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What Gas Do You Need for a BBQ in the UK? (Propane vs Butane)
⏱️ Time to read:
5–7 minutes
Choosing the right gas for your BBQ ensures efficient cooking and consistent heat. This guide explains the differences between propane and butane to help you select the correct bottle and regulator for your setup.
🧠 Quick Answer: Which gas do I need for my BBQ?
Most gas BBQs in the UK use propane (patio gas), as it works reliably in all weather conditions.
Butane (blue bottles) is a cheaper alternative, but only suitable for warm weather — it struggles to work in colder temperatures.
For most BBQs:
- 1–3 burners → 5kg bottle
- 4+ burners → 13kg bottle
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Propane is the default choice — works all year round, even in cold weather
- Butane is summer-only — stops flowing in low temperatures
- 5kg suits most BBQs — compact and fits under the unit
- You must match your regulator to the bottle — they are not universal
📍 Find what you need
Short on time? Get a quick answer.
Which BBQ Gas Should You Choose?
✅ Choose propane if:
- You want reliable, all-weather performance and a simple setup
✅ Choose butane if:
- You only BBQ in warm weather and want a slightly cheaper option
Propane vs Butane: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Propane | Butane |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Weather Performance | Excellent (-42ºC boiling point) | Poor (-2ºC boiling point) |
| Cost | Standard | Slightly cheaper |
| Best Use Case | Year-round BBQing | Warm weather only |
Propane is the industry standard because it keeps flowing even in cold temperatures.
Butane is slightly more energy-efficient, but that advantage disappears the moment it gets cold — which, realistically, is most of the time in the UK.
What Size Gas Bottle Do You Need?
| BBQ Size (Burners) | Recommended Bottle Size | Usage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 burners | 5kg | Fits most BBQ storage areas |
| 4+ burners | 13kg | Better for frequent or heavy use |
⚠️ Don’t Skip This: Gas Regulators
This is where people get it wrong.
- A gas regulator controls pressure from the bottle to your BBQ — and it must match your gas type and bottle.
- Propane and butane use different regulators
- BBQs and gas bottles are sold separately in the UK, which is why regulators are not always included with BBQs
- Clip-on and screw-on types are not interchangeable
This is one of the most common setup issues for first-time BBQ owners — using the wrong regulator or a mismatched gas bottle.
👉 BBQs with a hose and regulator included can simplify setup. Many of our gas BBQs, including leading brands like Napoleon, come with a hose and regulator included — allowing you to get cooking straight away.
Common UK setups:
| Gas Bottle Type | Regulator Needed |
|---|---|
| Patio Gas (green propane) | Clip-on propane (27mm, 37mbar) |
| Propane cylinders (red) | Screw-on propane (37mbar) |
| Butane (blue bottles) | Clip-on or screw-on (28mbar) |
| Campingaz | Dedicated Campingaz regulator |
This is the standard setup used by most UK BBQ manufacturers and retailers. If you’re unsure, always check your BBQ manual or manufacturer specifications.
⚠️ Important Safety Information: Always ensure your regulator, hose, and gas bottle are compatible and correctly fitted. Using the wrong regulator can result in incorrect pressure and unsafe operation. If you switch bottle type, you’ll usually need a new regulator.
Types of BBQ Gas Bottles
🟢 Patio Gas (green)
Patio gas (propane) is the most widely used BBQ fuel in the UK. It’s standard for home BBQs, with an easy clip-on connection and wide availability.
🔵 Butane (blue)
Slightly cheaper than propane, but only reliable in warm weather.
🔴 Propane cylinders (red)
Larger, more common for commercial or heavy-duty use.
Where to Buy BBQ Gas in the UK
- Petrol stations
- Garden centres & DIY stores
- Calor / Flogas stockists
Most operate on an exchange system:
- Pay a deposit for the bottle once
- Swap empty for full and only pay for gas
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What gas bottle do I need for a BBQ?
A 5kg propane patio gas bottle is the standard for most home BBQs.
What gas do BBQs use in the UK?
Most BBQs in the UK use propane (patio gas).
Is propane or butane better for BBQs?
Propane — it works in all weather. Butane only works well in warm conditions.
How long does a BBQ gas bottle last?
Depends on usage, but a 5kg bottle covers typical occasional BBQing.
Can I use any gas bottle with my BBQ?
No — the bottle must match your regulator.
Do BBQs come with a regulator?
Not always. Some brands, such as Napoleon and Pit Boss, supply a hose and regulator with gas BBQs.
Next Steps
If your current setup is a bit of a mismatch (wrong bottle, no regulator, or running out mid-cook), it’s usually easier to just fix it properly than keep patching it.
- 👉 Explore gas BBQs with a hose and regulator included (ideal if you want a ready-to-use setup)
- 👉 Or browse all gas BBQs (with and without regulators)
You might also like:
- 👉 Gas BBQ buying guide
- 👉 Healthy BBQ recipes
- 👉 Easy and fun BBQ recipe ideas for kids
- 👉 Should you buy a pizza oven or a BBQ?
- 👉 BBQ or plancha grill: Which is right for you?
Need advice or prefer shopping in-person?
- 📍 Visit us: Get expert advice and view a selection of products on display at our showrooms.
- 📧 Get in touch: Contact our team for personalised advice, delivery queries, or finance questions.
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