Propane vs. Butane: Which One Is Right for You? 

If you’re unsure about the differences between propane and butane, don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we will break down the different uses of each gas, the benefits and the key differences between the two, to help you decide which fuel is best for your needs, including camping, cooking or heating. These two gases are popular forms of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), and it may be hard to distinguish the difference between the two.  

What is LPG? 

LPG is a colourless, low-carbon fuel made during natural gas processing and oil refining. It’s highly efficient, compact, and easy to store—making it a convenient option for a wide range of residential and commercial uses. The two main types of bottled LPG are propane and butane, each with unique advantages depending on how and where you plan to use them. 

Propane Vs. Butane at a Glance 

Butane is best suited for indoor or mild weather use and is often the fuel of choice for portable gas appliances. They are lightweight and stored in smaller canisters, which means it is great for portable and on the go applications, ideal for camping and caravanning. Butane also delivers slightly more energy per litre than propane in ideal conditions, which makes it and efficient conditions.  

It has a higher boiling point of -2°C. While this is fine for indoor use or during warmer months, butane struggles to function efficiently in low temperatures. For that reason, it’s typically used indoors or in portable applications where it’s protected from the cold—like camping stoves or portable heaters during spring and summer trips. 

Propane is a highly versatile and robust gas, ideal for year-round use, especially in colder climates. It can be used for BBQs and patio heaters, heating your home, running gas cookers and fuelling tools and forklifts. Propane has a much lower boiling point of -42°C, which means it can continue to vaporise and provide fuel even in harsh, freezing weather conditions. This makes it ideal for outdoor storage and use, especially in colder climates like the UK. You’ll usually find propane being used for home heating systems, BBQs, and other outdoor appliances all year round. 

The key difference between propane and butane is how they perform under different temperatures, especially in cold weather. However, the choice comes down to your intended use. 

Safety & Storage 

Our main priority is the safety of all our clients. All our gas cylinders go through regular check-ups and maintenance to ensure they meet the highest standards. We pride ourselves on offering safe, reliable, and long-lasting gas products including full gas safety sheets, which is why many customers return to us. 

Butane is highly flammable, so it must be carefully stored in well-ventilated areas away from heat or flame. Not in a small, enclosed space. Propane and butane tanks should always be handled carefully and kept upright during use and transport. In terms of storage, propane is generally stored in larger cylinders or tanks which can be safely kept outside, while butane is sold in smaller, lightweight canisters that are easier to carry and store indoors, residents can store up to 30kg or 2x 15kg of butane canisters at home. This makes butane especially convenient for camping, caravanning, and short-term or mobile uses. Unlike butane, propane isn’t affected by outdoor temperatures, so it’s perfect for bulk tanks or cylinders kept outside. 

Additionally, propane is known to be non-toxic; it doesn’t leave residue and requires little maintenance as it is a released as a gas meaning it won’t pool or spill. 

Whether you’re getting ready for a holiday, powering a caravan, or preparing for winter heating, Adams Gas can supply the right gas for your needs. 

Choose Adams Gas for Your LPG 

Choosing between propane and butane depends on where, how, and when you plan to use your gas. As mentioned previously, propane is more suitable in colder weather, while butane is better if you’re looking for something more portable, for indoor appliances, or for mild conditions. 

If you’re still unsure which gas is right for you, feel free to contact our expert team at Adams Gas. We’re here to assist you and to help you find the perfect solution for all your needs.