Propane Safety in your camper Van

When it comes to van builds, heating and cooking setups are critical for both comfort and safety. I recently had a client bring in a van for some work, and while inspecting it, I found a Propex heater installed. I actually like these units—they’re reliable and work great in the right applications. I frequently use them in VW conversions, and they’ve performed well over time.

Pictured above is where the propane tank was improperly installed in a recent customer’s van we worked on. The client bought her van from a private party and we have no history on the builder or any previous work on the van. But, we do know it had many safety issues, including the one we’re talking about today.

The Issue: Surface-Mounted Propane Lines

While the heater itself was a solid choice, the installation left some serious safety concerns. The propane lines were surface-mounted along the length of the van, which is not ideal. Near the front on the driver’s side, a gas cooktop had been installed, explaining the line placement. However, running propane lines like this inside the van is not a safe practice.

Why Propane Inside a Van Is Risky

Many people argue that propane inside a van is safe if it’s enclosed in a proper sealed box with ventilation. However, in this case, the supposed “sealed” propane box wasn’t actually sealed at all—posing a serious risk.

If propane leaks, it can accumulate in the van, creating a highly dangerous situation. Without proper ventilation, even a small leak can lead to fire or explosion hazards.

The Best Solution: Underslung Propane Tanks

For safety, I always recommend underslung propane tanks instead of housing propane inside the van. Transit vans, in particular, have multiple bays underneath that can be used effectively for a safe, well-ventilated propane setup. This approach ensures that any potential leaks dissipate outside the vehicle rather than collecting inside the living space.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to run propane in your van, take the time to install it correctly and safely. A poorly designed system can put you and your passengers at risk. Always prioritize safety by using proper ventilation, secure fittings, and, if possible, an underslung tank.

Our recommendation: avoid propane in your van all together!

Have questions about propane safety in van builds? Drop a comment below!