Safefill Gas Bottle Problems
Safefill refillable gas cylinders have garnered popularity among motorhome enthusiasts, especially for those journeying within the UK. These cylinders are not only user-friendly but also efficient for most users. However, travelers venturing into France with their motorhomes have reported specific challenges that deserve attention.
The Issue
The primary concern is that while the Safefill refillable gas cylinder is efficient in the UK, travelers find themselves in a predicament when attempting to refill these cylinders at LPG points in France. The French law, known for its intricate red tape, reportedly doesn’t allow for these cylinders to be legally refilled at any LPG point, making it a pressing issue for motorhome owners spending considerable time in the country.
Potential Solutions
- External Fitting Points: One solution proposed by motorhome users is to fit an external fitting point on the vehicle. This method involves attaching a length of hose from inside the van to this external point, ensuring it fits the local LPG filling points in France. This, in theory, would enable the gas cylinder to be refilled without legal hitches.
- Using Adapters: Some users have bought adapters, hoping to bridge the gap between the Safefill cylinder and the French LPG points. However, its effectiveness is a topic of debate among users.
- Alternative Refill Techniques: Given the regulations, some motorhome owners have resorted to ‘stealth’ refilling methods. This involves tactics like temporarily removing the gas tank from the caravan and bringing it in the car to the station, hoping the attendants assume it’s for an LPG car. While this may not be a long-term solution, some have found it effective for the time being.
- Switching to a Different Cylinder: Given the concerns with Safefill, users have contemplated shifting to other cylinders such as Alugas or Gasit. Alugas, for instance, has been commended for its dual entry points – one for filling and one for emptying. This offers a potential advantage over Safefill when considering refilling in foreign territories like France.
- External Gas Filling Points: An emerging idea is to install an external gas filling point on the motorhome with a valve and a hose running into the gas locker. Though slightly cumbersome, it can be a workaround that presents the filling system as integrated, thus bypassing any regulatory hurdles.
Community Insights
A prominent motorhome equipment provider, Gasit, has been cited by users for their expertise and solutions to this challenge. Their advice, combined with the shared experiences of many motorhome enthusiasts, provides a broader understanding of the problem.
Moreover, while the Safefill cylinder comes with its challenges for those venturing into France, it’s essential to understand its merits. Many users are still satisfied with their purchase and appreciate its efficiency within the UK.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to travel to France with your motorhome equipped with a Safefill cylinder, it’s prudent to be prepared. Research the regulations, connect with fellow travelers, and, if possible, consult with experts in the field like Gasit. Exploring alternatives or finding ingenious ways to navigate the refilling challenge will ensure you continue to enjoy your motorhome adventures without a hitch.
