Safe Use of Gas Bottles on Your Mars Caravan

Your Mars caravan’s gas system powers cooking and, in some models, hot water and heating. Used correctly, LPG is a safe and convenient fuel. This guide explains how to use gas bottles safely, what basic checks you can do, and when to call a licensed gas fitter.

Important: Gas work must always be carried out by a suitably licensed gas fitter in your state or territory. This article covers basic user checks only.

1. Know Your Gas Setup

Before your first trip, take a moment to understand your caravan’s gas system:

• Locate the gas bottles (usually in a front toolbox or dedicated gas locker).
• Identify the regulator, changeover lever (if fitted) and gas hoses.
• Know which appliances use gas:
  • Stove or cooktop.
  • Gas hot water system (if fitted).
  • Gas fridge mode (on some models).
  • Any optional heaters or external BBQ points.

Refer to your handover documentation and appliance manuals for model-specific details.

2. Storing Gas Bottles Correctly

For safety:

• Only use approved LPG cylinders with in-date certification.
• Gas bottles must be:
  • Upright and secured in their designated mounting position.
  • Stored in the ventilated gas locker or box designed for them.
  • Kept away from sparks, naked flames and ignition sources.
• Do not store loose cylinders inside the caravan living area.

3. How to Turn Gas On and Off Safely

3.1 Turning Gas On

1. Make sure all gas appliance controls (stove knobs, hot water, heaters) are in the OFF position.
2. At the gas bottle:
   • Turn the cylinder valve anti-clockwise slowly to open.
   • If you have two bottles with a changeover regulator, set the selector lever to the bottle you want to use.
3. Allow a few seconds for gas to reach appliances before lighting.

3.2 Turning Gas Off

• Turn the cylinder valve clockwise firmly to the OFF position.
• Then turn off all appliance controls.

Best practice: Turn gas bottles OFF when they are not in use and always when travelling. See our separate article, “Why You Must Turn Off Your Gas Bottles When Travelling”.

4. Lighting Gas Appliances

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but general tips include:

• Open any required vents or windows to ensure good ventilation.
• For stoves:
  • Push and turn the control knob to the ignition position.
  • Use the built-in igniter or a long lighter if required.
  • Keep the knob depressed briefly (if there’s a flame safety device) to allow the flame sensor to register.
• For hot water or heaters:
  • Follow the appliance’s start-up sequence in the manual.
  • Watch for fault lights or repeated “lockout” signals.

If an appliance does not light after several attempts, stop, ventilate the area and allow gas to disperse before trying again or seeking advice.

5. Basic Gas Safety Checks You Can Do

As a user, you can visually check:

• Hose condition: Look for cracks, splits, bulges or kinks.
• Connections: Check that cylinder connections and fittings are firm (do not overtighten).
• Regulator: Look for obvious damage, corrosion or contamination.
• Gas locker: Ensure vents are not blocked and the area is clean.

If you suspect a leak:

• Turn the gas OFF at the bottle immediately.
• Ventilate the area – open doors and windows.
• Do not operate electrical switches, naked flames or ignition sources near suspected leaks.
• Contact a licensed gas fitter or Mars Campers support.

6. Simple “Soapy Water” Leak Check (At the Bottle Only)

Note: This is for basic leak checking at cylinder connections only. For anything else, use a licensed gas fitter.

1. Mix a small amount of dishwashing liquid and water in a spray bottle or container.
2. Turn the gas bottle ON.
3. Apply the soapy solution gently around the cylinder valve and regulator connection.
4. Watch for bubbles:
   • No bubbles = no obvious leak at that point.
   • Growing bubbles = possible leak – turn gas OFF and seek professional help.

Do not use open flames to check for gas leaks.

7. When Gas Must Be Turned Off

Gas must be turned off at the bottle when:

• You are travelling (caravan in motion).
• Filling with fuel at a service station.
• You suspect a gas leak or can smell gas.
• Performing certain maintenance tasks or storing the van for long periods.

See our article “Why You Must Turn Off Your Gas Bottles When Travelling” for more detail.

8. When to Call a Licensed Gas Fitter

Stop using gas and contact a licensed gas fitter or Mars Campers support if:

• You can smell gas and cannot locate the source safely.
• There are visible signs of damage or corrosion to pipes, hoses or regulators.
• Appliances keep going out or failing to light after normal checks.
• You plan to modify, move or add gas appliances or pipework.

Summary

LPG is a safe and efficient fuel when handled correctly. By storing cylinders properly, turning gas off when not in use or when travelling, doing simple visual checks and calling a licensed gas fitter when needed, you can enjoy the benefits of your Mars caravan gas system with confidence.