Motorhome Propane 101

Your RV is a home away from your Texas home, and any RVer knows that having propane is critical to keeping you comfortable. From cooking to cooling, propane has multiple advantages, and learning how to navigate it safely is critical! So if you are just getting started, we have some common questions and expert tips to follow.

How is Propane Used?

While your RV has multiple electrical components, propane is often used for the stove, refrigerator, furnace, and water heater. The system can be set up as a primary or alternative power source depending on your needs making it a versatile, clean, and affordable option available almost everywhere.

How Long Do the Tanks Last?

How long the tank last is dependent on three primary things:

• How often do you use the appliances?

• How many devices are dependent on propane?

• How much propane is held in your RV?

One gallon of propane has 91,502 BTU, and one pound has 21,548. To estimate usage, determine the tank size and BTUs, then compare that to the demand from the appliances by hours of use. This total will help you better understand how much fuel is required so you never have to worry when you're out on the road. 

What Tanks Are Available?

There are two main propane tanks, ASME and DOT cylinders. DOT cylinders are the most common and typically found on towable recreation vehicles’ back bumpers or tongues. They are not permanent, making them easier to move and swap out, ranging between 20 and 33 pounds.

ASME tanks are the most common on motorhomes because they are permanently affixed. The tank is generally found underneath the RV cabin and close to the central doorway. Tank sizes can be as small as 20 pounds but go up to 100 gallons for those who live in their RV full-time.

Getting a Refill

Because propane is so readily available, finding a place to fill the tank is not too hard. Most often, you can get the tank in locations including:

• Campgrounds

• Gas stations

• Hardware stores

• Truck stops

• RV dealerships

Propane providers are another great resource, and they can assist you if your tank needs maintenance, recertification, or repair, so you never have to worry!

Expert Propane Tips

While propane is an affordable and safe option, if it's not handled correctly, it can be a dangerous experience, so here are a few expert tips to consider:

• Always turn off the propane when you're traveling because this can be dangerous in the right conditions.

• Keep the propane shaded and out of the heat, especially in temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Cover the tank in the winter months to enhance its lifespan.

• Don't paint the valves, cylinders, or mounting hardware because you may be masking issues.

• Map out your route and know where you can take the propane because some tunnels and roads don't allow it.

Propane Plus: Your Locally Trusted Experts

Your RV's propane helps keep your on-the-road adventures fun in Texas, and knowing where to turn when you need a refill or maintenance is critical, so Propane Plus is here to help! We're the most reliable propane supplier in Central Texas, and since 2002, we have been offering the lowest price on propane delivery and maintenance services around.

Whether you need a replacement or refill, our team is here to answer all your questions, so get a hold of us online or call us at 512-259-7587 today.