As soon as the evenings become warmer, one question comes up time and again: what exactly is patio gas, and which bottle do you need?

It is one of the most misunderstood bottled gas products, partly because the name describes how the gas is used rather than what is inside the bottle.

This guide explains what patio gas is, clears up the difference between propane and butane, compares the bottle sizes available from Adams Gas, and outlines how to arrange a refill or collect a replacement bottle from a local stockist.

What is patio gas?

Patio gas is propane, a type of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), supplied in distinctive green bottles for outdoor equipment such as patio heaters, gas barbecues, pizza ovens and chimineas.

The word “patio” is simply a marketing term rather than a separate type of fuel. It was created to give households an easily recognisable product for outdoor use, usually fitted with a convenient clip-on regulator instead of the screw-thread connection found on older propane cylinders.

Inside the bottle, it is the same dependable propane used for applications such as forklifts, catering trailers and off-grid heating.

Because propane continues to perform in cold weather, patio gas can be used throughout the year. This is why pubs, restaurants and event venues often rely on it to keep outdoor seating areas warm beyond the summer months.

Is patio gas propane or butane?

Patio gas is propane.

Propane and butane are both types of LPG and are both supplied in pressurised cylinders, but they behave differently and use different connections.

Patio gas is supplied in green bottles and is best suited to patio heaters, barbecues and year-round outdoor use. It performs reliably in cold weather and usually uses a clip-on regulator.

Butane is generally supplied in blue bottles and is commonly used for indoor portable heaters and some camping appliances. It does not perform as well near freezing temperatures and uses a different-sized clip-on regulator.

As a simple guide, outdoor appliances will usually require propane patio gas, while butane is more commonly used indoors or for certain portable applications.

Patio gas bottle sizes

Patio gas is commonly available in two standard sizes, while Adams Gas also supplies lightweight refillable Gaslight alternatives.

5kg patio gas

The 5kg patio gas bottle is suitable for a single patio heater, smaller barbecues and occasional use.

It is the lightest standard option, making it easier to carry and store. It is particularly popular with households and those who only need gas for weekend or occasional outdoor use.

13kg patio gas

The 13kg patio gas bottle is better suited to larger heaters, frequent use and hospitality settings.

Its greater capacity provides a longer running time between changes, making it a practical choice for busy households, pubs, restaurants and event venues.

5kg and 10kg Gaslight bottles

Gaslight bottles provide a lighter alternative to traditional steel cylinders. They are made from composite materials and are translucent, allowing you to see how much gas remains.

The 5kg version is suited to lighter or occasional use, while the 10kg bottle is better for regular outdoor use without the weight of a standard steel cylinder.

What can patio gas be used for?

Patio gas is versatile and can be used for a range of outdoor applications.

Common uses include:

• Patio heaters
• Gas barbecues
• Pizza ovens
• Chimineas
• Outdoor hospitality areas
• Marquees and events

For hospitality businesses, reliable outdoor heating can help extend the trading season and encourage customers to make use of patios and beer gardens for longer.

Where to buy or refill patio gas

When your bottle runs low, there are two main options.

An exchange allows you to swap your empty cylinder for a full one. A refill allows a suitable refillable cylinder, such as Gaslight, to be topped up.

Adams Gas offers both options. Patio gas can be ordered for local delivery across the company’s coverage area or collected from an independent retailer within the Adams Gas stockist network.

Customers can check delivery areas, find their nearest stockist or browse the available patio and barbecue gas range online.

If you are unsure which bottle or connection is right for your appliance, the Adams Gas team can help match the correct option to your equipment.

Stay warm reliably

Patio gas is simply propane supplied in a convenient green bottle for outdoor use.

Choose a 5kg bottle if portability is your priority, a 13kg bottle if you need a longer run time, or a Gaslight cylinder if you prefer a lighter bottle with a visible gas level.

With the right bottle, you can keep everything from a quiet patio evening to a busy beer garden running smoothly.

Hospitality businesses looking for a dependable patio gas supply, or retailers interested in stocking Adams Gas products, can contact the team for more information.

Frequently asked questions

Is patio gas the same as propane?

Yes. Patio gas is propane supplied in a green bottle with a clip-on regulator connection for outdoor appliances such as patio heaters and barbecues.

Can patio gas be used for a barbecue?

Yes. Patio gas is suitable for gas barbecues because it lights quickly, provides controllable heat and performs well in colder weather.

Always check that the barbecue regulator matches the bottle connection.

What size patio gas bottle do I need?

A 5kg bottle is usually suitable for a single patio heater or occasional barbecue use.

A 13kg bottle provides a longer run time and is better suited to larger heaters, regular use or hospitality settings.

Is patio gas propane or butane?

Patio gas is propane. Propane is supplied in green bottles and works throughout the year, including during colder weather.

Butane is generally supplied in blue bottles and is more suited to indoor use because it performs less effectively near freezing temperatures.

Where can I get patio gas near me?

Adams Gas supplies patio gas through its local delivery service and a network of independent stockists.

Check the delivery area for your postcode or use the stockist finder to locate your nearest supplier.