The refrigerator vent is also on the side of your RV and is found directly behind your refrigerator. Super high amount watching. If your propane tank doesnt happen to have a gauge and you want to check the level, you can do so using a very simple method which weve explained in this post. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that 20,000 RV fires occur annually. So I was able to install and test both types that they offer for RVers. Thanks for the information, very helpful for someone like myself that is getting into RVing and never used gas for anything other than my truck n motorcycle. My problem is that the gas stop sees my Blackstone as a major leak and shuts off. I will use your information from now. Motorhomes have the tank permanently mounted to their frame. We have traveled extensively across the US and Canada and always turn our Propane OFF while underway. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. It feels good knowing that I now have a measurable and visible way to see if my propane system leaks anywhere. 28 sold, 10 available. 
This told me that my regulator and propane system appeared to be functioning correctly. 
Each time the GasStop worked as advertised. Smaller, DOT propane tanks look like this: DOT propane tanks are smaller, lighter, and portable. To make sure products work and fit the way they are supposed to. end to the external propane tank. Propane can also replace much of the oxygen in the air, causing suffocation.
CONNECTION B:MALE POL FULL FLOW. Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, workamp around the country in their Youre welcome. Another thing you should look for is any unusual bulges and large dents. You simply screw it onto the tank and then attach your propane hose to the end of the GasStop. They should be able to install the connector fairly quickly and affordably. On our first trim across the border, we were provided with a copy of the federal regulation. You can also take your RV to a service location that provides propane LP inspection service.
Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk. Travel Trailer with two 30 pound tanks. Many RV service locations offer LP system inspections. As long as it doesnt look damaged and is free from dirt and road grime, it should provide years of reliable service. Don't miss out on Camper Report's RV News, Product & Accessory Reviews. Its not just inconvenient, it can be dangerous! If you are purchasing a fire extinguisher, make sure it is at least a B:C type extinguisher. New regulators generally dont fail unless damaged somehow. You can! Very concise and nice references. The price of LP (liquid propane) gas varies considerably by region and by the time of year because propane prices fluctuate due to the demand during cooler seasons. Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you. Some RV parks have them as well, and occasionally you may find a propane station outside of a hardware store or other type of retail location. We'd assume that the port on the tank would be the standard propane-fill port, but couldn't say for sure! Check out the video below and GasStops site to learn more. These gauges let us know when our propane level is getting low so that we can refill at our next opportunity. Liked your glove story . These are made of thicker, heavier steel than DOT tanks, and the capacity of these tanks is generally much larger. Below are the before and after photos. Produced to make sure you know what you are getting and you get exactly what you need. Thank you for the useful tips, and valuable information on tank safety. ASME propane tanks are large, built-in tanks generally found on a motorhome like ours. The good news is hooking up an external tank is a breeze. I followed the instructions that came with both the POL and ACME versions of the GasStop, and it worked as advertised. Most of them look like a smoke detector and should be tested once a month using the test button. Note:Some bridges, tunnels, and ferries require your propane to be off, and it is required by law to have your propane off while filling at a gas station. For liquid propane to turn into gas, it absorbs heat from the air outside the tank. Its really that simple. Plus, in addition to hooking up external propane tanks, you can also hook up another gas-powered appliance! Thanks for the BTUs per pound numbers, now I can calculate how long my tank will last given use of my stovetop burners. But because the idea of refilling a motorhome propane tank has a pretty high intimidation factor, today were laying it all out for you to take all the mystery (and the intimidation) away. Best of all, I know that GasStop will safely shut off my propane system before it can cause further problems in the event of a major leak. Competitive Pricing. It is important to have the plastic cover to keep dirt and debris away from the regulator while driving. If the needle goes down, there is a leak somewhere. Your email address will not be published. published their first book together, Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How By feeling the temperature of the metal it will be easy to determine the approximate contents of the tank. Looking to find our personal choices for great RVing gear? All the LP companies I have used only put a sticker on the tank with the re-cert date. It is considered green energy because of its low emissions compared to other types of fossil fuels. Finally, you will get an honest review of a new propane tank safety product called theGasStop. I was able to not only see that I had propane, but I could see that the pressure was steady as I ran various things. Motorhome users who use a propane brass 4-port tee to hook up an external tank will not have a place to strap down their tank. I dont use cheep no name lighters anymore. It is mandatory that while traveling in Canada, you MUST SHUT YOUR PROPANE OFF. Great seller with very good positive feedback and over 50 ratings. Rust is the process of oxygen breaking down the iron in the steel into iron oxide. First, youll need to locate where your propane tank connection point is on your motorhome. It allows for super easy hookup and comes with all hoses and fittings included. Very helpful/friendly Customer Service. APPLICATION:TRANSFER FUEL FROM POL TANK CONNECTION TO ANOTHER POL TANK CONNECTION. Your email address will not be published. Small leaks can fill a space with propane and be ignited with sparks created by a light switch or plugging in an appliance. Along with writing for RV magazines, they recently There are three typical locations that propane vents outside your RV. If you notice the propane wont work or the flames on your burner are yellow instead of blue, it may be a sign of your propane regulator failing. Filling your own motorhome propane tank is not allowed anywhere in North America. Tip: You want Port C facing up and Port D facing out towards you. Most towable RVs have specific locations meant to strap the propane bottles in place in the upright position. Buying through links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission. This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy, Propane Tank Safety: Heres What Every RV Owner Should Know. Ships to: WORLDWIDE, Whether or not you should paint the tank yourself is, for the most part, a personal choice. If I convert my RV gasolune engine to run on propane, will I have problems filling the tank -- i.e., does the propane tank on a xonversion kit require a special nozzle. Can Your RV Propane System Explode & Kill You On The Road? Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Finally, you can connect your external propane tank or bottle by attaching the 1/4 inverted flare end of the included 5 ft. hose to Port D, and attaching the P.O.L. We Did It. Overall the meter did an excellent job of showing when the propane was running low. They will not only look at your tanks, but they will also inspect the entire propane systems function, which is the next tip on the list. Obviously it is always a good idea to attach the hose to the grill before attaching the other end to the tank. Then they are suitable for another five years. They can tell you if the rust has caused any serious problems, give you advice on what to use if you want to repaint it yourself, or for a price, they may repaint your propane tank for you. Hereis a more in-depth look at this topic so you can make an informed decision as to what you want to do. It only took me a couple of minutes to place my order.
