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1227fred's avatar
1227fred
Explorer
Jun 15, 2016

dumb question about RV ovens

This is probably one of the dumber questions asked here. We started camping with a pop-up camper in 1970. Since then we have graduated to travel trailers and 5th wheels. In every rig, the oven was always the most hated appliance because it was so difficult to light the pilot light. Now that our traveling days are over due to health reasons, our 5th wheel sits year round on a seasonal lot in a campground. Last time out, we needed to use the oven which required getting down on the floor to light the pilot, which is difficult. One of us has had double knee replacement and the other has Parkinson's. Now the question. Is there any reason we can't light the oven pilot light when we arrive at the RV and not turn it off until we leave? Propane usage is no longer an issue as we are connected to a 100 lb. tank. In the past, when we were done cooking, we always turned the oven completely off, including the pilot light. Any thoughts?
...fred
Seeking Advice

14 Replies

  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    Jun 15, 2016
    Fred, not the dumbest question asked on here by a long shot! Not even top 100 in the last 12 months, lol.
    No harm in leaving it on, at least no more threat than any other pilot light in any appliance anywhere else, home or RV.
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Jun 15, 2016
    I have to lean over to light mine, but I'm glad I don't actually have to get on my knees!
  • tpi's avatar
    tpi
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    I use one of those high wind lighter sticks. I leave the oven pilot lit for the extent of my stay.
  • Jim_Shoe's avatar
    Jim_Shoe
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    I took a different approach. I store little used kitchen stuff in the oven. I bought a Cuisinart toaster/oven/broiler. It sits on the counter when I'm stopped, and on the floor when I'm moving. As a single RVer, its big enough for my needs. I'm a FHU camper anyway, so there's always a place to plug in.
  • noplace2's avatar
    noplace2
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    Absolutely no reason not to leave the pilot on for the duration of it's potential use.

    Further, we've been fulltime RV'ing for over 15 years and we still use a checklist every time we arrive and depart. It helped us twice in the last year. Good for you!

    And even further, your question doesn't even come close to claiming the "dumbest" award. :)

    Welcome and happy camping.
  • fj12ryder's avatar
    fj12ryder
    Explorer III
    Jun 15, 2016
    I also added the battery operated igniter and it's a great thing. No more having to twist the knob to get the thing to spark, and not having to mess with the pilot light in the oven is just as good. One of those additions that is well worth the time and tiny outlay of cash.
  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator II
    Jun 15, 2016
    I saw an easy helper idea I think from DutchmenSport. Tape a small tealight candle to a paint stirring stick. Light the candle and slide it under the pilot. Then you can stand while hold the pilot button in for a minute. You can also maybe use a mirror to position the candle and not have to stoop down.

    Once lit leave it on until you leave.
  • C_B_'s avatar
    C_B_
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    Fred:
    Having had double knee surgery I know where your coming from.

    I couldn't get the mod 2012Coleman posted fast enough.

    The battery powered igniter makes lighting the stove top burners easier also.


    C.B.

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