Ahh, spring. Time for RV owners to head out on the highway, explore their favorite places and find some new ones. RV ownership has grown for the past 8 years, and 2016 was up 13%, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.

What better way to power all that cross-country fun than with portable, economical propane? It can provide the energy for all your appliances so your RV is as comfortable as your home.

In addition to de-winterizing your RV, be sure to add checking your your RV propane system to make sure your ride will be safe.

  1. Check your cylinders, brackets, and holding mechanisms. If they are rusted or corroded, you will need to replace them.
  2. Have a certified technician check your system once a year. They will check for potentially dangerous leaks and other malfunctions and give you peace of mind.
  3. Inspect your appliances. Make sure the connections are not damaged and everything is in good working order.
  4. Keep a working fire extinguisher handy and make sure your RV has operational carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
  5. Make sure exterior vents are clear of debris.
  6. Be sure to have your tanks filled before you set out! At the Tevis Home Store we have a convenient pull in propane fill station. You don’t have to haul your tanks out, just pull in, fill your tanks and head out on the road.

And as always, before you hit the road, review your plan for what to do if you smell gas. If it happens in your RV, pull over, shut off all burners, extinguish all open flames, and turn the gas off, if you can do so safely. Open doors and windows to ventilate the area. Get as far away from the vehicle as you can and call 911. Do not re-start the RV until a technician has inspected your propane system.

Follow these tips and have a great road trip!