Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks: Strong propane smell when water heater is on.

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Strong propane smell when water heater is on.

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Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=6561
Printed Date: 18 Jun 2025 at 4:05pm
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Topic: Strong propane smell when water heater is on.

Posted By: shavano
Subject: Strong propane smell when water heater is on.
Date Posted: 03 Jul 2015 at 12:19pm

I'm experiencing a problem with the propane system: when the water heater is running, we can feel a strong propane smell around the heater area and the back of the R-Pod. The heater takes only a few seconds to get started, and it seems to burn and work fine. But while it's burning, the smell is a bit too strong to think it's normal. I've done the soapy water test around the pipes in heater system and they all seem fine. Is this normal and what could be the problem?

Thanks in advance!

Shavano.

Replies:

Posted By: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 03 Jul 2015 at 3:16pm

Check for insects blocking the burner pipe. When the heater is not running, is there no smell? If no smell when not running, it has to be the heater regulator assembly or the burner. All the propane that burns through the heater is gone, you wouldn't smell that.

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2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler
2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD)
2013 VW Touareg TDI

Posted By: sailor323
Date Posted: 05 Jul 2015 at 7:57am

I have used propane for over 40 years in various applications from cooking to refrigeration. Sometimes it is normal to smell the odor that is added to the propane. It is present in the exhaust fumes and is especially noticeable when getting near the bottom of the tank. You should not smell the odor when everything is turned off. Always check ALL the connections with soapy water to make sure that there are no leaks in the system.