Frequently Asked Questions About LPG Gas Bottles
Whether you're buying gas for your home, BBQ, patio heater, caravan or business, choosing the right LPG gas bottle isn't always straightforward. Our frequently asked questions cover the most common questions about propane, butane, patio gas, bottle sizes, delivery and using LPG safely. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, contact Bampton Gas and we'll be happy to help you choose the right gas bottle for your appliance.
What is LPG gas?
LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. The two main types of bottled LPG are propane and butane. LPG is used for a wide range of domestic, leisure, commercial and industrial applications, including heating, cooking, BBQs, patio heaters, caravans, forklifts and mobile catering.
What is the difference between propane and butane?
Propane and butane are both forms of LPG, but they have different properties and are suited to different applications.
Propane performs well at lower temperatures and is widely used for outdoor heating, cooking, caravanning and commercial applications. Butane is commonly used for portable indoor heaters and some leisure appliances.
Always check your appliance manufacturer's instructions to make sure you are using the correct type of gas.
Which gas bottle do I need?
The right gas bottle depends on what you are using it for and which type and size of bottle your appliance is designed to accept. We supply a range of propane, butane, patio gas, Campingaz and forklift gas bottles for domestic, garden, leisure and commercial applications.
If you're unsure which bottle you need, contact Bampton Gas before ordering and we can help.
What size gas bottle do I need?
The size you need depends on your appliance, how frequently you use it and the amount of gas it consumes.
For example, smaller bottles are commonly used for camping, caravanning and portable appliances, while larger propane bottles are often used for heating, cooking and commercial applications.
Check your appliance instructions or contact us if you're unsure which size is suitable.
Which gas bottle is best for a BBQ?
Patio gas is commonly used for gas BBQs. The appropriate bottle size depends on the size of your BBQ and the number of burners. As a general guide, a smaller patio gas bottle is suitable for many 1–3 burner BBQs, while larger bottles are more suitable for 4 burner and larger BBQs.
Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for your particular BBQ.
Which gas bottle do I need for a patio heater?
Patio heaters commonly use propane patio gas. Bampton Gas supplies patio gas for both tabletop and freestanding patio heaters. The correct bottle size depends on the heater and how long you intend to use it.
Check your heater manufacturer's instructions if you are unsure.
Can I use propane instead of butane?
Not necessarily. Propane and butane operate at different pressures and appliances are designed for a particular type of gas and regulator. Never assume that one can simply be substituted for the other.
Check the appliance manufacturer's instructions or ask Bampton Gas before changing gas type.
Can I use a gas bottle indoors?
The type of gas and appliance determines whether it is suitable for indoor use.
Propane cylinders should not be brought indoors. Some butane cylinders are designed for use with suitable indoor portable heaters, but the appliance manufacturer's instructions must always be followed and adequate ventilation is essential.
If you are unsure whether your gas bottle or appliance is suitable for indoor use, contact us before using it.
How do I know when my gas bottle is empty?
A gas appliance may stop working or the flame may become weaker when the cylinder is nearly empty. For a more reliable indication, check the bottle according to the manufacturer's guidance.
Do not attempt to open, modify or interfere with the cylinder or valve.
Can I exchange my empty gas bottle for a full one?
Most LPG cylinders are supplied on an exchange basis. When your bottle is empty, you return the appropriate cylinder and receive a full replacement.
The exact arrangements can depend on the cylinder brand and type. If you're unsure whether we can exchange your empty bottle, contact Bampton Gas before ordering.
Can I bring my own gas bottle to be refilled?
Gas cylinders should not be refilled by customers. LPG cylinders need to be inspected, tested and filled through an authorised filling or distribution system.
If you have an empty cylinder, contact Bampton Gas to find out about exchanging it for a full bottle.
What regulator do I need for my gas bottle?
The regulator you need depends on the type of gas bottle, appliance and connection being used. Propane and butane appliances can require different regulators. Never fit a regulator simply because it appears to fit the cylinder. Check the appliance manufacturer's instructions and make sure the regulator is suitable for the gas and appliance.
If you're unsure which regulator you need, contact us before connecting your gas bottle.
Do gas bottles expire?
Gas cylinders are subject to inspection and testing requirements. You should only use cylinders that are in suitable condition and supplied through an authorised distributor.
If a cylinder appears damaged, heavily corroded or otherwise unsafe, do not use it. Contact Bampton Gas for advice.
Can I store a gas bottle outside?
Propane cylinders are designed for outdoor storage and should be kept upright in a suitable, well-ventilated location away from sources of ignition and excessive heat.
Always follow the storage instructions supplied with your cylinder and appliance.
Do you deliver gas bottles?
Yes. Bampton Gas delivers bottled LPG throughout Bampton, West Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.
We offer delivery for domestic and commercial customers, and orders over £40 qualify for free delivery.
See our delivery page for details of the areas we cover.
Do I need to be at home when my gas bottle is delivered?
Bampton Gas can leave your gas bottle according to your delivery instructions, so you do not necessarily need to be present.
Please make sure the agreed delivery location is safe, accessible and suitable for the driver.
Do you supply gas for businesses?
Yes. We supply LPG for a wide range of commercial applications, including holiday parks, forklift trucks, patio heaters, commercial BBQs, mobile catering, heating and drying equipment and LPG generators.
If your business uses bottled LPG regularly, contact us to discuss your requirements.
What gas is used for forklifts?
LPG-powered forklift trucks use propane cylinders designed specifically for forklift applications.
Bampton Gas supplies forklift gas bottles in suitable sizes for commercial and industrial use. Contact us if you need help identifying the correct bottle for your forklift.
What gas is used for mobile catering?
Mobile catering businesses commonly use LPG for cooking equipment, grills, hot plates and other commercial catering appliances. The size and type of cylinder required depends on your equipment and gas consumption. Bampton Gas can supply LPG for a wide range of mobile catering applications.
Can I use LPG for commercial heating and drying?
Yes. LPG can provide a portable and reliable source of heat for a range of commercial, industrial and construction applications, including heating and drying.
Bampton Gas supplies larger propane cylinders suitable for a variety of commercial applications.
What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas, do not use naked flames or electrical switches and move away from the area if it is safe to do so. Follow the emergency and safety instructions provided with your appliance or cylinder. If you believe there is an immediate danger, contact the appropriate emergency service. For advice about your LPG cylinder or appliance, contact your LPG supplier.