Why shouldn't the gas locker be used as a storage locker?
The gas locker in a motorhome or caravan should not be used as storage for other items – for safety reasons . Here's an overview of the most important reasons:
🔥 1. Fire protection and explosion hazard
- The gas locker contains gas cylinders filled with flammable propane gas .
- If you have other items (e.g. If you store items such as tools, spray cans, cleaning agents, etc. in the gas locker, there is a risk that:
- Something sparks
- Aerosol cans explode (when heated)
- Something damaged the gas lines
- Even a small spark from a gas leak can cause an explosion.
🧯 2. Gas inspection requirements / EKAS 6517
- In Switzerland (and many other countries) strict regulations apply according to DIN EN 1949 and other standards.
- Gas boxes must:
- be gas-tight to the interior
- have a downward vent (gas is heavier than air)
- If foreign objects are packed inside, the following can happen:
- the ventilation will be blocked
- The gas inspection was failed.
- The vehicle's operating permit may be jeopardized due to failing the gas inspection.
🔧 3. Mechanical damage
- Other objects can shift while driving and:
- damage the gas lines
- Loosen or leak valves or regulators
- obstruct access to the gas cylinders
📦 4th place is not the same as 4th place
- Even though it's tempting to use "free space" – when it comes to the gas locker, safety takes precedence over storage space .
✅ Conclusion:
The gas locker is intended exclusively for gas cylinders and associated safety equipment – not for general storage.
If you need more storage space, it's better to use separate storage compartments or external storage boxes.
