Propane Installation Plan

The Propane Installation Plan outlines the physical installation, mounting, routing, protection, and testing procedures for the dual-tank propane system in the CTC build.
This plan reflects the finalized design: Tank 1 (driver side) supplies the house propane system, Tank 2 (passenger side) supplies the grill-only system, and a future-ready branch is included for an optional on-demand gas water heater in the garage.
If an electric water heater is chosen instead, the garage branch will remain capped.

System Overview

The propane installation consists of two independent subsystems:

House Propane System (Tank 1): Supplies regulated propane to interior loads and the optional gas water heater.
Grill Propane System (Tank 2): Supplies propane exclusively to the front passenger-side grill quick-connect.

Each tank has its own regulator, supply line, and routing path to ensure safety, simplicity, and easy maintenance.

Installation Steps

1. Mounting the Propane Tanks

Tank 1 (House System): Mounted on the tongue, driver side.
Tank 2 (Grill System): Mounted on the tongue, passenger side.
Use a dual-tank tray or two individual brackets rated for trailer use.
Secure tanks with steel hold-down straps and vibration-resistant hardware.
Label tanks clearly: “House” and “Grill”.

2. Installing the Regulators

House Regulator: Mounted near Tank 1, protected from road debris.
Grill Regulator: Mounted near Tank 2, dedicated to the grill circuit.
Both regulators must be oriented per manufacturer instructions (vent facing down).
Use approved pigtails between tanks and regulators.

3. Routing the Propane Lines

House System (Tank 1)

Run the main house supply line along the frame rail or underbelly.
Use propane-rated flexible hose or rigid copper tubing with flare fittings.
Secure the line every 12–18 inches with cushioned clamps.
Avoid sharp edges, heat sources, and moving components.

Grill System (Tank 2)

Run the grill supply line directly to the front passenger-side wall.
Terminate at the quick-connect grill outlet.
Ensure the outlet is mounted to structural framing.
Install a shutoff valve immediately upstream of the quick-connect.

Garage Branch (Future Option)

Install a tee in the house line at an accessible location.
Run a branch line toward the garage area.
If using an electric water heater: cap the branch with a flare cap and label it “Future Gas Water Heater”.
Ensure the capped branch is accessible for future use.

Penetrations & Protection

Use rubber grommets or bulkhead fittings where lines pass through walls or floors.
Protect exposed lines with conduit or metal shielding.
Maintain clearance from electrical wiring and heat sources.
Ensure all exterior penetrations are sealed against moisture intrusion.

Shutoff Valves

Install shutoff valves at key locations for safety and serviceability:

At Tank 1 and Tank 2 (built-in tank valves).
Immediately downstream of each regulator.
Before the grill quick-connect.
Before the garage branch tee.

Testing Procedures

After installation, perform the following tests:

Pressure Test: Pressurize the system with propane and check all joints with leak-detection solution.
Isolation Test: Test the house and grill systems independently.
Regulator Test: Verify correct outlet pressure using a manometer.
Operational Test: Connect a grill to the quick-connect and verify proper flow.
Future Branch Test: Ensure the capped garage branch holds pressure with no leaks.

How This Plan Will Evolve

As the build progresses and the final water heater type is chosen, this installation plan will be updated with specific component models, regulator specifications, mounting hardware, routing photos, and final valve locations.
The separation between the house system (Tank 1) and grill system (Tank 2) will remain a core design feature for simplicity, safety, and reliability.