Parts & Accessories

Arriving on site: Motorhome Gas System

Which motorhome gas? Butane or propane? Deciding which type of gas to use in your motorhome can be confusing, as can the procedure to follow when changing a gas cylinder. Refillable gas systems are available, but we’ll limit this guide to the 6kg propane and 7kg butane bottles from Calor.

We’ll discuss which type of gas to use when motorhoming, the pros and cons of butane and propane, the basic steps you should take before travelling, and how to swap an empty gas bottle.


 

Types of motorhome gas

  • All gas appliances fitted to your Bailey motorhome can be used on butane or propane without adjustment.
  • If you’re using Calor gas, butane is supplied in blue bottles and is suitable for use at temperatures as low as 2°.
  • Calor Propane is supplied in red bottles and will work at temperatures as low as -40° It’s an excellent gas for winter caravanning as well as year-round use.
  • You can buy suitable gas bottles from your local motorhome retailer, garage, or DIY outlet. A list of Calor stockists can be found at calor.co.uk
  • Consult your owner’s manual to find which size bottle will fit your motorhome.

 

How to change a gas cylinder in your motorhome

  • Ensure the cylinder is empty and that all gas appliances are turned off.
  • Turn off the cylinder valve.
  • Remove the gas hose from the cylinder. This will be a left-handed thread, meaning that it unscrews clockwise.
  • Release the retaining strap and remove the empty cylinder from the gas locker.
  • Before placing the new cylinder in the cradle, ensure that the tray is clean and free from debris.
  • Place the new cylinder in the cradle and tighten the retaining strap.
  • Remove the plastic protector from the cylinder’s valve outlet.
  • Connect the gas hose and tighten until snug.
  • Turn on the cylinder valve.
  • Your gas appliances are ready to use.

 

What to do before travelling and what to do once you arrive on site

 Before moving your motorhome, ensure that the heating and cooking appliances are off and the gas cylinder’s valve is closed.

  • Once you arrive on-site, turn your gas cylinder on.
  • If it’s your first trip, it may be worth checking that the gas supply taps are open. These isolate the individual appliances in your motorhome and are usually located in the kitchen area.
  • Before you leave the site, turn off all appliances and close the gas cylinder valve.

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