Annual Gas System Safety Check
What to inspect on your motorhome's gas system every year to keep it safe and compliant.
What This Is
The gas system in a motorhome should be inspected by a Gas Safe registered engineer every 12 months. However, there are visual checks you can carry out yourself between services to spot obvious problems early.
Tools & Parts Required
- Leak detection spray or soapy water
- Torch
- Screwdriver (to access panels)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Inspect the gas hose connecting the regulator to the motorhome's internal pipework. Look for cracks, kinks, abrasion, or signs of perishing. The hose should be replaced every 5 years regardless of condition.
- 2
Check the regulator for signs of corrosion, damage, or a cracked body. The regulator should be replaced every 10 years.
- 3
Inspect all visible gas pipework inside the vehicle. Copper pipes should be free of green corrosion and firmly clipped. Flexible connections at appliances should not be kinked or stretched.
- 4
Check the gas locker ventilation holes are clear and unobstructed. These are critical for allowing any leaked gas to escape safely.
- 5
Test each appliance for correct ignition and flame pattern. A healthy gas flame is blue. A yellow or orange flame indicates incomplete combustion and requires attention.
- 6
Check that the carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is fitted, functioning, and within its replacement date (typically 5–7 years). Test it using the test button.
- 7
Perform a pressure drop test: close all appliances, open the bottle, note the regulator pressure gauge reading, then close the bottle valve. If the pressure drops over 2 minutes, there is a leak somewhere in the system.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming the gas system is fine because it worked last year.
- Ignoring a yellow or orange flame — this indicates a combustion problem.
- Forgetting to check the CO alarm — it is a legal requirement in many circumstances and a life-saver.
Safety Warnings
- This guide covers visual checks only. A full gas safety inspection MUST be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer annually.
- If you detect a gas leak at any point, close the bottle valve, ventilate the area, and do not use any electrical switches or naked flames.
- Carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless. A CO alarm is essential — not optional.
When to Call a Professional
Book an annual gas safety inspection with a Gas Safe registered motorhome engineer. Do not attempt to repair gas pipework, regulators, or appliance connections yourself.
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