Ask The RV Engineer

RV 101: Intro to the Propane System

Welcome to the RV 101 Series! In this series, I briefly introduce you to all of an RV’s major parts and systems:

  • Chassis
  • House & Slides
  • Cabinetry
  • Appliances
  • Electrical (AC+Generator and DC)
  • Plumbing – Fresh
  • Plumbing – Waste
  • Hydraulic (opt)

Each post is a simple, non-technical introduction to how an RV works (and sometimes, why it doesn’t). If you’re new to this website, you should start here!

Propane is the lifeblood of many RVs. As coursing blood in the body heals and energizes, so does propane carry warmth, enable refrigeration, and help cook. It’s cheap and abundant – but also easily abused or mishandled. Treat it with respect.

What To Do In the Case of a Leak?

  1. If you smell or suspect a propane leak, immediately open the RV entry door any any nearby windows or fans. Turn off your stove, water heater, and any other fuel-burning appliances. Do not light a match or lighter of any sort unless you want to turn into a human firework.
  2. Get out of the RV and turn off the tank[s] shut-off valve. Stay at least 50 feet away from the RV.
  3. Wait at least 15 minutes before re-entering the camper.
  4. If necessary, consult a certified RV technician for help.

3 responses to “RV 101: Intro to the Propane System”

  1. Kevin Knight

    Thank you for this article. It has helped me to understand how to plumb my trailer with LP. I have searched multiple sources but I can’t find a site that sells the LP manifold you show in the article. Do you know where I may find it or is there a different product name I can search it for?

    Reply
    1. Andy

      A lot of machined metal LP manifolds are OEM-specific. If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you can always make your own low-pressure manifold out of brass pipe fittings!

      Reply
  2. Afton Jackson

    After reading this article, I now have a better idea of what to do to prepare our camping vehicle to use propane. Storage and safety were two things that I really wanted to work on as that could be exactly the kind of thing that we need to think about as we use that to avoid any issues. Once I find a home propane expert in the area, I’ll get them to help with the proper installation of that fuel source.

    Reply

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