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Never use an open flame to test for gas leaks. When testing for gas line leaks with a soapy water
solution, DO NOT use a detergent containing ammonia or chlorine. These substances may generate
a chemical reaction causing corrosion to gas lines, resulting in dangerous leak conditions.
WINTER USE OF LP GAS
Due to vaporization characteristics of LP gas, it is important that the winter camper knows how to most
efficiently use the LP system. The vaporization rate of LP gas decreases in a direct relationship to a decrease
in temperature. Propane will convert to a usable gas at temperatures down to –44º F. For this reason,
propane is a popular heating fuel in cold climates.
The greater the amount of liquid gas in the tank (up to 80% level) the greater the amount of LP gas vapor
generated. The following is an example of the number of BTU's available from an 84-pound tank at 0º F at
three levels. As you can see, the number of BTU's decreases as the tank is emptied. Nearly twice as many
BTU's are available from a full tank than one that is one-fourth full.
BTU's Available at 0º F.
Tank Level
BTU's
80%
64,000
50%
50,400
20%
33,000
The following LP Gas Vaporization and Temperature Relationship chart typifies the LP gas loss with a
decrease in temperature. The percentage figures are the increase or decrease of vapor that would be
available at 0º F. These figures apply to any size LP gas tanks.
Percentage of BTU's
Temperature
Available at 0º F
20º F.
200%
10º F.
150%
0º F.
100%
-5º F.
75%
-10º F.
50%
-15º F.
25%
-20º F.
12 ½ %
-44º F.
Propane will not
vaporize
WARNING
29
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