Propane System Failures

Understanding propane system issues is critical for both safety and functionality. Below is a breakdown of the most common problems, causes, and preventive measures.

1. No Propane Flow

• Symptoms: Appliances like the stove, furnace, or fridge won't ignite.
• Common Causes:
  • Main valve is partially or fully closed.
  • One or both tanks are empty.
  • Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) has tripped.
  • Air in the lines after a tank swap or refill.

2. Faulty Regulator

• Symptoms: Weak flame, appliance sputtering, or irregular gas flow.
• Causes:
  • Aged regulator (often after 10 years or more).
  • Moisture or dirt inside the regulator.
  • Failure in automatic changeover regulators.
• Solution: Replace the regulator—this is inexpensive and essential for consistent performance.

3. Propane Leak

• Symptoms: Smell of rotten eggs (sulfur odor), hissing sound, or faster-than-normal gas depletion.
• Causes:
  • Cracked hoses, loose fittings, or damaged valves.
  • Overtightened or cross-threaded connections.
• Hazards: Fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide risk.
• Solution: Conduct a soapy water test on connections and fittings (bubbles indicate a leak). Replace any worn components. Always maintain a working propane leak detector.

4. Appliance-Specific Issues

• Refrigerator not cooling on propane: Often due to a dirty burner tube, clogged jet, or igniter problems.
• Water heater won't ignite: May result from a faulty thermocouple or spark electrode.
• Furnace not running: Common causes include a malfunctioning sail switch, low gas pressure, or clogged combustion chamber.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

1. Inspect Fittings and Hoses
   • Look for cracks, signs of aging, and corrosion.
   • Make sure all connections are snug but not overtightened.
2. Perform Leak Tests Regularly
   • Use a spray bottle with soapy water to detect leaks monthly.
   • Never use a flame to check for gas leaks.
3. Replace Aging Components
   • Hoses should be replaced every 3–5 years or if damaged.
   • Regulators typically need replacement every 10 years.
   • Propane tanks must be recertified based on DOT standards (usually every 10–12 years).
4. Keep Components Clean
   • Clean burner tubes, regulators, and air intakes of dust, insects, and debris to avoid clogs and reduced efficiency.
5. Shut Off When Not in Use
   • Turn off the main propane valve when the RV is in transit or in storage.

Essential Safety Equipment

• A propane (LP) detector installed near the floor.
• A carbon monoxide detector in the sleeping area.
• At least one fire extinguisher rated for propane and grease fires.