Copyright 2022 TheRVgeeks | Trellis Framework by Mediavine. Im still a novice at living full time in an Rv.
If you feel the bottom of a tank while something is running, it will feel colder than the tanks top. There are two types of motorhome propane tanks ASME and DOT and the type your rig has will depend largely on the type of RV you have.
Extremely well done!! How Much Does it Cost to Refill Your Propane Tank? A working and currentsmoke detectoris recommended in an RV and required by law. The only real downside to propane is, like all other fossil fuels, it is afiniteresource. With an RV maybe there is no reason to disconnect the other end of the gas hose, but with grills this is common. Can we mail this to ourselves for reference? That makes it an attractive fuel even when temperatures plummet. Important: If you dont feel comfortable performing this step-by-step process, take your recreational vehicle to a certified RV technician. Nice article on Propane safety. If you are having any difficulty starting your propane-powered appliances, you may have to purge your RV propane lines. What Kind of Propane Tanks Are on Motorhomes? We will always respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe at any time. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to check your propane level often because you dont want to be without it in the middle of a cold night (no heater!) Liquid propane is the ideal storage and transportation method for propane because you can fit so much in a small space. The external propane tank adapter will permanently connect between your RVs permanent propane tank and the propane regulator. It is not an option. I tested this with both the ACME GasStop on my external tank connected to a 4-port brass tee and the POL GasStop connected to my motorhomes mounted tank several times. See More. Every week we offer free tips, tricks, product reviews, and more to our online community of RVers. You may have to remove the cover from your regulator if you have one. Now, simply attach the propane regulator to Port B of your external propane tank adapter. The refrigerator vents should be removed and checked as part of your regular maintenance routine, even if you live in your RV full time. If your portable bottle is sideways or even upside down, the gass pressure will force liquid propane out of the bottle. It is produced when you burn many fuels. You can check the accessibility of the propane fill location by using Google Maps satellite view and street view. But our opinions are our own and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence. Pushing liquid propane into a system designed for vapor can damage the components. If liquid propane spills onto your skin, it can cause severe frostbite injuries. What the heck, the propane is off and lines were empty. Inspect your tank regularly for rust and corrosion.
That means, as rust builds up, you lose more and more of the metal, which can weaken the tank over time, causing it to fail. Pol To Pol Liquid Propane Transfer Hose Kit System Fill Bbq 20lb Unloading Lpg. Most RVs carry propane to use for cooking, heating, and generating hot water. The Complete Guide To RV Fire Extinguishers. Upon looking at the gauge, I found that the GasStop performed exactly as it should have. ASME RV propane tanks are larger, heavier, built-in, and hold more propane. Major leaks from accidents or road hazards such as tire blowouts can have explosive consequences. INCLUDES:EVERYTHING REQUIRED TO TRANSFER PROPANE. So there really should be no rust on a tank, and you should take care of even superficial rust as soon as possible. One gallon of liquid propane weighs 4.23 pounds, will produce 270 gallons of propane gas, and holds about 91,000 BTUs. Had a defective butane match lighter with a very small leak. DOT propane tanks are smaller, portable, and removable. I made sure all pilot lights and propane appliances were off as well. I like the easy of navigation through the site.
It will address propane tank safety equipment needed to keep you and your family safe on the road and answer the question Should you drive with the propane on or off? The compromised tank should be taken to a qualified propane technician to be inspected. POL to POL 48 Copper Propane Pigtail Tank Regulator Connection. At some RV parks and other locations where there are motorhomes that are stationary for long periods, particularly in snowbird destinations, its not uncommon for a local propane delivery service to come through the park to refill propane tanks. You should not only know where it is, but you should know how to use it. I didnt want to take any chances, so I immediately went out to check all of the connections and sprayed soapy water over everything. blog henleyshappytrails.com as well as videos on their YouTube Channel, Brand new Season Four episodes of The RVersairing now. Once we reach our destination, one of the first things we do is turn it back on. After the first 12 year period, tanks must at least get a visual inspection. Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter kits feature a 4-way brass Tee connection. It is possible to fill an RV with lethal amounts of CO before you even know it because it is odorless. Once you are certain there are no fuel leaks, reinstall the cover over your regulator if you have one. Whether youre on vacation or living long-term in your RV, the last thing you want to do is run out of propane. Great article Levi! Take care. The photo below shows the typical placement of a propane regulator on a towable RV and a motorhome. Even when traveling for 6 or more hours, our refrigerator and freezer remain cold. Its also important to know that most propane refill stations will request that there be no one on board the RV during the re-filling process. Very informative.
