LPG Shop FAQ
Welcome to the LPG Shop caravanning tech hub.
Traveling in a home on wheels is pure freedom - until the gas runs out in the middle of a freezing night, or you realize a foreign fuel station uses a completely different nozzle. We know that a reliable, safe, and efficient LPG setup is the absolute backbone of any successful road trip.
This FAQ section is dedicated exclusively to caravan and motorhome enthusiasts. We’ve gathered direct, technical answers to the most common questions regarding gas systems in recreational vehicles focusing on off-grid energy independence and absolute safety.
Prepping for your next adventure and got stuck on the gas layout? If your campervan setup requires a custom approach and the answers below haven't cleared things up, feel free to drop us an email. Our technical team is ready to help you piece together a safe system for any journey.
Didn't find what you need? Please call our support team on +44 (0) 116 367 0533 or send an email at info@lpgshop.co.uk.
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GASBANK BOTTLES & UNDERSLUNG GAS TANKS
GASBANK BOTTLES & UNDERSLUNG GAS TANKS
Q: What parts do I need to be able to fill or top up my LPG Shop underslung gas tank system or Gasbank bottle kits?
A: For standard UK use, our complete kits include every essential component required for installation and filling, including the tank or cylinders, heavy-duty brackets, high-pressure fill hoses, and a UK bayonet fill point. If you are looking for a tailored, hassle-free solution, our Vehicle Specific Kits come pre-configured with the exact parts and adapters you need for your specific model. Alternatively, you can fully customise your setup using our General Underslung LPG Tank Kit Listing, which allows you to pick and choose individual components, including larger capacity tanks designed specifically for bespoke van conversions and custom off-grid projects.
Q: What adapters do I need to be able to fill up my Gasbank Single valve bottle (like the LS Single 11kg model)?
A: For standard UK use, you don't need anything extra. The UK bayonet adapter comes already attached to the bottle's top valve. If you are travelling to mainland Europe, you will need our European LPG Adapter Kit. These Euro adapters are designed to screw directly into the internal thread of the already-attached UK bayonet, allowing you to easily connect to foreign pumps across the continent without needing to remove or disassemble anything.
Q: I am about to travel abroad. What parts do I need to be able to fill up my bottles in all European countries? Will these adapters fit an external filling point on a campervan with an underslung tank for the UK, France, Spain, Portugal, etc.?
A: Yes, to fill up your Gasbank bottles or underslung LPG tank across the continent, you will need our 4-piece European Adapter Kit. These adapters are completely universal and designed to screw directly into the internal thread of your standard UK external filling point (whether it is connected to an underslung tank or a cylinder kit). This single set covers all European filling standards, including the Dish adapter (for France, Italy, and Portugal), the Euroconnector (for Spain), and the ACME adapter (for Germany, Ireland, and Belgium), ensuring you can seamlessly and safely top up your system at any autogas forecourt across Europe. You can view and purchase the correct set here: European LPG Adapter Kit.
Q: What adapters do I need to be able to fill up my Gasbank Single valve bottle (like the LS Single 11kg model)?
A: For standard UK use, you don't need anything extra. The UK bayonet adapter comes already attached to the bottle's top valve. If you are travelling to mainland Europe, you will need our European LPG Adapter Kit. These Euro adapters are designed to screw directly into the internal thread of the already-attached UK bayonet, allowing you to easily connect to foreign pumps across the continent without needing to remove or disassemble anything.
Q: Do Gasbank cylinders use a standard propane regulator?
A: Yes, Gasbank cylinders are fully compatible with standard propane regulators, but the correct operating pressure depends on your vehicle's age. For older caravans and motorhomes built before 2003/2004, a standard cylinder-mounted 37mbar propane regulator is typically used. For newer vehicles manufactured after 2003, following the introduction of the EN 1949 European standard the industry switched to a unified 30mbar gas system. These modern vehicles utilise a bulkhead-mounted regulator (such as a GOK or Cavagna unit) that connects to the Gasbank cylinder via a high-pressure pigtail hose. Always check your vehicle's gas locker data plate or appliance manual to confirm whether your system requires 30mbar or 37mbar.
Q: What regulator should I use if I have a Gasbank DUO bottle with a direct refuelling kit?
