Many caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers use gas as their primary source of energy. Properly installed and maintained, gas is a safe and reliable energy source that provides us with many features such as heating, hot water, refrigeration, and the ability to cook, but with these benefits comes a certain level of responsibility. We’ve teamed up with our friends at RV Warehouse, who are industry leaders in caravan servicing and repairs, to compile this safety guide to make sure you are on top of gas safety in your caravan, motorhome or camper trailer.
Gas Safety Guide for Caravans
- At least once a year, check all the connections at your appliances, regulators, and cylinders for leaks, using the soapy water test. To do this, put some soapy water in a spray bottle, turn on your LPG gas bottle and spray the valve, regulator and hose with the soapy water. Bubbles will form in any areas where there are leaks. Never use a match or a flame to test for leaks!
- A major cause of gas issues in caravans is a faulty regulator. It is a little-known fact that they have an expected life of 5 years. If your RV is older than 5 years and has the original bottle regulator it should be replaced to ensure trouble-free use and help your system remain leak free.
- Before you turn on the cylinder valve, make sure all appliances are off, and when appliances are not being used, close the cylinder valve.
- Only use the cooking appliance or stove only for the purpose for which it was designed, never as a room heater.
- Storage of your gas cylinder is important. Gas cylinders should only be stored and used in an upright position, in suitable enclosures that will vent any gas that escapes away from the cabin and any sources of ignition. Drains and vents should be checked regularly to ensure that they are clear.
- If your gas cylinder is over ten years old, you must either replace it, or have it tested by an authorized LPG test station. Inspection dates should be stamped on the cylinder in an obvious place. It is also important to regularly check your cylinder for dents or signs of corrosion.
- When replacing a gas cylinder, make sure all your appliance valves are closed. Any gas lines left open for an extended time should be covered to protect them from dirt and dust.
- Any alterations you wish to make to your gas system must be carried out by an authorized person. Do not alter appliances without authorization from the manufacturer.
- In Queensland, Gas Safety Certificates are compulsory when selling caravans and RVs with gas systems. When was the last time you checked your caravan’s gas installation to ensure it was safe and complies with regulations? Getting a Gas Safety Certificate is not only a legal requirement, it ultimately gives you great peace of mind that your caravan is up to standard and safe for use.
AK Gas and Plumbing can assist you with all gas work for your caravan, motorhome or camper trailer. We can provide you with the advice you need to ensure that your gas system is working safely and efficiently. AK Gas and Plumbing can provide Gas Safety Certificates for as little as $120. Contact AK Gas and Plumbing today for all your gas questions and/or repairs and head over to the RV Warehouse for all your caravan and trailer repairs. You’ll be all set for that simple weekend away or that huge road trip of a lifetime!
Call us today on 1300 007 769.
