People travelling with a motorhome or caravan often have a gas system that runs electrical appliances such as a refrigerator or heater. Regulations are in place to ensure that the gas system is working properly.
Index
Is a gas test mandatory for a caravan?Is there a periodic gas tank check for caravans?
How much does a gas test for a caravan cost?
Do the gas tanks of motorhomes have to be registered (in the vehicle documentation)?
What is checked during a gas test for a motorhome?
Is a gas test mandatory for a caravan?
LPG systems in leisure vehicles must be checked regularly. Recently, this regulation has been extended to both caravans and motorhomes. The gas test, which must be carried out every two years, is independent of the main inspection (HU) and can be performed by recognised experts, including independent inspectors. These include expert inspectors from DEKRA, TÜV, ADAC and Wohnmobill dealers certified by the German Liquefied Gas Association (DVFG). If you have not yet carried out a gas test for your motorhome or caravan, you have until 19 June 2025 to do so.
Compliance with gas regulations for motorhomes and caravans is mandatory by law to ensure safety. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines ranging from 15 euros (for more than 2 to 4 months), 25 euros (for more than 4 to 8 months) and 60 euros (for more than 8 months), depending on the duration of the infringement.
Are the gas tanks of motorhomes regularly inspected?
The inspection of the gas tanks of motorhomes is usually carried out as part of the main inspection (HU), which takes place every one to two years, depending on the age and use of the vehicle. In addition to the general inspection, there is a separate mandatory inspection of the gas system, which must be carried out every two years. It is carried out by specialised inspectors and includes a check for leaks and the safety of the gas supply system.
A special ten-yearly inspection or any other inspection of the tank is not mandatory. However, it is advisable to have thegas system regularly checkedfor leaks and corrosion by aspecialist workshop to ensure safety.
The ten-year test for RV gas tanks is not required for the R67 standard.
Unlike gas cylinders, motorhome tanks do not have to be inspected or replaced after 10 years. The regulations governing gas systems in motorhomes clearly require 67R-01 certification. Thanks to this certification, tanks do not have a limited service life, unless the manufacturer stipulates that the gas tank must be replaced after a certain period.
The LPG tank does not need to be replaced after 10 years.
As the gas tank is an integral part of the vehicle after installation, the inspection of the motorhome gas tank is carried out as part of the main inspection. If any defects are found, the inspector may order the tank to be replaced. It is therefore important to follow the general rules regarding gas tanks in motorhomes.
Conclusion:
In short, there is no specific requirement for the tank to undergo a ten-year inspection or to be replaced. However, the tank is inspected at each HU visit, as are all relevant vehicle components. Therefore, it is not necessary to subject a 67R-01 gas tank to a separate pressure test. However, this does not exclude the possibility that a replacement may be necessary if defects are found in order to comply with the regulations concerning the gas tank system of the motorhome.
For the installation of gas tanks, the regulations according to EN 1949 and ECE 67R-01 apply.
How much does a gas test for a motorhome cost?
A gas test for a motorhome or a gas test for a caravan costs between 30 and 70 euros, depending on the test centre. Currently, ITV charges between 50 and 70 euros, while DEKRA charges around 50 euros. ADAC charges 36 euros, while for members the cost is 29 euros. Other test centres charge between 30 and 70 Euros on average. Prices depend on the extent of the G 607 test or the G 607 gas test.
If you carry out the gas test at the same time as the general inspection and leak test, you will pay about 50 euros more, although some suppliers offer complete packages.
Is it necessary to register the gas tanks of motorhomes (in the vehicle documentation)?
The gas tank must be approved by the MOT after installation in the motor home and recorded in the vehicle documentation. Depending on the region, it may also be approved by DEKRA, GTÜ or KÜS. Only if the gas tank is registered can you drive with valid insurance and a valid driving licence.
What is tested during the motorhome gas test?
Are two gas cylinders up to 11 kg available?
Gas cylinders of 5 kg and 11 kg are allowed. However, a maximum of two 11 kg gas cylinders are allowed.
Are the gas cylinders securely fastened?
The caravan or motor home must be equipped with a gas locker. This must be hermetically sealed to ensure that gas cannot enter the vehicle in the event of a gas leak. The gas cylinders are located in the gas locker. They must be placed in a safe and stable position. Special supports and straps are available for this purpose.
Is there an area of about 10×10 cm with an opening to the outside?
The gas box must have a 10 x 10 cm opening facing downwards. The opening must be at the lowest point of the gas box. This opening is used for ventilation. As propane and butane are heavier than air, the gases can escape downwards and do not accumulate in the gas box where, in the worst case, a small spark could cause an explosion.
Is everything tight?
- The operating pressure and the tightness of the entire gas system are checked with the leak tester.
- Seals and valves
- Electrical fuses and operation of equipment
Attention! Be sure to take the yellow inspection booklet/certificate or initial inspection report with you. It contains all relevant information such as vehicle, number of cylinders and installed components. After the inspection, this information is also recorded in the inspection booklet.