A: You can simply use your existing standard UK Propane (Calor-style) regulator or pigtail hose. Our direct refuelling kit includes a UK Soft POL adapter (the one with the rubber tip) specifically designed to match standard Calor connections. This means if you are swapping out a traditional red Calor bottle, you don’t need to buy a new regulator or a new handwheel hose; your existing setup will screw straight onto the Gasbank DUO outlet. The gas pressure will naturally match whatever your van is already set up for, whether that is an older 37mbar bottle-mounted regulator or a newer 30mbar bulkhead regulator system utilizing your current Calor pigtail.
Q: Do you have an instruction manual for Gasbank bottles?
A: Yes, you can view and download the official step-by-step documentation here: Gasbank Instruction Manual. This comprehensive guide covers parts checklists, mounting and installation procedures for single and twin cylinder sets, safety features, and important guidelines for your very first fill-up.
Q: How do I refuel Gasbank bottles?
A: You can safely refill Gasbank cylinders at any public LPG/Autogas forecourt or station across the UK and Europe. Thanks to our range of European adapters, you can seamlessly top up in different countries. For absolute safety and peace of mind, all Gasbank bottles are equipped with an integrated OPD (Overfill Prevention Device) valve that automatically cuts off the pump once the cylinder reaches 80% capacity. This built-in mechanical safety feature entirely prevents overfilling, making the refuelling process just as safe, and straightforward as filling up a petrol or diesel vehicle.
Q: Can a Gasbank Single bottle be connected to an external filling point?
A: While technically possible, doing so significantly reduces the system's usability and flexibility. Because the Gasbank Single utilizes a multi-functional single valve for both filling and gas output, you cannot have an external filling line and your regulator pigtail connected at the same time. This model is highly popular for touring caravans where the owner prefers to lift the cylinder out of the locker to refill it directly at the pump. If you want a permanently fixed setup with a remote external fill point on your vehicle, we strongly recommend choosing the Gasbank DUO instead, which features separate, dedicated inlet and outlet valves.
Q: Should the solenoid cut-off valve be installed before or after the regulator?
A: The solenoid cut-off valve must always be installed before the regulator on the high-pressure side. The internal orifice of a typical 12V LPG solenoid valve is very narrow; if you place it after the regulator on the low-pressure side (30-37mbar), the gas pressure will not be strong enough to push a sufficient volume through the tiny opening, causing the system to "choke" and starve your appliances. Placing it on the high-pressure side ensures excellent flow. For the safest and cleanest installation, we recommend using an automatic shut-off valve that screws directly into the tank’s outlet thread or multi-valve, allowing you to safely isolate the gas right at the source before it even enters the high-pressure hoses.
Q: Can I use a 37mbar regulator in my motorhome?
A: It depends entirely on the manufacturing year of your vehicle and its appliances. If your motorhome and its original appliances were built before 2003, a 37mbar propane regulator is standard. However, if your vehicle or appliances are newer (post-2003), they are strictly designed to run at 30mbar. Using a 37mbar regulator on a 30mbar system forces over 20% more gas pressure into the burners, causing poor combustion, an unstable yellow flame, a serious carbon monoxide (CO) health hazard, and permanent damage to expensive Truma or Dometic equipment. Furthermore, a basic handwheel regulator is a single-stage design, meaning gas pressure can fluctuate depending on the outside temperature and how full the cylinder is. Modern regulations strongly require a permanent, bulkhead-mounted, two-stage regulator (such as a Cavagna or GOK unit). The first stage safely drops the tank's high pressure, and the second stage precisely locks it to a constant 30mbar ensuring a flawless, safe flame for your fridge or heater whether it is a hot summer day or a freezing winter night.
Q: Can I replace my Calor gas bottle with a refillable Gasbank DUO cylinder?
A: Yes, you can seamlessly swap your traditional red Calor propane bottle for a refillable Gasbank DUO cylinder. If you select our direct refuelling kit, the transition is straightforward because the Gasbank DUO is designed to work with your existing setup. You can use your current UK POL-type pigtail hose or bottle-mounted regulator to connect the cylinder to your caravan or motorhome's gas system. IMPORTANT: The gas outlet on the Gasbank DUO valve is specifically machined to fit UK Soft POL connectors (the ones featuring a rubber nose/O-ring tip). Ensure your existing hose or regulator has this rubber tip to achieve a perfectly safe, gas-tight seal.
