A new regulation for the installation of Alugas TRAVELMate refillable gas bottles is on the horizon. Proposed amendments are currently being discussed in the specialist committees. As of today, there are only tendencies and not yet any binding, legally binding changes.
Table of contents
New regulationRecommendations for action – Option 1
Recommendations for action – option 2
Update 21.08.2024
News status 06.11.2024
News as at 14.01.2025
New regulation – the following is emerging:
In future,refillable gas bottles in motorhomes must be easy to remove without tools and the LPG filling point must always be mounted on the outside of the body (no longer in the gas locker).
In addition, a quick-release coupling must be fitted between the refillable gas cylinder and the filling line so that the filling line can be disconnected to remove the cylinder.
The quick coupling must also be equipped with a non-return valve to prevent refueling from the outside and uncontrolled gas filling of the gas locker when the refillable gas cylinder is removed.
A possible quick coupling solution is currently under development. As soon as it is clear which requirements the coupling must meet, work on implementation and market launch will begin at full speed.
Based on current knowledge, it can be assumed that all existing systems will be protected.
Recommendations for the transition period
Option 1 – Installation in accordance with existing Alugas operating instructions:
For the specialist company, installation in accordance with the existing Alugas operating instructions provides a basis for installing in accordance with the valid manufacturer’s specifications and thus achieving CE conformity.
Option 2 – Easily removable with future retrofitting:
To accommodate the emerging changes to current kits, the LPG filling valve can be fitted directly to the refillable gas cylinder via an adapter. In addition, the gas cylinder stand must be equipped with star knob screws instead of hexagon socket screws (see installation instructions for option 2). You can find the retrofit kit for the star knob screws to convert your gas cylinder holder or wall bracket here.
Should the forthcoming changes actually prove to be binding, the retrofitting of the quick coupling including filling hose can then be carried out in a legally compliant manner as part of a follow-up transaction. There are already technical inspection bodies that pay attention to an easily removable solution. A „direct refueling adapter“ is not recommended, as an additional LPG filling point creates redundancy in the system (additional non-return valve).
Below is a link to our media database: click here.
In the folder „Alugas -> installation manuals“ you will find installation instructions for the TRAVELMate that have already been created, which include both option 1 and option 2.
Status as of 21.08.2024
It is becoming apparent that the new regulation provides for an easily removable refillable gas cylinder with an LPG filling point. In concrete terms, this means
- the refillable gas cylinder must be easily removable (gas bottle holder sets can be converted with a set of star grip screws)
- the filling hose between the LPG filling point and the refillable gas cylinder must have a quick-release coupling with a non-return valve so that it can be quickly and easily disconnected in an emergency and the gas between the filling point and the hose can be shut off. The non-return valve also prevents the gas locker from being refueled from the outside when the cylinder is removed.
- The LPG filling point (external filling valve) must be installed outside the gas locker so that it is accessible from the outside.
Status as of 06.11.2024
The new regulation for the installation of Alugas TRAVELMate refillable gas bottles expected in the first half of 2025 will include the technical requirements already known (see above, article dated 21.08.2024).
According to current information, there will be no grandfathering for systems already installed, making it necessary to retrofit the quick coupling to the refillable gas cylinder.
Important!
CE conformity and G607 are only achieved with the original ALUGAS quick coupling. The use of other components/quick couplings invalidates the manufacturer’s approval and warranty.
The quick coupling can be pre-ordered with immediate effect and will be mandatory in future for new installations and for existing systems as part of the G607 gas test. Each quick coupling is provided with an Alugas safety element and an Alugas seal.
The estimated RRP for end customers will be around EUR 49.90 incl. VAT.
Status as of 14.01.2025
At present, there is no binding basis for the installation of Alugas refillable gas cylinders. It is very likely that the installation standard as presented in the August Update 2024 will be implemented. This installation standard was presented by Alugas at the Caravan Salon 2024.
From the 2nd quarter of 2025, all TRAVELMate cylinders in Germany will be delivered with the original Alugas quick coupling, as the manufacturer no longer intends to offer an alternative.
You can find the first draft of the new Alugas operating instructions here!
We recommend that our installation partners always install according to the Alugas operating instructions in order to achieve CE conformity. You expose yourself to unnecessary liability risks with deviating installation variants.