Be Prepared for Propane - PUB2868

When we’re in the midst of summertime heat, the Division of Energy challenges you to think about a different kind of heat – the kind with which you heat your home. If you heat your home with propane, take a look at these frequently asked questions to be prepared before that first winter chill.

Q. Can I purchase propane before the winter heating season?

A. Yes! Most Missouri propane marketers offer “pre-buy” or “contract” propane gas before the heating season at a fixed price.

Q. What are “pre-buy” or “contract” propane gas purchases?

A. This is a purchase of a fixed amount of propane at an agreed upon fixed price to be delivered to your home or business during the space heating months. The price per gallon of propane is lower than the usual retail price and could lead to substantial savings depending on the amount of propane you buy. Contact your area marketer for specific details.

Q. When are “pre-buy” or “contract” propane gas arrangements available?

A. Most marketers offer such arrangements during the summer months. Contact your area marketer as soon as possible for availability.

Q. Are “pre-buy” or “contract” arrangements effective for a specified period of time?

A. Marketers will often run such arrangements through the end of the winter heating season, typically around the end of March. Contact your area marketer for specific details.

Q. Do I have to purchase a certain amount of propane to qualify for “pre-buy” or contract propane gas?

A. Most Missouri propane marketers have a set minimum quantity of purchase, often between 200 and 400 gallons, to qualify for these fixed price purchases. Contact your area marketer for additional details.

Q. I can’t afford to pay for all my space-heating propane in one payment. Are there payment options available?

A. Yes. Many marketers offer payment plans to fit your budget. Contact your area marketer for payment plan availability and any applicable fees/charges.

Q. What happens if I don’t use all the propane I paid for this upcoming winter season?

A. Your prepayment for “pre-buy” or “contract” gas is a credit to your account. If you use less propane during the winter heating season, propane marketers will apply the credit toward a future purchase of propane following the winter months or refund the unused balance of your prepayment. Contact your area marketer for details.

Q. Last winter, my marketer was unable to deliver propane to my home in a timely manner after I called for a delivery. Is there an alternative delivery method?

A. Yes. Rather than calling (will call)* for your next delivery of propane, consider joining the marketer’s scheduled delivery system (keep full)* to avoid any interruption in propane delivery to your home. Contact your area marketer for additional details.

*Propane marketers offer two forms of propane delivery to your home or business. "Will Call" requires you to call your marketer to initiate delivery of propane. If you do not call, the marketer will not delivery. "Keep Full" does not require any action on your part for propane delivery. You are placed on a scheduled route and the marketer will deliver propane on a regular basis. You still have the option to call your marketer for additional propane delivery.

Q. Are there steps I can take to help assure delivery of propane to my tank?

A. When it snows, shovel your driveway, shovel your sidewalk and consider shoveling a route from the street to your propane tank. This not only helps in the delivery of your propane, but it helps to assure timely delivery to all customers on the driver’s route.

Q. Who should I call if I have questions about my propane service?

A. Please call your local propane marketer or contact the Missouri Division of Energy.