What is camping without a campfire?! But really, who likes smell like smoke? Our solution was to get a propane fireplace – all the fun with less of the stink! And with a simple modification, we used our RV’s propane quick connect to power the fire pit!
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Disclosure: I am not a professional technician. Be sure to confirm that any methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you are unsure about proceeding. Any task you perform or product you purchase based on the information provided here is strictly at your own risk.
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I love campfires, but I’m allergic to smoke. Difficult, right?
Every time we light a fire, I feel congested. And as soon as the flames go out, I want a shower and clean clothes. But connecting a propane fireplace to our camper changed everything!
![Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to a Quick Connect RV | GoPetFriendly.com](https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Fire-Pit-Photos-14.jpg)
Imagine flipping a switch and immediately enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a fire. And it doesn’t smell like smoke? EVEN BETTER! My research on propane fireplaces intrigued me. But hang around refillable propane tanks powering the thing seemed ridiculous. After all, we had propane right in the camper!
A little digging revealed that (1) our camper had a low-pressure propane hookup to power a gas grill. And (2) most portable fireplace manufacturers do not sell conversion kits that would allow their units to be used with these “quick connect” valves.
Fortunately, the solution was child’s play!
Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to an RV
I started by ordering theOutland Firebowl 870 Premium Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit. This fire pit features automatic ignition, an adjustable flame and comes with a lid and a convenient carrying strap.
It looks great and with 58,000 BTUs it provides all the warmth we need on a chilly night.
![Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to a Quick Connect RV | GoPetFriendly.com](https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Fire-Pit-Photos-7.jpg)
![Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to a Quick Connect RV | GoPetFriendly.com](https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Fire-Pit-Photos-6.jpg)
The fire pit came with a 10 foot hose and regulator to connect it to a 20 pound LPG tank. Because the camper’s propane quick connect was already at low pressure, the regulator had to be removed or there would not have been enough gas flowing through the line to fuel the fire.
Removing the pipe from the Outland fireplace was easy, but that may not be the case with all brands. In our case, with the fire pit disconnected from all propane, I removed the black shrink wrap on the hose fitting behind the flame control knob, loosened the connector and removed the hose.
![Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to a Quick Connect RV | GoPetFriendly.com](https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Fire-Pit-Photos-8.jpg)
Parts needed for conversion
The parts you will need to convert your fireplace to use the propane “quick connect” on your RV can be found at most hardware stores. Or just click the links below and add everything to your Amazon cart! We’ll save a few dollars and you’ll save time driving to and from the store.
Before you start dropping items into your cart, grab a measuring tape and head out. Position yourself in a location that you think would be the ideal place to have a campfire outside your RV. Keep in mind that campervans are very flammable. Now measure the distance between your chosen location and the quick-connect valve on your camper. Then add two to five feet to allow for different camping configurations.
Order a pre-assembled pipe
If the distance you found in the step above is 12 feet (yes!), 18 feet (still a bit close), or 24 feet, you can get a complete hose with all correct fittings.
Assemble a pipe to the desired length
If you are like us and want a hose longer than the 24 foot option available above, you will need to order the parts separately and assemble them. It’s really simple.
Start with a3/8″ propane hose with female flare fittings on both ends in the length you want. We opted for a 30 foot pipe to allow us to place the fire pit a comfortable distance from the camper. But pipes are available in lengths up to 50 feet for flexibility in placing your fireplace.
Next, you will need an adapter to connect the female flare on one end of the pipe to the quick connect connector. The adapter you will need is a 3/8″ flare x 1/4″ female pipe thread.
The last part runs from the adapter and snaps into the camper’s quick-connect propane receiver. It’s called a 1/4″ male x full flow NPT plug.
Finally, if you don’t have any on hand, order some yellow propane gas tread sealing tape to ensure your joints will not leak.
In total, the parts will cost around $150, not including the cost of the fireplace you choose.
Assembly and testing
Assembling the parts takes minutes and requires only basic tools. Wrap each joint in the adhesive tape, and connect one end of the pipe to the fireplace. Then connect the adapter to the other end of the hose and add the flow cap.
Tighten each joint securely, but do not overtighten. Once the pieces are assembled, it’s time to test your work!
Mix half dishwashing liquid and half water in a spray bottle and shake. Then, in a well-ventilated area with no other open flames, insert the drain plug into the RV’s quick-connect sleeve, turn on the gas valve, and light the fire pit.
Generously spray all fittings with the soapy water mixture. If you see bubbles forming, you have a leak there.
Immediately close the propane valve and disconnect the hose from the quick connect. Redo the problematic connection using tape. (Be sure to wrap the tape in the same direction you will turn the connecting piece.)
Continue testing your connections until no bubbles appear when spraying with soapy water.
![Connecting a Propane Fire Pit to a Quick Connect RV | GoPetFriendly.com](https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Fire-Pit-Photos-2.jpg)
Don’t forget to test the connection between the pipe and the fireplace!
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Enjoying your propane fireplace
When everything is working as it should, it’s time to enjoy your new home! Gather the family, pull out your chairs, blankets or beds and relax.
READ MORE ⇒ Tips for traveling in a campervan with pets
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It goes without saying that your system might be a little different from ours. But I hope these tips allow you to easily connect your propane fire pit to an RV quick hookup in just a few minutes!
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