LPG tank in a motorhome

Everything you need to know about permanently installed camper propane tanks

We are often asked what the advantages of a permanently installed gas tank are, which manufacturers there are and what the differences are between a camper propane tank and a gas tank. This article will tell you everything you need to know about LPG tanks.

Table of contents

1. Differences between autogas tanks and motorhome tanks
2. Advantages of an LPG tank
3. Which gas for a camper propane tank?
4. How do you refuel?
5. Which motorhome gas tank manufacturers are there?
6. What types and models of camper propane tanks are there?
7. Installation position of cylinder tanks
8. Difference between camper propane tank and LPG tank
9. Overview of common sizes with weight and volume specifications

Differences between autogas tanks and motorhome tanks

Not all LPG tanks are the same! The autogas tank and the motorhome gas tank are often confused. The autogas tank is intended for the engine, but can also be used later for heating and cooking.

And even though the autogas tank and the camper propane tank look similar, they have significant differences in design. There is one key distinguishing feature, and that is the extraction pipe inside the tank! While the gas is extracted at the bottom in the liquid phase in an autogas tank, the gas is extracted at the top in the gas phase in a motorhome tank. If this is not taken into account and an autogas tank is installed, the gas will be extracted from the liquid phase and the pressure regulator will freeze up after a short time. Incorrect use can have unforeseeable consequences. For example, if the liquid gas penetrates to the gas stove and is ignited there.

Unfortunately, there are dubious installers who work with modifications of conventional tanks. However, we strongly advise against these experiments and recommend that you always consult a specialist workshop when installing the LPG conversion kit.

Advantages of an LPG tank

LPG tanks offer several advantages over conventional gas cylinders. They generally have a larger capacity, which means less frequent refilling and therefore greater convenience. In addition, LPG tanks can be refilled conveniently at LPG filling stations without having to be removed.

Another advantage is that these tanks are safer, as they have safety devices such as the 80% fill stop and are permanently installed in the vehicle. They are also more cost-efficient, as refilling is usually cheaper than buying new gas cylinders. Direct refilling also produces less waste, which is more environmentally friendly.

LPG tanks are also more robust and durable and can be installed in a space-saving manner, preserving valuable storage space in the vehicle.

Many modern gas tank systems also offer the option of automatic switching between different tanks, which enables continuous use without manual intervention.

80% fill stop briefly explained

The 80% fill stop on motorhome gas tanks is a safety measure that ensures that the LPG tank is not filled to more than 80% of its total volume. This ensures that the gas has enough space to expand when the outside temperature rises.

Fill level indicator in the motorhome

LPG tanks offer several options for conveniently checking the fill level. This can be done either directly on the tank or via a remote display in the interior. There is also the option of checking the fill level via a smartphone app. To do this, the smartphone must be connected to the transmitter on the tank via Bluetooth.

Which gas for the LPG tank in the camper propane tank?

In principle, any mixture of propane and butane can be filled into the LPG tank of a motorhome. While butane has a higher energy efficiency, propane scores with a lower boiling temperature of -42°C. This is particularly advantageous in winter, as propane forms a gas in the upper layer of the tank even at very low temperatures and is therefore available for withdrawal. Butane, on the other hand, has a boiling temperature of around -0.5°C, which means that it is less efficient at lower temperatures and can cause difficulties when extracting gas. If you fill up at an LPG filling station, pay attention to the mixing ratio and the highest possible propane content, especially in winter, in order to get through the winter reliably.

How do you refuel?

In principle, you can refuel at any LPG filling station. Depending on the installation, refueling takes place either directly at the tank or via a so-called remote refueling(LPG filling point in the body).

Which gas tank manufacturers are there for motorhomes?

There are numerous manufacturers of RV propane tanks. The best-known brands and suppliers on the German market include CAMPKO, Wynen Gas, Stako, GZWM and GuG.

What types and models of camper propane tanks are there?

Shape

There are basically two types of LPG tank: toroidal tanks and cylinder tanks. Both can be installed on the loading area or under the floor. Underfloor refers to installation on the underside of the vehicle. The cylindrical gas tanks are also offered upright and are referred to as refillable gas bottles.

Valve

There is an additional difference in the valves. While conventional LPG tanks are often referred to as 4-hole tanks, there are now also modern multivalves and corresponding 1-hole tanks. As the term "multi" suggests, a multifunctional valve combines all the functions of the four separate valves of a 4-hole tank.

Installation position of cylinder tanks

A cylinder tank with underfloor installation is referred to as a 105° installation position. In this case, the tank is aligned so that the valve plate is positioned slightly below the middle of the side of the tank and points slightly downwards. This orientation facilitates both installation and subsequent maintenance on the vehicle platform. In contrast, 90° or 0° tanks are usually used for installation on the loading area.

A tank is already designed ex works for a specific installation position and must not be rotated at will during installation. The valves in the tank are also designed for the intended installation position.

Difference between camper propane tank and LPG tank

Both are the same type of tank. While an RV propane tank can also be installed in a snack van, a tank in a motorhome is usually referred to as a motorhome tank.

Overview of common sizes with weight and volume specifications

* Depending on manufacturer