Propane or butane – what type of LPG (liquid petroleum gas) should I use?
Propane. Alde UK recommends the use of propane in all Alde systems within the UK. The operating temperature ranges of propane and butane are different, and will impact performance even at mild temperatures. The gas in a smaller bottle will cool quicker as it is tapped than in a larger bottle, and bottles chilled overnight may not warm to operating temperature again during the day. Thus the size of a bottle and the temperature at which it’s stored will also impact performance. BS 5482 Part 1 states, “For butane cylinders, satisfactory service might not be obtained at temperatures of less than 10 °C; the most suitable temperature range is from 13 to 30 °C. For temperatures less than 13 °C, the use of propane should be considered.” Propane will operate down to -42 °C and is more suitable for the British climate. Be aware that Campingaz (formerly Camping Gaz) is butane, and therefore not recommended for use our systems.