We highly recommend the Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter kit! For bikes, we have helmets. Its a very good question, and the answer is that its easier than you may think! Each model will have a slightly different shelf life, and the expiration date should be written on the alarm. also called Henley's Happy Trails. ), or when you need to heat water on the stove for that essential cup of morning coffee! At just about 125 psi, propane will condense into a liquid at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The cautionary note is that you dont want to cover up potential problems. Repainting a tank with a rust preventing paint is an excellent way to stop rust from progressing. The company claims the GasStop can be used as an active pressure gauge, a minor leak tester, and of course, it should shut off the gas entirely in the event of a major leak. The heating system vent is located on the side of the RV and can be easily spotted due to the size of the hole or holes. Depending on the size of your RV, you may need to make sure you have sufficient room to maneuver the rig. In addition to looking at all visible propane hoses, you will want to inspect any vents periodically for debris, insects, or other small animals.
Propane leaks are one of the leading propane safety concerns when it comes to RVing. King regards, Richard. The propane tanks mounted to motorhomes are made slightly different and not subject to the same inspection laws as portable DOT tanks. Could find no leak. After a few minutes inside, my wife noticed the smell. Im New to RVing. Camper FAQs is reader-supported. Thank you. In cars, we have seatbelts. Thanks be safe out there. When not plugged into power, RV refrigerators run on propane, and keeping it on while you travel keeps your food cold. Of note, if youre refilling onboard or portable tanks, the price per gallon is often less than it is if youre doing a tank exchange with a removable DOT tank.
Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Looking on the right-side of your gas-stop I see the 4-way tee that leads to your external tank(s). RVers could have a bumper hitch grill for temporary outdoor cooking. Yours was a great teaching lesson from which I can duplicate the process. That's an interesting question, Dave. Carbon monoxide gas (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas. The GasStop is a device that attempts to make propane leaks even less likely to happen by acting as an automatic shutoff valve in the case of a major propane leak. 5 Awesome RV Staycation Ideas: Enjoy Your RV & Save on Fuel! These tanks do not require you to requalify them. So, whether this is your first time on the road, or youre a seasoned expert, wed love for you to geek out with us! These tanks are regularly used on portable propane grills and on travel trailers and fifth wheels. Motorhome users can install a brass tee like the one shown in the video below, allowing them to use a portable tank when stationary. Required fields are marked *. It is crucial to have a workingCO detector. Fortunately, it can be turned into a liquid at higher temperatures by putting it under pressure. It is not very portable in its gaseous state, though. Important: Be sure you have a propane regulator between the 12 ft. hose and the propane-powered appliance. Pol To Pol Liquid Propane Transfer Hose Kit System Fill Bbq 20lb Unloading Lpg. CONNECTION A:MALE POL FULL FLOW. They come in many different sizes, but 20-pound and 30-pound tanks are the most common among towable RVs. Great information! We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. They may also have a gauge right at the tank, like this one on our rig: Its important to keep an eye on your propane gauge so that youll know when youre starting to run low! Someone has to do the stupid stuff, so you dont have to, and I volunteered. You then note the needles exact position on the gauge and wait for 1 to 5 minutes. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The gas is pushed out the top of the bottle and fed to your propane system. How did you solve the problem? By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. Two hours later the alarm went off again. If the tank bulges out, that indicates that the integrity has been compromised and is at risk of failure. However, propane is heavy and settles to the bottom of the RV if the air isnt disturbed. However, if the liquid propane were to leak or spray out for some reason, it would rapidly absorb the heat from whatever it touched. Wasp nests, mice nests, and other propane vent obstructions can create a huge fire hazard. Position your RV so that your propane tank is on the same side as the fill location, and allow a professional to fill the tank for you. This, Get smooth, uninterrupted flow from your dual, Use this black fitting to adapt your refillable, 20-lb or 30-lb. A lot of the RV videos either go to fast or assume I have a lot of experience. Veterans have sacrificed a lot and put in a whole lot more than just hard work. Right now I have to disconnect the hose using a wrench / monkey wrench and then place the supplied cap over the opening when driving away from my winter camp, in order to use the inner tank. Check outThe Complete Guide To RV Fire Extinguishersfor more information and a list of suitable RV fire extinguishers to get. One thing i need to point out regarding replacing the regulator is it requires a test to check the pressure when completed. Many tutorials on the internet tell you how to paint propane tanks for both motorhomes and towable RVs. It may need to be taken out of service. In addition to subscribing above, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, too (if you havent already)! How Much Does It Cost to Transport an RV? Now that your questions about how to refill a motorhome propane tank have been answered, hopefully any concern about running out of this valuable resource is gone. Without a manual shutoff valve this would cause all the propane to immediately flow as fast as possible, likely in the immediate vicinity of the person making the connection. Join our newsletter to learn about all things RV-related. If you attempted to run propane directly from your tank to your cooktop, 120 to 200 psi would cause more of a flame thrower rather than a cooking flame. Photo: Istock We get to know our products firsthand so experts can better help you. Tips for New RV Owners: How to Avoid the Worst Mistakes! No Hot Water in Your RV? If, however, your propane system is not working correctly, you will get an incomplete burn, which causes CO to be produced in higher quantities. We ran into that earlier this year at a truck stop. Ill be investing in the gas stop myself now. They share their experiences and RV-related tips on their own
Because it is odorless and colorless, propane companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give it the distinct rotten egg smell. Ultimately, my wife discovered the gloves as the source. Replacing a regulator can be done at most RV service locations.
