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LP gas is the camper’s best friend. It gives us warmth on cold days, hot water to shower, cold food in the fridge and the ability to cook outdoors just like you would at home. It’s there when we need it, immediately providing us with all the comforts and conveniences we’re used to. We don’t really even think about it, it’s assumed that when you push that button, almost like magic it responds to your demands.
But what is LP gas? Should we fear it, or just take it for granted? Liquid propane, commonly known as LP gas, got its name because it is stored in a liquid state. When LP gas is manufactured it is compressed and stored under pressure, which liquefies it. When the pressure is removed the liquid turns back to vapor. LP gas is odorless, colorless and tasteless. An odorant is added to it when it is manufactured to help you locate the leak. If you’re not familiar with the smell of LP gas, ask the attendant to let you smell it the next time you visit a qualified fill station. Most people describe the smell as similar to rotten eggs or as smelling of garlic.
We’ll come back to more characteristics of LP gas in a minute, but first let’s address the second question. Should you be afraid of this? You must respect LP gas, as all gases have dangerous properties. You are definitely in danger if you check for a gas leak using an open flame. I guess what I’m trying to say is that LP gas is one of the safest petroleum products out there if handled properly. More often than not, when an accident is involving LP gas it is due to negligence or improper handling.
LP gas is portable, safe when handled properly and is very fuel efficient, so it only makes sense that it is used in RVs. I mentioned a while back that LP gas is compressed into a liquid state and stored in containers. The containers are manufactured under very stringent codes due to the amount of pressure involved. There are two basic types of containers, the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). DOT containers, more commonly called cylinders, are the upright type you see in pop ups, travel trailers, or on your BBQ grill. ASME cylinders are known as tanks and are mounted horizontally like you see on a motor home.
Regardless of type, all LP gas containers are only filled to 80 percent of their capacity to allow for expansion when the temperature rises around the container. LP gas cylinders are equipped with overfill protection devices or OPD valves to prevent them from being overfilled.
LP gas can be measured by weight or in gallons. You may hear someone say that the gas cylinders on their travel trailer are 30 pound cylinders, or they may say that their cylinder has a 7 gallon capacity. One gallon of LP gas weighs 4.26 pounds. The typical BBQ grill uses a 20 lb cylinder, so it will hold 3.75 gallons of LP gas when 80 percent full.
When you open the valve on the gas cylinder, the liquid gas turns back into vapor and moves into the two-stage regulator. In the first stage the pressure coming out of the cylinder is greatly reduced, close to the proper combustion limit for LP gas appliances. The second stage reduces the equipment to the 11 inches of water column needed to operate properly.
There is also an LP gas leak detector inside the RV that will set off an alarm to alert you if a gas leak occurs. It is usually located close to floor level as LP gas is heavier than air and it will tend to settle towards the floor. If you smell LP gas at any time while camping, or if an LP gas leak detector goes off, you may have a leak somewhere in your system. If this happens you should:
*Extinguish 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 smell clears.
*Have the system checked out by a qualified technician before it is used again.
*Hair spray, perfume, cleaning solvents and low battery voltage can cause false alarms.
Let us take some time and discuss the Do’s and Don’ts regarding LP Gas.
* Remember to turn on the main gas supply when you are ready to use a gas appliance.
*If you suspect a leak, fault with the gas system, or have the system checked at least once a year.
*Take appropriate steps for safe transportation, storage and use of LP gas cylinders.
*Review all warnings and cautions on LP gas systems and appliances in your owner’s manual.
* Do not use open flame to check for leaks.
*Do not use a range burner or oven as a heat source; It is not exhaled and the decreased oxygen can cause asphyxiation.
*Do not approach a gas station to refuel until you have extinguished open flames and, or pilot lights, and turned off LP gas appliances.
*Do not carry LP gas cylinder inside the vehicle.
*Don’t be afraid of LP gas, respect it and handle it properly.
Happy Camping!
Owner of RV Education 101, Mark J. Copyright 2006 by Polk
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