LANSING, Mich. (AP) — State officials say Michigan residents who heat their homes with propane should lock in prices now instead of waiting until it gets cold.

Executive Director Valerie Brader of the Michigan Agency for Energy says signing contracts early can produce significant savings for customers.

About 8 percent of Michigan households use propane as their primary heating fuel. Michigan has more residential propane customers than any other state.

Propane prices are not regulated. But the state agency monitors supplies and posts weekly, statewide average residential prices on its website during the heating season.

The agency also offers tips on selecting a propane provider, pricing and delivery, fees and other topics including the pros and cons of renting and owning a propane tank.

Additional information is available at http://www.michigan.gov/propane .