Gas is often used in caravans for cooking, heating and refrigeration, for its convenience on the road. Practice safe handling and maintenance of gas systems to avoid potential hazards like gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and fires. For caravanning veterans and novices alike, good gas safety ensures safer and more enjoyable adventuring.
Regularly Check Gas Appliances and Systems
Leaks: Regularly check for leaks in your gas lines, valves, and connectors. The simplest way to do this is by applying soapy water to connections—if bubbles appear, there’s a leak.
Servicing: Have your Dometic gas appliances serviced annually by a licensed gas technician to ensure everything is working safely and efficiently.
Wear and Tear: Inspect gas hoses and seals for signs of cracking, splitting, or wear. If you notice any damage, have them replaced immediately.
Use Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Install a CO Alarm: Gas appliances in caravans can produce carbon monoxide (CO) if not properly ventilated or if there’s an issue with the system. Install a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping areas and test it regularly to ensure it’s working.
Know the Signs of CO Poisoning: Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath. If you experience these symptoms while using Dometic gas appliances, immediately turn off the gas appliance, exit the caravan and seek fresh air.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Never Block Vents: Make sure your caravan’s ventilation grilles and windows are clear and unobstructed. These vents provide necessary airflow to disperse gas fumes and carbon monoxide. Ventilation needs to comply with Australian standards. (AS/NZ 5601.2.2022)
Cook with Windows Open: Always open a window or vent when using gas stoves or ovens to allow extra fresh air in and harmful gases out.
Use Appliances as Intended
Don’t Modify Appliances: Always use gas appliances as intended and never attempt to modify or repair gas equipment yourself unless you are qualified and licenced to do so.
Turn Off Gas Supply When Not in Use
Shut Off the Gas at the Source: When you’re not using your Dometic gas appliances, turn off the gas at the cylinder or the main shutoff valve to prevent leaks. This is critical when driving or towing your caravan.
Turn Off Before Sleeping: Always turn off all gas appliances before going to bed, especially stoves, to minimise the risk of fire or carbon monoxide buildup during the night.
Store Gas Cylinders Safely
Secure Cylinders Properly: Make sure gas cylinders are stored upright and in a ventilated compartment. This prevents them from rolling around and ensures that gas doesn’t leak out through the safety valve. (AS/NZ5601.2.2022 lists the requirement for storing cylinders)
Ventilation Matters: Gas cylinders must be stored in a well-ventilated area. Never store them inside the living area of the caravan and ensure the storage compartment has ventilation holes as required.
Check Cylinder Dates: Gas cylinders have a lifespan, so check the expiry date stamped on them. Any cylinders that are out of date or showing signs of rust or damage must be inspected and restamped. It is important to dispose appropriately of rusted/damaged cylinders.
Use a Gas Regulator and Monitor
Fit a Gas Regulator: Always use a gas regulator when connecting your gas cylinder to the caravan, to make sure the gas pressure remains at a safe and consistent level for your Dometic gas appliances.
Know How to Respond to a Gas Leak
Recognise the Signs of a Leak: The smell of gas (similar to rotten eggs) is a clear sign of a leak. If you smell gas:
Turn off the gas supply immediately at the cylinder.
Open all doors and windows to ventilate the space.
Do not use any electrical switches or open flames, as even a small spark can ignite gas fumes.
If the leak is inside, evacuate the caravan and contact a gas technician to inspect the system.
Have a Fire Extinguisher on Hand: In case of a fire, have a fire extinguisher easily accessible. Make sure it’s suitable for gas-related fires and that you know how to use it properly.
Proper Cylinder Changeover Procedures
Turn Off the Gas Before Disconnecting: When changing gas cylinders, ensure all appliances are off, and turn off the valve at the cylinder before disconnecting. This helps prevent residual gas from escaping.
Test for Leaks After Changeover: After changing the cylinder, reconnect and check for leaks using the soapy water method before using your appliances again.
Educate Everyone in Your Caravan
Teach Safety Procedures: Make sure everyone in your caravan knows where the gas shutoff valve is and how to turn it off. Teach all occupants how to check for leaks and ensure they know what to do in case of a gas emergency.
Check Appliances Before Each Trip: Before your next adventure, check all Dometic gas appliances, hoses, and connectors for leaks or wear. A quick inspection can prevent accidents and give you peace of mind.
Make gas safety in your caravan a priority for safe and comfortable trips. By regularly maintaining your Dometic gas appliances, ensuring proper ventilation, and practicing safety precautions, you can reduce risks and enjoy your adventures worry-free. Always be mindful of gas use, store cylinders correctly, and know what to do if an emergency arises. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your caravan’s gas system operates safely and efficiently on every trip.
Dometic offers a range of services to give you peace of mind on your next adventure. Contact us below and mention this article to receive a 10% discount.
