Propane Regulator - forest river Travel Trailer Owner's Manual

LIVING QUARTERS

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,
most commonly used on dual tanks, offers the conve-
nience of instant, automatic changeover from the empty
to the full tank.
W ARNING
To avoid potential problems, have your propane
system checked at least once a year by an autho-
rized service center and after each extended trip.
W ARNING
NEVER test for a leak by lighting a match or hav-
ing an open flame where you suspect a leak. Take
your recreational vehicle to an authorized service
center.
Regulator Freeze-Up
The term 'regulator freeze-up' is a misleading one. Regu-
lators 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 regula-
tor. This freezing of the moisture in the propane can build
up and partially or totally block the passage of the pro-
pane 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 trans-
port the propane, or even within your own propane tanks.
Moisture in a propane tank can occur when a tank ser-
vice 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.
NOTE:
If freeze-up does occur, shut the propane off at the tank.
A frozen regulator may permit propane to flow at high
pressure, resulting in leaks at appliances or in the lines.
Never attempt to thaw with an open flame. A small light
bulb can sometimes be useful to provide heat and aid the
thawing process. Once thawed, be sure to take the
proper steps to prevent a reoccurrence. Have the system
checked by your propane supplier.
Other Cold Weather Factors
As outside temperatures drop, the BTU value of the pro-
pane 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 per-
formance 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 Pigtail
The propane pigtail is a hose used to connect to the
regulator on the tank through which the propane fuel
flows. This safety feature is generally recognized by the
large green nut that attaches to the outside of the valve
on the regulator. It limits excessive propane flow and
prevents propane from flowing unless the connection is
tight.
NOTE:
The connection at the propane tank will shut down in
extreme heat (240° - 300° Fahrenheit).
Propane Detector
If the detector senses the presence of propane, the
light will turn from green to red, accompanied by
an audible alarm. If the alarm sounds:
1. Immediately evacuate all occupants from the
recreational vehicle.
2. Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights and
all smoking material.
3. DO NOT touch any electrical switches.
4. Shut off the propane supply at the tank.
5. Open doors and windows to ventilate.
6. DO NOT USE THE RANGE HOOD OR OTHER
POWER VENTS.
7. The alarm will continue to sound as long as
propane is detected or until turned off.
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DANGER