How to Bleed RV Propane Lines After Replacing the Tank

If you use your RV regularly, you'll need to refill your RV's propane tank fairly often. Each time you replace your propane tank, it's important to bleed out the gas lines, or "purge" them, to ensure that all air pockets are removed. If you do not bleed your gas lines after installing your propane tank, these air pockets can interrupt the propane flow, causing the flame on your stove to go out. This can result in propane being released into your RV when the air pocket passes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Turn the valve on your propane tank counterclockwise as far as it will go to release propane into your gas lines.

Step 2

Set the bypass valve for your RV's hot water heater to "normal."

Step 3

Light your stovetop burners. When the flame burns steadily, your gas lines are properly primed.

Step 4

Ignite the hot water heater after checking that the hot water heater is full.

Step 5

Prime a propane-powered generator by holding the switch in the "stop" position until the light comes on, approximately five seconds. The light means that the fuel pump is on. Allow the fuel pump to run for about 20 seconds before starting the generator.

Tips & Warnings

If you are replacing your propane tank with a new tank, purge the new tank before filling it with propane.

Always check your RV propane lines for leaks after you replace the propane tank.

Resources

How to Look for Leaks in RV Propane Tank Fittings

Article Written By Elizabeth Grace

Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Elizabeth Grace is a freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in public relations from Pepperdine University, and has 15 years of experience developing marketing campaigns for universities and multinational corporations.

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