EN 1949 Standard: The European Benchmark for Safe LPG Systems in Motorhomes and Caravans

As the owner of an RV camper, caravan, or other recreational vehicle, safety regarding gas installations is of utmost importance. The EN 1949:2021 standard is the key European directive that guarantees this safety. In this article, we explain what this standard entails and why it matters to you.

The following related tutorials are associated with this article:

LPG installation in a recreational vehicle like a RV Camper, Caravan or Food Truck

LPG Vapor Tanks for RV Campers, Caravans and Food Trucks

Pressure Regulators for Gas Bottles and Vapor Tanks

Installation instructions for LPG cylinder tanks (vapor tanks) in (recreational) vehicles

G607 approval (EN 1949)

What is an LPG Gas Bottle and what different types are there?

What is the EN 1949 standard?

EN 1949:2021 is the latest version of the European standard titled "LPG systems and accessories - LPG systems for domestic use in leisure accommodation vehicles like RV campers, caravans and lightweight residential trailers". This standard specifies the essential safety requirements, test methods, and performance criteria for the installation of LPG systems in recreational vehicles.

For which vehicles does the standard apply?

• 1. RV Campers and Motorhomes
  2. Caravans and Trailers
  3. Other mobile dwellings such as tiny houses on wheels

Key requirements of the EN 1949:2021 standard

1. Pressure Regulation and Gas Appliances

The standard prescribes that the high pressure from the gas bottle or tank must be reduced to a safe, constant low pressure. This is the primary task of a pressure regulator, which must meet specific requirements for flow, pressure regulation, and durability.

2. Safety Devices

1. Impact Sensor (crash sensor): Mandatory for systems that are allowed to consume gas while driving. This sensor shuts off the gas supply in the event of a collision or hard impact.
2. Hose Rupture Valve: Must be applied to high-pressure hoses. This valve cuts off the gas supply if the hose tears or breaks.
3. Main Shut-off Valve: An easily accessible main valve directly after the gas bottle or tank.

3. Materials and Components

Every component in the LPG system – from pipes and hoses to fittings and valves – must itself comply with the relevant European standards and be suitable for use with LPG.

4. Installation Regulations

1. Gas lines must be protected from damage, vibrations, and heat.
2. There must be sufficient ventilation to prevent gas accumulation.
3. The gas bottle/tank and shut-off valves must be easily accessible.

5. Final Inspection and Documentation

After installation, the complete system must be checked for leaks. The end user must receive an installation certificate and a clear user manual.

Why is compliance with this standard so important?

Insurance, Legal Obligation, and Safety:

1. Many insurance companies may refuse a claim if it turns out that a non-compliant LPG installation was the cause of damage.
2. Legal Obligation: In many European countries, compliance with EN 1949 is mandatory for the type approval and installation of LPG systems.
3. Safety: It prevents unsafe situations and protects your life and that of others.
4. Peace of Mind: You can travel carefree, knowing that your gas installation meets the highest safety standards.

Want to know what else an LPG installation must comply with? Then read this article: LPG installation in an RV Camper, Caravan, Foodtruck or Motorhome

Does the EN 1949 standard prescribe the mounting of LPG tanks or gas bottles?

This is a frequently asked and crucial question when it comes to the safety of LPG systems in RV campers and caravans. The short answer is:

No, the EN 1949 standard does not specifically prescribe how an LPG tank or gas bottle must be mechanically mounted.

Let's look at what the EN 1949 standard does cover and which other rules and standards apply to mounting.

What does the EN 1949 standard cover?

EN 1949 focuses on the safety of the LPG system itself, from the outlet of the gas bottle or tank up to and including the connection to the gas appliances. The main topics are:

1. Pressure regulation (pressure regulators)
2. Safety devices (impact sensors, hose rupture valves)
3. The pipes and hoses in the low- and high-pressure lines
4. The connections and couplings
5. The integration and performance of the system as a whole

Which rules then do apply to mounting?

The mechanical mounting of LPG tanks and gas bottles is at least as important for safety. This falls under the following regulations:

1. Type Approval of the Vehicle: For RV campers and caravans produced in series, the mounting of the LPG provision (including the tank) is part of the European type approval. The construction and mounting must meet the requirements of the relevant technical service that grants the approval.
2. National Guidelines for Installation (such as NPR 2577 in the Netherlands): This guideline, often applied in individual conversions, does contain very specific requirements for the mounting of gas tanks and gas bottles. It states, for example:
   • Tanks must be mounted with suitable, galvanized or stainless steel mounting straps or clamps.
   • The mounting must withstand forces in all directions (especially in a collision).
   • There must be sufficient distance to the bodywork to prevent corrosion.
   • Gas bottles in a cabinet must be secured firmly so they cannot tip over or roll.
3. General Construction Principles: Regardless of the standard, the mounting must always comply with general principles of sound workmanship:
   • Robustness: The mounting must keep the tank or bottle securely in place, even during hard braking or an accident.
   • Corrosion Resistance: Mounting materials must be resistant to environmental conditions.
   • Accessibility: The bottle or tank must remain accessible for inspection, replacement, and operating the shut-off valve.

Conclusion

Think of the safety of your LPG system in two parts:

1. Part 1 (Gas Installation): Described in EN 1949. This includes the pressure regulators, pipes, filters, and safety devices.
2. Part 2 (Mechanical Mounting): Described in vehicle-specific type approvals and national installation guidelines such as NPR 2577. This includes the brackets, straps, and clamps that physically hold the tank or bottle in place.

Note: This article serves as a general introduction. The official EN 1949:2021 standard is the definitive document for specifications and legal requirements.

Want to know what else an LPG installation must comply with? Then read this article: LPG installation in an RV Camper, Caravan, Foodtruck or Motorhome

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Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended solely as an aid and has been compiled to align as well as possible with applicable regulations and guidelines. National regulations may deviate from this or impose additional requirements. Installers and users are themselves responsible for (having) the gas installation checked and complying with applicable local laws and regulations. Always consult a certified professional for this.

Despite the care with which this information has been compiled, there is a possibility of errors and omissions. No rights can be derived from this article. The most recent and local official standards and regulations are always leading.

In addition to this specific disclaimer, our general disclaimer also applies, the link to which can be found in the menu in the footer (page end).