Q: Should I use a 30mbar or 37mbar gas regulator for my caravan or motorhome?
A: The correct regulator pressure depends entirely on the manufacturing year of your vehicle. For caravans and motorhomes built before September 2003, the UK standard required separate operating pressures depending on the gas type: 37mbar for propane and 28mbar for butane. However, following the introduction of the European safety standard BS EN 1949 (starting with the 2004 model year), operating pressures were fully harmonised across the UK and Europe to a uniform 30mbar for all LPG blends. If your vehicle was manufactured after September 2003, it will be factory-fitted to use a 30mbar regulator (typically bulkhead-mounted) to ensure your appliances burn safely and efficiently. Always check the data plate inside your gas locker to confirm your system's specific requirements.
Q: Where can I get my Gasbank bottles or underslung LPG gas tank installed safely in the UK?
A: While many customers choose to install Gasbank cylinders or underslung tanks themselves, gas safety is paramount. If you do not feel comfortable handling high-pressure gas connections or completing the physical installation, we strongly recommend using a professional. To make this easier for you, we maintain a comprehensive network of approved workshops across the country. You can find a qualified local technician to safely fit and pressure-test your system on our certified Gasbank Installer List.
Q: Is there a quick-release gas regulator available for refillable LPG cylinders?
A: No, a petrol-pump style quick-release mechanism or quick-disconnect solution for a primary vehicle gas regulator does not exist. While tool-free "clip-on" regulators are common for portable patio BBQs or low-pressure outdoor gear, the high-pressure side of a motorhome or caravan gas network requires a robust, mechanically threaded connection (such as a POL or W21.8 pigtail hose). Because these systems must withstand constant vehicle vibration and contain high-pressure liquid petroleum gas safely right at the cylinder valve, standard quick-release fittings are neither technically viable nor legally permitted for this specific application. Everything must be securely tightened with a spanner or handwheel to guarantee a completely airtight seal.
Q: Is installing an underslung LPG gas tank straightforward?
A: Whether the installation is straightforward depends largely on your mechanical experience and the tools you have available. The kits themselves are designed to be as user-friendly as possible, featuring vehicle-specific or universal brackets that are engineered to align with existing mounting points on your chassis. However, because the job requires working underneath the vehicle, safely routing high-pressure lines away from the exhaust and suspension, and drilling a hole for the external filling point, it does require a good level of technical competence. If you have the right tools like vehicle ramps and proper technical equipment, the step-by-step process is highly logical. To help you judge if this is a project you want to tackle yourself, you can review the full installation steps in detail. You will find the manual here. If you review the instructions and decide it's a bit more than you want to take on, you don't have to worry. You can simply hand it over to a professional by picking a qualified garage from our installer list to find an approved fitter nearby right where you live.
Q: What is the guarantee and service life? (Gasbank)
A: All Gasbank cylinders come with a 24-month (2-year) manufacturer's warranty covering the cylinder and its integrated safety valves.
Q: Why is my Gasbank direct fill adapter stuck and can it be removed?
A: On our direct-fill setups, filling adapters are permanently bonded at the high-strength threadlock to ensure a leak-free seal. Please do not attempt to force them off with tools, as this will permanently damage the cylinder's main valve body. We secure them permanently because constant removal wears down the brass threads over time, while undertightening or overtightening by hand risks damaging the cylinder or causing dangerous high pressure leaks at the pump. Since these adapters cannot be shared between cylinders, the safest solution is to leave it in place and purchase a separate adapter for your second bottle.
Q: Does the Gasbank refillable cylinder come with a UK bayonet filling adapter?
A: Yes, the UK bayonet fitting comes as standard with Gasbank cylinders. This allows you to either fill the bottle directly at the valve or connect it to an external filling point mounted on your vehicle's body or chassis. It is important to note that the bare cylinder valve itself cannot connect directly to an LPG forecourt nozzle. You must have either the direct-fill adapter or an external filling kit (Gasbank Connection Box) installed to safely connect to the pump at a station.
