RV Utilities: Propane
RVillage members share their knowledge and helpful tips about RV Propane systems and appliances.
Safety
Safety disclaimer: Please be very careful when working with propane. It is recommended to hire trained professionals when needed.
Safety alarms/detectors
It's important to have both a propane detector and CO (carbon monoxide) detector onboard.
The propane detector will be mounted low to the floor, usually hard-wired, and should be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on the unit. Strong scents and aerosols can cause this alarm to go off.
The CO detector can be purchased at hardware stores or any big box store. Change that battery annually (as well as the one in your smoke alarm).
Strong aromas can also cause the CO detector to go off:
Smell propane?
Tips for what to do when you smell propane inside your rig.
Tanks
Can you install a bigger tank on a motorhome?
Do the tanks need to be re-certified?
Helpful RVillagers share their knowledge on this topic.
Where can you get your tanks filled?
Propane must be dispensed by a licensed technician.
How many gallons do tanks actually hold when full?
"Stay" extenders
Attaching an external tank to a motorhome to extend your stay by not having to drive the entire rig to town to refill the attached tank.
See all the helpful answers (with more photos)!
What's a safe way to transport the tank?
Related post: RV Grills- Let's BBQ!
Cooking with propane
Stove-top burners won't light?
Oven won't light?
Here's the answer! and more ideas here.
Baking tips
RVillagers share their experiences.
Delicious bread can be made in a propane oven!
Refrigerators
Won't light (or stay running) on propane?
See suggested ideas, and more related tips here.
Some important tips for trouble-shooting older 3-way units.
Should you run the refrigerator on propane while driving down the road?
Advice varies widely on this question!
Related post: RV Refrigerators
Water heaters
They're ugly, but necessary.
Won't ignite or stay lit?
Have a unit that runs on propane AND electric? See LOTS of tips for managing that.
Ouch! That water gets HOT! How do you turn it down?
Is it normal for the unit to "leak" at the pressure relief valve? RVillagers explain.
What about that anode rod that will need replacing? Get the details here.
Tips for loosening the rod or nut.
Clearing a clogged propane line in the water heater:
View all four photos with step-by-step directions.
Thinking about a tankless system?
RVillagers share their experiences, and some pros & cons.
Which brands are recommended? Check these out, and also this thread.
The propane "furnace"
No heat? Fan blowing cold air?
See various troubleshooting tips, and LOTS more suggestions here.
More advice here. The gas lines may need purging (of air).
This situation needs a professional:
Can you run the furnace while driving down the road?
Responses to this question vary widely!
Portable propane heaters
Many RVers opt to use portable propane heaters for multiple reasons.
See the discussion of various options.
Propane generators
Are there safety concerns with running a propane generator located under a bed?
See discussion on propane generator error code 33 and the three-flash error code.
Propane firepits!
Propane usage
How much propane can you expect to use with all these propane appliances & accessories?
A few tips for cutting back on your propane use:
RVillage groups
Need more answers? Join these groups, ask questions and share your own experience with fellow RVillagers!
Disclaimer: The information gathered here is compiled from the posts and opinions of RVillagers, and not of RVillage itself. RVillage assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions.
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