How Propane Keeps Homes Comfortable During Winter Storms

December 11, 2025

Propane 101

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Propane’s Reliability During Power Outages

When winter storms knock out power, electricity-dependent systems can quickly go offline. That’s where propane makes a difference. A propane-powered generator can help keep essential home systems — like furnaces, water heaters, and refrigerators — running safely until electricity returns. Reliable and stored close by, propane provides an efficient backup energy source when the grid is down.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, blackouts could increase by 100 times in 2030 as the electric grid struggles to meet rising demand from home energy use, manufacturing, and AI-driven data centers. This trend underscores the importance of having dependable backup energy options at home or work. Propane offers that reliability because it's stored on site, ready to power heating systems, appliances, or generators when the electric grid is strained.

Why Having a Dependable Energy Source Matters

Propane offers the advantage of storing energy right at your home. This independence from the electrical grid provides reliability when storms interrupt power. The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) says “propane delivers reliable energy to millions of U.S. households that depend on it for cooking, home heating, hot water, backup power, and more.” With propane on site, homeowners can keep vital systems, like heating and hot water, running longer and more efficiently.

Propane’s Role in Home Comfort and Energy Independence

Powering Furnaces, Water Heaters, and Fireplaces

Propane fuels the systems that bring comfort to your home — from efficient furnaces delivering fast, consistent heat to water heaters that keep showers warm even as temperatures outside drop. Propane fireplaces and gas logs can also serve as reliable sources of supplemental warmth, providing both comfort and peace of mind during extended cold spells.

Supporting Generators During Electrical Outages

When electricity goes out, propane generators can help power essential systems, including lights, refrigerators, and home appliances. This versatility helps maintain safety and comfort until power is restored. They are also easy to store and refuel, offering flexibility when other energy options are unavailable.

The front of a snow-covered home in winter.

Preparing Your Home Before a Storm

Check Tank Levels and Schedule Refills in Advance

Placing your refill order early helps keep your home and family prepared if winter conditions worsen. Before severe weather arrives, take a few minutes to check your propane tank level. If you use our Will Call delivery service, order when your tank level reaches 30% or at least 7 business days before you anticipate needing propane. To request a refill, text ORDER to 573-207-5975*, log into MyFerrellgas.com, or call 888-337-7355.

Prepare for Potential Power Outages

If you have a propane generator, test it before winter and double-check there's enough fuel supply for emergencies. If your power goes out during a storm, switch off everything except one light, which will signal when power is restored. This helps reduce the risk of electrical surges that could damage your appliances.

Get Ready for Your Delivery

Preparing for your propane delivery helps the Ferrellgas team access your tank efficiently and safely. These simple steps make winter deliveries smoother and help keep your home ready for whatever the season brings.

Clear driveways, walkways, and the area around your tank of snow, ice, and debris.
In deep snow, mark your tank’s location with a flag or stake.
Secure all pets before your scheduled delivery.

Propane Safety Reminders in Severe Weather

Propane safety should always come first. Follow these precautions to help ensure your family and property are ready for whatever winter brings. For more information, review the Propane Education & Research Council’s winter storm safety tips.

Check and inspect your propane system. Before temperatures drop, have a qualified service technician inspect your appliances and propane system to ensure they're operating safely and efficiently.
Check your chimney, flue pipes, vents, and tank for any damage, blockages, or debris. Use a broom to carefully clear them if needed. This helps maintain proper airflow and reduces the possibility of dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it with your entire household. Post a list with contact information for your propane supplier and emergency services, along with instructions for shutting off the propane supply. If you ever turn off your propane, don’t turn it back on until a qualified professional confirms it is safe.
Pack a disaster supply kit with several days' worth of water and canned food, plus extra clothing, blankets, flashlights, and batteries. Don’t forget a manual can opener and battery-powered radio. Keep rock salt, firewood, and snow-removal equipment accessible from inside.
Install gas and carbon monoxide detectors for an additional measure of security. Choose models certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a nationally recognized safety organization, and install them in recommended locations. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for location, installation, and maintenance.
If safe to do so after the storm passes, check the area for downed power lines and damaged gas lines. High winds and severe weather can also move, shift, or damage propane tanks. Immediately call emergency services and your propane company if any of these hazards exist. Do not attempt repairs yourself.
Follow guidelines for safe propane use indoors. Never use a grill or stove for indoor space heating. This also applies to propane space heaters unless they are approved for indoor use. Portable generators and propane cylinders belong outside. Never use these or other outdoor propane appliances inside or in enclosed areas, especially in the event of a power outage. Proper ventilation is necessary for safe operation. You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, so always use these appliances outside and in well-ventilated areas away from windows or doors.

What to Do If You Smell Propane Gas

Propane has a strong “rotten egg” smell, thanks to an added chemical called ethyl mercaptan, which makes identifying leaks easier. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, act immediately. Leave the area right away, ensuring that everyone else does the same. Once you are at a safe distance, call 911 and Ferrellgas at 888-337-7355. Our team will respond as quickly and safely as possible.

If it is safe to do so, turn off the main gas supply valve on your tank. To shut it off, turn the hand wheel clockwise until it stops. Do not return to the area until a professional has confirmed it is safe. Your safety is the top priority, so always wait for official clearance before going back.

Stay Ready for Any Forecast With Ferrellgas

Auto Fill and Tank Monitoring for Worry-Free Planning

Ferrellgas Auto Fill delivery service takes the guesswork out of ordering propane by automatically scheduling refills based on your usage patterns and local weather conditions. Adding a tank monitor provides even more accuracy, tracking your propane level in real time and sending that data to Ferrellgas so we can precisely predict when to schedule a refill. Although customers with Auto Fill service are not required to inspect their tank percentage before each fill, it’s still important to check from time to time — especially during periods of unusually high usage, such as adverse weather events.

Qualification and active credit status are required for Auto Fill service. Availability and cost of digital tank monitors may vary by location.

Why Preparation Is Key in Winter

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so being prepared is the best way to avoid stress. Regularly checking your propane level and scheduling early refills are simple ways to stay ready for when storms arrive. If you use our Will Call delivery service, remember to order when your tank level reaches 30% or at least 7 business days before you anticipate needing propane. This is especially important during severe weather, when delivery timeframes may be longer than normal due to circumstances outside of our control.

Reliable Support, All Season Long

No matter what winter brings, Ferrellgas is here to help with dependable service from trusted professionals. Contact us today to request a refill or speak with a Customer Service Professional.

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