EU Regulation (EU) 2016/426 on Gas Appliances
About the Regulation
The EU Regulation (EU) 2016/426 on Gas Appliances, shortly known as GAR (Gas Appliances Regulation), defines the safety, efficiency, and environmental performance requirements for gas appliances used within the European Union (EU).
This regulation covers appliances operating with natural gas, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), and other similar fuels. Some of the appliances within its scope include:
- Gas boilers
- Heaters
- Stoves
- Ovens
- Other household and industrial appliances operating with gas
According to the regulation, manufacturers, importers, and distributors are obliged to demonstrate that these appliances meet the essential requirements regarding safety, environment, and performance before placing them on the EU market.
Why is Compliance Important?
- Safety: The main purpose of the regulation is to reduce risks such as fire, explosion, or gas leakage caused by gas appliances.
- Environmental Responsibility: Environmental requirements are set to limit the impact of gas-fueled appliances on air quality and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Market Access: Products that do not comply with the regulation cannot enter the EU market.
- Legal Compliance: Regulation (EU) 2016/426 is mandatory within the EU.
Conformity Assessment Modules
To place gas-fueled appliances on the EU market, one of the conformity assessment modules defined in the regulation must be followed. The choice of module depends on the type of product, its technical complexity, and its risk level.
The main modules are as follows:
- Module B – Type Examination: Demonstrates the conformity of a specific product type. Approved by a notified body.
- Module C2 – Production Type Examination: In addition to type conformity, the production process is inspected.
- Module D – Product Quality Assurance System: The manufacturer’s quality assurance system is evaluated and approved.
- Module E – Technical Documentation Assessment: The product is reviewed for conformity based on technical documentation.
- Module F – Technical Documentation + Quality Assurance: Both the product’s quality assurance system and technical documentation are assessed.
- Module G – Unit Verification: Conformity assessment where all tests are carried out on a single product unit.
The Gas Appliances Regulation (EU 2016/426) is a mandatory legislation for placing products on the EU market. Compliance not only ensures meeting legal requirements but also demonstrates that products are in line with safety, performance, and environmental standards.
Therefore, manufacturers and all actors within the supply chain must complete the conformity assessment process before placing their appliances on the market.