When people think of the El Paso area, they likely think of warm summer days and outdoor living. They don’t realize we get winter cold and bad weather, too!
In fact, it can get quite cold here! The average low temperature in winter is around 32°F. We’ve even had snowfalls of a foot or more here. Also, think back to the last few winters, when the temperature tumbled, and we were dealing with ice and snow that crippled many other parts of Texas.
You may be wondering how cold temperatures affects the propane in your home’s tank, and if it can gel or freeze. The freezing point for propane is -44˚ Fahrenheit. The record low for El Paso is -8°, set on Jan. 11, 1962. So, your propane freezing is nigh on impossible.
However, just because your propane is very unlikely to freeze, it can still be impacted by cold weather.
As temperatures drop, propane, much like other liquids, contracts in size. When temperatures dip to frigid levels, the volume of propane in an aboveground propane tank can decrease significantly. As a result, the pressure inside the tank also is lessened. If the pressure gets too low, the propane gas will not be able to reach the burners of your home’s propane appliances, which would mean that all your heating system and other related appliances won’t operate properly.
To ensure that your propane supply will remain secure during the winter season, there are three straightforward steps you should take.
Keep your propane tank at least 30% full. When your propane tank is more than 30% full, it will have positive pressure. Automatic Delivery from Hiper Gas helps to ensure that. We use the latest software, along with a tried-and-true calculation, to accurately predict when you will need your propane tank filled. We use that prediction to schedule a propane delivery.
Turn down the thermostat. You don’t have to sacrifice warmth in your home, but by lowering the temperature on your thermostat a few degrees you can save prevent your heating system from kicking on too often. This maintains the pressure in your propane tank and helps prevent the pressure from getting low. A smart or programmable thermostat will help make this easy.
Keep your tank free of snow. To ensure your propane tank continues to perform optimally, make sure you clear away any snow that accumulates on top of it. Snow blocks the sunlight from warming the tank and the gas inside, which can eventually cause pressure levels in the tank to drop. Use a broom to sweep it away, as shovels and other tools can damage the tank and its components.
Provide access your propane tank. If the Hiper Gas propane delivery drivers cannot safely get to your propane tank, they will not be able to deliver your propane. In the event of snow or ice, our delivery trucks need a clear, safe path on your driveway. Make sure there’s a foot-wide path cleared from your driveway to your propane tank.
With Automatic Delivery from Hiper Gas, you can be assured of always having the propane your home needs to be warm and comfortable. Become a customer today!