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Winter Camping
Winter camping this year? You need to know THIS about your RV Propane!
Cold weather can significantly impact RV LP (propane) systems, especially your RV furnace.
RV systems use smaller tanks and lighter components than residential setups, making them
more sensitive to low temperatures. Understanding this can help prevent furnace shutdowns
and frustrating winter issues.
How Propane Behaves in Cold Weather
How Propane Behaves in Cold Weather
Propane is stored as a liquid and must vaporize into a gas to fuel your RV appliances. Cold temperatures slow this vaporization process.
In winter:
Propane vaporizes more slowly & tank pressure drops
Small RV cylinders struggle to keep up with high demand
Propane isn’t literally freezing (until -306°F), but it can fail to vaporize fast enough — especially when the furnace is running.
Why RV Furnaces are Affected First
Why RV Furnaces are Affected First
Your RV furnace is one of the highest propane-demand appliances onboard. It requires a strong, steady flow of propane to ignite and stay running.
When propane levels are low or vaporization is slow:
The furnace may start, then shut off
Safety controls may trigger error codes or lockouts
Heat output may be weak or inconsistent
This is why furnaces often fail before other propane appliances in cold weather.
Signs of Cold-Weather Propane Issues
Signs of Cold-Weather Propane Issues
Furnace ignites but shuts down
Repeated furnace error codes
Other LP appliances work, or only work if furnace is off
Frost on tanks, regulators or LP lines
These issues point to a propane supply issue - NOT a bad furnace.
How You Can Prep for Winter
How You Can Prep for Winter
Keep tanks over 1/3 full
Protect regulators from the elements (ice, snow, wind)
Clear snow and ice from any components
Wrap the tank to help provide insulation from the cold
A little preparation helps ensure your RV furnace runs reliably when temperatures drop.
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