An RV propane detector is a non-negotiable safety feature for every RVer. Propane leaks can not only be damaging but deadly. Keep reading to find out how to avoid a disaster in your RV.
Table of Contents
What Is an RV Propane Detector?
An RV propane detector warns you of a propane leak as it detects the accumulation of propane in your RV. Other natural or explosive gases may also get picked up by the alarm.
Remember not to confuse a CO (carbon monoxide) detector with a propane detector. They’re not the same. CO alarms detect colorless and odorless gas.
How Does It Work?
Most models have a light that turns red and an alarm that sounds when it finds propane in the RV. Some have an LED screen to show you an all-clear or a warning.
Why You Need an RV Propane Detector
RV propane detectors can save lives. If you’re unaware of propane leaking in your RV, it could cause sickness or even death. Propane detectors are especially important at night when you’re sleeping and potentially unaware of the leak. A propane leak can even cause a fire if there’s an open flame in your RV.
Pro Tip: Propane detectors are especially important if you’re using a propane heater in your trailer or motorhome. Learn more here: Are RV Propane Heaters Safe?
What Are the Types of RV Propane Detectors?
There are several types of RV propane detectors on the market. Take a look at these four options to determine which is the best for your needs.
Single-Use Wall Mounted Units
The most common propane detector is a single-use wall-mounted unit. These can be easily mounted on any wall and need a 12-volt power supply. The Safe-T-Alert Surface Mount will set off an alarm at less than 25% LEL (lower explosive limit) of propane and methane.
- Includes mounting bracket
- Power Supply and Current Draw: 12 vDC 75mA @ 12 vDC
- Alarm Point: < 25% LEL of Propane and Methane
Plug-and-Play Gas Detector
A plug-and-play detector is a great option if you want to use a propane detector in multiple locations. You can find several models on the market, such as the GasKnight detector. Or the Self-Test, which has a regular power cord and a USB.
- ✅ PROTECT YOUR FAMILY! - Be worry free and know you did...
- ✅ SAVE YOUR TIME- Plug and Play! Don't waste your precious,...
- ✅ STAY STYLISH - No tacky cord! Don't drill holes in your wall!...
- SAFETY - Help reduce your worries that the stove gas has been...
- SCIENTIFIC - This alarm precisely measures and displays...
- ECONOMICAL & GREEN - This alarm uses <3 watts of electricity and...
Battery-Operated Propane Detector
A battery-operated RV propane detector is not hard-wired. These often attach to the wall or ceiling like a smoke detector. The OUCAXIA Natural Gas Detector alerts you of gas leaks with an LED display and voice notification.
Bottle Bubble Gas Leak Locator
While not a detector per se, a bottle bubble gas leak locator can help you locate a propane leak. It has foam in it that you pour over propane pipes. If the foam begins to bubble, that means gas is leaking out. The Better Bubble Leak Locator can detect refrigerant gases, air, oxygen, and other gases, as well as propane.
- It is the newest and most advanced leak locator formula
- It detects leaks of refrigerant gases, air, oxygen, and most...
- Its thick formula can be used at various temperature and pressure...
Gas Stop Safety Valve
Again not a detector but a device we recommend and use ourselves is a automatic propane shutoff called the gastop. This device detects if a gas line is broken or ruptured and automatically shuts off the gas. In addition it can be used to pressure check the system for leaks. With it you can catch a leak even before the propane detector goes off.
- Automatic shutoff of propane in case of a major leak - The device...
- Simple 3-minute test to check for minor propane leaks and a minor...
- Easy to install and use, backed by a 5-year manufacturer's...
What Can Set Off a Propane Detector
Besides an actual propane leak, some other gases and substances can set off a propane detector. These include hair spray, cooking sprays, aerosol sunscreen, products such as Febreeze, and some carpet cleaning chemicals. And believe it or not, human and animal farts can set off a propane detector too!
Whenever your RV propane detector sounds, you need to take it seriously. Don’t assume it went off because you just used hair spray. It’s important to investigate a propane leak every time.
When You Should Replace Your Propane Detector
You should replace your propane detectors every five to seven years. If your alarm is going off a lot and you’ve ruled out any potential propane leaks, you likely need to replace the detector.
Keep your RV and its passengers safe by having working propane detectors. These simple devices can literally save lives while you’re on the road. When was the last time you replaced your propane detector?
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