Calor Gas is available in the UK in four main product categories: Propane, Butane, FLT (Forklift Propane), and Patio Gas (Propane). Each category serves different applications and comes in various cylinder sizes. Below are comprehensive specifications for all available cylinders.
Propane Cylinders
Propane cylinders are suitable for year-round outdoor use and perform well in cold temperatures down to -40°C. They use a POL screw-on regulator connection and are identified by their red colour.
Energy Calculation: Every kilogram of propane gas produces 14kW of heat energy. To calculate burn time for any appliance, multiply the cylinder size by 14, then divide by the appliance’s heat output in kW/h.
Butane Cylinders
Butane cylinders are designed primarily for indoor use and warmer weather outdoor applications. They should not be used in temperatures below -2°C as the gas will not vaporize effectively. Butane produces approximately 12% more energy than propane for the same volume. These cylinders use a 21mm clip-on regulator and are identified by their blue colour.
The 15kg butane cylinder provides approximately 50 hours of continuous heat in a typical cabinet heater on maximum setting (three bars), or up to 150 hours on the minimum setting (one bar).
FLT (Forklift) Propane Cylinders
FLT cylinders are specialized propane cylinders designed for forklift trucks and other industrial applications requiring liquid offtake. These cylinders must be used horizontally with the arrow on the bottom facing downwards to ensure proper liquid combustion. They feature special forklift-specific fittings and are identified by their red colour with black handles or collars.
Patio Gas (Propane) Cylinders
Patio Gas cylinders are propane-based but designed specifically for outdoor leisure use with BBQs and patio heaters. They feature a convenient 27mm clip-on regulator connection (rather than the standard POL screw-on) and are identified by their green colour. Most Patio Gas cylinders include a built-in Gas Trac indicator that shows remaining gas levels.
Note: The 5kg Patio Gas cylinder is the smallest and most portable option for outdoor leisure, while the 13kg provides extended usage for larger appliances.
Key Information for All Calor Gas Cylinders
Energy Output Calculation: For both propane and butane, multiply the cylinder capacity in kg by 14 to get total kW of energy available. For example, a 6kg cylinder contains 84kW of energy (6 x 14 = 84kW).
Cylinder Exchange: Cylinders are supplied under a Cylinder Refill Agreement and can be exchanged for refills at authorized retailers like Harringtons Reading. Empty cylinders can typically be exchanged for any size within the same category.
Storage: All cylinders should be stored outdoors in a well-ventilated area. Propane cylinders perform in all weather conditions, while butane cylinders are not suitable for use below -2°C.