Gas safety and handling

LPG is safe when it's handled properly. Most of that is common sense, but it's worth having in one place.

Storing a cylinder

  • Always upright. The safety valve only works with the cylinder standing up. Never lay one on its side, in use or in storage.
  • Outside or well ventilated. LPG is heavier than air, so it sinks and pools. Never store a cylinder in a cellar, basement, or under stairs.
  • Away from drains and gullies. For the same reason — gas that escapes will find the lowest point.
  • Out of the sun and away from heat. Not beside a boiler flue, a barbecue or anything that gets hot.
  • Spares count too. An empty or "spare" cylinder still holds gas. Store it the same way as a full one.

Connecting and disconnecting

  • Match the regulator to the gas. Propane and butane run at different pressures and use different regulators. Patio gas uses a clip-on valve that will not fit a screw-in propane regulator. If it doesn't fit easily, it's the wrong one — don't force it.
  • Change cylinders outdoors where you can, with no naked flame nearby and nobody smoking.
  • Check the hose. Rubber hose perishes. If it's cracked, hard or more than about five years old, replace it. Hoses carry a date.
  • Test for leaks with soapy water, never a flame. Bubbles mean a leak.
  • Turn off at the cylinder when you've finished, not just at the appliance.

If you smell gas

  1. Put out any naked flame. Don't smoke.
  2. Don't touch light switches, plugs or anything electrical — a spark is a spark.
  3. Turn the cylinder valve off if it's safe to reach.
  4. Open doors and windows and get everyone out.
  5. Ring us on 028 7126 8289, or in an emergency call 999.

Appliances and installation

We supply the gas. Any fixed gas appliance or pipework should be installed and serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer — it's a legal requirement and it's the part you should never take a chance on. Ask to see the card.

Damaged cylinders

The cylinders belong to Calor and are inspected when they're refilled. If one comes to you with a damaged valve, a dented body or a leak, don't use it and don't try to fix it. Ring us and we'll swap it.

Not sure?

Ring 028 7126 8289. We would far rather answer a question than have you guess at it.