Traveling with refrigeration

[anderstd3]

I have a general question concerning using the refrigerator when traveling.
Is it ok to run the refrigerator on propane to keep it cool while in transit?
Just wondering what the correct way to keep things cold while traveling as far as safety

Thanks for any input


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[MoonShadow_1911]

I have a general question concerning using the refrigerator when traveling.
Is it ok to run the refrigerator on propane to keep it cool while in transit?
Just wondering what the correct way to keep things cold while traveling as far as safety

Thanks for any input


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As far as "safety", that, I think, depends mostly on your comfort level. I've towed camper trailers for over 30 years, the ones with propane fueled refers I have always run on propane while moving.

Some will advise against it, others will say it's no problem. The biggest "issue" that I know of is if you get into an accident, the propane is on and running, which, if the line is severed or punctured, might be a source of fire.

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[Second Chance]

If you use the search function, there are many threads on this topic. The "official" answer is that propane should be off while traveling. In practicality, most of us leave the propane on and the fridge running while underway. If you have a gasoline powered tow vehicle (as opposed to diesel), make sure you turn off the fridge and any other flames (water heater) before refueling.

It's helpful for others to know what RV (and often what tow vehicle) you have when answering your questions. You can create a signature block with your RV and tow vehicle information (see mine below). That way you won't have to repeat that information whenever you post or ask a question. You can create a signature by going to:

Forum Actions (on menu bar) -> Edit Profile -> Edit Signature (under My Settings on the left)

Happy camping!

Rob

[wjpatter]

If you use the search function, there are many threads on this topic. The "official" answer is that propane should be off while traveling. In practicality, most of us leave the propane on and the fridge running while underway. If you have a gasoline powered tow vehicle (as opposed to diesel), make sure you turn off the fridge and any other flames (water heater) before refueling.

It's helpful for others to know what RV (and often what tow vehicle) you have when answering your questions. You can create a signature block with your RV and tow vehicle information (see mine below). That way you won't have to repeat that information whenever you post or ask a question. You can create a signature by going to:

Forum Actions (on menu bar) -> Edit Profile -> Edit Signature (under My Settings on the left)

Happy camping!

Rob

Rob, I'm still groping with who "officially" is, not disrespect intended. Until DOT, Federal or State regulations prohibiting propane tanks to be closed while traveling, I think it falls into "someone" opinion. That said, this is the guidance I've followed:

" First off, why would you want to keep the propane on while traveling? When not plugged into power, RV refrigerators run on propane, and keeping it on while you travel keeps your food cold. The answer to whether you can run the propane fridge while driving down the road is yes, it’s possible to do so.

The question of whether you SHOULD is a personal choice. You are increasing the risk of fire by running your fridge on propane while driving, but there is no way to calculate that risk. If you choose to drive with the propane on while driving, know that you are accepting that risk. Note: Some bridges, tunnels, and ferries require your propane to be off, and it is required by law to have your propane off while filling at a gas station. https://camperreport.com/can-i-tow-a...ridge-running/ "

[trkester]

Rob, I'm still groping with who "officially" is, not disrespect intended. Until DOT, Federal or State regulations prohibiting propane tanks to be closed while traveling, I think it falls into "someone" opinion. That said, this is the guidance I've followed:

" First off, why would you want to keep the propane on while traveling? When not plugged into power, RV refrigerators run on propane, and keeping it on while you travel keeps your food cold. The answer to whether you can run the propane fridge while driving down the road is yes, it’s possible to do so.

The question of whether you SHOULD is a personal choice. You are increasing the risk of fire by running your fridge on propane while driving, but there is no way to calculate that risk. If you choose to drive with the propane on while driving, know that you are accepting that risk. Note: Some bridges, tunnels, and ferries require your propane to be off, and it is required by law to have your propane off while filling at a gas station. https://camperreport.com/can-i-tow-a...ridge-running/ "

Just a thought on officially... Here's a quote from my 2020 Reflection owners manual:

" Propane Appliances & Equipment
• Turn OFF all propane appliances and equipment
(including the tanks) are BEFORE departing on a trip.
• Understand all propane safety warnings and follow
manufacturer recommended operating procedures."

Not to say I have not traveled with the fridge on but just noting the manual says no. Most likely manufacturer CYA but for what it's worth.

[krsmitty]

If you use the search function, there are many threads on this topic. The "official" answer is that propane should be off while traveling. In practicality, most of us leave the propane on and the fridge running while underway.

Rob

It depends on how far I am traveling for the day. If for several hours or less, than no. If I am on the road for the day, yes I will run on propane.

[Ynot4me2]

This is a very good question/concern. One as Rob mentioned has been discussed many times. Officially, you're not supposed to, unofficially most, not all, of us do. If you do, there's a risk of having an open flame at the gas station while fueling (so turn it off while you do) and then there would be flowing lp if ever the line is clipped like in an accident for instance. You'd need to turn it off quickly if you can. On the other hand, if you don't, you risk of spoiling your food and risk food poisoning. Some that don't run with the refer on will put frozen water bottles in the refer while traveling to keep the temp (or try) within safe zones. The problem with rv refer is they take a long time to cool down. Last year, one of our members ran test with temp probes and documented the time it takes to cool down and warm up. It was shocking. It confirmed my choice of traveling with it on. His documentation is on this forum and you should be able to find it using the search button.

[Fsalmy]

This is a very good question/concern. One as Rob mentioned has been discussed many times. Officially, you're not supposed to, unofficially most, not all, of us do. If you do, there's a risk of having an open flame at the gas station while fueling (so turn it off while you do) and then there would be flowing lp if ever the line is clipped like in an accident for instance. You'd need to turn it off quickly if you can. On the other hand, if you don't, you risk of spoiling your food and risk food poisoning. Some that don't run with the refer on will put frozen water bottles in the refer while traveling to keep the temp (or try) within safe zones. The problem with rv refer is they take a long time to cool down. Last year, one of our members ran test with temp probes and documented the time it takes to cool down and warm up. It was shocking. It confirmed my choice of traveling with it on. His documentation is on this forum and you should be able to find it using the search button.

How about adding a Gas Stop automatic shut off? It will stop the propane flow in the event of a leak. Granted, doesn’t do anything when refueling or traveling thru tunnels, but for us it provided a little extra peace of mind when we traveled with propane on to run the fridge.

[Ynot4me2]

How about adding a Gas Stop automatic shut off? It will stop the propane flow in the event of a leak. Granted, doesn’t do anything when refueling or traveling thru tunnels, but for us it provided a little extra peace of mind when we traveled with propane on to run the fridge.

Wouldn't it be great if they had this built in the regulator or right after.

[AZMike]

How about adding a Gas Stop automatic shut off? It will stop the propane flow in the event of a leak. Granted, doesn’t do anything when refueling or traveling thru tunnels, but for us it provided a little extra peace of mind when we traveled with propane on to run the fridge.

It sounds like you have one. Do you have any details? I've never heard of this.