Best Practices for Propane Use at High Altitudes
By: GoLife Staff

While many people love to use their RV to go on trips to the mountains and other high-altitude locations, it is important to remember that with higher elevations comes some potential concerns for using your liquid propane appliances.

Problems arise because at higher altitudes, air contains less oxygen. For a flame to keep burning, it requires the right mixture of fuel (propane) and air (oxygen). Too much or too little of either and the flame will go out or burn inefficiently. Without a sufficient flame, your appliance won't work properly.

Ways to Combat High-Altitude Issues:

  • Check for high-altitude adjustments. Your first step should be to consult your operator's manual for instructions on high altitude operation of your specific appliance. This should have warnings and recommendations for usage. For example, some appliances have an adjustable air intake to adjust the air/fuel mixture when necessary. Depending on how high above sea level you are, you may be able to adjust the air intake.
  • Try a smaller orifice. If your appliance doesn't have an adjustable air intake, you might try a smaller orifice. At high altitude, there is not enough air getting to the appliance to create the right air/fuel mix, usually creating a lazy yellow flame and soot deposits. In this case, a smaller diameter orifice could limit the amount of fuel and create the correct air/fuel mixture.
  • Get a kit. Some manufacturers provide special "high-altitude kits." Please consult your specific appliance operator's manual or contact the manufacturer of your specific appliance to see if they have a kit available.

RVing is a great way to see many different areas, just make sure you are doing your research and taking the necessary precautions when traveling to places that pose specific challenges. Happy travels!

Comments

Comments on this post are moderated, so they will not appear instantly. All relevant questions and helpful notes are welcome! If you have a service inquiry or question related to your RV, please reach out to the customer care team directly using the phone numbers or contact form on this page .

User commented on October 18, 2021 12:22 PM
User commented on October 18, 2021 12:23 PM
User commented on October 18, 2021 12:35 PM
User commented on September 22, 2024 5:41 PM
We are in Colorado at about 8600 elevation and temperature is about 45 degrees. I open the propane tank this morning and it just starting spewing vapors (i thinking). The gauge is reading way past full. When we were at Golden Gate Colorado state park we were at about 8000 elevation but temps were at 75 plus we had no issues. I am not sure what to do since tonight will get closer to freezing and our next stop is at 9600 elevation. Suggestion please?
User commented on September 25, 2024 2:01 AM
Thank you for your comment! For answers to your product questions, please reach out to the Winnebago Customer Care team directly at (641) 585-6939.