Posted: January 5, 2026

Prep Your Heating System for a Winter Cold Snap

A little prep can keep your heating equipment and fuel tanks safe and reliable.

home heating Central New York

Winters across Central New York — and throughout Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Connecticut — are no joke. Sub-zero temperatures, heavy snow and biting winds can put serious strain on your heating system and fuel supply. When the cold settles in, having equipment you can rely on isn’t just a comfort issue; it’s essential for safety and peace of mind.

With a bit of preparation, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns, make fuel deliveries more efficient, and even lower your energy costs. Here are several smart steps Mirabito Energy Products recommends to help your home stay warm and protected all winter long.

1. Keep the Area Around Your Fuel Tank Clear

Whether you use propane or heating oil, the area around your tank should always be clear of debris. Grass, brush, leaves, snowbanks and tree limbs can create safety hazards and make deliveries difficult. For aboveground propane tanks, maintain a clear 10-foot radius to reduce fire risk and ensure safe access. Keeping this area tidy also helps our drivers deliver fuel quickly and safely during winter weather.

2. Check Regulator and Exhaust Vents

Your propane tank’s regulator vent plays a vital role in safe operation. Take time to inspect it periodically and make sure it’s free of dirt, ice or snow buildup. After winter storms, also check exhaust and intake vents around your home. Blocked vents can interfere with proper airflow and may cause your heating system to shut down when you need it most.

3. Make Your Tank or Fill Pipe Easy to Locate

Snow-covered landscapes can make it surprisingly difficult to find your fuel tank, right when having a full tank is critical. Before winter arrives, mark the tank’s location with a brightly colored stake or flag. This simple step helps you clear a path after heavy snowfall and allows Mirabito delivery drivers to locate and access your tank without delay.

4. Avoid Run-Outs with Automatic Delivery

Cold weather increases fuel usage, and tanks can empty faster than expected. Running out of fuel can lead to system shutdowns, pressure issues, and no-heat emergencies. Mirabito’s automatic delivery service eliminates the guesswork.

We track your propane or heating oil usage, local weather patterns and seasonal temperatures to accurately predict when you’ll need fuel and then schedule deliveries automatically. There’s no fee for automatic delivery, and it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure a reliable fuel supply all winter long.

5. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Heating equipment is designed with safety in mind, but carbon monoxide detectors are a critical layer of protection. Make sure you have CO detectors on every level of your home and near areas where people sleep. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed so you’re alerted immediately if unsafe conditions develop.

Schedule a Professional Heating Tune-Up

One of the most effective ways to prepare for a winter cold snap is to schedule a professional heating system tune-up and safety check. During a maintenance visit, a trained technician inspects, cleans, and adjusts your equipment to ensure it’s operating efficiently and safely. Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and can extend the life of your system, saving you money over the long run.

Protect Your Comfort with a Mirabito Service Membership

For true peace of mind, consider enrolling in a Mirabito service membership. Membership benefits include annual professional maintenance, priority scheduling when service is needed and reduced repair costs. It’s the easiest way to stay ahead of winter problems and ensure your heating system is ready for whatever the season brings.

Contact Mirabito Energy Products today to learn more about service memberships and winter prep solutions, and stay warm all winter long.