LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a convenient energy source used by thousands of New Zealand households for heating, cooking, and hot water. But because LPG is highly flammable and stored under pressure, handling it incorrectly can be dangerous. Here's what you need to know to stay safe and legal.
Understanding LPG Bottles in NZ
LPG bottles (also called cylinders) come in a range of sizes. The most common household sizes are 9 kg and 45 kg cylinders. Smaller bottles — such as the 4.5 kg or 9 kg — are typically used for BBQs and portable appliances, while larger 45 kg cylinders are more common for home heating and hot water systems.
In New Zealand, LPG is primarily propane or a propane/butane blend. It's heavier than air, which means any leaking gas will sink and pool at ground level — an important factor when thinking about storage and ventilation.
What Work Can a Homeowner Do?
This is where many people get confused. Under the Gas Act 1992 and associated regulations, gasfitting work is restricted and must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter. However, there are some tasks a homeowner can legally do themselves:
You CAN do yourself:
- Connect and disconnect a standard POL fitting (the screw-on valve) on a BBQ or portable appliance bottle
- Replace an empty cylinder with a full one on a single-bottle BBQ setup
- Turn the cylinder valve on or off
You CANNOT do yourself (restricted gasfitting work):
- Installing or modifying any fixed gas pipework inside or outside your home
- Connecting LPG to a fixed appliance (e.g., gas hob, heater, hot water system)
- Installing regulators on fixed systems
- Any work on gas meters or pressure systems
Always check with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) if you're unsure whether a task is restricted. Getting this wrong isn't just illegal — it can be life-threatening.
Safe Storage Rules for LPG Cylinders
Proper storage is critical. Follow these guidelines to meet NZ safety requirements and reduce risk:
Location and Positioning
- Store cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated area — never in a basement, garage pit, or enclosed space where gas could accumulate
- Keep cylinders upright at all times and secured so they can't fall over (use a chain or bracket)
- Position cylinders away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight where possible
- Maintain clearance distances from windows, doors, and ignition sources — check your cylinder supplier's guidelines for specific distances
Security and Access
- Cylinders should be stored in a location that prevents unauthorised access, especially by children
- If storing multiple cylinders, keep full and empty ones clearly labelled and separated
Quantity Limits
- For residential properties, there are limits on how much LPG you can store. As a general guide, storage of more than a certain aggregate quantity may require compliance with additional regulations. Contact WorkSafe NZ or your local council for guidance on your specific situation.
Connecting an LPG Bottle Safely (BBQ and Portable Appliances)
For a standard BBQ or portable gas appliance, here's how to connect a cylinder safely:
- Check the cylinder and hose — inspect for visible damage, rust, or cracks before connecting. Check the hose for cracking or perishing.
- Ensure the appliance valve is OFF before connecting
- Attach the POL fitting — thread it onto the cylinder valve (note: POL fittings are left-hand thread, so turn anti-clockwise to tighten)
- Open the cylinder valve slowly — turn it fully open, then back a quarter turn
- Check for leaks — apply soapy water to all connections and watch for bubbles. Never use a naked flame to check for leaks.
- If you smell gas — turn off the cylinder valve immediately, move away from the area, and ventilate the space before investigating further
Hose and Regulator Maintenance
Gas hoses and regulators don't last forever. Replace hoses if they show any signs of cracking, perishing, or damage. Most manufacturers recommend replacing hoses every few years — check the date stamp on your hose. Regulators should also be inspected periodically; if in doubt, have a licensed gasfitter check them.
Comparison: DIY vs Licensed Gasfitter Tasks
| Task | Homeowner OK? | Licensed Gasfitter Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Swap BBQ cylinder | ✅ Yes | No |
| Connect portable heater bottle | ✅ Yes | No |
| Install fixed gas pipework | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Connect gas hob or oven | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Install LPG hot water system | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Replace regulator on fixed system | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Check for leaks (soapy water) | ✅ Yes | — |
Safety Notice
⚠️ If you ever smell gas indoors: do not operate any electrical switches, do not use your phone inside, extinguish any flames, open windows and doors, evacuate the building, and call your LPG supplier or emergency services from outside. Do not re-enter until the all-clear is given.
When to Call a Professional
For anything beyond swapping a BBQ bottle, you should engage a licensed gasfitter. This includes installing or relocating cylinders connected to fixed appliances, commissioning a new gas appliance, or if you have any concerns about your existing gas system. A licensed gasfitter will ensure the work complies with the NZ Building Code and relevant standards, and will issue you with a Certificate of Compliance — which is important for insurance and future property sales.
You can find qualified, local gasfitters in your area at tradedirectory.co.nz.