There’s nothing quite like getting the BBQ out when the weather turns. Whether it’s burgers in the garden, sausages after work, or a weekend family get-together, a gas BBQ is a quick and easy way to cook outdoors. But before you fire it up, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check your gas bottle, regulator and BBQ are safe to use. Here are some simple gas BBQ safety tips to help you enjoy your summer cooking safely.
Before you use your gas BBQ
Before connecting your gas bottle, give everything a quick check. Make sure your BBQ has the correct regulator for the LPG gas bottle you are using. The regulator is the fitting that connects your gas bottle to your BBQ, so it needs to be suitable, secure and in good condition.
You should also check:
- The gas bottle valve is clean and undamaged
- The gas pipe is not stiff, cracked, worn or damaged
- There are no soft spots or splits in the hose
- The BBQ burners are clean, undamaged and in good working order
- The BBQ is outside, on a stable surface, and away from anything that could catch fire
If anything looks damaged or you are unsure, do not use the BBQ until it has been checked or replaced.
Connecting your gas bottle safely
- Always connect your gas bottle outdoors. Do not connect or test a gas bottle indoors, in a shed, garage, conservatory or enclosed space.
- Before connecting the bottle, check that the regulator switch is in the off position.
- Place the regulator onto the gas bottle valve and press down firmly until it clicks into place. The click should tell you that the regulator has connected properly.
- Once connected, turn the gas on using the regulator switch, then light your BBQ according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If you smell gas, hear a hissing noise, or something does not seem right, turn the gas off immediately and do not use the BBQ.
Disconnecting your gas bottle after use
- When you have finished cooking, make sure the BBQ is fully switched off and that there are no flames coming from the burners.
- Turn the regulator switch to the off position. The flame should go out. If the flame does not go out, follow emergency advice and contact the relevant gas emergency service.
- Once the flame is out and the BBQ is safely switched off, you can disconnect the regulator from the bottle. On many patio gas bottles, this is done by pressing the button on the lower part of the regulator and lifting it away from the valve.
- If you are using a butane gas bottle with a safety cap, replace the cap once the bottle has been disconnected.
How to store your BBQ gas bottle
Gas bottles should be stored carefully when not in use.
Keep your gas bottle:
- Outdoors
- Upright
- Away from heat sources
- Away from direct sunlight where possible
- In a well-ventilated area
- Away from drains, cellars or enclosed spaces
Do not store gas bottles indoors, under the stairs, in living spaces, or anywhere poorly ventilated.
How to spot a possible gas leak
Gas leaks are rare, but it is important to know the signs.
Smell for gas
LPG has a strong smell, often described as being like rotten eggs. If you notice this smell around your gas bottle, regulator or BBQ, turn everything off and move away from the area.
The bottle valve is one of the most common places to notice a leak, so pay attention when connecting or disconnecting your bottle.
Listen for a hissing sound
Gas bottles are pressurised, so a leak may make a hissing noise. If you hear this, turn the gas off if it is safe to do so, keep away from flames or sparks, and follow emergency guidance.
Look at the flame
A gas BBQ should usually have a steady blue flame. If the flame is yellow, uneven, sputtering or behaving strangely, there may be a problem.
Pay attention to how you feel
If you feel dizzy, sick, tired or light-headed while using a gas BBQ, get into fresh air immediately.
What to do in an emergency
If you suspect a gas leak, fire, or carbon monoxide issue, act quickly.
As general guidance:
- Turn off the gas if it is safe to do so
- Do not smoke
- Do not use naked flames
- Do not switch electrical items on or off nearby
- Move people away from the area
- Get fresh air
- Contact the relevant emergency service or gas emergency helpline
Always follow the official safety guidance supplied with your gas bottle, BBQ and appliance.
Running low on BBQ gas?
A summer BBQ can fall a bit flat if the gas runs out halfway through cooking. Before planning a BBQ, check whether your gas bottle has enough gas left. Some Calor patio gas bottles include a gas level indicator, which can help you see when you are running low.
If you need a refill or replacement bottle, Collins Hardware stocks Calor gas for local customers in and around Pangbourne, subject to availability. Because gas bottle stock can change quickly, especially during BBQ season, we recommend calling us before you visit to check what is currently available.
[Call Collins Hardware to check Calor gas availability]
[View our Calor gas page]
Gas BBQ safety FAQs
Can you store a gas bottle under a BBQ?
You should only store a gas bottle with your BBQ if it is safe to do so and allowed by the BBQ manufacturer’s instructions. In general, gas bottles should be kept upright, outdoors and in a well-ventilated space.
Should you disconnect your gas bottle from your BBQ after use?
It is good practice to turn the gas off at the bottle or regulator after use. Whether you disconnect it fully will depend on your BBQ, regulator and manufacturer guidance. Always make sure everything is switched off safely once you have finished cooking.
Are gas BBQs safe?
Yes, gas BBQs are safe when used correctly, maintained properly and connected to the right gas bottle and regulator. Most problems come from damaged hoses, poor ventilation, incorrect connections, or using appliances in unsuitable spaces.
Are BBQ gas bottles safe in the sun?
Gas bottles should be kept away from direct sunlight where possible and should never be exposed to excessive heat. Store them outdoors, upright, and away from heat sources.
Need Calor gas in Pangbourne?
Collins Hardware stocks Calor gas bottles for BBQs and outdoor use, subject to availability.
If you are replacing an empty bottle, bring it with you when you visit so we can help check the right replacement. If you need a specific bottle size or type, please call ahead before making the trip.
[Call to check availability]
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Gas BBQ Safety Tips | Calor Gas in Pangbourne | Collins Hardware
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Getting the BBQ out this summer? Read our simple gas BBQ safety tips, including how to check, connect, store and replace your gas bottle. Collins Hardware stocks Calor gas in Pangbourne, subject to availability.