As an experienced RVer, and certified RV technician, i found these tips will help many people stay safe with their propane systems. Turned out that by opening the doors it diluted the small leak enough that it wouldnt trip the propane leak detector. I had no idea how serious this was. How Do You Fill Your Motorhome Propane Tank? Overall, installing both the ACME and POL connections was straightforward, easy, and only took minutes. As a full-time RVer who has lived and traveled in a motorhome for over six years, I also recommend GasStop as a propane safety device for every RVer. Thank You I will shop this sight again in the future. COuldnt find the usual thumb up or subscribe link, but I thought this was great. In other words, a 30,000 BTU RV furnace will be able to run continuously for roughly 3 hours on one gallon of liquid propane. Make sure the gas is turned off and disconnect the regulator from the propane tank. Before I go further in talking about testing this product, I want to state that I was wearing safety equipment, safety glasses, and gloves. I have a hand held gas leak detector saved me a lot of time. After reading, i decided Ill travel with the tanks off so they be be so when entering the gas station. RV owners should remove these vent covers and keep the area free from debris. When a propane bottle is turned on, the liquid at the bottom of the bottle boils, creating pressurized propane gas at the top. You dont need to worry about attaching another propane regulator to your external tank since the gas from the external tank will simply flow through the regulator attached to your permanent tank. The gas flowing to the external appliance does not flow through the psi regulator attached to your permanent LP tank on your camper. Is there a quick connect for that? To do this, simply connect one end of the included 12 foot hose to Port C and the other end of the line to your gas-powered appliance. Connecting Your RV to an External Propane Source, Step 1: Disconnect Propane Regulator From Your Permanent Propane Tank, Step 2: Install the Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter, Step 3: Connect Your External Propane Tank, Optional Step 4: Attach an External Gas Appliance, Optional: Additional propane-powered appliance (gas grill, heater, etc. Get some added reach to connect appliances to your, Connect your RV to a secondary inlet, such as the Sturgi-Stay, to use a backup, Step up your campout cooking game and ditch those little green cylinders that run out of gas far too soon. According to the instructions that come with the unit, you can test for minor leaks by turning the propane on, priming the unit by pressing the gauge 5 to 6 times, then turning the propane tank off.
Use the photos below to reference what a manufacturers date stamp looks like compared to a requalification stamp. We'd move on, too! All RVs are required to have a working fire extinguisher to be sold. If you choose to drive with the propane on while driving, know that you are accepting that risk. Simply pouring a couple cups of very hot water down the side of the tank will cause the metal above the liquid level to heat up . There are a number of questions people frequently ask about how to manage various aspects of RVing, and among those questions is how to refill a motorhome propane tank.
In other locations, theyll offer you the contact information for the local propane delivery company, and youll have to arrange for the delivery on your own.
Propane is usually priced per gallon (or per litre in Canada and other Commonwealth countries), and you pay for the amount you take on just as you do when buying other types of fuel. I have a T installed for a propane quick connect, after the gas stop and before the house regulator, like your picture shows. Most truck stops and some gas stations have propane refill stations. I love the fact that the gauge is active and reflects the pressure going through the line. There was only one way to find out; I needed a major propane leak in my system. Thank you. We moved on. So shut off propane and went back to sleep. Just like the other alarms above, you will want to test this alarm monthly and replace it when it expires. With that story in mind, you might see how I was hoping this device lived up to its name. If there was such a thing as an RV bar with the attitude of a biker bar, walking in and declaring that you had the definitive answer to this question would be an excellent way to start an argument or bar fight. I had already added a metal plate and moved my propane regulator to install my 4-port brass tee for external tank hookups. This process is slow with the controlled flow of a gas burner. Make sure the propane is off before doing this. You can fill your own RVs propane tank at an Autogas pump in Great Britain! Steel tanks hold pressure pretty well unless they are compromised. Thank you. Again, make sure you do not have the propane or water heater on when you do this. The following videos show how to replace propane regulators for both a towable RV and a motorhome. There may be several, so you have to find the most recent one. You will want to examine all of the visible hoses that go from your tank to your RV.
Make sure the propane heater is off before you do this, so you dont get burned. Looked everywhere again. Before attempting to install either type of GasStop, I made sure to turn my propane off. When setting tanks on the ground or any other surface, make sure that the portable tanks are stable and on level ground to avoid the tanks from falling over. Seller: propane-kits (21,301) 98.2%, Location: Nicholasville, Kentucky, US, Worth keeping. Thanks!!! Purposely causing leaks and disconnecting things while the propane is still on is probably not the best of ideas. And when you do click the notification bell so youll get alerted when we upload new videos! You are checking for any foreign objects that you can see. Converts Propane LP TANK POL Service Valve to QCC (Type 1) Outlet Brass Adapter, Me318p 1/4" Male Npt To Hard Nose Pol Full Flow Marshall Excelsior Propane Lpg, Propane Tank Adapter Universal Fit Converts POL to QCC1/Type 1 Hoses Regulator, Brass Adapter Converts Propane LP TANK POL service valve to QCC1 Type1 Adapter, Propane Tank Adapter Converts POL LP Tank Valve to QCC1/Type1 with Propane. You should always keep portable tanks like those on travel trailers, fifth wheels, and other towable RVs in the upright position with the valves handle on the top. APPLICATION:TRANSFER FUEL FROM POL TANK CONNECTION TO ANOTHER POL TANK CONNECTION. Its a very simple process, especially if you follow the tips weve offered above.
Some RVers will use plastic milk crates for this purpose. In some locations where RVs are stationary for longer periods of time, propane delivery services are offered. It was not registering how much fuel in my tank . Very detailed, easy to read and well written on a subject taken for granted for the most part. Keeping your tanks in working order is essential, and inspecting them periodically or before each RV trip is a must. or after a long, sweaty hike (no hot water! Propane tank safety goes beyond just fire prevention, though. Before your tank is filled, youll want to make sure that your RVs onboard tank is shut OFF, and that all propane-burning appliances (furnace, water heater, RV refrigerator, stove/oven) are turned OFF to avoid the potential for fire/explosion.
