Winter Weather Tips

Here at Rural Fuels, we know winter can be beautiful AND unpredictable. From snow-covered yards to icy roads, the season brings its own challenges for homeowners and families. That’s why we put together these simple tips to help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable all winter long.

PREP YOUR HOME FOR WINTER DELIVERIES AND SERVICE APPOINTMENTS

  • Keep your driveway plowed to at least a 10-foot width so our delivery driver can easily reach your tank. Spread sand or ice melt around a 2–3 foot perimeter in your driveway to improve traction and reduce the risk of falls.

  • Clear a path to and around your fill pipe or the cap of your underground propane tank so deliveries can be made quickly and safely.

  • Shovel a walkway to your home’s entry points so you and our team can get around without slipping.

KEEP A CONSISTENT TEMPERATURE

During bitter cold stretches, it’s best not to turn your thermostat down when you’re away. Letting the temperature fall too low can make your heating system work harder and increase the risk of frozen pipes. When temperatures really drop, you may even want to set the thermostat a few degrees above your normal comfort level to protect your home.

Also don’t forget to:

  • Make sure all registers, air vents, and radiators are free from furniture or other obstructions so warm air can circulate.

  • Avoid drafts by keeping exterior doors and garage doors closed as much as possible.

CHECK YOUR HOME OFTEN

If you’ll be away, ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to check your home every day during cold weather to spot any issues early. Label the main water shut-off valve and leave service contact information in an easy-to-find place in case of emergency. Insurance companies may deny claims for unattended homes after water leaks or freeze damage, so a daily check can make all the difference.

CLEAR SNOW FROM VENTS, EXHAUSTS, & GENERATOR

  • Keep snow, ice, and slush cleared away from all vents, exhausts, and flues to make sure your heating equipment can breathe and work safely. These openings release carbon monoxide (CO) from furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, and generators — and they must stay clear to protect your family.

  • If snow falls near your generator, clear at least 2 feet around all sides. This helps it run properly when you need backup power.

    Check the indicator lights on your Generac generator to make sure the green or yellow light is on.

    If the power goes out and your generator kicks in, please let us know when your propane tank level reads 40% or less so we can plan service.

  • Providing clear paths to your equipment and/or basement entry makes service visits faster and safer for everyone. Shovel a walkway to your home’s entry points so you and our team can get around without slipping.

OUR TOP PRIORITY IS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE. OUR TEAM IS HERE SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO US.

203.364.5816 | INFO@RURAL-FUELS.COM