To Prevent Freeze Up - Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual

The regulator is the heart of the LP-Gas system. The regulator reduces
vapor pressure so that it is safe to use. The regulator on the motorhome is a
two-stage regulator. The first stage of the regulator reduces tank pressure to a
range of 10 to 13 psig (pounds per square inch gauge). The second stage fur-
ther reduces pressure to a working pressure of 0.4 psig (11 Inches of Water
Column or about 6¼ ounces psi.). The regulator has a vent that allows the
internal diaphragm to move with atmospheric pressure change. It is important
to keep the vent clean and clear of obstruction or corrosion. If the vent
becomes clogged, pressure from LP tank could cause erratic pressure regula-
tion. If there is corrosion, contact a qualified LP-Gas service technician. The
regulator is mounted so that the vent faces downward. If the vent becomes
clogged clean it with a toothbrush.
Under normal atmospheric conditions an LP regulator will not freeze, nor
will the LP-Gas. Vapor passing through the regulator will expand and cool
condensing moisture in the gas. The moisture will freeze which can build up
and partially or totally block the vent. The possibilities of freeze up are great-
ly reduced with the two stage regulator.

To Prevent Freeze Up:

1. Ensure the LP tank is totally free of moisture prior to filling.
2. Ensure the tank is not overfilled.
3. Keep the valve closed when the tank is empty.
4. If a freeze up occurs, have an LP-Gas distributor purge the tank.
5. Have the LP-Gas distributor inject methyl alcohol in the tank.
Damage to the regulator can occur when the tank is overfilled. The regu-
lator is designed to work with vapor only. This is why the tank is filled to
only 80% of its liquid capacity. The other 20% allows for vaporization of the
liquid. The primary vapor valve is located in the vapor section of the
tank. In an overfilled tank, liquefied petroleum can fill the regulator. As the
liquid vaporizes, it can freeze the diaphragm. High tank pressure on a
frozen diaphragm can cause a rupture resulting in erratic pressure regula-
tion. This is why it is important to have the LP-Gas pressure checked for
proper pressure and accurate regulation during appliance operation.
Erratic pressure regulation dramatically effects refrigerator operation on LP-
Gas.
LP-GAS SYSTEM
DIPLOMAT 2004
7 • 281