5 Ways to Maximize Your Propane

Before Winter Ends

Published on February 20, 2025

Winter’s winding down here in the Texas Hill Country, but there’s still time to make the most of your propane supply before spring arrives. Maybe you’ve got a little extra fuel in the tank, or maybe you just want to stretch your supply as far as possible. Either way, we’ve got you covered.

Here are five simple, practical ways to get the most out of your propane before winter says goodbye.

Dial In Your Thermostat Settings

How:
Adjust your thermostat a few degrees lower when you’re asleep or out of the house. Even dropping it by 3-5 degrees can make a noticeable difference. If you’ve got a programmable thermostat, set it to automatically adjust based on your schedule.

Why:
Lowering the temperature reduces the demand on your propane-powered heating system. You’ll burn less fuel without sacrificing comfort, especially during those mild late-winter days when it’s not as cold outside. Plus, it’s an easy way to save a little money without even thinking about it.

Show Your Water Heater Some Love

How:
Most propane water heaters are set to around 140°F by default, but that’s hotter than most households need. Lowering it to 120°F still gives you plenty of hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes—and it’s safer, too, reducing the risk of scalding.

Why:
Your water heater runs year-round, and heating water eats up a lot of energy. By turning it down just a bit, you’ll use less propane without noticing much of a difference in your daily routine. It’s a small change with a big payoff over time.

Use Propane for More Than Just Heating

How:
If you’ve got propane appliances you haven’t been using this winter—like a propane fireplace, stove, or even an outdoor heater—now’s the time to put them to work. Fire up that outdoor patio heater for an evening under the stars or cook a hearty meal on your propane stove instead of the electric one.

Why:
Propane is incredibly efficient, and using it for multiple purposes can help balance out your energy use. Plus, it’s often cheaper and faster to cook with propane, and outdoor heaters let you enjoy your patio even when there’s still a bit of a chill in the air.

Perform Basic Maintenance on Your Propane Appliances

How:
Give your propane appliances a little TLC:

Clean your furnace filters to improve airflow and efficiency.
Check for leaks around appliances with the simple soapy water test (bubbles = a leak).
Inspect outdoor tanks for rust, debris, or anything that might affect performance.

Why:
Well-maintained appliances run more efficiently, which means they’ll use less propane to get the job done. Plus, regular checks can help you catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. A little maintenance goes a long way in maximizing your fuel usage.

Plan Ahead for Refill Timing

Heart of Texas Propane's State of the Art Monitor

How:
Keep an eye on your tank gauge. Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule a refill—try to top off when your tank hits around 30%. This helps maintain consistent pressure, especially with late-season temperature swings. Better yet, consider signing up for automatic delivery with Heart of Texas Propane's "Keep Full Program" so you never have to worry about it.

Why:
Running your tank too low can cause pressure issues, making your appliances work harder (and burn more propane) to function properly. Keeping your tank at a healthy level ensures everything runs smoothly, plus it helps avoid emergency refill fees if you get caught off guard.

The Bottom Line

Maximizing your propane use isn’t just about stretching your supply—it’s about efficiency, safety, and getting the most value for your money. Whether it’s adjusting your thermostat, maintaining your appliances, or simply being mindful of how you use propane day-to-day, small changes can make a big difference.

Need a refill, a system check, or advice on making your propane setup more efficient? Heart of Texas Propane is here to help. Give us a call today, and let’s make sure you’re set for the rest of winter—and beyond.

Ready to Make the Most of Your Propane Supply?

At Heart of Texas Propane, we’re here to help you stay fueled, safe, and efficient all year long. Whether you need a refill, a system check, or expert advice, our team has you covered.

Schedule Your Propane Service Today