What Bottled Gas Type for a Fire Table?
What Bottled Gas Type for a Fire Table?
Confused at the gas bottle aisle, staring at red, green, and blue like it’s a BBQ-themed Rubik’s Cube? Here’s the short answer: use propane for your fire table — it works year-round, burns hot, and fits most setups. Read on to avoid cold flames and wrong regulators.
Why Bottled Gas is a Popular Choice for Fire Tables
Portability and Flexibility:
Moving Your Fire Table with Ease
One of the biggest benefits of using bottled gas is the freedom it gives you to move your fire table wherever you fancy. Hosting a summer soirée on the patio? Planning a camping trip with a touch of class? Bottled gas means your fire table can come along for the ride.
No Fixed Installation Required
Unlike mains gas setups, bottled gas doesn’t tie you down. There's no digging, no pipework, and no commitment. It's ideal for renters or those who like to switch things up. Quick setup, quick enjoyment.
Ease of Setup and Use:
Simple Connection to Gas Cylinders
Modern fire tables are made to be user-friendly. Whether it’s a clip-on or screw-on regulator, connecting your gas bottle is straightforward. Most users can have it up and running in minutes — no tools, no stress.
Quick Ignition and Flame Control
Lighting a fire table on bottled gas is as easy as making toast. Push a button, twist a dial, and you’ve got instant flames. Adjusting the heat is just as simple. Whether you want a gentle flicker or a roaring blaze, you're in control.
Widespread Availability of Bottled Gas:
Access to Cylinder Refills and Exchanges
No need to go out of your way to stay topped up. Bottled gas is available at most garden centres, petrol stations, and LPG suppliers across the UK. You can either swap your empty bottle for a full one or get it refilled — whichever suits.
The Main Types of Bottled Gas for Fire Tables
Bottled Gas Comparison for Fire Tables (UK)
| Gas Type | Best For | Cold Weather? | Regulator Type | Common Bottle Colours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propane (Patio Gas) | Most fire tables, year-round use | ✅ Yes | 27mm clip-on | Green (Calor Patio Gas) |
| Propane (Red) | High-output fire tables | ✅ Yes | POL screw-on | Red (Calor / Flogas) |
| Butane | Small summer tabletop units | ❌ No | 21mm clip-on or screw | Blue (Calor / Campingaz) |
| Propane/Butane Mix | Camping stoves, not fire tables | ⚠️ Limited | Screw-on (small canisters) | Blue / Silver (Campingaz) |
Propane: The Most Common and Recommended Choice
What is Propane?
Propane is a liquefied petroleum gas that turns into vapour at -42°C. That means it works even when it’s freezing outside. Ideal for British winters and year-round garden gatherings.
Why Propane Excels for Fire Tables
Unlike butane, propane doesn’t go on strike when it gets chilly. It delivers strong, consistent flames regardless of the weather. Plus, it comes in a range of bottle sizes to suit different setups — from small patios to large outdoor spaces.
Common Propane Tank Sizes for Fire Tables
In the UK, popular propane bottle sizes include:
-
5kg Patio Gas (green, clip-on)
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6kg and 13kg Red Propane (screw-on)
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11kg or 19kg for larger installations
The 5kg is great for compact tables. Larger fire tables often need 11kg or more to keep the heat going.
Propane Tank Life and Efficiency
How long your gas lasts depends on how high you set the flame, the weather, and the burner’s output. A mid-sized table on a 13kg bottle might run for 15–25 hours. If you entertain often, it’s worth keeping a spare.
Butane: Limitations for Fire Table Use
What is Butane?
Butane is another type of LPG. It's commonly found in smaller blue bottles and works well in portable heaters and camping stoves — as long as the temperature stays warm.
Why Butane is Generally Not Suitable for Outdoor Fire Tables
Here’s the rub: butane struggles in cold weather. Once it drops below 5°C, the gas stops vaporising properly, and your flame can flicker out. That’s not ideal when you’re trying to impress guests in your winter garden.
When Butane Might Be Considered
If you're using a very small tabletop fire feature in summer only, butane might just do the trick. But for anything more substantial — or anything outside of July — stick with propane.
Propane/Butane Mixes: Performance Considerations
Understanding Gas Mixes
Some camping canisters blend propane and butane to balance cold and warm weather performance. You’ll see these in screw-on cartridges like Campingaz 907. Great for travel stoves — not so great for fire tables.
Why Mixes are Less Common for Full-Sized Fire Tables
Most fire tables require larger cylinders, which are almost always pure propane. Mixes just aren’t designed to fuel high-output burners for extended periods.
Potential Issues with Mixes in Fire Tables
Gas mixes don’t burn evenly as they empty. Propane boils off first, leaving mostly butane behind — which means poor performance in the cold. Not exactly confidence-inspiring when you're hosting outdoors.
