You’ve probably heard that every time you drive your RV, it is like your home on wheels is going through an earthquake. This makes things like carbon monoxide detectors and propane alarms incredibly important for your well-being.
But first, let’s look at why propane is your best option.
Why Do RVers Use Propane?
RVers use propane because it is the safest fuel for the most amount of uses. It can be used for cooking, heating, cooling, and even for your generators. On top of that, it burns clean—go take a look at the residue left by your diesel. In fact, propane isn’t considered to be a greenhouse gas, and is safer for the environment. And in regards to traveling, it is the safest option.
Propane is also readily available across North America. This makes it a great fuel to extend your stay at the campsite, while boondocking, or on any cross-country trip. However, it isn’t without risks.
The Dangers of Propane Are Real
Even though propane is mostly safe, there are some real dangers with it. Whenever you drive, everything is jostling around in your rig—this includes all of your propane hoses and connections. It isn’t the norm for there to be a major issue—but the issues that do occur are often catastrophic.
When propane is emitted and not burned—or not burned completely—it can displace oxygen. This causes oxygen to be below safe levels, and can lead to death by suffocation. Some warning signs are headaches, nausea, feeling light-headed, and even losing your coordination.
Take These 4 Steps to Help Make Propane Safer
There are ways to prevent the worry that every headache or light-headed spell is propane-related.
Don’t use your propane when driving
Turning off your propane when driving is always a good idea. This prevents leaks from sneaking up on you, and almost reduces any chance of your propane combusting.
Swap out your expired propane tanks
Propane tanks expire. Most RVs have standard 20-pound propane tanks. These can be exchanged for new ones at no charge. To check your propane tank’s expiration date, you can find them stamped onto the handle of your tank. If it is expired, just swap it out for your own safety.
Keep your RV well-ventilated while cooking
When you cook, there is a chance that some of the propane will not burn off. When propane doesn’t burn off it does contribute to the displacement of oxygen. This happens in your home too. But because your RV is a smaller space, you run the risk of it building up. You can either open a window or a vent to help with this.
Maintain your carbon monoxide detectors and propane alarms
This is the most important thing you can do for your own safety—in regards to propane. You never know when a leak will occur, but that is the entire job of these little life-saving devices. Always make sure these are in good working order.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Propane Alarms
Believe it not, these detectors expire. It shouldn’t be a shocker to us that things go bad. It is just not something we give much attention to. They are there, doing their job, and not making a fuss—and that is good. But at some point, they go bad and quit doing their job without us knowing.
Choose an RV Safe Carbon Monoxide and Propane Gas Alarm
The RV Safe Carbon Monoxide and Propane Gas Alarms are better because they just make sense. Most carbon monoxide and propane gas alarms’ expiration dates are on the back of the unit—a real inconvenience. This means looking to see if your unit is still doing its job requires you to get out the tools, remove your alarm, check the date, and then reinstall it. This doesn’t make sense.
With RV Safe Carbon Monoxide and Propane Gas Alarms, the expiration date is on the front. This makes it way easier to maintain proper safety, and makes you more likely to check it. A simple glance at your device, and peace of mind sweeps over you.
In addition to this one simple feature, they are cheaper than the original unit in your RV. They are a universal fit. They come in black or white. And they are really easy to install. These units even come with multiple trims to ensure your rig still looks good, even with a small, but mighty detector. Also, they are made in the United States and are the best option to protect you and your family propane leaks.
Get your RV Safe Carbon Monoxide and Propane Gas Alarm at One Source RV
One Source RV has these detectors and alarms in stock today, and provides a video to help you install it on your own. One Source RV sells everything you need to keep you safe and rolling down the highway in your RV. From their exhaustive list of parts and accessories to their expert advice from current and former Master-Certified RV Technicians, you can always come to One Source RV with your RVing needs.
