Using gas water heater while in transit

[MR AIRSTREAM]

I'm wondering if there is any particular problem with lighting the gas water heater while in transit?

We are planning our first extended trip soon and while on the road we'll be boondocking. Rather than wait until we have stopped for the evening I would like to light the water heater a couple of hours before hand while in transit so that we'll have hot water for showers etc as soon as we have stopped.

Any information is much appreciated.

phippsto

[dwightdi]

Not a good idea to have an open flame while you stop to fill up with gas. The pilot light is also likely to blow out when you are going down the road. Even having the bottles turned on when on the road is a bad idea. Any leak or break in the lines when on the road could cause your unit to fill full of propane and be one big bomb looking for an ignition source,

[53flyingcloud]

I agree with all of dwightdi's safety concerns.
Additionally, it only takes abt 30 minutes tops to get your water heated. This could be going on while you're setting up camp.
Have a great time on your first outing~!!

[85MH325]

And... it only takes about 10 minutes for the water heater to get to temp. If you light it as soon as you pull into your spot, and THEN set up and unhitch, it'll be hot before anyone is ready to shower!

Most on-the-road RV fires are caused by brakes, fridges, or water heaters.

Roger