The answer to whether you can run the propane fridge while driving down the road is yes, its possible to do so.
This told me that my regulator and propane system appeared to be functioning correctly. Each time the GasStop worked as advertised. Smaller, DOT propane tanks look like this: DOT propane tanks are smaller, lighter, and portable. To make sure products work and fit the way they are supposed to. end to the external propane tank. Propane can also replace much of the oxygen in the air, causing suffocation. CONNECTION B:MALE POL FULL FLOW. Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, workamp around the country in their Youre welcome. Another thing you should look for is any unusual bulges and large dents. You simply screw it onto the tank and then attach your propane hose to the end of the GasStop. They should be able to install the connector fairly quickly and affordably. On our first trim across the border, we were provided with a copy of the federal regulation. You can also take your RV to a service location that provides propane LP inspection service.
Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk. Travel Trailer with two 30 pound tanks. Many RV service locations offer LP system inspections. As long as it doesnt look damaged and is free from dirt and road grime, it should provide years of reliable service. Don't miss out on Camper Report's RV News, Product & Accessory Reviews. Its not just inconvenient, it can be dangerous! If you are purchasing a fire extinguisher, make sure it is at least a B:C type extinguisher. New regulators generally dont fail unless damaged somehow. You can! Very concise and nice references. The price of LP (liquid propane) gas varies considerably by region and by the time of year because propane prices fluctuate due to the demand during cooler seasons. Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you. Some RV parks have them as well, and occasionally you may find a propane station outside of a hardware store or other type of retail location. We'd assume that the port on the tank would be the standard propane-fill port, but couldn't say for sure! Check out the video below and GasStops site to learn more. These gauges let us know when our propane level is getting low so that we can refill at our next opportunity. Liked your glove story . These are made of thicker, heavier steel than DOT tanks, and the capacity of these tanks is generally much larger. Below are the before and after photos. Produced to make sure you know what you are getting and you get exactly what you need. Thank you for the useful tips, and valuable information on tank safety. ASME propane tanks are large, built-in tanks generally found on a motorhome like ours. The good news is hooking up an external tank is a breeze. I followed the instructions that came with both the POL and ACME versions of the GasStop, and it worked as advertised. Most of them look like a smoke detector and should be tested once a month using the test button. Note:Some bridges, tunnels, and ferries require your propane to be off, and it is required by law to have your propane off while filling at a gas station. For liquid propane to turn into gas, it absorbs heat from the air outside the tank. Its really that simple. Plus, in addition to hooking up external propane tanks, you can also hook up another gas-powered appliance! Thanks for the BTUs per pound numbers, now I can calculate how long my tank will last given use of my stovetop burners. But because the idea of refilling a motorhome propane tank has a pretty high intimidation factor, today were laying it all out for you to take all the mystery (and the intimidation) away. Best of all, I know that GasStop will safely shut off my propane system before it can cause further problems in the event of a major leak. Competitive Pricing. It is important to have the plastic cover to keep dirt and debris away from the regulator while driving. If the needle goes down, there is a leak somewhere. Your email address will not be published. published their first book together, Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How By feeling the temperature of the metal it will be easy to determine the approximate contents of the tank. Looking to find our personal choices for great RVing gear? All the LP companies I have used only put a sticker on the tank with the re-cert date. It is considered green energy because of its low emissions compared to other types of fossil fuels. Finally, you will get an honest review of a new propane tank safety product called theGasStop. I was able to not only see that I had propane, but I could see that the pressure was steady as I ran various things. Motorhome users who use a propane brass 4-port tee to hook up an external tank will not have a place to strap down their tank. I dont use cheep no name lighters anymore. It is mandatory that while traveling in Canada, you MUST SHUT YOUR PROPANE OFF. Great seller with very good positive feedback and over 50 ratings. Rust is the process of oxygen breaking down the iron in the steel into iron oxide. First, youll need to locate where your propane tank connection point is on your motorhome. It allows for super easy hookup and comes with all hoses and fittings included. Very helpful/friendly Customer Service. APPLICATION:TRANSFER FUEL FROM POL TANK CONNECTION TO ANOTHER POL TANK CONNECTION. Your email address will not be published. Small leaks can fill a space with propane and be ignited with sparks created by a light switch or plugging in an appliance. Along with writing for RV magazines, they recently There are three typical locations that propane vents outside your RV. If you notice the propane wont work or the flames on your burner are yellow instead of blue, it may be a sign of your propane regulator failing. Filling your own motorhome propane tank is not allowed anywhere in North America. Tip: You want Port C facing up and Port D facing out towards you. Most towable RVs have specific locations meant to strap the propane bottles in place in the upright position. Buying through links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission. This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy, Propane Tank Safety: Heres What Every RV Owner Should Know. Ships to: WORLDWIDE, Whether or not you should paint the tank yourself is, for the most part, a personal choice. If I convert my RV gasolune engine to run on propane, will I have problems filling the tank -- i.e., does the propane tank on a xonversion kit require a special nozzle. Can Your RV Propane System Explode & Kill You On The Road? Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Finally, you can connect your external propane tank or bottle by attaching the 1/4 inverted flare end of the included 5 ft. hose to Port D, and attaching the P.O.L. We Did It. Overall the meter did an excellent job of showing when the propane was running low. They will not only look at your tanks, but they will also inspect the entire propane systems function, which is the next tip on the list. Obviously it is always a good idea to attach the hose to the grill before attaching the other end to the tank. Then they are suitable for another five years. They can tell you if the rust has caused any serious problems, give you advice on what to use if you want to repaint it yourself, or for a price, they may repaint your propane tank for you. Hereis a more in-depth look at this topic so you can make an informed decision as to what you want to do. It only took me a couple of minutes to place my order.
