Wheelhouse Propane System
Propane Overview
The propane is stored with extreme pressure in the tank with space in the tank to allow for expansion into vapor. This vapor is reduced in pressure by passing through a regulator. This reduction in pressure is a two-step process that ensures consistent pressure for use, regardless of outside temperatures, weather, or altitude.
If you detect a sulfur or ‘rotten egg’ odor, DO NOT turn on any appliances. Shut off all operating appliances. Extinguish any open flames, including cigarettes. DO NOT touch any electrical switches. Open windows and doors and exit the vehicle. Shut off the propane.
- DO NOT bring or store propane cylinders, gasoline, or other flammable liquids inside your vehicle or wheelhouse. A fire or explosion could result.
- DO NOT modify your propane system. Do not remove components or replace components that are not of equal value. The propane system furnishes the fuel for cooking, heating, and hot water. Propane can also be used as an alternate energy source for refrigeration
Propane Regulator
Propane is under high pressure in the tank. The purpose of the regulator is to reduce the pressure inside the tank to allow for safe use. A two-stage automatic regulator, on the standard dual 30lb propane tanks, offers the convenience of instant, automatic changeover from the empty to the full tank, learn more about the auto switch over regulator in this short video.
Regulator Freeze-Up
The term regulator freeze-up is a misleading one. Regulators and propane do not freeze. However, the moisture that can be contained in the propane will freeze as the propane expands and cools passing through the regulator. This freezing of the moisture in the propane can build up and partially or totally block the passage of the propane through the regulator. Freezing can also occur when outside temperatures are low enough to contribute to the freezing of the moisture in the propane. The source of the moisture is varied. It can occur at the refinery or propane bulk plant, in the cars used to transport the propane, or even within your own propane tanks. Moisture in a propane tank can occur when a tank service valve is left open, allowing moist air to enter and become trapped. A two-stage regulator helps reduce the possibility of freeze-up because of its larger orifice size and that heat is being transferred through the walls of two regulators instead of only one.
Other Cold Weather Factors
As outside temperatures drop, the BTU value of the propane is lessened. The colder propane in the tanks requires heat from the surrounding air to vaporize. This lowering of the BTU value can significantly affect the performance of the system. Keeping your propane tanks as full as possible in cold weather and reviewing the BTU/ hr. rating plates on propane appliances will help ensure proper propane management.
Propane Carbon Monoxide Detector
If the detector senses the presence of propane or CO2, the light will turn from green to red, accompanied by an audible alarm. If the alarm sounds:
- Immediately evacuate all occupants from the recreational vehicle.
- Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights and all smoking material.
- DO NOT touch any electrical switches.
- Shut off the propane supply at the tank.
- Open doors and windows to ventilate.
- DO NOT USE THE RANGE HOOD OR OTHER POWER VENTS.
- The alarm will continue to sound as long as propane is detected or until turned off.
Note: The alarm may sound at times when no propane is present due to household product use, such as aerosol hairspray,
certain cleaners, adhesives, alcohol, etc.
Additional information about using propane safely in cold weather: Cold Weather and Propane
Failure to properly maintain and service your Voyager equipment may result in personal injury and may void any manufacturer warranties. Please contact your local dealer with any service, maintenance, or warranty questions.
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