Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual page 272

DIPLOMAT 2004
LP-GAS DETECTOR
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About the LP-Gas Detector:
It is important to be aware of the difference between a gas leak versus gas
escaping from an unlit, open burner. Pure propane vapors from a leaking pipe
or gas fitting are heavier than air and will build up their heaviest concentra-
tion at the leak and float down until they mix with air. Gas from open burn-
ers is intentionally mixed with air to induce burning and will dissipate into
the air. When mixed with air, the gas becomes only marginally heavier than
air and will expand outward. If a gas burner is left on, the area around the
burner, range, and adjoining counter space will be combustible and can
cause injury and damage if ignited. This condition will exist for an extend-
ed time period and eventually the gas will reach the detector's location and
be detected.
NOTE: The LP detector only indicates the presence of
propane gas at its sensor. Combustible levels of propane gas
may be present in other areas. This detector is intended for
the detection of propane gas ONLY.
The LP-Gas detector is required safety equip-
ment in RVs. American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) A119.2 - Fire & Life Safety 3-4.8 LP Gas
Detectors states " An LP Gas detector must be
installed in any RV that contains an LP Gas appliance
and an electrical system. The LP Gas detector must
be listed as suitable for use in recreational vehicles
under the requirement of UL 1484 Residential Gas
Detectors, and installed according to the terms of its
listing."
The dector senses both LP-Gas and methane gas.
Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gas is heavier than air;
methane gas is lighter than air. LP-Gas will settle to
the lowest point, generally the floor of the
motorhome. Methane gas will rise. The gas detector is
also sensitive to other fumes such as hair spray, of
which most contain butane as the propellant. Butane,
like propane, is heavier than air and will settle to the
floor level where it will be detected. Sulfated batter-
ies (rotten egg odor) will also sound the alarm. When
this occurs, reset the detector to stop the alert sound.
LP-GAS SYSTEM