Copyright 2022 TheRVgeeks | Trellis Framework by Mediavine. Im still a novice at living full time in an Rv.
If you feel the bottom of a tank while something is running, it will feel colder than the tanks top. There are two types of motorhome propane tanks ASME and DOT and the type your rig has will depend largely on the type of RV you have.
Extremely well done!! How Much Does it Cost to Refill Your Propane Tank? A working and currentsmoke detectoris recommended in an RV and required by law. The only real downside to propane is, like all other fossil fuels, it is afiniteresource. With an RV maybe there is no reason to disconnect the other end of the gas hose, but with grills this is common. Can we mail this to ourselves for reference? That makes it an attractive fuel even when temperatures plummet. Important: If you dont feel comfortable performing this step-by-step process, take your recreational vehicle to a certified RV technician. Nice article on Propane safety. If you are having any difficulty starting your propane-powered appliances, you may have to purge your RV propane lines. What Kind of Propane Tanks Are on Motorhomes? We will always respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe at any time. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to check your propane level often because you dont want to be without it in the middle of a cold night (no heater!) Liquid propane is the ideal storage and transportation method for propane because you can fit so much in a small space. The external propane tank adapter will permanently connect between your RVs permanent propane tank and the propane regulator. It is not an option. I tested this with both the ACME GasStop on my external tank connected to a 4-port brass tee and the POL GasStop connected to my motorhomes mounted tank several times. See More. Every week we offer free tips, tricks, product reviews, and more to our online community of RVers. You may have to remove the cover from your regulator if you have one. Now, simply attach the propane regulator to Port B of your external propane tank adapter. The refrigerator vents should be removed and checked as part of your regular maintenance routine, even if you live in your RV full time. If your portable bottle is sideways or even upside down, the gass pressure will force liquid propane out of the bottle. It is produced when you burn many fuels. You can check the accessibility of the propane fill location by using Google Maps satellite view and street view. But our opinions are our own and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence. Pushing liquid propane into a system designed for vapor can damage the components. If liquid propane spills onto your skin, it can cause severe frostbite injuries. What the heck, the propane is off and lines were empty. Inspect your tank regularly for rust and corrosion.
That means, as rust builds up, you lose more and more of the metal, which can weaken the tank over time, causing it to fail. Pol To Pol Liquid Propane Transfer Hose Kit System Fill Bbq 20lb Unloading Lpg. Most RVs carry propane to use for cooking, heating, and generating hot water. The Complete Guide To RV Fire Extinguishers. Upon looking at the gauge, I found that the GasStop performed exactly as it should have. ASME RV propane tanks are larger, heavier, built-in, and hold more propane. Major leaks from accidents or road hazards such as tire blowouts can have explosive consequences. INCLUDES:EVERYTHING REQUIRED TO TRANSFER PROPANE. So there really should be no rust on a tank, and you should take care of even superficial rust as soon as possible. One gallon of liquid propane weighs 4.23 pounds, will produce 270 gallons of propane gas, and holds about 91,000 BTUs. Had a defective butane match lighter with a very small leak. DOT propane tanks are smaller, portable, and removable. I made sure all pilot lights and propane appliances were off as well. I like the easy of navigation through the site.
It will address propane tank safety equipment needed to keep you and your family safe on the road and answer the question Should you drive with the propane on or off? The compromised tank should be taken to a qualified propane technician to be inspected. POL to POL 48 Copper Propane Pigtail Tank Regulator Connection. At some RV parks and other locations where there are motorhomes that are stationary for long periods, particularly in snowbird destinations, its not uncommon for a local propane delivery service to come through the park to refill propane tanks. You should not only know where it is, but you should know how to use it. I didnt want to take any chances, so I immediately went out to check all of the connections and sprayed soapy water over everything. blog henleyshappytrails.com as well as videos on their YouTube Channel, Brand new Season Four episodes of The RVersairing now. Once we reach our destination, one of the first things we do is turn it back on. After the first 12 year period, tanks must at least get a visual inspection. Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter kits feature a 4-way brass Tee connection. It is possible to fill an RV with lethal amounts of CO before you even know it because it is odorless. Once you are certain there are no fuel leaks, reinstall the cover over your regulator if you have one. Whether youre on vacation or living long-term in your RV, the last thing you want to do is run out of propane. Great article Levi! Take care. The photo below shows the typical placement of a propane regulator on a towable RV and a motorhome. Even when traveling for 6 or more hours, our refrigerator and freezer remain cold. Its also important to know that most propane refill stations will request that there be no one on board the RV during the re-filling process. Very informative.
We highly recommend the Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter kit! For bikes, we have helmets. Its a very good question, and the answer is that its easier than you may think! Each model will have a slightly different shelf life, and the expiration date should be written on the alarm. also called Henley's Happy Trails. ), or when you need to heat water on the stove for that essential cup of morning coffee! At just about 125 psi, propane will condense into a liquid at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The cautionary note is that you dont want to cover up potential problems. Repainting a tank with a rust preventing paint is an excellent way to stop rust from progressing. The company claims the GasStop can be used as an active pressure gauge, a minor leak tester, and of course, it should shut off the gas entirely in the event of a major leak. The heating system vent is located on the side of the RV and can be easily spotted due to the size of the hole or holes. Depending on the size of your RV, you may need to make sure you have sufficient room to maneuver the rig. In addition to looking at all visible propane hoses, you will want to inspect any vents periodically for debris, insects, or other small animals.
