Time For That Annual Propane Checkup

Propane is a safe, efficient fuel made from natural gas, light crude oil, and refinery gases. But most of the people driving the more than nine million RV’s on the road today know propane as the gas for cooking, heating, water heating, and - in some cases - engine fueling.

While propane accidents are rare, the National Propane Gas Association recommends RV owners and others using propane make a checklist to ensure a safe and worry-free vacation season.

Owners should take their vehicle to a qualified propane gas or RV dealer for an annual checkup. Whether the RV is used year-round or only occasionally, every RV propane gas system should be checked. Such checks will ensure optimum performance as well as safety.

Be sure to have the system checked for leaks and proper regulator pressure, as well as inspect the valves and fittings. Dealers can also inspect propane tanks for excessive rust and dents. Most tanks will last for years; however seriously dented or rusted tanks must be replaced immediately.

Thoroughly inspect the RV’s appliances, including air intake and exhaust vents. If the access doors and vents were covered to prevent insect infestation in the off season, remove the covers before using the appliance. It’s a common mistake to forget to remove these vent covers, and without proper ventilation propane will not burn properly or in many cases light at all.

Become familiar with the odor of propane gas. Propane by itself actually has no smell, but during its production, a chemical is added to give it its distinctive “rotten egg” smell as a safety measure.

Suppliers can teach RV owners how to recognize the smell of propane gas. Allergy sufferers or people who have a poor sense of smell should consider the use of a gas detector.

Maintain propane tanks properly. Paint the propane tank a bright reflective color. Most are painted white. Assuming the tank has passed inspection by a propane supplier, minor rust touch-ups can be performed by RV owners. Sand away the rust until the metal beneath is shiny, then prime and touch-up with paint. Do not paint over warning labels.

Always use a propane tank in its proper position. Arrows indicating the correct position are stamped in the metal of the tank. A horizontal tank should never be used in the vertical position and vice versa.

Follow proper refueling procedures. When refueling, turn off the vehicle’s engine, all appliances, and the electronic reigniters. All passengers should exit the RV. After refueling, turn on the gas and listen to the gas regulator. A continuous hissing sound indicates the presence of a leak. RV owners who believe their tank has a leak should follow the warnings on the tank and contact a reliable propane dealer.

What is the best procedure to follow if you smell gas? Exit the vehicle immediately and do not use any electric switches or appliances. Leave the door open to air out the coach. Shut off the propane tank and call a propane gas supplier or the fire department from a phone outside.

The National Propane Gas Association publishes the “National Directory of Propane Refueling Stations,” which lists nearly 4,000 propane gas suppliers across the country. To order the $5.95 book, write the association at 1600 Eisenhower Lane, Lisle, IL 60532. The association also operates a nationwide toll-free safety hotline for propane users. For more information on propane safety, telephone (800) 4LP-GAS2.