Campervan Gas Systems: Bottles, Regulators and Safety Checks

Gas runs the hob, fridge, heater and hot water in most UK campervans, and it's wonderfully simple and reliable — but it deserves respect. Gas is heavier than air, so a leak settles low in the van, which is why every gas locker is vented at the bottom. Learn how the system fits together and you can check it yourself between annual professional inspections.

Propane versus butane

The single most important choice for UK conditions:

• Butane stops vapourising at around freezing point, so it's fine for summer trips but unreliable in winter.
• Propane vapourises well below freezing, making it the year-round UK choice.

Bottles come in sizes like 6kg and 13kg, refillable at most UK forecourts, garden centres and campsites. If you regularly run out mid-cookout, a 13kg propane bottle is the practical answer.

The regulator and hose

UK caravans and motorhomes run on 30mbar regulated LPG. The regulator attaches to the bottle and drops the pressure before the gas reaches the appliances. Hoses are date-stamped and should be replaced every five years even if they look fine — the date is printed along the length of the hose. If yours is older, replace it (around £15-£25 for a length with fittings).

Monthly DIY checks

• Check the flexible hose for cracks, kinks or perishing.
• Fit a gas leak detector or spray joints and hose ends with leak-detection fluid and watch for bubbles.
• Make sure the gas locker vents (the slots or holes at the bottom) are never blocked by the bottle or clutter.
• Test the gas and carbon monoxide alarms by pressing their test buttons.

The annual professional test

A qualified gas engineer performs a tightness (drop) test on the whole system, checks appliance flame patterns and confirms ventilation. Budget £80-£120 and keep the certificate. It's usually done as part of the motorhome habitation check, and a valid certificate is a big plus when you sell.

Tip: gas bottles are heavy — pick the bottle up from its carrying handle, not the valve, and always secure it in the locker with the strap.

If you're buying a van and the seller can't produce a recent gas certificate, factor a gas safety test into your offer. See how well-prepared sellers present their vans on campervans for sale.