5-3
SECTION 5 –
PROPANE GAS
Selecting Propane Fuel Types
We recommend using straight propane in your
propane tank. Propane gas is commonly available
at all propane gas outlets in the U.S. (According
to the National Propane Gas Association,
propane gas outlets in the United States do not
offer any other type of liquefied petroleum gas
than propane to the general public.) Check local
phone directory yellow pages for locations of
local propane gas refilling stations or bulk
dealerships.
NOTE: If you travel outside the U.S. with your
motorhome, you may find butane or
propane/butane mixtures available in
addition to propane. Because gas-
burning RV appliances are designed to
run on propane only, we recommend that
you request straight propane only.
Butane burns about 30 percent hotter
than propane and can overheat some
appliances, particularly refrigerators,
and cause permanent damage. Other
appliances designed to operate on
propane can become sooted and lose
efficiency by using butane fuel.
Air in the Propane Gas Tank
If your gas appliances do not stay lit or require
frequent adjustment, even though you know the
propane tank contains sufficient fuel, the
problem may be air in the propane gas tank. Air
in the tank mixes with the propane gas vapors
causing them to burn poorly. This condition
could linger for weeks if the air is not purged
from the tank. Most propane gas dealers have
equipment for purging air from propane gas tanks
and will purge before refilling the tank.
SAFE USE OF THE PROPANE
GAS SYSTEM
The propane system is designed and built with
strict adherence to national, state, and
recreational vehicle industry requirements for
mobile propane gas equipment.
For your safety, there are many safety devices
and backup systems installed, such as fill
overflow valves, an interior propane gas detector/
alarm, and an interior carbon monoxide (CO)
detector/alarm.
Propane gas also contains an odor additive
that you can smell if propane is present in the air.
Here are a few precautions to observe that will
help you to use the propane gas system safely:
•
Exercise caution at all times. Be familiar with
the distinctive odor of propane gas. If a leak is
suspected, turn off the supply valve
immediately. Have the propane gas system
checked by your dealer or other qualified
propane gas service center.
•
Do not tamper with the propane gas piping
system, pressure regulator, or gas appliances.
Service and maintenance of propane gas
DANGER
All pilot lights, appliances, and their
igniters (see operating instructions) shall
be turned off before refueling of motor fuel
tanks and/or propane containers. Can
cause ignition of flammable vapors, which
can lead to a fire or explosion and result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
This propane piping system is designed
for use with propane only.
Do not connect natural gas to this system.
Securely cap inlet when not connected for
use. After turning on propane, except
after normal cylinder replacement, test
propane piping and connections to
appliances for leakage with soapy water
or bubble solution.
Do not use products that contain
ammonia or chlorine to test for leaks. Can
lead to a fire or explosion, which could
result in death or serious injury.
