No one is immune from the effects of occasional extreme weather events. Regardless of the season, each brings its particular threats depending upon where you live: severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, straight line winds, severe cold, snow, blizzards and other events can strike during their appropriate seasons.

Relying on the power grid to keep the lights on, services running, heat and/or air conditioning on is always an iffy proposition, especially in the event of major damage. Propane can be an alternative energy source that can be used in powering devices that keep us both warm and cool when we can’t rely on electricity.

It pays to understand the effects of extreme weather events on propane so you know what to expect.

The Effects of Cold on Propane

Fortunately, propane will not freeze until a temperature of -306 F. This temperature is not reached here in the US, thankfully for all of us. However, there are some tips you need to know to help you be more effective in using it.

Tanks Must be Full

Propane shrinks in cold weather. Keeping your tank as full as possible will keep your levels up and serviceable.

Do Not Use Covers

If your propane tank is covered by a fabric cover, snow, or debris, the temperature of the tank and the propane will drop, which will reduce pressure it can deliver. Keeping any kind of cover off and exposing it to sun will keep temperatures up so you will not lose pressure.

The Effects of Heat on Propane

The dangers of overheating are real with propane. However, some simple safety tips can help you use it efficiently.

Make sure your propane tanks are of a light reflective color. Although it is important that the sun warms it in cold weather, the higher temps in spring and summer need to be controlled by light colors to control internal temperatures.

If your tanks need to be cooled, you can spray water on it to reduce temperatures quickly on the tank surface and the propane inside of it.

Propane can be a useful tool in cases of extreme weather to help you stay warm or cool, and by knowing more about its use in extreme weather, you can maximize its potential.

Leverage the KnowHow™ of your nexAir professional on the many applications and uses of propane for your needs today. It may even save your life.