What RVers must know About CMP.
Whether you are an avid RVer or a novice, and you have a RV Generator, you probably have or are considering adding an RV Generator exhaust system to your RV. Of course, this gives you the capability to run your unit while you’re parked. However, unless you are a mechanical engineer, I caution you; this is not the type of do it yourself project to take lightly. There is a issue called (CMP) Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, that if your installation is not done right, could be harmful and potentially deadly.
Guess What? We Didn’t Need a RV Generator!
It’s no doubt that RVs are great fun. I think about the times my dad packed us up in the RV and we hit the road for some memorable trips. My first chance at love happened on an RV outing.
Ah yes, it was the beginning of summer; we parked and hit the beach off the Pacific Coast Highway and BAM! It happened, I saw a beautiful girl and fell in love. I think her name was Pamela Anderson, well, maybe not! Of course, I was only 16, so that scenario happened a lot more times than I can count.
While thinking about all the great times we had, I couldn’t help think about how things have changed. We never needed a RV generator mainly because we only parked at places and parks with electrical hookups. However, today’s RVs have become residences on wheels with all of the conveniences of home. In addition, more and more people are opting to live in their RVs as opposed to residing in a traditional home.
Consequently, an RV Generator has become an essential piece of equipment for virtually every RV owner.
But this presents two major challenges.
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1). Some RV Parks, scenic areas, rallies and sports events DO NOT have electrical hookups. That means you either use a RV generator or resort back to Stone Age tactics. |
The solution most people are opting for is using a self-installed extended exhaust system for their generator. If you decide to go this route, here are some areas you should be concerned about and thoroughly examine.
Will This Project Void Your Warranty?
The use of an exhaust extension kit may void your RV generator warranty. Make sure you check first to avoid any unnecessary disappointments or misunderstandings.
Have You Created Any Back Pressure?
Remember what I said earlier about being a mechanical engineer? Here’s one reason why. Depending on how you design/build the exhaust, you could increase back pressure on the engine, which in turn, could reduce engine performance and cause the engine to fail to meet government-regulated exhaust standards.
Have You Thoroughly Checked Each Connection For Poor Seals?
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, ALL of the connection points MUST be sealed GASTIGHT! That means each connection point should be able to pass an acceptable leak free test. And remember, you’ll have to perform this test every time you install the exhaust system.
Is The Exhaust Pipe Exposing Anyone To Potential Burn Hazards?
Unfortunately, some exhaust extensions leave exposed metal that quickly become burn hazards once the RV generator is running. Know this, you are setting yourself up for a liability lawsuit from anyone passing by who might come in contact the burn hazard.
Is Your Exhaust System Piping Self-Supporting
If it’s not, the extra weight could actually incite stress cracks or even break exhaust system parts. This in turn could result in carbon monoxide seeping into occupied spaces.
Has The Exhaust Actually Cleared The Vent at The Roof Line?
If it hasn’t, this can become another one of those potentially hazardous situations that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Don’t assume the wind will blow the exhaust away; instead make sure that you have the right clearance. Your best option is to use one of the RV Generator Exhaust Extension Kits such as the Gen-Turi. This way you can quash the idea of attempting to become a jack leg mechanical engineer.
