This winter in the North Country is expected to be colder and snowier than average, and homes and businesses in St. Lawrence County that use propane to generate heat or run appliances can make use of a few tips from the New York Propane Gas Association to keep people safe and ensure maximum energy efficiency.

First is properly maintaining equipment and winterizing homes and businesses to help keep the heat where it belongs – indoors.

Having a qualified service technician inspect and service your appliances and propane system annually will ensure that your appliances are running as safely and efficiently as possible. In addition to servicing your equipment, the NYPGA recommends consumers button up their homes as winter approaches by:

• Checking caulking around doors and windows

• Getting storm windows in place and secure early in the fall

• Checking insulation in the attic and basements

• Sealing air leaks around openings where plumbing or electrical wiring goes through walls, floors and ceilings.

These simple measures can reduce energy consumption significantly, and make a home safer and more comfortable this winter.

Propane customers can also contact their delivery companies to ask about additional options available to help ensure they will have the fuel they need for the winter:

• Consider automatic delivery

• Ask your propane supplier now about options like budget payment plans

• regular tune-ups and maintenance, along with equipment upgrades, help improve fuel efficiency.