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linfrye's avatar
linfrye
Explorer
May 07, 2021

Smelly RV propane detector

We r in a 2001 class A Monaco, and after a heavy rain this week, I detected a funny smell that seems to be coming from my propane detector. It does not smell like propane or rotten eggs...just a weird, off smell that is there even after turning off the propane gas. There is no smell from the stovetop, under the sink or anywhere else. The propane sector is near the floor on the slide out under the stoves cabinet. We suspect we need to replace the propane detector...but what would cause it to emit a smell?

Thx for any help!
  • Yes, replace the LP detector. There will be a DATE on the back side when you remove it. The smell is wet/rotted wood or carpet. The fact you smelled it after a hard rain means that there has been water penetration at the slide out over the years. Most Monaco slide seals need replaced every 5 to 7 years. They just wear out and fail to give a complete seal. If you pull the Cabinet drawers and access the area in the sidewall slide hole you will probably see the wet or rotted area. Then use fans to dry it out. IF NOT in a slideout, you need to check the window seals. Doug
  • Thx so much...we couldnt find any wet wood...but I agree with u...we will replace the detector asap...thx for responding....
  • linfrye wrote:
    after a heavy rain this week, I detected a funny smell that seems to be coming from my propane detector.


    Is it a musty smell? How long after the rain?

    I'd search for damp/wet musty or molded wood.

    I can't think of a reason, aside from possible burnt electronics smell if something broke, that a smell would come from the propane detector. I suppose its possible an electrolytic capacitor in the propane detector could have ruptured and could theoretically emit a smell.

    It shouldn't take much effort to remove the propane detector and check it out outside the RV. As others have already indicated, if its the original detector, it should be replaced anyway.
  • 2001 Vintage should be on at least the 3rd even 4th detector

    They have a Shelf Life of 5-7 yrs

    Expiration date on backside

    Replace it......
    *If it trips a solenoid/shuts off propane flow then you can get a new one with solenoid OR remove OEM solenoid/hard pipe it and just install a New LP Detector
    Solenoids are not required/not even used on newer models