Q: Can I replace standard non-refillable gas bottles with a Gasbank twin cylinder kit?
A: Yes, Gasbank kits are designed to directly replace your traditional non-refillable gas bottles. Our complete twin-cylinder kits include all the necessary hoses, adapters, and high-pressure fittings required to seamlessly transition from your old setup to a modern refillable system. Because Gasbank cylinders closely match standard industry dimensions, in most cases they will sit perfectly in your existing motorhome or caravan gas locker, allowing you to connect directly to your vehicle's current regulator or gas network without needing to buy any extra external accessories.
Q: Where can I refill my Gasbank LPG cylinders in the UK and Europe?
A: You can refill Gasbank bottles at any public autogas station equipped with an LPG pump across the United Kingdom and European countries. Because Gasbank cylinders feature an integrated 80% automatic shut-off safety valve, they can be safely refilled at standard forecourts just like an LPG-powered vehicle. To plan your trip or easily locate your nearest filling point, you can view the live interactive map on the: https://www.mylpg.eu/stations/united-kingdom/#map
Q: Can I connect refillable LPG bottles to my existing caravan or motorhome gas system?
A: Yes, you can generally reuse most of your existing gas system, but it depends on the specific components currently fitted to your vehicle. Major parts like your bulkhead regulator, internal copper pipework, and manifold can remain exactly as they are. In most cases, making the switch simply requires updating the high-pressure side of the setup, such as swapping out your old cylinder pigtail hoses or using specific adapters to match the new refillable bottle valves.
Q: Why didn't my new Gasbank cylinder automatically cut off during the first fill?
A: The quick-start label on your cylinder outlines that during the very first filling, you must manually limit the volume based on your bottle size: 6L max for 5kg, 10L max for 7.5kg, and 15L max for 11kg. Brand new cylinders might contain atmospheric air, which creates a pocket of differential pressure that can temporarily prevent the 80% automatic shut-off float from closing on the initial fill. This is a normal, one-off occurrence, and this trapped air will naturally bleed out of the system as you run your gas appliances. On all subsequent refills, the air pocket will be completely gone, and the internal safety valve will cut off automatically at the correct level.
Q: Where can I download the installation guide or instruction manual for my Gasbank order?
A: You can easily view, save, or print your step-by-step instructions anytime by accessing this link: Download the PDF Manual Here.
Q: Where can I download the installation guide or instruction manual for my Underslung gas tank order?
A: You can easily view, save, or print your step-by-step instructions anytime by accessing this link: Download the PDF Manual Here.
Q: Why is my new Gasbank refillable LPG cylinder making a rattling or tingling noise?
A: The rattling sound you hear when moving the cylinder is completely normal and is caused by an internal non-return safety valve. Because Gasbank DUO cylinders feature separate pathways for filling and discharging gas, a small check ball is housed inside the inlet valve to prevent gas from escaping backward out of the filling point. When the bottle is moved around, this safety ball can freely rattle against its housing. As long as you have verified that there are no actual gas leaks, your cylinder is perfectly safe to use, and this noise will typically stop once the system is connected to your vehicle and the outlet valve is opened under pressure.
Q: How do you check the gas level in Gasbank refillable cylinders?
A: How you check your gas level depends entirely on which Gasbank model you own. For Single or DUO composite bottles, you can use an external digital cylinder scale like the Gasview LPG Cylinder Scale or simply shine a bright torch against the side of the tank, as the inner core is semi-transparent. If you have the steel Gasbank LS bottles, they are designed to pair perfectly with Mopeka Pro ultrasonic sensors placed underneath. For composite MULTI bottles, a mechanical float gauge is built right into the multivalve for quick visual checks; you can also upgrade this gauge to a digital DIMES sensor to sync the level to a smartphone app or dashboard LED, or wire it directly into advanced campervan hubs like the Victron Cerbo GX using the standard resistance sensor slots.
Q: Is it safe to install an LPG regulator outside under a motorhome?