Propane leaks are one of the leading propane safety concerns when it comes to RVing. King regards, Richard. The propane tanks mounted to motorhomes are made slightly different and not subject to the same inspection laws as portable DOT tanks. Could find no leak. After a few minutes inside, my wife noticed the smell. Im New to RVing. Camper FAQs is reader-supported. Thank you. In cars, we have seatbelts. Thanks be safe out there. When not plugged into power, RV refrigerators run on propane, and keeping it on while you travel keeps your food cold. Of note, if youre refilling onboard or portable tanks, the price per gallon is often less than it is if youre doing a tank exchange with a removable DOT tank.
Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Looking on the right-side of your gas-stop I see the 4-way tee that leads to your external tank(s). RVers could have a bumper hitch grill for temporary outdoor cooking. Yours was a great teaching lesson from which I can duplicate the process. That's an interesting question, Dave. Carbon monoxide gas (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas. The GasStop is a device that attempts to make propane leaks even less likely to happen by acting as an automatic shutoff valve in the case of a major propane leak. 5 Awesome RV Staycation Ideas: Enjoy Your RV & Save on Fuel! These tanks do not require you to requalify them. So, whether this is your first time on the road, or youre a seasoned expert, wed love for you to geek out with us! These tanks are regularly used on portable propane grills and on travel trailers and fifth wheels. Motorhome users can install a brass tee like the one shown in the video below, allowing them to use a portable tank when stationary. Required fields are marked *. It is crucial to have a workingCO detector. Fortunately, it can be turned into a liquid at higher temperatures by putting it under pressure. It is not very portable in its gaseous state, though. Important: Be sure you have a propane regulator between the 12 ft. hose and the propane-powered appliance. Pol To Pol Liquid Propane Transfer Hose Kit System Fill Bbq 20lb Unloading Lpg. CONNECTION A:MALE POL FULL FLOW. They come in many different sizes, but 20-pound and 30-pound tanks are the most common among towable RVs. Great information! We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. They may also have a gauge right at the tank, like this one on our rig: Its important to keep an eye on your propane gauge so that youll know when youre starting to run low! Someone has to do the stupid stuff, so you dont have to, and I volunteered. You then note the needles exact position on the gauge and wait for 1 to 5 minutes. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The gas is pushed out the top of the bottle and fed to your propane system. How did you solve the problem? By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. Two hours later the alarm went off again. If the tank bulges out, that indicates that the integrity has been compromised and is at risk of failure. However, propane is heavy and settles to the bottom of the RV if the air isnt disturbed. However, if the liquid propane were to leak or spray out for some reason, it would rapidly absorb the heat from whatever it touched. Wasp nests, mice nests, and other propane vent obstructions can create a huge fire hazard. Position your RV so that your propane tank is on the same side as the fill location, and allow a professional to fill the tank for you. This, Get smooth, uninterrupted flow from your dual, Use this black fitting to adapt your refillable, 20-lb or 30-lb. A lot of the RV videos either go to fast or assume I have a lot of experience. Veterans have sacrificed a lot and put in a whole lot more than just hard work. Right now I have to disconnect the hose using a wrench / monkey wrench and then place the supplied cap over the opening when driving away from my winter camp, in order to use the inner tank. Check outThe Complete Guide To RV Fire Extinguishersfor more information and a list of suitable RV fire extinguishers to get. One thing i need to point out regarding replacing the regulator is it requires a test to check the pressure when completed. Many tutorials on the internet tell you how to paint propane tanks for both motorhomes and towable RVs. It may need to be taken out of service. In addition to subscribing above, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, too (if you havent already)! How Much Does It Cost to Transport an RV? Now that your questions about how to refill a motorhome propane tank have been answered, hopefully any concern about running out of this valuable resource is gone. Without a manual shutoff valve this would cause all the propane to immediately flow as fast as possible, likely in the immediate vicinity of the person making the connection. Join our newsletter to learn about all things RV-related. If you attempted to run propane directly from your tank to your cooktop, 120 to 200 psi would cause more of a flame thrower rather than a cooking flame. Photo: Istock We get to know our products firsthand so experts can better help you. Tips for New RV Owners: How to Avoid the Worst Mistakes! No Hot Water in Your RV? If, however, your propane system is not working correctly, you will get an incomplete burn, which causes CO to be produced in higher quantities. We ran into that earlier this year at a truck stop. Ill be investing in the gas stop myself now. They share their experiences and RV-related tips on their own
Because it is odorless and colorless, propane companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give it the distinct rotten egg smell. Ultimately, my wife discovered the gloves as the source. Replacing a regulator can be done at most RV service locations.
