THOR MOTOR COACH
PROPANE GAS SYSTEMS
77
The term regulator freeze-up is a misleading one. Regulators and propane gas do not freeze. However, the
moisture that can be contained in the gas will freeze as the gas expands and cools passing through the
regulator. This freezing of the moisture in the gas can build up and partially or totally block the passage of the
gas through the regulator. Freezing can also occur when outside temperatures are low enough to contribute to
the freezing of the moisture in the gas.
The source of the moisture is varied. It can occur at the refinery or gas bulk plant, in the rail cars used to
transport the gas, or even within the motor home propane gas tank. Moisture in an propane gas tank can occur
when a tank service valve is left open, allowing moist air to enter and become trapped.
A two-staged regulator helps to reduce the possibility of freeze-up because of its larger orifice size, and the
fact that heat is transferred through the walls of two regulators instead of just one.
Take these steps to inhibit or prevent this from happening:
1. Make sure that the propane gas tank is free of moisture before refilling
2. DO NOT overfill the propane gas tank.
3. Make sure to keep the service valve on an empty tank closed.
4. If freezing has occurred, have your propane gas dealer purge the propane gas tank before
refilling.
5. Add a hydrous methanol or other approved propane gas antifreeze or de-icing agent to the
propane gas tank.
6. Keep the regulator covered at all times.
Note: IF FREEZE-UP DOES OCCUR, shut off the propane gas at the tank. A frozen
regulator may permit propane gas to flow at high pressure, resulting in leaks
at appliances or in the lines. If freeze-up does occur, NEVER attempt to thaw
with an open flame. Once thawed, be sure to take the proper steps to prevent a
reoccurrence. Have the system checked by your propane gas supplier if freeze-up
continues.
Remember that as outside temperatures drop, the BTU value of the propane gas is lessened, since the colder
liquid propane in the tanks requires the heat from the surrounding air to vaporize. This lowering of BTU value
can significantly affect the performance of the system. You can help insure proper performance by keeping
the propane gas tank as full as possible in cold weather, and reviewing the BTU/hr plates on propane gas
appliances for proper propane management.
PROPANE GAS HOSES PIPES TUBES AND FITTINGS
Although the hoses, pipes, tubes, and fittings used in the propane gas system are designed to withstand
pressures far exceeding those of the propane system, because environment and time can both contribute
to the deterioration of these components, they must be inspected for wear at regular intervals. Be sure to
inspect the hose before each season and when having the tank refilled. Look for signs of deterioration such as
cracks or loss of flexibility. When replacing the hose or other propane components, always replace them with
components of the same type and rating. Check with your dealer regarding proper replacement components..
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