Do You Really Need RV Propane Tank Covers?
RV propane tank covers are pretty innocuous-looking. Usually made from lightweight, hard-formed plastic, RV propane tank covers might not look as though they are really important to keeping your RV propane system functioning safely.
In this article, we’ll discuss what propane tank covers do and why you need them.
Why is it important to protect your propane tanks?
RV propane tank covers are an important part of your RV. They not only make your propane tanks look streamlined and sleek, but they also perform important protective functions for your propane tanks.
However, these covers are not just about making your tanks look pretty. RV propane tanks contain highly combustible propane gas. Propane tanks and their valves are made of thinly painted metal. Without protective covers, they become corroded and damaged by rain, snow, and flying road debris.
Corrosion and damage to propane tanks and valves may cause them to leak, creating a hazardous situation. Leaking propane is toxic and can easily ignite. Your RV’s tank covers have an important protective function. Your RV’s tank covers should never be removed, unless you are filling up with propane or changing them out.
What are the best RV propane tank covers?
Below are a few of the most highly rated propane tank covers available on Amazon.
- Camco 40539 Heavy-Duty 20lb or 30lb Dual Propane Tank Cover
- Flame King Dual 20LB LP Propane Tank Light Plastic Heavy Duty Cover for RVs
- ADCO 2712 Silver Double 20 Diamond Plated Steel Vinyl Propane Tank Cover
Those propane tank cover lids on top of propane tank covers are sometimes known to fly off while we travel. The propane tank cover’s protective abilities are far reduced when its lid is missing. While it’s easy to get a new lid, preventing a potential problem is always better. A quick preventative hack for this is to drill a small hole in the hinge side of the lid. Then use a zip tie to fasten it to the propane tank cover.
RVers looking for valuable how-to information have learned to go to the experts. Forums such as iRV2.com and blog sites like RV LIFE, Do It Yourself RV, and Camper Report provide all the information you need to enjoy your RV. You’ll also find brand-specific information on additional forums like Air Forums, Forest River Forums, and Jayco Owners Forum.
Related articles:
- 7 Things You Need To Know About Propane Safety
- The Benefits Of An RV Dual Tank Propane Regulator
- How To Detect A Dangerous RV Propane Leak
Nathan Gilpin St says
can a frig be on when traveling using propane? legal?
Jim Bennett says
I was informed by an RV service person that a white cover is much better than a black cover for keeping the propane tanks cooler. Overheated tanks can vent, wasting propane.
Glenn Lygrisse says
I also found that depending on your tow vehicle that when towing air flow can tend to “lift” the covers off the tanks. I drilled a hole both front and back and ran a bunge cord under the holding bracket to keep the cover from “flying away”.
Gary Burgess says
I have a doubt that propane covers are infact legal if some one checks with the code book plumbing code book in Cnada. A white one would attract less heat then a black one for sure. The notion that after 10 years they are garbage is stupid. I have seen in Mexico 30 year old tanks being used with no problem.
Steve Hericks says
I disagree with the ‘covers are good’ thesis. The Overpressure device built into the back of the tank valves is required to operate at below 250psi. While the weather can cause steel tanks to rust, covers can be a greater problem. Propane reaches 250psi at 129 degrees F. Covers are insulating and can also be heat collectors. It’s not hard to imagine that sun shining on a black cover in a high-temperature ambient environment (southern states in the summer) can cause the tank temp to reach 129F after which the propane will (should) vent. Not only is venting an expense, it is most definitely a combustion hazard.