Eastern Ontario Residents Concerned as Propane and Temperatures Plummet
Residents in Eastern Ontario are expressing concern as temperatures plummet and propane supplies dwindle. With winter’s cold grip tightening, many individuals are facing difficulties securing sufficient propane for heating. This has led to anxiety and frustration among customers relying on propane deliveries.
Customer Experiences and Concerns
Margaret Taylor, a resident of Arden, Ontario, found her propane tank at a perilously low two percent on January 20. The forecast predicted temperatures would sink below -20°C. After days of rescheduled deliveries from Superior Propane, she described the stress of potentially being left without heat in an isolated area as “terrifying.”
This issue isn’t isolated to Taylor. Numerous customers across rural Ontario and the Maritimes have reported challenges connecting with Superior Propane. They voiced concerns about delivery delays and the risk of running out of fuel amidst frigid conditions. A spokesperson from Superior Propane attributed these issues to extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and challenging road conditions for their delivery drivers.
Propane Supply Challenges
Superior Propane, which serves around 750,000 customers nationwide, acknowledged the problems. They emphasized that the current high seasonal demand has led to delayed and rescheduled deliveries. The company expressed appreciation for customers’ understanding during this difficult period.
- Mary Taylor’s propane tank levels were critically low.
- Superior Propane faces delivery challenges due to severe weather.
- Customers are increasingly anxious about heating their homes.
Individual Circumstances and Impact
Many customers, like Taylor, are particularly vulnerable. She deals with multiple health issues and noted that a lack of heating can lead to frozen water pipes. She explained how her account with Superior Propane was previously set to schedule deliveries when tanks fell to 40 percent. Recently, she learned that her tank levels had plummeted to 18 percent.
Customers reported varying methods of monitoring their propane levels. While some employ advanced remote sensors that communicate with suppliers, others rely on usage history for scheduling. Still, the new sensor system has faced challenges in accuracy and effectiveness.
Actions and Solutions from Superior Propane
Adam Thompson, another resident from Rideau Lakes, shared his own concerning experience. He realized his propane supply was nearly exhausted just as temperatures neared -30°C. Similar to others, he faced the dilemma of conserving propane while waiting for a delivery that may not materialize.
In response to growing customer discontent, Superior Propane announced plans to expand call center capacity, redistribute drivers, and prioritize deliveries for essential heating customers. The company assured users that they are closely monitoring usage patterns and planning deliveries more effectively.
Looking Ahead
While Taylor eventually received a propane delivery, her experience has led her to seek alternate suppliers. The combination of plummeting temperatures and uncertain propane supply is leaving many Eastern Ontario residents apprehensive. As the cold continues to challenge residents, addressing these propane supply issues remains a priority for both consumers and suppliers.
