dumb question about RV ovens

[1227fred]

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

[Grit_dog]

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]

I have to lean over to light mine, but I'm glad I don't actually have to get on my knees!

[tpi]

I use one of those high wind lighter sticks. I leave the oven pilot lit for the extent of my stay.

[Jim_Shoe]

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]

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]

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.

[2oldman]

I never turn off the oven pilot

[opnspaces]

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_]

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.

[Moderator]

Moved from ATC

[2012Coleman]

Please read this post about a mod to add a battery powered spark ignitor to the oven pilot light. This is the best solution if you can do it or have it done.

[1227fred]

Thanks for the input. We have a checklist of things we do when we arrive and more importantly when we leave. I will add the oven pilot light to the leave list.
...fred

[Campinghoss]

When we had the propane oven we always lit the pilot after setting up and left the pilot on while we were there. Just remember to shut it off when leaving to go back home.

[Mountain_Mama]

I see no problem leaving it on while you are there, but you should turn it off when you leave for home. Will you remember to do so? Maybe put a note some where to remind you.