In the UK, butane gas is one of the most commonly used fuels for cooking, heating, and outdoor applications. Lightweight, clean-burning, and portable—this gas is preferred in homes, businesses, and outdoor events. If you're using it or planning to, here’s everything you need to know about butane gas in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way.
What Is Butane Gas and How Is It Produced?
Butane gas is a flammable hydrocarbon, part of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) family. It’s extracted during natural gas processing and oil refining. At room temperature and moderate pressure, it turns into a liquid, which makes it easy to store in cylinders.
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Chemical formula: C₄H₁₀
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Boiling point: Around -1°C
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Common form: Bottled liquid gas
Butane is usually mixed with propane for better performance in varying temperatures. It burns with a clean blue flame, producing minimal soot and low carbon monoxide when properly ventilated.
Where Is Butane Gas Used in the UK?
In the UK, butane gas is widely used for:
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Camping stoves
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Patio heaters
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Indoor portable heaters
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Barbecues
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Portable cooking appliances
Because of its ease of use and low environmental impact, more households are choosing butane gas for backup energy or everyday cooking needs.
Butane Gas vs Propane: What’s the Difference?
Both butane and propane are popular LPGs. However, they serve slightly different needs:
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Butane is ideal for indoor and mild weather use.
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Propane works better in freezing conditions.
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Butane has a higher energy content by volume, which means it burns longer in the same size cylinder.
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Propane cylinders usually have stronger regulators for outdoor-heavy use.
If you’re storing gas in a garage or shed in the UK, butane gas is a smart choice unless temperatures drop below freezing.
Benefits of Using Butane Gas in the UK
Butane gas offers several advantages that make it a top choice:
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Efficient energy: Higher calorific value means less gas used per hour.
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Low emissions: Clean combustion reduces harmful gases.
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Odourized for safety: Easy to detect leaks thanks to added scent.
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Portable: Comes in small, easy-to-carry bottles.
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Safe indoors: Suitable for indoor appliances when properly ventilated.
Quote from Energy UK:
"Butane gas remains one of the cleanest and most reliable fuels available for domestic use across Britain." – James Walker, Energy UK Analyst
How to Store Butane Gas Safely
Safety is key when handling any fuel. Here are some must-follow tips:
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Keep bottles upright at all times.
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Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
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Check connections regularly for leaks using soapy water.
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Never store inside living areas like bedrooms or near open flames.
UK fire services recommend keeping cylinders outdoors in a locked, ventilated unit.
Popular Butane Gas Brands in the UK
Several trusted names supply butane gas across the UK:
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Calor Gas
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Flogas
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BP Light Gas
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Campingaz
These companies offer various sizes, from small 4.5kg bottles for camping to large 15kg cylinders for home use.
Butane Gas for Outdoor Use: BBQs and Camping
During spring and summer, millions in the UK use butane gas for barbecues and weekend getaways.
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Ideal for portable BBQs
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Works with most camping stoves
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Easy to store in cars or caravans
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Burns quietly with no smoke
Stat: 62% of UK campers in 2024 used butane gas as their main cooking fuel during outdoor trips.
That’s because it's light, safe, and delivers consistent flame performance.
Environmental Impact of Butane Gas
Compared to coal or diesel, butane gas burns much cleaner:
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Emits 20% less CO₂ than petrol
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Produces almost no sulfur dioxide
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Leaves behind minimal residue
While not fully renewable, it's still a much cleaner option for homes and businesses looking to reduce emissions.
What Size Butane Gas Bottle Do You Need?
Choosing the right bottle saves money and space. Here's a quick guide:
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4.5kg: Ideal for small stoves or 1-2 people
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7kg: Great for weekend BBQs
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13-15kg: Suitable for regular indoor heating or large outdoor events
Always check appliance compatibility before buying. Most devices clearly label the required gas type.
Why Butane Gas Is Becoming More Popular in the UK
The demand for butane gas is growing each year. Here's why:
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Electricity costs rising
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Households seeking backup energy sources
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Increased use of portable appliances
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Eco-conscious consumers choosing cleaner fuels
In 2025, over 2 million homes in the UK used butane gas for either heating or cooking, a 14% increase from 2023.
Top Safety Accessories for Butane Gas Use
Using the right gear improves safety:
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Regulators: Match pressure with appliance needs
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Leak detectors: Spot issues early
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Gas bottle covers: Protect from weather
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Clip-on connectors: Make switching bottles quick and safe
Never modify appliances yourself. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Common Myths About Butane Gas
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Myth: It’s dangerous indoors.
Truth: It’s safe with good ventilation and proper use. -
Myth: It doesn’t work well in the UK.
Truth: It's perfect for most of the UK's mild climate. -
Myth: Butane and propane are the same.
Truth: They have different uses and performance levels.
Is Butane Gas Right for You?
If you're looking for a safe, clean, and portable energy source, butane gas is a solid choice. Whether you're cooking, heating, or enjoying the outdoors, this fuel is efficient and widely available in the UK.
Still unsure? Ask these:
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Do I need gas indoors or outdoors?
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Will I use it in winter?
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How much energy do I need each month?
Final Thoughts
Butane gas continues to gain trust across the UK. It's easy to use, clean-burning, and ideal for a wide range of needs. From weekend campers to home cooks, it fits many lifestyles.
If you're ready to make the switch or just want to learn more, speak with a certified local supplier. You'll find the right bottle, right size, and right solution for your home or business.