LPG use at home, What size LPG cylinder do I need?, Installation, Safety tips
LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. LPG is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases which can be used as fuel in heating and cooking appliances, and vehicles.
LPG is a flammable gas so it is important that you follow some safety rules.
The liquid in your LPG cylinder expands 270 times when it forms into gas, so even though your cylinder may look small - it is actually holding a lot of flammable LPG!
Limits for using and storing LPG indoors
Using indoor LPG cylinders safely
LPG for suppliers (806kb pdf)
LPG in industry (786kb pdf)
LPG in the home (953kb pdf)
LPG In the hospitality industry (994kb pdf)
You may use LPG around your home to run your BBQ, heater, or you may even use it to operate your entire house's heating and cooking needs. The LPG will be delivered in gas cylinders. The quantities used may require certification under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO) and the Tauranga City Council City Plan. Contact Tauranga City Council Call Centre on 07-577 7000 for further information.
All new approved LPG cylinders have a lifespan of 10 years and will require re-testing after 10 years before they can be refilled.
More details: Guidelines for Permanently Connected LPG Cylinders (140kb pdf)
Different appliances around your home will require different sized gas cylinders. Here is a general guide:
9kg: BBQ, patio heater, gas hob, mobile cabinet heater
90kg (or two 45kg cylinders): Gas heating system, gas cooker
Over 100kg: Full house operating from gas (i.e. water, heating cooking)
Over 300kg: Commerical use
Different sized gas cylinders will need to be fitted and stored differently.
Under 15kg
You can connect gas to freestanding appliances such as your BBQ or mobile heater by yourself. A qualified gasfitter should carry out the installation if you have a gas hob system, or other fixed gas appliances.
It is recommended that you store these gas cylinders outside. If you do need to store your cylinder inside, make sure that it is:
- stored in an area ventilated to the outside
- not larger than 9kg
- not in the same compartment as a power point or electrical appliance, e.g. waste disposal or dishwasher
15kg - 100kg
Cylinders over 9kg cannot be stored inside or under a building. They must be installed by a qualified gasfitter in order to meet required legislation. A Gasfitter Certificate should be provided. If you are not sure what this is, then make sure you ask your gasfitter.
Between 100kg - 300kg
If you require cylinders that total more than 100kg, they must be installed by a qualified gasfitter. You will also need to obtain a Location Certificate, if you are not sure what this is, please check with your gasfitter or the Council's Hazardous Substances Officer.
- Use an approved gasfitter for all installations
- Never tamper with safety valves or other fittings. Do not use excessive force to open or close valves
- Check for leaks whenever reconnecting small cylinders onto appliances such as your BBQ
- LPG and Natural Gas are different! Make sure you only use the intended gas in appliances
- All gas appliances should be inspected and serviced as required by the manufacturer
If you suspect a gas leak:
- Turn off all appliances and pilot lights
- Turn off supply at the gas meter or cylinder
- Open all doors and windows for ventilation
- Avoid naked flames or possible ignition sources. Ignition sources include light switches, power points, mobile phones and pagers.
Last Reviewed: 17/02/2012