w6pea Report post Posted September 1, 2012 The other day I went to exercise my generator. (really went to get out of the heat in the RV with the A/C on ) Anyway, the propane detector went off. I am thinking it was because of the fumes from the generator, because I still had the door open and the fumes were coming up from under the coach. The RV is a little over 7 years old. I wonder if it's time to replace the propane detector and if so is it something that I could do myself or do I need to have it done at a licensed repair shop? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RVerOnTheMove Report post Posted September 1, 2012 If you have a propane generator then the detector going off would not be surprising but it should not have gone off if there were diesel or gas fumes. A CO detector could go off with any of these scenarios. You certainly might want to replace a 7 year old unit in any case, however, as I believe that most of the units do have an expected life span. I am just not sure how long that actually is. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
andyshane Report post Posted September 2, 2012 Most of the alarms are limited to a five year lifespan. Some manufacturers say to test the unit weekly, that is probably a bit excessive if not living in the rig. A simple test is part of my pre-trip inspection: slowly engage the trigger of a butane lighter so there is no flame, hold down the trigger and place the lighter close to and above the sensor. It should alarm within a few seconds if functioning normally. More fun than simply pushing a button, and grandkids will love performing the chore. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites