Patio gas is a commercial term used by gas suppliers for propane LPG sold in cylinders intended for outdoor garden use, particularly with patio heaters, gas barbecues, and outdoor kitchen appliances. The term distinguishes these cylinders from other LPG products by their packaging, regulator type, and typical application.

What Makes Patio Gas Different

Patio gas is propane, the same gas as in standard propane cylinders, but typically packaged in cylinders designed specifically for consumer outdoor use. The key practical difference from standard propane cylinders is the regulator connection. Patio gas cylinders, supplied by brands such as Calor Patio Gas in the UK, use a 27mm clip-on regulator that is simpler to connect and disconnect than the screw-thread connections used on commercial propane cylinders. This makes it easy for consumers without gas expertise to swap cylinders and connect appliances.

Why Propane Rather Than Butane

Patio gas uses propane rather than butane because propane has a much lower boiling point and vaporises reliably in cold outdoor temperatures. Butane, while suitable for indoor camping stoves and portable heaters, does not work well as outdoor fuel in UK weather below about five degrees Celsius because the liquid inside the cylinder does not vaporise quickly enough to maintain adequate gas pressure. Propane maintains good pressure down to minus 42 degrees Celsius, making it the appropriate choice for any outdoor application.

Typical Cylinder Sizes

Patio gas cylinders are available in 5kg, 6kg, and 13kg sizes from major suppliers. The 5kg and 6kg cylinders are the most common for portable patio heaters and barbecues, providing a manageable weight for lifting and positioning in the garden. A 5kg cylinder provides approximately five hours of operation for a medium-sized patio heater running at around one kilowatt. The 13kg cylinder provides longer run time and is better value per unit of gas but is heavier and less portable.

Storage and Safety

LPG cylinders, including patio gas, must be stored outdoors in a well-ventilated location, not in basements, garages, or enclosed sheds. LPG is heavier than air and any leak in an enclosed space will pool at low levels and create an explosion risk if ignited. Cylinders should be stored upright, away from sources of heat, direct sunlight, and ignition sources. Spare cylinders should never be stored inside the house.

Summary

Patio gas is propane LPG in cylinders with a clip-on regulator, designed for outdoor garden use with patio heaters and barbecues. Propane is used because it vaporises reliably in cold outdoor temperatures, unlike butane. Cylinders come in 5kg, 6kg, and 13kg sizes. LPG cylinders must be stored outdoors in well-ventilated locations, never indoors or in enclosed spaces, due to the density of LPG vapour and its explosion risk.