A: Yes, it is both safe and standard practice to install the regulator outside beneath the vehicle. According to UK and European safety standards (BS EN 1949), keeping the regulator outside is the required method for an underslung setup unless you are piping directly into a sealed gas locker. Gas pressure straight out of the tank is incredibly high (around 12 bar), and safety codes mandate that this high-pressure stage must be kept entirely outside the habitation area to prevent dangerous leaks inside your living space. Regulations also dictate that the high-pressure pigtail hose must be kept as short as possible (ideally under 75cm). By mounting the regulator externally—secured safely above the tank or on the chassis where it is protected from road debris—you ensure that only safe, regulated low-pressure (30 mbar) gas ever crosses into your vehicle's living space.
Q: Will an underslung LPG tank kit fit on a motorhome manufactured after 2020
A: Yes, these kits can absolutely fit newer vehicles manufactured after 2020, as suitability depends entirely on your physical chassis measurements rather than the model year. To ensure a safe and legal fit, you just need to measure your under-carriage space against a few key installation rules. The tank can never be the lowest point of your vehicle, meaning structural elements like the axle or suspension must sit lower than the tank to protect it. It also requires a minimum ground clearance of 20cm once fully installed. Additionally, to manage heat and emissions safely, the tank must maintain at least a 25cm clearance from the exhaust system, and the exhaust gases must not blow directly onto the tank surface. If your modern chassis meets these dimensional safety requirements, the kit will fit perfectly.
Q: Is a Gasbank DUO or Single refillable cylinder better for a caravan?
A: Yes, the DUO bottle is the right choice for your caravan if you want to install a permanent external filling point on the side of your vehicle, as its separate inlet and outlet valves allow you to fill up without disconnecting your internal gas lines. However, if you do not plan to fit an external remote filling kit and prefer to simply take the bottle out to refill it directly at the pump, then the standard Gasbank Single Cylinder is the ideal and most practical option for a traditional caravan setup.
Q: Where is the best location to mount an underslung LPG gas tank?
A: There is no single mandatory mounting location under the vehicle, as the optimal placement depends entirely on your specific chassis layout and existing equipment. The most common and practical position is mid-chassis, situated just in front of the main exhaust silencer box toward the front of the vehicle where structural space is typically clearest. Another excellent option is the cavity just behind the rear axle, though this area is often already utilized for fresh or waste water tanks on factory conversions. Alternatively, if you choose a toroidal (doughnut shaped) tank, it is specifically engineered to mount directly into the vacant spare wheel bay, providing a clean, space saving solution that leaves the rest of your chassis completely free.
Q: Do you offer installation services for Gasbank cylinders and underslung LPG tanks?
A: We do not offer an installation service ourselves, but we can certainly help you get it sorted. You can easily find a qualified professional by checking our approved Installer List to locate an approved specialist nearby. If you are unsure about the setup or can't quite sort out the installation details yourself, you can always ask one of the professional fitters from our list or contact us directly so we can help guide you to the right installer for your vehicle.
Q: Can the Mopeka Pro Check Sensor be used on an underslung under van water tank?
A: Yes, the Mopeka Pro Universal Sensor can be fitted to an external, underslung water tank under your van. Because most under van fresh or waste water tanks are made of plastic or polyethylene, the sensor cannot attach magnetically like it does on steel gas bottles. Instead, you mount it to the flat center bottom of the tank using the specialized adhesive mounting collar and sonic grease provided in the kit. The sensor then fires an ultrasonic beam upward through the tank wall to accurately measure the liquid level.
Q: Are there no-drill underslung LPG tank mounting brackets for campervans?
A: Yes, we offer heavy duty, vehicle specific chassis mounting kits designed to bolt directly into the frame under the vehicle, completely eliminating the need to drill through your van's floor or disturb your interior living space. We currently stock these specialized no-drill brackets for two major van platforms: the Fiat Ducato / Peugeot Boxer / Citroen Relay (2006-Present) Bracket Kit and the Mercedes Sprinter / VW Crafter (2006-2016) Bracket Kit.
Q: What is the unconnected valve with a red cap on an underslung LPG tank?
A: That unconnected component is the Pressure Relief Valve (PRV), which is a critical safety feature designed to remain open to the atmosphere. Its sole purpose is to automatically vent vapour if the internal pressure inside the tank ever exceeds safe limits (such as in extreme heat), protecting the tank from over-pressurisation. It should never be piped or connected to any appliances, and you should always leave the protective red plastic cap firmly in place, as it shields the internal mechanism from being clogged by road grime, mud, or water without blocking its ability to vent in an emergency.
