Calor Gas Bottle Sizes Explained
Find out which Calor gas bottle you need, how long it lasts, and what it’s best suited for — from small BBQs to commercial heating.
The complete guide to Calor gas bottle sizes
Choosing the right Calor gas bottle isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Between propane, butane, patio gas, and forklift bottles, there’s a dizzying array of colours, connections, and weights. This quick guide breaks it down by size, usage, and connection type — so you can pick the right cylinder first time.
| Gas Type | Typical Colour | Common Sizes (kg) | Connection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propane | Red | 6kg, 13kg, 19kg, 47kg | POL screw (LH) | Outdoor heaters, caravans, catering, industrial use |
| Butane | Blue | 4.5kg, 7kg, 15kg | 21mm clip-on | Portable heaters, camping stoves |
| Patio Gas (Propane) | Green | 5kg, 13kg | 27mm clip-on | BBQs, patio heaters |
| Forklift LPG (Propane) | Red with black top | 12kg (FLT) | POL screw (LH) | Forklift trucks, commercial use |
Which size do I need?
| Size | Gas Type | Height | Diameter | Weight (Full) | Typical Use | Approx. Run Time* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.5kg Butane | Butane | 340mm | 240mm | 10kg | Small portable heaters, camping stoves | 20–30 hours |
| 6kg Propane | Propane | 495mm | 256mm | 15kg | Camping, caravans, small heaters | 20–25 hours |
| 7kg Butane | Butane | 495mm | 256mm | 15kg | Portable heaters, camping | 25–30 hours |
| 13kg Patio Gas | Propane | 580mm | 315mm | 25kg | BBQs, patio heaters | 30–50 hours |
| 19kg Propane | Propane | 800mm | 315mm | 38kg | Larger heaters, catering | 60–100 hours |
| 47kg Propane | Propane | 1290mm | 375mm | 94kg | Home heating, commercial use | 150–250 hours |
*Run-times vary depending on appliance size and weather.
Propane or Butane?
- Propane performs better in cold weather and is ideal for outdoor storage.
- Butane burns slightly hotter and is perfect for indoor appliances and summer camping.
- Patio Gas is simply propane with a convenient clip-on fitting — perfect for garden equipment.
💡 Tips for choosing
- Match the connection type (POL screw vs clip-on) before ordering.
- Store bottles upright and outdoors, in a ventilated area.
- Exchange only like-for-like bottles (propane for propane).
- Larger bottles (19kg/47kg) are better value per kg.
📦 Local delivery & exchange
Harringtons offers Calor gas delivery across Reading and the Thames Valley. You can exchange empty bottles on the doorstep or collect directly from our depot.
👉 Check local delivery options →
Or call us on 0118 9242888 for advice on which bottle suits your heater or BBQ.
FAQs
Can I use butane instead of propane?
Not usually. The regulators and connections differ, and propane is better in cold weather.
Do I need to return an empty bottle?
Yes. Calor bottles are supplied on an exchange basis. If you don’t have one, a new-cylinder charge applies.
Can I store gas bottles in a garage or shed?
They must be stored upright and well-ventilated. Never store cylinders in basements or living spaces.