This guide will give you simple knowledge about propane tanks on a pop-up camper. We will look into why you would want a propane tank for camping, ways to use propane for camping, types of propane tanks, installation, boondocking, refillable tanks and prices, simple installation on a PUP that has services connecting, and how to read a propane tank gauge.
Why Propane?
Camping in a pop camper can be entertaining but when you have a power source like electricity or propane gas to operate it could be a game-changer. Many popup campers may come equipped with propane tanks and feature operating furnaces, grills, ac units, and even water tanks to make camping more pleasurable.
When it comes to camping in your popup camper, you have a few options to operate with and propane gas is one commonly used. Most new recreational vehicles like popup campers are constructed with connected propane services; some older models may require the use of a converted generator. Steel propane cylinders for recreational vehicles similarly come in ASME form, and the option between the two varies on the usage and size of the camper. Propane is also a cheaper and economical way to camp with limited to no services.
Ways to use propane for camping in a PUP.
- Maintaining your popup camper’s air temperature is extremely important especially during those colder nights and using propane furnace or portable heater to warm up your PUP cabin can make camping in the winter bearable.
- The use of propane gas to cook food is very common in camping whether you’re camping in a tent or using a travel trailer. Camping stoves and grills that use propane gas can make camping cost effective and heat food quicker than a traditional campfire.
- Another popular use for propane in a PUP is for the use of tank or tankless water heaters. Propane water heaters are considered as a more cost-effective option when matched with electric heaters or furnaces. Propane water heaters warm up water more rapidly as well, providing you with hot water right away.
- Generators convert fuel into electricity; they can be powered by many fuel sources like propane. Generators can be a lifesaver when you are in a travel trailer.
Types of Propane Tanks for Camping in PUP
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) tanks are the main type used to supply fuel to the camping travel trailers and camping equipment. These tanks are typically smaller DOT cylinders commonly used for all types of recreational equipment or outdoor living amenities and are called portable cylinders. These can be numerous sizes and made of different materials like composite, aluminum, or steel materials.
Portable tanks are made of welded steel or aluminum. You can see these cylinders attached to a grill, heating stove, or in a recreational vehicle and are generally smaller and portable.
Tank sizes for travel trailers can vary from 20lb to 90lb, with some having dual tanks. Tanks like a 52lb steel RV tank have a 7.9-gallon tank. Larger tanks like a 72lb steel RV tank will have an 11.2-gallon tank.
Smaller pre-filled propane tanks like a 16oz camping cylinder are great for smaller camping appliances or grills like a Coleman stovetop or portable heaters like Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heater. These types of cylinders generally are disposable, but some approved cylinders can be refilled.
Refillable Tanks and Prices
Reusable cylinders can be refilled several times and can only be refilled by qualified refilling establishments like AmeriGas or Blue Rhino. These companies will carry the right equipment to refill the propane tank safely and can inspect the bottle and its equipment for reliable use. Unlicensed or unqualified individuals should never try to repair or modify their propane bottles.
Pre-filled propane cylinders tank bottles are not refillable. They are cheaper in price and usually fit inconvenient places for storage. Always check the bottle for information on refilling.
Propane can fluctuate in price, and it will cost roughly $4 per gallon of propane for exchange propane tanks. Prices can run from $5 for a 16oz bottle to $80 for a 20lb bottle at retail stores.
Installation on a PUP
There are many requirements for the proper installation of propane containers as well as laws and procedures governing the repair of containers and systems they service. Installation and maintenance should only be performed by those who are qualified or familiar with the codes and regulations regarding propane containers.
For campers that are already equipped with propane services, objects like extended stay propane adapters or regulators will connect your propane tank to your popup camper for better use. This can be a DIY project but if you don’t feel comfortable taking it to your local certified RV technician for quick installation.
Other objects to install are tank brackets or a metal basket to hold your tank or tanks in place. Some Brackets come in a set with plastic tank covers or vinyl coverings to ensure the tank and adapters are clear of dirt, debris, and items that can damage tanks or brackets.
The tank or dual tanks will mainly be stored on the trailer, in the back of the trailer tongue, and near the battery box.
Lock your propane tanks. I personally will lock my tanks onto my hitch to ensure they don’t get stolen. I will also use a cover to ensure they are not tampered with as well.
How To Read a Propane Tank Gauge?
Gauge reading can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time. Checking your gauge regularly is an easy way to ensure you always have enough fuel. Subject to weather conditions, the propane in the bottle can inflate and deflate when temperature increase or decreases.
Tanks are generally filled with propane up to 80% of max capacity leaving the other 20% as a place for gas expansion. The figure on the propane tank gauge reads how full the tank is as a percentage. Most propane tanks show figures between 5% to 90% and will have designated zones for you to read. The zones are Gas (usually in Green), Low Gas (usually in Yellow), and Refill (usually in Red) Remember: If your tank is empty, a qualified professional must inspect and refill your system.
Boondocking
Boondocking implies dry camping or camping without electric, water, or sewer hookups. Using propane can improve boondocking in isolated areas like National Parks or Forest services to remote country regions by the ocean with many of these places following ‘The Leave No Trace’ rule. Propane can help with utility services like electricity or heat for warmth, cooking, or bathing whereas this is none. Camping for longer periods of time might require more than one propane tank. Having Dual tanks is optimal but varying on how many services you plan on using, your length of stay, and how remote you are to nearby refillable services will fluctuate. Taking into account weather conditions is also something your will need to keep in mind and factor in the use of propane.