Forum Discussion

Gator48's avatar
Gator48
Explorer
Aug 07, 2014

loosing Propane

Getting ready for a trip tomorrow I checked LP and the tank was empty. Last check I had 2/3 full. The LP switch was left on from the previous trip.

I had the tank refilled and when the LP switch is on I can hear a "gas flowing" sound through the regulator, but I can't find a leak. I sprayed soapy water on every joint and connection from the tank to the stove, water heater, front and rear furnace. Nothing! No gas smell either. If I turn the switch off the noise stops.

Anybody have an idea? Could it be something with the regulator?? I tapped on it with a screwdriver handle and it made a vibrating sound, but when I turned the switch off and back on it stopped, but the "flowing" sound continued.

2006 Itasca Horizon 40FD
  • Check the purge valve which might not have been tightened after last fill. No power to the safety solenoid would have shut off propane to the motorhome narrowing leak to the tank, fill valve or most likely purge valve.
  • Yes, the regulator can leak. Grab a bottle of Windex (it works GREAT for finding gas leaks) and spray around the reg. and the connectors and rubber lines attached to it. If not there then crawl under the RV and spray every joint you find.
    But my guess is it will be one of the rubber lines or their green fitting that connect them to the tank.
  • We found a leaking hose where the local gnawing animals must have liked the taste of rubbber.
  • when i put my coach in storage i always turn the TANK valve off.
  • You have a LEAK downstream of the LP Switch so it's not on tank fittings.

    Regulator has 2 vents..........small pin hole on 1st stage (high pressure side) and a larger screened one on 2nd stage (low pressure side). They leak if diaphragms are bad.

    Otherwise......the leak is in a fitting, hole rubbed in line, gas valve leaking thru on furnace/water heater/fridge/stove-oven.

    You can hear flow but can't smell it.........no LP alarm from detector so it must be exterior. Check under/around rig.
    Might try using a long BBQ lighter and see if you can light main flame on fridge/water heater/furnace with them OFF. If their gas valve is leaking thru you will get a small flame

    Might need to take to RV Bulk Distributor and have them us electronic leak detector to pin point area/source of leak.

    You have a LEAK!
  • I don't think this is something that should be tackled as a DIY project. Have an expert look at it and get it fixed right.