Understanding LPG: A Simple Guide for New Users

If you’re new to LPG heating or you’re thinking of switching from mains gas, it can feel a bit confusing at first. At Wirral Gas, we work with customers across Wirral, Cheshire, and rural Merseyside who rely on LPG, so we’ve put together a clear, easy-to-read guide explaining what LPG is, how it works, and how it differs from a regular mains gas boiler system.

What Is LPG?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas, and it’s used for heating, hot water, and cooking—especially in properties not connected to the mains gas network.

There are two main types of LPG used in the UK:

• Propane

• Butane

Both are produced during natural gas extraction and oil refining, but each has different properties.

The Two Types of LPG: What’s the Difference?

1. Propane (C₃H₈)

Propane is the most common fuel for boilers and home heating systems.

Why propane is used for boilers:

• Performs reliably in cold weather

• Stored in large outdoor bulk tanks

• Vaporises at low temperatures

• Safe and stable when stored correctly

Used for:

• LPG boilers

• Central heating

• Rural homes

• Caravans and static homes

• Outdoor heating

2. Butane (C₄H₁₀)

Butane is more commonly used for portable indoor heaters, camping stoves, and small appliances.

Not used for boilers because:

• It doesn’t vaporise well in cold weather

• Best for indoor, warm-environment use

• Found in smaller cylinders (typically blue)

How LPG Differs From Natural Gas

If you're used to standard mains gas, LPG works differently.

1. Storage is on your property

Instead of being piped underground, LPG is stored in:

• A bulk tank, or

• Cylinders

Your supplier refills your tank as needed.

2. LPG burns hotter and more efficiently

LPG has a higher calorific value, meaning you get:

• More heat output per litre

• Faster heating times

• High boiler efficiency

3. You need an LPG-compatible boiler — or a conversion

Not every boiler automatically runs on LPG.

But here’s the part many homeowners don’t know:

Did you know?

Most modern natural gas boilers found in homes today can be used as LPG boilers with the correct LPG conversion kit.

Manufacturers such as:

• Ideal

• Baxi

• Navien

• Worcester Bosch

• Vaillant

…all offer approved LPG conversion kits for many of their models.

These kits must be fitted by a Gas Safe registered LPG engineer, and once installed, the boiler runs safely and efficiently on propane.

This makes LPG a very flexible solution for rural properties or anyone switching away from oil or non-mains systems.

4. Safety and servicing

LPG boilers require the same annual maintenance as natural gas boilers, but only an engineer with the LPG category on their Gas Safe licence can work on them.

At Wirral Gas, our LPG engineers are fully qualified for:

• Domestic LPG systems

• Static homes and caravans

• Boilers and pipework

• Cylinder installations

We’re Also a Flogas Supplier — Making LPG Even Easier for You

Here at Wirral Gas, we are also an official Flogas supplier, meaning we can support you with everything from fuel to servicing.

This includes:

• Cylinder delivery directly to your home

• Click-and-collect cylinders from our premises

• Servicing, repairs, and LPG gas safety certificates

• Advice on the right cylinder type for your appliances

If a specific cylinder isn’t in stock at our premises, we can order it in for you. Just let us know ahead of time, and we’ll make sure we keep the right products available for your future needs.

Our goal is to make LPG heating as simple and convenient as possible for every customer—whether you’re new to LPG or already using it year-round.

Who Chooses LPG Heating?

LPG is ideal for:

• Rural or off-grid homes

• Static caravans and holiday parks

• Farms and outbuildings

• Commercial units in remote areas

It offers the convenience of gas heating where mains gas isn’t available.

Is LPG More Expensive?

While LPG can cost more per litre than mains gas, its higher heat output and boiler efficiency often help balance the cost. Plus, you can shop around suppliers.

Summary: LPG vs. Natural Gas

Feature	LPG	Natural Gas
Fuel Source	Stored onsite	Underground mains
Boiler Type	LPG boiler or conversion	Standard gas
Efficiency	Higher calorific value	Lower calorific value
Best for	Off-grid	On-grid
Fuel Types	Propane / Butane	Natural gas

Thinking About Switching to LPG?

Wirral Gas has been keeping homes warm since 1989. We can help with:

• LPG boiler installations

• LPG conversions

• Repairs & servicing

• Cylinder supply (as a Flogas distributor)

• Static home heating

• LPG gas certificates

If you’re new to LPG or considering the switch, our team is here to help with friendly, professional advice. Visit our LPG page for more information or call/WhatsApp us on 0345 548 4080