5-5
SECTION 5
PROPANE GAS SYSTEM
Class A
To help avoid the possibility of freeze-up,
always keep tank control valve closed when not
in use, even when tank is empty, to prevent
moisture from collecting on the inside.
If regulator freeze-up should occur, you may
attempt to thaw the regulator using a light bulb.
DO NOT USE AN OPEN FLAME OR HEAT
LAMP.
If moisture begins to cause problems, have
your propane gas dealer inject a small amount of
dry methyl alcohol in your tank (approximately
one ounce to 20 pounds or one pint to 100
gallons) to help guard against regulator freeze-
ups.
COLD WEATHER PROPANE
VAPORIZATION
Propane gas vaporization increases and
decreases in direct relation to ambient
temperature. In other words, the lower the
temperature, the slower liquid propane vaporizes
into a usable gas for appliances.
This means that in very cold weather when a
large volume of gas is being used by the furnace
for heating, it is possible to experience a loss of
gas pressure. The demand for propane to produce
heat increases to the point where the system
cannot maintain production.
At first, this problem may appear to be caused
by a regulator freeze-up, but is actually caused by
failure of the liquid gas to vaporize as fast as it is
needed by the furnace.
The only solution to this problem is to reduce
gas usage where possible. Adjusting the
temperature on the gas/electric refrigerator may
be a first step. Using less hot water will also help,
as well as refraining from using the gas cooktop.
A final step is to lower the thermostat setting to
reduce gas usage by the furnace.
