How To Set Up A Rv’S Interior Propane Gas Line?

This video demonstrates how to replace the propane lines in an RV using black steel pipe and brass fittings. The process involves 7 simple steps, starting with the propane leaving the cylinder, going through the appropriate adapters/connectors, regulator, hose/pipes, and ending as it enters propane-appliances. Turn off all LP gas appliances inside your RV, remove the shroud covering your LP containers, and flip the switch on the propane.

The propane lines are attached to the belly with 1/2″ and 3/8″ rubber insulated stainless clamps from the electrical aisle of the hardware store. The line goes from the tank to the rear and crosses over above the exhaust and driveshaft just in front of the rear wheels. Cap all outlets with a black pipe cap and a test gauge. Pump the test gauge to 16 pounds and let it sit for an hour.

After installing the propane lines, cap all outlets with a black pipe cap and a test gauge. Pump the test gauge to 16 pounds and let it sit for an hour. Take off the fitting and go to an LP gas supplier with the correct 90 deg fitting and a longer hose if needed. Home-Flex 1/2″ or 3/4″ IPS plastic piping and fittings are easier to fabricate and install. Dope is the preferred method for black pipe, as working with low pressure gas is unlikely to move a given joint while placing the pipes.

What type of fittings do you use for propane?

Acme fittings are used on newer propane containers and are larger and have external threads. They can be hand-tightened and have a built-in safety mechanism to prevent propane from leaving the tank unless attached to a device. Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) valves, with a triangle-shaped handwheel, feature an internal float to prevent overfilling. Propane hoses are used for specific applications, such as gas grills, and are approved for use.

They can be made from plastics or rubber and sometimes covered in steel mesh for added durability. Propane hoses are essential for connecting the propane tank regulator and the propane appliance. Many propane tank exchange businesses only accept tanks with OPD valves.

How do you trench a propane line?

To prepare for an underground propane tank installation, ensure all indoor appliances are fully installed and vented, and convert them to propane if not already installed. Clear a path at least 4 feet wide for a tank mover and bulk truck to access the location, and inform them of any obstacles that may cause delays. Additional clearance may be needed for crane trucks to get close to the final tank location, depending on the propane tank size.

Prepare the ground for the trench site, which should have a concrete pad and adhere to specific clearances depending on the tank size. For auxiliary heating, the clearance must be at least 3 feet away from windows and doors and 10 feet away from ignition and air intakes. Horizontal-style cylinders are ideal for residential heating, with a clearance of 10 feet from homes, buildings, property lines, windows, doors, and ignition and air intake sources.

Complete the trenching 18″ deep or 24″ deep if under a driveway, with no right angles, before the installation. Contact your local utilities before starting any excavation to stay safe and avoid damage to other utility lines.

Be home during the installation, as technicians will share tips and instructions, and an adult with signing authority will be present to sign the installation inspection form.

Can you use PVC for propane line?

The question revolves around the use of PVC and other plastic hoses for fuel and gas. Rubber is the most common material for liquefied petroleum gas (including natural gas) for general households and equipment, according to Japanese Industrial Standard JISK6347. The Fire Service Law sets stipulations for kerosene, which depend on the volume involved. For large-volume industrial use, only metal pipes are allowed, but fire stations can authorize small quantities in homes. However, authorization from the Hazardous Materials Safety Techniques Association is required, which is not practical due to the high cost and traceability requirements.

How deep should I bury my propane line?

Natural gas lines should be buried 12 inches or deeper underground, while propane lines may need to be 18-24 inches deeper. Municipal regulations may mandate the use of protective sleeves or barriers. To prevent freezing or shifting during freeze-thaw cycles, the gas line should be buried below the frost line, which varies based on location. A licensed expert should install gas lines for proper installation and safety. Marking underground utility lines before excavation work on private property reduces the risk of unintentional damage.

What type of piping should I use for LP on my RV?

The industry standard is typically reinforced black pipe or copper tubing. However, flexible tubing on LP gas lines can cause a chemical reaction between the LP and rubber, resulting in the formation of oil. The longer the hose, the more oil is produced. This issue has been reported by individuals with 8-ft hoses for BBQ grills and campers with shorter hoses. The sch 40 1/2″ gas pipe is a large reservoir for the oil created, making it difficult to settle in. The exact chemical reaction remains unknown, but it is believed to occur when using rubber-type hoses on LP gas lines.

What kind of pipe for propane gas line?

Copper is the preferred material for propane installations due to its versatility, ability to be used indoors or outdoors, above ground or buried, and its resistance to rust. It is also pliable and can be bent and curved. However, copper does not carry as much flow/pressure as other materials. For instance, ½ inch copper and ½ inch black iron have a noticeable difference in size, with copper measuring by outside diameter and black iron by inside diameter.

Copper is suitable for smaller units like propane fireplaces and cook stoves at low pressure, but is used in two-stage systems on the high-pressure side. Iron pipe, on the other hand, comes in three types: black iron, galvanized, and stainless steel, all with different finishes.

Why do you use black pipe for propane?

Black iron pipes are a cost-efficient and easy-to-install material due to their seams, use of fittings, and lack of welding. They are malleable, allowing easy threading and attachment to other parts. However, they should be avoided in environments that can easily corrode or rust. Understanding the properties and applications of black iron pipes can help avoid mistakes and potential costs. Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation, a trusted supplier of quality steel pipes in the Philippines since 1991, is a top choice for those looking to purchase black iron pipes or steel pipes for projects. Their products are available for purchase and customers can contact them for more information.

Why can’t you use PVC for gas line?

PVC and other plastics are not suitable for fuel gas or kerosene due to their deformation in high temperature environments, which can lead to leaks or ruptures. The plasticizers used to maintain PVC’s flexibility can melt in oil, making the hose stiff and potentially causing bending, breaking, or cracking. Additionally, plastic hoses have a larger space between chemicals than rubber, making them susceptible to gas molecules like liquefied petroleum gas, which can lead to dangerous leaks. Therefore, they should not be used for fuel gas transportation and specialized hoses should be used instead.

What type of gas line can I run indoors?

Steel piping is commonly used for indoor gas piping due to its energy efficiency, stability, and durability. However, it is not recommended for exterior use due to its labor-intensive nature. Bonded steel pipe is another option, but it requires more labor than most DIY piping jobs. Black iron piping is strong and can be used for leakproof seals, but it is corrosive, so it is recommended to consult a gas piping professional to check for corrosion and prevent gas leaks.

What size is the propane pipe on an RV?

The 1/4″ NPT fitting or inverted flare fitting is a common feature of most regulators, whether single-stage or dual-stage. These fittings are manufactured with the objective of guaranteeing precise functionality and compatibility. A total of 1, 125, 924 phone calls and 1, 350, 587 emails have been sent in an effort to identify the optimal solution for your requirements.

Does a propane gas line need to be grounded?

Proper grounding of electrical lines can mitigate the risk of fatalities resulting from electrocution in the event of a charge accumulation. The use of a copper wire to bond the lines can serve to mitigate the risk of an electrical arc or spark, thereby ensuring safety and preventing potential damage.