What Gas Bottle Should I Use for a Fire Pit Table?
The best gas bottle for most fire pit tables in the UK is Patio Gas, which contains propane and comes in a green Calor bottle with a 27mm clip-on regulator. For larger, high-output burners (like Brightstar Fires), you may need a red propane cylinder with a POL screw-on regulator — typically 11kg or 13kg.
Use the table above to choose the right gas bottle size and connector type for your setup.
Managing Your Bottled Gas Supply
Exchanging Your Propane Bottle in the UK:
In the UK, you don’t refill gas bottles yourself. Instead, you take your empty cylinder to a local exchange point — usually a garden centre, hardware shop, or petrol station — and swap it for a full one. This is what’s often referred to as a “refill,” but it’s actually an exchange service.
The benefit? The supplier checks, cleans, and reuses the returned bottle, reducing waste and ensuring safety. It’s quick, convenient, and sustainable.
Most garden centres, hardware shops, and fuel stations will offer exchange services. Refilling is typically done at specialised LPG centres — worth finding one near you if you use gas regularly.
Essential Propane Tank Accessories:
Pressure Gauges for Monitoring Fuel Levels
There’s nothing worse than running out halfway through the evening. A pressure gauge shows you when you’re running low so you can plan ahead.
Protective Covers and Storage Solutions
Keep your gas bottle out of the weather. Covers not only make things look tidier, they help protect connections and valves from the elements.
Regulators: Ensuring the Correct Pressure for Your Fire Table
Clip-on regulators (27mm) are standard for Patio Gas. POL screw-on regulators are used for red propane cylinders. Always match the right regulator to your bottle and burner.
Safety Essentials for Bottled Gas Fire Tables
General Gas Cylinder Safety Guidelines:
Safe Storage Practices
Store gas bottles upright in a well-ventilated area. Keep them outside and away from heat or open flames. Never store propane indoors.
Leak Detection
Use soapy water on the valve and hose connections. If bubbles form, you’ve got a leak — turn everything off and replace the faulty part before using again.
Proper Connection and Disconnection of Regulators and Hoses
Always turn off the bottle before disconnecting. Check hose conditions regularly. And make sure the regulator clicks or screws on securely.
Fire Table Specific Safety:
Ensuring Adequate Ventilation Around Your Fire Table
Fire tables with internal bottle storage must have vents. Never block them. Good airflow prevents pressure build-up and ensures safe combustion.
Maintaining Safe Distances from Combustible Materials
Keep your fire table clear of walls, overhangs, and anything flammable. A metre of space is a good rule of thumb.
Understanding BTU Ratings and Safe Operating Practices
Bigger burners need more gas and space. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe use — and don’t go rogue with a bigger bottle than specified.
Choosing the Right Bottled Gas Fire Table for Your Needs
Factors to Consider When Buying:
Your Climate and Intended Usage Frequency
If you’re planning to use your fire table in autumn or winter, propane is a must. Butane is only really workable in hot, dry climates or indoor setups.
Desired Heat Output and Flame Size
Higher BTU ratings mean stronger flames and more warmth. Just remember, they’ll also use gas faster.
Design and Aesthetics
Some tables have clever hidden compartments for gas bottles. Others require the cylinder to sit next to the unit. Choose what suits your space.
Overall Budget
Factor in not just the table, but the gas, accessories, and future refills. Propane isn’t expensive, but it adds up over time if you use it regularly.
Regulator Compatibility
Most fire tables are designed for Patio Gas (clip-on), but high-output models may need a screw-on regulator and red propane bottle. Double-check before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bottled Gas for Fire Tables
What gas bottle do I need for my fire pit table?
Most UK fire pit tables run on Patio Gas (propane) in 5kg or 13kg bottles. These use a 27mm clip-on regulator. Larger tables may need 11kg or 19kg red propane cylinders with a POL screw-on regulator. Always check your burner’s manual to confirm the correct connection type.
Can I use a regular BBQ propane tank for my fire table?
Yes — fire tables and BBQs often use the same propane bottles. Just match the regulator and you're good to go.
Is it safe to store a propane tank under a fire table?
Yes, if your fire table has dedicated space with proper ventilation. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
How do I know when my propane tank is almost empty?
Weigh it, use the warm water trick, or install a pressure gauge. All three work well.
What's the best way to clean my propane fire table's burner?
Let it cool, remove any debris, and gently brush the burner ports. Avoid harsh cleaners or soaking the area.
What is "Patio Gas" and how does it relate to propane?
Patio Gas is propane in green bottles designed for outdoor leisure use. It uses a clip-on 27mm regulator and is the go-to for most fire tables in the UK.