30 and 50 mbar, what is the difference?
Gas pressure in the on-board network and in gas appliances
Gas systems in modern camping vehicles are designed for a gas pressure of 30 millibar . In contrast, gas barbecues operated outdoors are operated with a gas pressure of 50 millibar . Here you will find an overview of when you need which pressure.
Table of contents
Why is the distinction important?
If you have an older motorhome or buy a used older motorhome, the gas pressure in this model may still be set to 50 millibars. Older camping vehicles are subject to grandfathering. Therefore, retrofitting the gas system is not mandatory, provided that it is still technically in perfect working order.
If you want to operate modern gas cookers or gas heaters with 30 mbar in an older motorhome or caravan, you need a gas pressure regulator. It is installed in front of the gas appliance and reduces the gas pressure from 50 millibars to the required 30 millibars.
When do I need which gas pressure?
When buying a gas-powered appliance, you should check which gas pressure the appliance is designed for. Most gas appliances on the German market are designed for a gas pressure of 50 mbar. If you want to operate such an appliance with a gas cylinder, you must connect a suitable pressure regulator.
If you want to connect the gas appliance via an external socket directly to the gas system of your caravan or motorhome, you need a device that is designed for the gas pressure of the system (50 mbar for older vehicles or 30 mbar for modern motorhomes or caravans).
Here you can find out exactly when you need a gas pressure regulator when camping.
Did you know? The German standard of 50 mbar is a real exception. In most European countries, gas appliances are only available for use with 30 mbar – whether in specialist camping stores or garden centres.
Are gas appliances with 50 mbar more powerful?
The gas pressure alone does not determine the performance of a gas appliance. If the gas nozzles of a cooker or grill operate at 30 mbar, the volume flow is higher. This means: the nozzles are larger than those of a 50 mbar appliance and allow a greater amount of gas to flow. The performance is therefore comparable.
By the way: If you connect a gas appliance (50 mbar) to a gas system with 30 mbar pressure, the appliance will not deliver the required performance. If, on the other hand, you connect a gas appliance (30 mbar) to a gas system with 50 mbar pressure, it may overheat and, in the worst case, cause a fire.
Here you can find all gas cookers and gas grills in the Berger online shop.
Overview
| Gas pressure | 30 mbar | 50 mbar |
| Motorhomes | newer models from the mid-1990s onwards | older models that were put into service before the mid-1990s |
| Appliances | all appliances in modern motorhomes that run on gas and are connected to a gas socket | barbecues, radiant heaters, cookers used outdoors or on patios and balconies with gas cylinders |
Conclusion: if in doubt, ask again
If you are unsure how and where to use a gas pressure regulator, it is better to ask for advice before making a purchase.
