When summer hits, propane use tends to spike—especially for households that rely on it for grilling, hot water, pool heating, and even outdoor kitchens. 

If your propane bills seem to climb as fast as the temperature, you're not alone. But here’s the good news: with a few simple habits and smart upgrades, you can stretch your propane further without sacrificing comfort or convenience. In this blog post, we share exactly how to do that. Let’s dive in!

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Efficiency starts with equipment that’s in top shape. Make sure your propane appliances—grills, water heaters, dryers, and pool heaters are serviced annually. A technician can check for leaks, clean burners, and calibrate systems to ensure everything is running as efficiently as possible. Dirty or poorly adjusted burners can waste fuel and drive up your costs.

2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

If your propane-powered appliances are more than a decade old, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern propane appliances are designed with energy efficiency in mind. 

Look for ENERGY STAR®-rated propane water heaters and dryers—they heat faster and use less fuel compared to older models or electric alternatives. The upfront investment often pays for itself over time through lower usage.

3. Optimize Your Thermostat and Water Heater Settings

If you have a propane-fueled water heater, try lowering the temperature from the default 140°F to around 120°F. You’ll still get plenty of hot water while saving on energy. 

Similarly, if your home has a propane heating system, adjusting the thermostat by just a couple of degrees can make a noticeable difference during cool summer nights or rainy days.

4. Grill Smarter, Not Harder

Propane grills are already more efficient than charcoal, but you can take it further. Keep the lid closed while cooking, preheat for no more than 10 minutes, and turn burners to medium instead of high. 

You’ll still get great flavor while cutting down on fuel use. Also, clean the grill regularly to avoid blockages that make it work harder than it needs to.

5. Consider a Propane Tank Monitor

Running out of propane mid-season is a hassle, and emergency refills can be expensive. A wireless propane tank monitor gives you real-time usage data and alerts when levels are low, helping you plan deliveries efficiently and avoid overuse or last-minute orders.

6. Pool Heaters: Use with Intention

If you use propane to heat your pool, consider using a solar cover to retain heat and reduce how often you need to run the heater. Try heating only before gatherings or weekends rather than maintaining a high temperature all week.

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