How many people keep a large (20LB) propane tank *inside* the van?

[One Awesome Inch]

I read conflicting reports of doing such a thing, but often see people who do.

Safety is definitely top priority, but I like the stealth and easy access to the tank of having it inside.

So.... is it safe?

 

[flying kurbmaster]

They are all inside even if they are in a locker that has an outside access, unless they are strapped to the rear bumper which is not always legal in some places. I have two 6lbs bottles inside my van. I built a compartment with a top load lid, It is completely sealed with two holes in the bottom to vent any propane that could accidently leak. I feel safe with this arrangement and don't feel it is any different then an outside propane locker, the only difference is that I have access to it from inside which allows me to turn it off without walking outside. I like to turn all propane off at the tank when not in use, I also have a propane detector inside not too far from locker, and a spray bottle of soapy water that I spray on the connectors every time I change the bottles or sometimes in between if I think of it. I keep it next to the tanks.

 

[Duck]

Inside the body yes, inside the same airspace, no. Sealed locker, vented outside from the bottom is ok.
Safest combination in my opinion.

 

[MrNoodly]

Mine is inside, next to the side door, held in place by a heavy duty steel carrier originally meant to hold long propane tanks on the backs of fork lifts. It snaps open and closed easily. Right now it's outside next to the stove, but it's usually inside.

I don't worry about it. Propane is heavier than air, so if there's a leak it will stay at the floor and probably find its way out of the gaps in the side door weather seal. The gas is scented to alert us of leaks.

---

Here's a photo of my setup.



(I would have added this to my original response, but the new editing rules wouldn't allow it.)

 

[ccbreder]

I posted this link on a different thread. worth reading. http://www.airforums.com/forums/f42/highway-propane-restrictions-113899.html

 

[MrNoodly]

I posted this link on a different thread. worth reading. http://www.airforums.com/forums/f42/highway-propane-restrictions-113899.html

Another reason to have my propane inside, where it won't be seen. Do-duh-do-do-do, I'm just a cargo van going about my business.

 

[Van-Tramp]

I use too, but could not justify the space taken up for such a rarely-used item (heater). I do have a small 1-gallon tank too so I tend to carry it around instead. I do bring in inside when in use, but store it in a different compartment when not being used. At one point I had it mounted outside on the rear ladder with a hose coming through the rear door (hole drilled and all).

Sure, the 1# bottles cost more but I do prefer to use them (I already carry some for my stove anyway) as it allows me to place my heater anywhere in the van, not just in the spot where my larger tank is.

Lately I've been more and more fearful as to what might happen while I am asleep in the van. Fires and gas leaks are the prime killers and I REALLY don't want to die from something so stupid so Ive stopped carrying the larger tanks recently, and picked up another fire extinguisher that I sleep with

 

[MrNoodly]

The small green bottles depend on only a check valve inside the head to keep from leaking. The large tanks have a positive shut-off valve (the knob) plus there's a check valve at the end of the hose. A one gallon tank is no more or less likely to leak than a five gallon tank since they both use the same valves. Get a ten foot hose instead of a five foot one and you can have your tank and heater anywhere you need in a van. And you can keep the tank inside while connected to the stove/grill outside (if you don't like food smells in the van or if it's just nicer outside).

 

[Van-Tramp]

Oh I hear ya MrNoodly, but for some reason that big 5 gallon tank is just so scary compared to a few 1-pounders. Kind of like how we may have a little fear of a large dog but not one that fits in a purse

I didn't think about the additional valves that would be on the larger tanks though, thanks.

 

[karl]

I like the convenience of the 1 pounders, not so much the cost....and have had them leak if I took them off before they were empty....especially if they are cold.
Thinking it may be time to sacrifice some space, spend the money for hoses and filters and tank.
When I do- it will be in the van, like my stash of 1#'s are now.

 

[Kevin H]

"...held in place by a heavy duty steel carrier originally meant to hold long propane tanks on the backs of fork lifts. It snaps open and closed easily."

Where did you get that fork lift carrier? It may be exactly what I am looking for.

 

[WheelEstate USA]

lonfu, I remember your dryer trick. Your home is certainly thoughtfully built and comfortable. I'm still in lust over your shop

 

[MrNoodly]

"...held in place by a heavy duty steel carrier originally meant to hold long propane tanks on the backs of fork lifts. It snaps open and closed easily."

Where did you get that fork lift carrier? It may be exactly what I am looking for.

I found it online. Just search for propane straps. They come in pairs, so you might go in on a set with someone else.

 

[WheelEstate USA]

Our RV propane tank is in a space below the floor right under my driver chair. The weak link is all the lines, some of which run in the back of lower cabinets.
Tanks are very rarely an issue.

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

Got mine under the bed, with a long hose to heater. No leaks so far, no problems other than the safety features of the hose being fickle and sometimes cutting the flow to the heater after opening the valve...have to open it super slow until hose pressurizes and then open it all the way.

I check for leaks with soapy water but never had a problem yet. I do keep small bottles in case i suddenly run out or if there is some problem on a cold night.