Why 30 mbar Gas Pressure Regulators Are (Almost) Never Permitted in Germany

The question often arises: Why can’t I simply connect my 30 mbar gas barbecue to a German gas cylinder? The answer lies in a complex interplay of technology, standards, and safety regulations. This article clarifies who is permitted to use 30 mbar and why 50 mbar is almost always the standard in Germany.

Whether it’s a camping stove from Italy or a gas barbecue from a Dutch retailer, many foreign appliances are designed for an operating pressure of 30 mbar. However, in Germany, such devices quickly encounter legal limitations. The reason: the standard pressure for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems in households and leisure areas is 50 mbar. Conversely, 30 mbar is only permissible or prescribed in specific cases—such as in motorhomes or caravans. This article explains why 30 mbar is generally not allowed in Germany, the technical and normative differences behind this, and the options available for compliant use.

What Does the Difference Between 30 and 50 mbar Actually Mean?

The specifications “30 mbar” and “50 mbar” refer to the nominal pressure of a gas appliance or pressure regulator. This denotes the pressure at which gas flows from the regulator to the appliance. It concerns a low-pressure range crucial for the safe operation of LPG appliances.

Technically, pressure directly influences the required volumetric flow rate. At 30 mbar, a higher volumetric flow is needed to deliver the same amount of gas compared to 50 mbar. Therefore, 30 mbar appliances typically have larger burner nozzles than 50 mbar appliances. The performance of a gas appliance thus depends not only on pressure but also on the combination of pressure and nozzle cross-section.

An incorrect combination of these factors can lead to problems: if the nozzle size isn’t suited to the existing pressure, issues like incomplete combustion, overheating, or inadequate performance may arise. Hence, it’s essential that pressure regulators and connected gas appliances are always matched appropriately.

 

Why Is 50 mbar the Standard in Germany?

The operating pressure of 50 mbar has been established in Germany for decades and is anchored in national regulations as the standard. This value originally stemmed from practical experiences with household and garden gas appliances that rely on this pressure for sufficient heating performance and stable combustion.

A significant advantage of 50 mbar is the higher gas throughput with consistent nozzle size. This allows high-performance devices like gas barbecues, patio heaters, or cooktops to operate efficiently. Moreover, it’s been observed that 50 mbar facilitates particularly clean and even combustion when burner nozzles are appropriately designed.

From a normative perspective, the 50 mbar value has also prevailed. In Germany, the Technical Rules for LPG (TRF) and corresponding DVGW codes specify this pressure for nearly all stationary and mobile installations. The appliance industry has adapted accordingly: LPG appliances approved in Germany for home and garden use are designed for 50 mbar and are CE-certified (marked G50).

Other European countries primarily use 30 mbar due to historical reasons. A complete EU-wide harmonization currently exists only for specific applications, such as camping vehicles.

Why Are 30 mbar Pressure Regulators (Mostly) Not Allowed in Germany?

The primary legal basis for operating LPG appliances in Germany is the DVGW regulations and the Technical Rules for LPG (TRF). These clearly define that in fixed installations (e.g., gas stoves in residential buildings) and mobile leisure devices outdoors (gas barbecues, patio heaters, etc.), only a connection pressure of 50 mbar is permissible. Pressure regulators with 30 mbar are not allowed in these areas.

The prohibition isn’t primarily due to a lack of safety features but because 30 mbar pressure regulators are simply not included in the relevant German regulations. The TRF and pertinent DVGW codes exclusively define a connection pressure of 50 mbar as the permissible operating pressure for stationary and mobile installations outside of camping vehicles. Since 30 mbar isn’t mentioned, using such regulators in these areas is, by definition, not permitted.

Additionally, the risk of misuse is high: if a 30 mbar appliance is accidentally operated with a 50 mbar regulator, dangers like overheating, incomplete combustion, or even fire hazards can occur. To eliminate such risks, German regulations emphasize standardization and prescribe 50 mbar as the uniform standard pressure.

In summary: 30 mbar regulators may only be used in Germany where explicitly intended—particularly in camping vehicles according to European standard DIN EN 1949. In all other cases, operation is not permitted and may have legal and insurance implications.

When and Where Is 30 mbar Permitted—in Caravans or Motorhomes?

While 30 mbar pressure regulators are generally not permitted in most areas in Germany, there’s a significant exception: camping vehicles like caravans and motorhomes. Here, the European standard DIN EN 1949 Annex D applies, defining an operating pressure of 30 mbar as standard. These requirements have been adopted in Germany into DVGW Code G 607 and have been mandatory for newly approved leisure vehicles since 2006.

This means: all newer motorhomes and caravans must, since 2006, be operated with a gas system designed for 30 mbar. Vehicles built before the introduction of this standard in 2006 with a 50 mbar system are protected under a grandfather clause. They may continue to be operated and will not face objections during gas inspections. Converting to 30 mbar in such cases is voluntary but not required.

The use of 30 mbar appliances at permanently installed external gas sockets on motorhomes or caravans is also permitted. These are directly connected to the onboard system, operate at the same operating pressure, and are legally considered part of the vehicle installation. The prerequisite is that the appliances used are designed for 30 mbar and are operated with suitable connections.

