RVing in cold weather comes with various weather-related concerns: Frozen water pipes, inadequate insulation, and wear and tear on the RV’s exterior. But, what about the source of heat in the RV- the propane? Can propane lines freeze in winter weather?
RV propane lines can’t freeze except in extreme temperatures (below -40°F), but propane regulators and valves can freeze, causing the release of propane gas. This is easily prevented, and fixed, by ensuring the propane levels aren’t too high or too low, and by maintaining the regulator.
Here, we’ll discuss the situations in which propane lines can freeze, how to prevent this with proper care and maintenance, and unpack why propane is so essential to life on the road.
Can Propane Lines Freeze?
Propane lines (which carry propane from the propane tank to the RV) are vital to the life of an RV. While propane itself doesn’t normally freeze (although it’s technically possible for propane to freeze solid at -306°F), the propane regulator valves, and lines, themselves, can freeze.
By properly maintaining your propane regulator and propane levels in your tank, you should have no problems keeping a regular flow of propane, even in the coldest weather conditions.
How Do Propane Lines Freeze?
Propane lines only truly freeze at wildly cold temperatures- they won’t freeze at anything warmer than -40°F. However, in these frigid conditions, the propane line’s connections to the RV can freeze, causing propane to get stuck in the tank or pipes. Pressure changes within the tank can also cause issues.
Propane Pressure
When the weather gets colder, propane molecules move closer together, and the overall mass of gas becomes smaller. This decreases the pressure in the tank. If the pressure is too low, the tank won’t release propane properly, making heating or cooking inside the rig difficult, or simply, impossible.
As propane gas warms and the pressure inside the tank increases, the tank will start releasing propane regularly again. However, if there is too much propane in the tank in cold weather, the temperature increase can cause propane to shoot through the regulator, which is much more prone to freezing. When this happens, propane is unable to travel through the lines.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to prevent: In the winter months, make sure your propane tank is not more than 80% full and no less than 10% empty. This ensures that the pressure remains viable for regular propane flow and won’t drop to extremely low pressures, or exceed its normal limits.
Tank Moisture (and How to Drain It)
Another common reason for frozen propane lines is excess moisture buildup in the tank. Unlike propane itself, this moisture is water condensation and will freeze quickly. This is usually due to a faulty regulator and is a bit of a hassle to fix. However, you can do it, and clear the blockage.
To ride your propane tank of excess moisture, you will need to remove the valve and drain the excess water. To ensure that you drained it all, you can add anhydrous methanol to your tank when you refill (this chemical absorbs the extra moisture, and keeps it from freezing, thereby keeping your propane lines clear). (If you’re uncertain how to do this, make sure to get a professional to help!)
Frozen Regulator (and How to Fix It)
A propane tank regulator does precisely what the name suggests: Regulates the amount of propane going through the lines and into the RV. Usually, regulators work well and don’t need much maintenance. However, when the pressure increases too quickly in the winter months, the propane can shoot up from the tank, into the regulator, and freeze up the gears.
Even if your regulator is new and normally works well, a frozen regulator means that no propane will make it into the RV. But not to worry, this is also an easy fix:
Just turn off the propane tank, unhook it from the regulator, and let the regulator thaw out. Pour a little bit of propane out at a time until you know that it isn’t overflowing again. Then, re-hook the regulator to the propane tank and continue use.
How Do I Maintain My Propane Tanks in the Cold?
There are some simple ways to prevent frozen propane lines or regulators and ensure that your tanks are ready for the winter months. Propane tanks are straightforward maintenance wise, and don’t need too much extra attention in the cold.
One of the easiest ways to ensure your propane tanks are in the best position to handle winter is to make sure your regulator isn’t too old and is working properly. A faulty or frozen regulator is one of the most common problems with propane tanks in the cold. By taking care of the regulator, you can not only prevent its future freezing, but also keep tank moisture at bay.
It’s also helpful to look at the propane gas you’re using, as well; Some propane mixtures aren’t made for cold weather and are more likely to pressurize and cause problems. A mix made in areas with harsher winters is more likely to remain stable throughout the year (especially if you live somewhere warm and plan on travelling to a colder climate).
What Is Propane Used for in RVs?
Propane is the gas most commonly used for heating and cooking in RVs. One of the most portable and combustible gases, propane is used for everything from running the fridge while off grid, to cooking on the stovetop, using the oven, the water heater, and the furnace. For these reasons, propane is an essential element for most RVers, and makes maintenance of the propane system vital.
Final Thoughts
Propane tank winter issues are easily prevented with a bit of upkeep and maintenance. Whether your propane tanks stop working from moisture issues, pressure problems, or a faulty regulator, you- or an RV professional- can fix these problems quickly, and get back to enjoying life on the road during the winter season.
