Section 7 --- LP-Gas Systems
The Executive 2005
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LP-GAS DETECTOR
The LP-Gas detector is required safety
equipment in RVs. American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) A119.2 - Fire & Life Safety 3-4.8
LP Gas Detectors states " A LP-Gas detector must
be installed in any RV that contains an LP-Gas
appliance and an electrical system. The LP-Gas
detector must be listed as suitable for use in recre-
ational vehicles under the requirement of UL 1484
Residential Gas Detectors, and installed according
to the terms of its listing."
The detector senses both LP-Gas and methane gas. Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gas is heavier than
air; methane gas is lighter than air. LP-Gas will settle to the lowest point, generally the floor of the
motorhome. Methane gas will rise. The gas detector is also sensitive to other fumes such as hair spray, of
which most contain butane as the propellant. Butane, like propane, is heavier than air and will settle to
the floor level. Sulfated batteries (rotten egg odor) will also sound the alarm. When this occurs, reset
the detector to stop the alert sound.
About the LP-Gas Detector:
Be aware of the difference between a gas leak versus gas escaping from an unlit, open burner. Pure
propane vapors from a leaking pipe or gas fitting are heavier than air and will build up heaviest con-
centration at the leak and float down to mix with air. Gas from open burners is intentionally mixed
with air to induce burning and dissipate into the air. When mixed with air, gas becomes only marginal-
ly heavier and will expand outward. If a gas burner is left on, the area around the burner, range, and
adjoining counter space will be combustible and can cause injury and damage if ignited. This condi-
tion will exist for an extended time period. Eventually, the gas will reach the detector's location and
cause the alarm to sound.
NOTE:
The LP-Gas detector only indicates the presence of propane gas at its sensor.
Combustible levels of LP-Gas may be present in other areas. This detector is intended
for the detection of LP-Gas ONLY.
030646b
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