Forum Discussion

ajriding's avatar
ajriding
Explorer II
Sep 04, 2020

Propane leakdown

I put a pressure gauge inline between the tank and regulator for the first time ever.
After I shut the gas off the pressure on the gauge will drop overnight from green (pressurized) to the red (meaning low low pressure).
Should the pressure on the high side remain high for days/weeks or is it normal for that to drop? Im not sure if the regulator is venting it or if I have a leak after the regulator.
Nothing bubbles, but there is one fitting I cannot get to.
I used Nylog on every fitting.
3/8 copper and flare fittings.
There is only a space heater (has solenoid valve) and a stove.
I cannot detect any odor.
  • The LP standard for leak test is as follows.

    Pressurize to 11 to 14 inches WC
    Install the manometer
    Lower the WC to about 8 inches wc
    Measure the Manometer for 3 minutes
    The system passes if no drop in pressure during the test.

    There is no such thing as a completely sealed LP system. The system will leak down the LP in the system when the Tank is turned off over days/weeks.
    YOU NEVER USE OR NEED TO USE ANY SEALANT ON A FLARE FITTING. NEVER!
    If a flare leaks FIX the copper flare, do not attempt to use sealant. PIPE fittings, you use sealant/teflon tape. Doug
  • RV Propane Leak Test.......

    High Pressure Side (before Regulator)
    Turn the main LP Gas Valve to the on position and listen for the initial PSST sound. After a second or two, the sound of flowing LP should stop.
    Next step is to notice the green band in the clear regulator cap. Now turn the main LP gas valve off at the LP tank for
    3 to 4 minutes.
    Watch the green band in the clear regulator window, and it should stay green. If it turns red, (low gas indicator), this indicates a possible leak.

    Low Pressure Side (after the Regulator)
    Requires using a manometer connected to system.....stove top burner at manifold can be used
    Valve in Propane Supply....verify system is 11"WC
    Valve out Propane Supply...then slowly open burner knob and drop system pressure to 8"WC then close burner knob
    Monitor pressure for 15 minutes....no change in system pressure then system is GOOD

    System pressure drops....how fast will indicate size of leak
    But only 15 minutes is required for leak down test on low pressure side
    And only 3-4 minutes on high pressure side

    Doubt you have a leak....indicator green/red is NOT a accurate means of testing
  • Might be a very slow leak, but did you take temperatures into consideration?

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,194 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 29, 2025