Gas & Tyre’s Guide for Using and Maintaining 9-10kg LPG Bottles

Whether you’re firing up the barbecue for a weekend get-together, heading on a camping trip, or enjoying time at a beachside bach, these compact gas bottles are your ticket to hassle-free fun – but in the rush of packing and heading out on the road, it can be too easy to overlook checking and maintaining your gas bottles. That’s why Gas & Tyre have put together this handy guide for using and maintaining your small gas bottles. Make sure your small gas bottles are in good condition before fuelling your fun.

Limited Lifespan:

While smaller gas bottles enhance the ease of road trips and outdoor cooking, it’s crucial to remember that they, like all LPG gas bottles, have a limited lifespan. Smaller gas bottles are often used to fuel camping accessories, like gas lanterns and hobs, and will get dragged out of storage once or twice a year. Unfortunately, because these bottles are used less frequently than regular, larger household bottles, maintenance of smaller gas bottles is often overlooked.  

All gas bottles have an expiry date stamped on the collar or handle, and homeowners, particularly those with ownership or swap bottles, must incorporate regular checks into their maintenance routine. It’s also important to remember that gas bottles can be unsafe to use before their expiration date too – check for rust, dents, or other damage, and when in doubt, contact your local Gas & Tyre team for advice.  

Safety Checks:

Beyond professional servicing, owners play a vital role in ensuring the safety of their gas bottles. Gas users should perform basic visual checks on the bottle and outside attachments during each bottle change. For tips on detecting gas leaks, read the Gas & Tyre guide here.

If any sulphurous or gassy smells are detected from gas bottles or appliances like BBQs, immediate action is needed – turn off the appliance, shut the main valve at the bottle, and contact the Gas & Tyre team for inspection. In emergencies where the gas cannot be shut off, evacuate the area, and dial 111. If you’re concerned about an LPG gas leak in your home, read the Worksafe NZ guide.  

Testing Gas Levels:

A simple and safe method to determine the level of LPG in your bottle involves the following steps:

• Pour warm water down the side of the bottle (not boiling water).
• Wait a few minutes.
• Run your hand down the side of the bottle.
• The area of the bottle filled with gas will feel cool or may form a condensation line.

This quick test provides a fairly accurate estimate of the remaining gas levels, ensuring you’re always prepared for your summer activities. If a refill is needed, get in touch with your local Gas & Tyre supplier.

Regular Maintenance for Peace of Mind:

To stay ahead of potential issues, trust the Gas & Tyre team for regular maintenance and safety checks. Our LPG experts will inspect your cylinders and connections, ensuring your LPG system runs smoothly, and keeping your home secure and your family safe. For further information on safe LPG use at home, read the Environmental Protection Authority

Transportation and Storage Tips:

Once you’ve hit the road and transporting your LPG cylinders, secure them upright in a well-ventilated space in your vehicle. Try to avoid sudden stops and sharp turns that might cause your bottles to move or get damaged. Additionally, keep your bottles out of direct sunlight and heat sources during transportation. For more info, check out our guide for safe LPG transportation here.

Ventilation Matters:

Finally, prioritise good ventilation in your storage area to prevent gas build-up in case of a leak. Proper ventilation helps dissipate any escaping gas, minimising the risk of ignition.

Smaller LPG gas bottles are versatile powerhouses, capable of fuelling your summer adventures with ease. Their manageable size means portability, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous 4x4 trips or impromptu camping excursions. Despite their smaller size, these bottles pack enough LPG gas to keep barbecues sizzling or baches cosy for approximately 24 hours, depending on the appliances in use. The result? Uninterrupted adventure without the worry of running out of fuel.  

From barbecues to camping trips, make the most of your trip knowing your gas system is in expert hands. Hitting the road with your gas bottles? Read our blog on LPG gas cooking for delicious recipes and tips here to get cooking with gas! With Gas & Tyre as your trusted supplier, enjoy your adventures safely and conveniently with convenient LPG gas bottles: contact the team to top up your bottles and get advice here.