A Quick Guide to LPG: What It Is and Which One Is Right for You
- Ahoud A
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
If you're new to LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), you're not alone. Whether you're switching from mains gas, moving to a rural area, or just exploring energy options for your home, holiday let, or business, understanding LPG is the first step to making the right choice.
This guide breaks down the basics of LPG—what it is, the different types available, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
What Is LPG?
LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. It’s a clean-burning, efficient fuel stored in pressurised cylinders or tanks and used for heating, cooking, and hot water. Unlike natural gas, which comes from the mains, LPG is delivered in bottles or bulk to your property.
It's especially popular in areas off the gas grid—such as rural homes, holiday parks, mobile catering, and remote commercial sites.
The Two Main Types of LPG: Propane and Butane
There are two main types of LPG used in the UK:
1. Propane
Best for: Year-round use, especially outdoors or in colder climates.
Comes in: Red or green bottles (varies by supplier), usually 13kg, 19kg, or 47kg sizes. Also stored in larger bulk tanks.
Key benefit: Works well in freezing temperatures (boiling point -42°C), so it's ideal for outdoor storage and winter use.
Common uses:
Home heating
Cooking (especially in homes or static caravans)
Hot water systems
Agricultural heating
Commercial and catering applications
2. Butane
Best for: Indoor or summer use, in warmer environments.
Comes in: Blue bottles (commonly 7kg or 15kg).
Key limitation: Doesn't vaporise well below 0°C, so it's not suitable for freezing conditions.
Common uses:
Portable heaters (indoor use)
Single-ring cookers or BBQs (especially in summer)
Small-scale camping equipment
Which Type Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Your Situation | Recommended LPG Type |
Home heating or hot water (off-grid home) | Propane (bottle or tank) |
Static caravan or holiday lodge | Propane |
BBQ or summer outdoor cooking | Butane |
Mobile catering van | Propane (for reliability in all seasons) |
Indoor portable heater (occasional use) | Butane |
Rural business or farm | Propane (bulk supply ideal) |
Bulk Tanks vs. Bottled Gas
Once you know which gas you need, you’ll also need to decide how to store it:
Bottled Gas:
Flexible and portable
Ideal for low or seasonal use
Easy to swap when empty
Bulk Tanks:
Better for properties that use LPG regularly (e.g. for central heating or hot water)
Can be above-ground or underground
Often come with automatic top-up services from suppliers
Safety First
LPG is safe when used properly. Always use certified appliances and qualified gas engineers (Gas Safe registered in the UK). Never store bottles indoors unless designed for indoor use, and keep them upright and well-ventilated.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right LPG setup depends on where you are, how much energy you use, and what for. Propane is your all-rounder for colder conditions and outdoor or high-demand use, while butane is perfect for small, seasonal or indoor jobs.
Still unsure? At Wirral Gas Limited, we’re here to help—whether you're ordering your first gas bottle or setting up gas appliances in a new mobile unit. From initial design to supply and professional installation, our qualified gas engineers can assess your setup and recommend the most efficient, safe, and cost-effective solution tailored to your needs.
You can reach us on:
0345 548 4080
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