Why Is Operating 30 mbar on 50 mbar (and Vice Versa) Problematic?

Combining different nominal pressures between the appliance and the regulator is not only technically problematic but also a safety concern and, in most cases, impermissible.

Operating a 30 mbar appliance with a 50 mbar regulator is prohibited. The higher pressure results in a significantly increased gas supply, for which the appliance is not designed. Consequences include excessively large flames, incomplete combustion, potential overheating, and, in extreme cases, a fire hazard. Mechanical components such as seals and valves can also be damaged by the excessive pressure. The DVGW Code of Practice G 612 explicitly prohibits this operation.

Conversely, operating a 50 mbar appliance with a 30 mbar regulator is also technically unsound. The pressure is generally insufficient to deliver the necessary gas flow. The appliance operates with inadequate performance, does not heat properly, and often exhibits incomplete combustion with increased soot emissions. This operation is also not permitted according to regulations, as the appliance is used outside its specified operating conditions.

An exception is made for special technical solutions such as so-called upstream regulators. These can be used in motorhomes when a single 30 mbar appliance is to be operated within an existing 50 mbar system. The prerequisite is a professional installation with safety precautions such as a blow-off line to the outside. However, such a conversion is not legally permitted in private areas, such as gardens.

In short: Regulators and gas appliances must always match. The nominal pressure is indicated on the nameplate of each appliance – and this value must exactly match the output pressure of the regulator used.

What to Do with Imported Gas Appliances Designed for 30 mbar?

Purchasing a gas appliance in or from abroad – for example, in the Netherlands, France, the USA, or Italy – often leads to a problem: many of these appliances are designed for an operating pressure of 30 mbar. In Germany, they are generally not approved for connection to conventional LPG cylinders. Nevertheless, there are some ways to handle this:

1. Operation via the Vehicle Gas System: If you have a motorhome or caravan with a 30 mbar system, imported 30 mbar appliances can be operated via the external socket there. This is part of the onboard system and is intended for this pressure – usage is permissible in this case. However, the gas appliances should, of course, be intended for camping & caravanning. It is illogical to park the recreational vehicle in the garden, run a hose from the external gas socket to a six-burner stationary 30 mbar gas grill, and operate it via the onboard system.

2. Conversion by the Manufacturer: Some manufacturers offer conversion kits or alternative nozzles for operation at 50 mbar. However, such a conversion is not always officially approved. If the conversion is carried out without acceptance by a specialist workshop, the operating permit may expire, and insurance coverage may be jeopardized in the event of damage.

3. Return or Exchange: If the appliance is new and unused, exchanging it for a 50 mbar-compatible model is often the simplest solution. Many retailers are aware of the issue and offer appropriate variants for the German market.

In principle: Even if a 30 mbar appliance can technically be put into operation, this does not mean it is permissible in Germany. In case of doubt, one should seek advice before purchasing or using – for example, from a specialist retailer or a gas installer.

Conclusion: 50 mbar as the German Standard with Clear Exceptions

In Germany, the connection pressure of 50 mbar for LPG systems has been established for decades and is firmly anchored in technical regulations. It applies to almost all stationary and mobile applications in the home, garden, and leisure sectors. The operation of appliances with 30 mbar is only permissible where explicitly provided – for example, in gas systems of motorhomes and caravans according to European specifications.

The regulatory situation is clear: What is not expressly permitted is considered impermissible. Since 30 mbar is not listed in the TRF and relevant DVGW codes of practice, such appliances may not be used in regular operation. The reason is not technical distrust but the consistent implementation of safety requirements and standardization.

For end users, this means: When purchasing and operating gas appliances, attention must be paid to the specified nominal pressure. For private use in Germany, 50 mbar is the standard. Exceptions confirm – as so often – the rule.

FAQ: The Most Frequently Asked Questions About 30 and 50 mbar Gas Pressure Regulators

Why are 30 mbar gas pressure regulators prohibited in Germany?
Because the relevant German regulations – particularly the TRF and DVGW codes of practice – define only 50 mbar as the permissible operating pressure. 30 mbar is not mentioned there and is therefore fundamentally not allowed.

Where can I legally operate 30 mbar appliances?
In motorhomes and caravans with a suitable 30 mbar gas system. The prerequisite is that the appliances are designed for this pressure and the connection is made via the vehicle’s onboard installation.

Can I operate a 30 mbar appliance with a 50 mbar regulator?
No. This is prohibited and dangerous. The excessive gas supply can result in improper combustion, overheating, or even fire.

What happens if I operate a 50 mbar appliance with 30 mbar?
The appliance usually does not function properly: the performance is insufficient, and the burner operates incompletely. This is also impermissible under the regulations.

Can I use an upstream regulator to adapt 30 mbar to 50 mbar?
Only in specifically approved cases, e.g. within a vehicle with a professionally installed system. Use with cylinder systems outdoors is not permitted.

What about gas appliances from abroad, e.g. the Netherlands or Italy?
These appliances are often designed for 30 mbar. They may only be operated in Germany if connected to a suitable 30 mbar vehicle system or – if technically feasible – officially converted by the manufacturer to 50 mbar.

How can I tell which pressure my appliance requires?
The nominal pressure is stated on the appliance’s nameplate and on the pressure regulator. Both values must match.