Motorhome Annual Checklist
8. Gas Systems
Cylinders and Regulators
Check the compatibility of cylinders and regulators.
Ensure that your regulator controls the gas to the
correct pressure for the type of cylinder in use.
Check that the air vents and gas drain hole in the
floor of the cylinder compartment are free from
obstruction. Check that the seals on all the internal
doors are in good condition and fit properly.
Hosing and Piping
Check flexible hoses for cracking and condition.
Check the date stamped on them has not passed.
If the expiry date is close or passed, have the hoses
replaced. Check all rigid piping for adequate
support and any damage.
Appliances
As a guide checking the gas appliances can be
summarised as follows:
• Cleaning: Where appropriate, remove cover(s)
to gain access to exchanger. Remove any build
up of fluff or other foreign matter. Re-assemble
and test operation. Clean flame-viewing window.
• Operation of controls: Check all knobs etc
are secure on their spindles and that they
work smoothly. Check that the appliance
works properly by using normal controls
without forcing. If the gas taps are stiff to
operate, ease them open with an approved
LPG grease.
Flame Structure
• Pilot flames should burn quietly and cleanly.
• Refrigerator: When the fridge gas control is
turned to maximum the flame colour should
be predominantly blue.
• Water heater: The main burner should burn
blue and of even height.
• Ovens: Flames should be of even height and
burn quietly. The colour should be mainly
blue/green but there will be yellow tips to
the flames as the burner heats up.
• Grill burners: Flames may develop yellow tips as
they heat up, especially when using butane.
• General comments: A flame lifting away from
the burner indicates that the pressure is too high.
A yellow flame causes sooting and indicates the
pressure is too low. If these faults occur, recheck
the regulator, cylinders and pipes, adjust as
necessary.
• Flues: Check security of fixings, attachments to
appliances and flue terminals. Check for
damage and corrosion. Check for gas
leakage into the vehicle.
49
www.auto-trail.co.uk
: OWNERS HANDBOOK
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 49