{"id":9644,"date":"2025-06-18T07:00:45","date_gmt":"2025-06-18T05:00:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gok-blog.de\/2019\/02\/04\/can-i-store-or-set-up-the-lpg-cylinder-in-the-cellar\/"},"modified":"2026-05-26T15:40:41","modified_gmt":"2026-05-26T13:40:41","slug":"storing-gas-cylinders-in-the-basement-permitted-or-prohibited","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gok-blog.de\/en\/storing-gas-cylinders-in-the-basement-permitted-or-prohibited\/","title":{"rendered":"Storing gas cylinders in the basement: permitted or prohibited?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Storing gas cylinders in the basement of residential buildings \u2013 is it allowed?<\/strong> We explain what is possible, where clear limits are set, and what you should consider when storing them.<\/p>\n

Especially in households where LPG is only occasionally used \u2013 for example for barbecues, heaters or emergency use during power outages \u2013 the basement may seem like a practical storage location. But this is precisely where a frequently underestimated danger lurks: LPG is heavier than air, can escape in the event of leaks, and accumulate at the lowest point of a room. The result in the event of a leak? A dangerous gas concentration may occur, which could become ignitable under unfavourable conditions. In addition, inhaling LPG can lead to oxygen deficiency and, as a consequence, to unconsciousness. This article explains the applicable regulations<\/strong>, why they make sense<\/strong>, and how to store your gas cylinders safely<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Am I allowed to store a gas cylinder in the basement?<\/span><\/h2>\n

In short: No, this is not permitted<\/strong> \u2013 neither in private households nor in commercial settings. This applies regardless of whether the cylinder is full, half-full, or seemingly \u201cempty\u201d. LPG is a highly flammable substance that can quickly accumulate at the lowest point of a room in the event of a leak \u2013 and in basements, i.e. rooms below ground level, this is almost always the case.<\/p>\n

Many people mistakenly believe that enclosed cellar or utility rooms are safe. In fact, the opposite is true: a leaky valve, damaged seal, or accidental heating can be enough to generate dangerous gas concentrations. Even small quantities are sufficient to create an explosive atmosphere.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s why storage in basements, underground garages or similar areas below ground level is strictly prohibited \u2013 and for good reason.<\/p>\n

\""As\"<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/span>What do the regulations specifically say?<\/span><\/h2>\n

The Technical Rules for LPG (TRF 2021)<\/strong> define the provisions for private use<\/strong>. They clearly state: storage in rooms below ground level is not permitted. This includes any rooms whose floor lies more than 1 metre below the surrounding terrain. This applies to typical basements as well as poorly ventilated, low-lying storage areas or shafts. Also prohibited is the placement and storage of LPG cylinders in bedrooms!<\/p>\n

For commercial use<\/strong>, the DGUV Rule 110-010<\/strong> applies additionally. It likewise prohibits storage in enclosed spaces below ground level. Even reserve cylinders must not be placed there. Regardless of the storage quantity, no storage is allowed in passageways (e.g. stairwells, escape and rescue routes, corridors, narrow courtyards). Storage would only be permitted under very specific technical conditions \u2013 such as in specially ventilated and explosion-protected areas. These are practically unfeasible in typical settings.<\/p>\n

Both regulations agree on one key message: no LPG cylinder storage in the basement<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\""Even\"<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/span>Why is LPG in the basement so problematic?<\/span><\/h2>\n

LPG \u2013 i.e. propane or butane and their mixtures \u2013 is heavier than air. Even a small amount leaking from a cylinder \u2013 due to a faulty valve or damaged seal \u2013 will sink and mix with the air. In enclosed rooms below ground level like basements, it can accumulate on the floor and gradually reach dangerous concentrations.<\/p>\n

Another risk factor: LPG vaporises at room temperature. This means it already forms an ignitable gas-air mixture under normal conditions. If this mixture comes into contact with an ignition source \u2013 such as a light switch, a heating flame, or even static electricity \u2013 an explosion or deflagration may occur.<\/p>\n

Although such scenarios are extremely rare given the large number of LPG systems in use, they are nonetheless possible. That is why the regulations prescribe preventive measures \u2013 and explicitly exclude high-risk storage areas like basements.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Are there exceptions or special cases?<\/span><\/h2>\n

In very specific exceptional cases, storage of LPG cylinders in indoor areas below ground level may be permitted \u2013 but only under strict technical requirements defined in TRGS 510 (Technical Rules for Hazardous Substances). <\/strong>These include:<\/p>\n