7 Hard-Won Lessons from Winter 2025’s Deep Freeze

Winter 2025 will be remembered for its record-breaking cold. January in particular shattered temperature records across much of the United States, leaving many scrambling for reliable energy as furnaces worked overtime.

It was a good reminder of how harsh Mother Nature can be – and also that extreme weather isn’t limited to winter’s fury. From spring floods to raging fires to summer heatwaves, recent seasons have been punctuated by unpredictable events and extremes that tested our resilience and highlighted the importance of preparedness. It was also a good reminder that energy security and sustainable practices are no longer optional – they are essential for navigating an increasingly volatile climate.

At Suburban Propane, we faced these challenges alongside our customers, adapting, innovating, and gleaning valuable insights along the way. Here are seven key takeaways to help you sustainably prepare for extreme weather, no matter the season.

For Our Commercial Partners

The events of winter 2025 underscored the importance of reliable, sustainable operations for businesses of all sizes. Here’s how to weather the storm and emerge stronger:

• Backup Power is Essential: Power outages can cripple a business, but a propane-powered generator offers a reliable, lower-emission solution for backup power. Ensure business continuity and protect your bottom line by investing in a system that keeps the lights on, no matter the type of weather.
• Efficiency Fuels Success: Upgrading to energy-efficient propane equipment, from heating systems to cooking appliances, can reduce your operating costs, minimize your carbon footprint, and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability – all while improving your bottom line.
• A Cleaner, Versatile Energy Source Always Wins: Propane is a cleaner, more versatile fuel source than many realize, producing 38% fewer emissions than oil, with low carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions. Its applications range in everything from commercial cooking and temporary heating for construction to powering forklifts and more.

For Our Residential Customers

Whether it’s a deep freeze in January or a sweltering heatwave in July, preparation is key. Here’s how you can ready your home for any extreme weather:

• Use Tank Monitors for Efficiency and Control: Propane tank monitors aren’t just convenient; they’re powerful tools for efficiency and peace of mind. By providing real-time updates on your propane levels, tank monitors help you manage your energy consumption sustainably, prevent unexpected run-outs, and make informed decisions – especially crucial during periods of peak demand or unexpected weather.
• Be Prepared: A well-stocked emergency kit isn’t just for winter storms. Make sure yours includes essential supplies, important documents, and Suburban Propane’s 24/7/365 contact information, so you’re ready for anything – from power outages to severe weather events.
• Don’t Wait for the Unexpected: When it comes to propane, proactive planning is key. Scheduling a fill-up before peak seasons or signing up for automatic delivery ensures a consistent supply, helps us optimize deliveries for reduced emissions, and provides peace of mind when you need it most.
• Choose a Dependable Energy Source: Propane isn’t just for grilling—it’s a versatile, dependable energy solution you can rely on year-round. From heating your home to powering essential appliances, propane is readily available, even during emergencies. Plus, it’s a cleaner burning fuel than traditional gasoline and diesel, reducing emissions and improving your community’s air quality.

Weathering What Comes Next

Winter 2025 was an unforgettable reminder of the power of nature – and the power of human resilience.

As the climate changes, the need for reliable, sustainable energy will only become more important. At Suburban Propane, we’re committed to helping our customers meet today’s energy challenges while preparing for a more resilient future. We provide reliable, sustainable energy that can withstand the storms, empowering our customers to face whatever weather extremes come next.

Interested in exploring weather preparedness and sustainable energy options for your home or business? Explore our residential and commercial offerings or contact our Suburban Propane team today.