Q: Can you use a Mopeka Pro sensor on an underslung LPG tank?
A: No. Mopeka sensors are designed for vertical steel cylinders. For underslung tanks, we recommend a dedicated solution, such as the Livello LED sender and indicator system.
ACCESSORIES, FIXINGS & OTHER
Q: Can I run the TriGas Alarm continuously 24/7?
A: Physically, yes. The device is robust enough to run continuously without breaking down. However, the manufacturer does not recommend 24/7 operation for two practical reasons. First, because it is designed to detect both LPG and narcotic/KO gases, the sensor is exceptionally sensitive; leaving it on during the day will likely trigger frequent false alarms from everyday things like deodorants, cooking fumes, and cleaning sprays. Second, the internal sensor requires constant heating to detect these gases, drawing more than 2.0 Ah per day from your leisure battery. If you are parked off-grid without solar power or a mains hookup, this will completely drain a standard battery within a few weeks. If you strictly need a permanent 24/7 monitor while away from your van, a dedicated LPG-only detector is a much better fit, as it consumes a fraction of the power and is far less prone to daytime false alarms.
Q: Can I use a Mopeka Universal Pro sensor on a composite gas bottle?
A: No, the Mopeka Universal Pro sensor is not compatible with composite cylinders. The multi-layered construction of a composite base disperses the ultrasonic sonar waves, causing the signal to drop out completely. However, it works flawlessly on single-layer metal surfaces. You can use it perfectly with our Gasbank Light Steel bottles and aluminium cylinders, where the sonic wave can pass cleanly through the metal to provide a highly accurate gas level reading.
Q: What is LPG, and is autogas propane or butane?
A: LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is actually a blend of both propane and butane. When you fill up your underslung tank or Gasbank cylinders at an autogas forecourt, the exact ratio of these two gases varies depending on the season and the country you are visiting. In the UK and colder northern European climates, the winter mix features a much higher percentage of propane because it can vaporise at freezing temperatures down to -42°C. In warmer southern countries or during the summer, the blend contains more butane, which naturally increases the overall calorific (heating) efficiency but requires temperatures above 0°C to turn from a liquid into a usable gas.
Q: How much does a litre of LPG weigh?
A: The density of LPG varies slightly depending on the temperature and the specific mixture of propane and butane, but a reliable rule of thumb for your calculations is that 2 litres of LPG is approximately equal to 1 kilogram. This conversion is helpful when planning your payload or estimating how much gas you have available for your next trip.
Q: How many kWh of energy are in a litre of LPG?
A: On average, one litre of LPG contains approximately 6.7 kWh of energy. The exact figure fluctuates slightly depending on the seasonal blend of the gas. Butane has a higher energy density than propane, meaning a summer mix (which features more butane) delivers a slightly higher kWh output per litre. Conversely, a winter mix (which contains more propane to ensure the gas vaporises in freezing temperatures) sits slightly lower. For calculating appliance consumption and battery-to-gas efficiency in your motorhome, 6.7 kWh per litre is the ideal baseline to use.
Q: Will using two identical campervan roof fans like Maxxfan cause remote control interference?
A: Running a two fan setup is a fantastic choice for campervans because it allows you to configure one as an intake and the other as an exhaust, creating a highly efficient ventilation loop that rapidly cools your living space, clears condensation, and dries gear quickly. You can easily control them independently just by pointing the remote directly at the specific fan you want to adjust. This keeps their signals separated, allowing both units to work perfectly together in your van without any frustrating cross-interference.
Q: Wiring diagram and installation guide for the Livello LPG level indicator.
A: Connecting the Livello gas level indicator is a straightforward process that links your internal LED display to the tank's level gauge sender using the provided 3-meter extension cable. The system relies on three basic circuits: a data signal path (linking the green and brown wires), a shared chassis ground for both ends (black and blue wires), and a 12V fused power supply to illuminate the LED indicator inside the van. For the exact wire routing, color-coding, and switch placement, please refer to the attached Livello connection manual.