As an experienced RVer, and certified RV technician, i found these tips will help many people stay safe with their propane systems. Turned out that by opening the doors it diluted the small leak enough that it wouldnt trip the propane leak detector. I had no idea how serious this was. How Do You Fill Your Motorhome Propane Tank? Overall, installing both the ACME and POL connections was straightforward, easy, and only took minutes. As a full-time RVer who has lived and traveled in a motorhome for over six years, I also recommend GasStop as a propane safety device for every RVer. Thank You I will shop this sight again in the future. COuldnt find the usual thumb up or subscribe link, but I thought this was great. In other words, a 30,000 BTU RV furnace will be able to run continuously for roughly 3 hours on one gallon of liquid propane. Make sure the gas is turned off and disconnect the regulator from the propane tank. Before I go further in talking about testing this product, I want to state that I was wearing safety equipment, safety glasses, and gloves. I have a hand held gas leak detector saved me a lot of time. After reading, i decided Ill travel with the tanks off so they be be so when entering the gas station. RV owners should remove these vent covers and keep the area free from debris. When a propane bottle is turned on, the liquid at the bottom of the bottle boils, creating pressurized propane gas at the top. You dont need to worry about attaching another propane regulator to your external tank since the gas from the external tank will simply flow through the regulator attached to your permanent tank. The gas flowing to the external appliance does not flow through the psi regulator attached to your permanent LP tank on your camper. Is there a quick connect for that? To do this, simply connect one end of the included 12 foot hose to Port C and the other end of the line to your gas-powered appliance. Connecting Your RV to an External Propane Source, Step 1: Disconnect Propane Regulator From Your Permanent Propane Tank, Step 2: Install the Camco RV External Propane Tank Adapter, Step 3: Connect Your External Propane Tank, Optional Step 4: Attach an External Gas Appliance, Optional: Additional propane-powered appliance (gas grill, heater, etc. Get some added reach to connect appliances to your, Connect your RV to a secondary inlet, such as the Sturgi-Stay, to use a backup, Step up your campout cooking game and ditch those little green cylinders that run out of gas far too soon. According to the instructions that come with the unit, you can test for minor leaks by turning the propane on, priming the unit by pressing the gauge 5 to 6 times, then turning the propane tank off.
Use the photos below to reference what a manufacturers date stamp looks like compared to a requalification stamp. We'd move on, too! All RVs are required to have a working fire extinguisher to be sold. If you choose to drive with the propane on while driving, know that you are accepting that risk. Simply pouring a couple cups of very hot water down the side of the tank will cause the metal above the liquid level to heat up . There are a number of questions people frequently ask about how to manage various aspects of RVing, and among those questions is how to refill a motorhome propane tank.
In other locations, theyll offer you the contact information for the local propane delivery company, and youll have to arrange for the delivery on your own.
Propane is usually priced per gallon (or per litre in Canada and other Commonwealth countries), and you pay for the amount you take on just as you do when buying other types of fuel. I have a T installed for a propane quick connect, after the gas stop and before the house regulator, like your picture shows. Most truck stops and some gas stations have propane refill stations. I love the fact that the gauge is active and reflects the pressure going through the line. There was only one way to find out; I needed a major propane leak in my system. Thank you. We moved on. So shut off propane and went back to sleep. Just like the other alarms above, you will want to test this alarm monthly and replace it when it expires. With that story in mind, you might see how I was hoping this device lived up to its name. If there was such a thing as an RV bar with the attitude of a biker bar, walking in and declaring that you had the definitive answer to this question would be an excellent way to start an argument or bar fight. I had already added a metal plate and moved my propane regulator to install my 4-port brass tee for external tank hookups. This process is slow with the controlled flow of a gas burner. Make sure the propane is off before doing this. You can fill your own RVs propane tank at an Autogas pump in Great Britain! Steel tanks hold pressure pretty well unless they are compromised. Thank you. Again, make sure you do not have the propane or water heater on when you do this. The following videos show how to replace propane regulators for both a towable RV and a motorhome. There may be several, so you have to find the most recent one. You will want to examine all of the visible hoses that go from your tank to your RV.
Make sure the propane heater is off before you do this, so you dont get burned. Looked everywhere again. Before attempting to install either type of GasStop, I made sure to turn my propane off. When setting tanks on the ground or any other surface, make sure that the portable tanks are stable and on level ground to avoid the tanks from falling over. Seller: propane-kits (21,301) 98.2%, Location: Nicholasville, Kentucky, US, Worth keeping. Thanks!!! Purposely causing leaks and disconnecting things while the propane is still on is probably not the best of ideas. And when you do click the notification bell so youll get alerted when we upload new videos! You are checking for any foreign objects that you can see. Converts Propane LP TANK POL Service Valve to QCC (Type 1) Outlet Brass Adapter, Me318p 1/4" Male Npt To Hard Nose Pol Full Flow Marshall Excelsior Propane Lpg, Propane Tank Adapter Universal Fit Converts POL to QCC1/Type 1 Hoses Regulator, Brass Adapter Converts Propane LP TANK POL service valve to QCC1 Type1 Adapter, Propane Tank Adapter Converts POL LP Tank Valve to QCC1/Type1 with Propane. You should always keep portable tanks like those on travel trailers, fifth wheels, and other towable RVs in the upright position with the valves handle on the top. APPLICATION:TRANSFER FUEL FROM POL TANK CONNECTION TO ANOTHER POL TANK CONNECTION. Its a very simple process, especially if you follow the tips weve offered above.
Some RVers will use plastic milk crates for this purpose. In some locations where RVs are stationary for longer periods of time, propane delivery services are offered. It was not registering how much fuel in my tank . Very detailed, easy to read and well written on a subject taken for granted for the most part. Keeping your tanks in working order is essential, and inspecting them periodically or before each RV trip is a must. or after a long, sweaty hike (no hot water! Propane tank safety goes beyond just fire prevention, though. Before your tank is filled, youll want to make sure that your RVs onboard tank is shut OFF, and that all propane-burning appliances (furnace, water heater, RV refrigerator, stove/oven) are turned OFF to avoid the potential for fire/explosion.
The answer to whether you can run the propane fridge while driving down the road is yes, its possible to do so.