankets on your bed can help keep you warm while you sleep.
Following these tips can help you conserve propane and ride out winter storms.