While it may be summer, now is a great time to think about locking in those propane fuel prices for winter.
The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is urging you to shop around to find the best deals from your local propane suppliers. Locking down prices now with a propane provider could mean significant savings over market prices for winter, when cold weather sets in and fuel demand increases.
Make sure that you do some research on your options, ask detailed questions, compare prices and packages, and get everything in writing.
The MPSC says there are five things to consider when shopping for propane:
- Budget, pre-pay, and fixed-price plans can offer savings in comparison to purchases done at market price
- Make certain to ask about fees and other charges, including those for installations and/or the requirements for minimum annual usage
- Be aware that the per-gallon price might increase after your pre-paid allotment gets used up
- Consider whether renting, leasing, or owning the propane supply tank is best for you
- Know and understand all the details on your contract before signing; a written contract explains the responsibilities and rights of both the buyer and the seller
In Michigan, 8 percent of all households — about 320,000 — use propane as their primary heating source, according to MPSC. Michigan uses more propane in the residential sector than any other state in the nation, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency.
Propane use is significantly higher in rural areas, with 24 percent of northern Lower Peninsula households and 18 percent of Upper Peninsula households relying on propane as a primary heating source, according to the MPSC.
The Michigan Propane Gas Association offers five tips every propane user should know:
- Make sure all propane appliances are properly vented
- Know where your propane fuel lines are
- If you paint under your propane tank, use only white or a bright color
- Do not, under any circumstance, attempt to modify or repair valves, regulars, connectors, or other parts for appliances, cylinder, and/or tanks
- Know the smell of propane; while it's odorless, manufacturers deliberately add a chemical compound to give it a skunky scent
