Thanks For The HWT Knowledge!

[OlYeller]

We seldom used our propane to heat the hot water tank as most sites we frequent have electrical hook-ups. When we are showering one after another, we do turn on the propane to help the tank recover more quickly. The last time we did this we noticed a bad smell of unburned propane inside the RV so I quickly turned it off. Before I did that I checked the flame and found it to be very orange and the whole vent for the HWT was very hot.

It was here that I read to check the burner tube for debris and sure enough there was a very tiny spider web inside. I took it all apart and cleaned out the web. After reassembly I saw a nice blue flame and no where near as much heat at the vent. This could have caused a fire if left alone. Thanks and hopefully this will serve as a reminder to check your propane systems regularly to make sure they are working properly. Now I have to figure out if my propane detector is working because it didn't go off when we smelled the gas.

[Old-Biscuit]

LP Detector sensors have a 'shelf life' of 5-7 yrs

Usually there is an expire date stamped on backside

2008 RV....you are due for new one



Isn't it amazing how disruptive a spider web can be !

[John Hilley]

The ethyl mercaptan (rotten egg smell) in propane shows up before dangerous levels can be detected. There probably is nothing wrong with your propane detector, however they do have a replace date on them. Some have used a propane torch or lighter to test. This would determine if it works, but not how sensitive it is.

[OlYeller]

I figured the propane detector needed to be replaced as well as the CO2 and smoke detectors. I just replaced all the CO2 detectors in my home so these are next.

I too was amazed at how much a tiny filmy web could impact the HWT propane system.