RV Propane Expert
LP gas is a camper’s best friend. He provides us with warmth on a cold day, hot water for showers, cold food in the fridge, and the ability to cook on the go just as he does when he is at home. When we need him, he is there, instantly providing us with all the comforts we are used to. We don’t really even think about it, it’s taken for granted that when you press that button, it almost like magic responds to your demands.
But what is LP gas? Should we be afraid of it or just keep taking it for granted? Liquid propane, better known as LP gas, gets its name because it is stored in a liquid state. When LP gas is manufactured, it is compressed and stored under pressure, causing it to liquefy. When the pressure is released, the liquid turns back into a vapor. LP gas is odorless, colorless and tasteless. To help you detect a leak, an odorant is added to it when it is manufactured. If you are not familiar with the smell of LP gas, the next time you go to a qualified service station ask the attendant to let you smell it. Most people describe the smell as similar to rotten eggs or smelling like garlic.
We’ll get back to more features of LP gas in a minute, but let’s address the second question first. Should you be afraid of it? You must respect LP gas, because all gases have dangerous characteristics. If you check for gas leaks with an open flame, you are sure to be in danger. I guess what I’m trying to say is that LP Gas is one of the safest petroleum products if handled properly. Most of the time, when there is an accident involving LP gas, it is due to negligence or improper handling.
LP gas is portable, safe when handled properly, and highly efficient, so it makes sense for it to be used in recreational vehicles. I mentioned a moment ago that LP gas is compressed into a liquid state and stored in containers. Due to the amount of pressure involved, the containers are manufactured under very strict codes. There are two basic types of containers, Department of Transportation (DOT) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). DOT containers, more commonly called cylinders, are the upright type you see on pop-ups, travel trailers, or the barbecue grill. ASME cylinders are known as tanks and are mounted horizontally like the type you would see on an RV.
Regardless of type, all LP-gas containers are only filled to 80 percent capacity to allow for expansion when the temperature around the container increases. LP gas cylinders are equipped with overfill protection devices or OPD valves to prevent overfilling.
LP gas can be measured by weight or gallons. You may have heard someone say that the gas cylinders on their travel trailer weigh 30 lbs. cylinders, or they can say that their cylinders hold 7 gallons each. A gallon of LP gas weighs 4.26 pounds. The typical barbecue grill uses a 20 lb. weight. cylinder, so at 80 percent of its capacity it would fit 3.75 gallons of LP gas.
When you open the valve on the gas cylinder, the liquid gas turns back into a vapor and enters a two-stage regulator. In the first stage, the pressure leaving the cylinder is significantly reduced near the proper combustion range for LP gas appliances. The second stage reduces it to the 11 inches of water column needed for the appliances to function properly.
There is also an LP gas leak detector inside the RV that will set off an alarm to alert you if there is a gas leak. It is normally located near the floor level because LP gas is heavier than air and will settle towards the floor. If you ever smell LP gas while camping, or if the LP gas leak detector activates, there may be a leak somewhere in the system. If this happens, you should:
*Put out any open flames, pilot lights, and do not smoke or touch electrical switches.
*Evacuate the RV and turn off the main gas supply valve.
Leave the door open and do not return to the area until the odor is gone.
*Have system checked by a qualified technician before reuse.
*False alarms can be caused by hairspray, perfume, cleaning solvents, and low battery voltage.
Let’s take a moment and discuss some pros and cons regarding LP gas.
*Remember to turn on the main gas supply when you are ready to use a gas appliance.
*Have the system checked if you suspect a leak, tamper with the gas system, or at least once a year.
*Take proper steps to safely transport, store and use LP gas cylinders.
*Review all LP gas system and appliance precautions and warnings in your owner’s manual.
*Do not use an open flame to check for leaks.
*Do not use stovetop burners or oven as a heat source; it is not vented to the outside and depleted oxygen can cause suffocation.
*Do not go to a gas station to refuel unless you put out open flames or pilot lights and turn off LP gas appliances.
*Do not transport LP gas cylinders in a vehicle.
*Don’t be afraid of LP gas, but do respect it and handle it properly.
Happy camping!
Copyright 2006 by Mark J. Polk, owner of RV Education 101