Nearly every RV comes equipped with propane. This is one of the standard fuels that motorhomes, vans, travel trailers, and fifth-wheel trailers rely on. Propane is highly flammable, which makes it a reliable fuel, but it also raises the stakes. While skilled do-it-yourselfers may be qualified to do maintenance and repair on propane appliances, we urge our customers to recognize their limitations and get professionals involved if they have the slightest doubt about handling propane-related repair and maintenance projects.
Here at Camping in Style, we have an expert service department that can help you with your RV propane appliances. Schedule a spring check-up, and we’ll check all appliances for safe and successful operation. We can inspect, assess and fix problems with your RV, whether they involve the living quarters, the cockpit, the engine, or the chassis. Just reach out to our service department at our dealership in Whitby, Ontario, where we also serve the RV community in Mississauga.
What Is Propane?
Propane is liquified petroleum gas (LPG). It’s a byproduct of producing natural gas or other petroleum products, so it tends to be fairly inexpensive. The gas is compressed into a liquid and stored in tanks of assorted sizes. It’s naturally colorless and odorless, so an odor similar to rotten eggs is added to it to help people identify a leak. Propane burns very clean.
How Is Propane Stored in an RV?
Propane is stored in RVs in two ways: permanently installed horizontal tanks or vertical tanks which can be removed for refilling. Canadian regulations forbid filling propane in excess of 80% capacity, to allow volume changes due to temperature variations. Propane tanks are painted white to help keep them as cool as possible.
Which Appliances Rely on Propane?
Propane is the traditional cooking fuel in RVs, although some RVs have electric or induction cooktops. Water heaters and furnaces typically run off propane, and RV refrigerators usually work on two to three different fuels, including propane.
Is Propane Safe?
Propane is non-toxic and the release of propane is not inherently dangerous, except for its potential to catch fire. While it is not toxic to breathe, it will displace the oxygen in the lungs when breathed in high concentrations, and that can cause asphyxiation. Burning propane, like burning any substance, generates carbon monoxide which is hazardous to humans.
All RVs should have three alarm systems: One that identifies propane gas leakage, one that identifies carbon monoxide, and one that identifies fires.
Propane is safe to use when your RV is parked, but it shouldn’t be used while driving. Instead, turn off the main valve on your propane tank and switch your refrigerator to DC (direct current), which draws from the “house battery” or “coach battery.“
Camping in Style is here to help keep your RV safe and functioning at its best. Reach out to us with your questions, or schedule service or inspection in our service department. We look forward to helping you with all your RV needs at our dealership in Whitby, Ontario, near Mississauga.