Best Calor Gas for BBQ: Types & Necessary Safety Tips

When it comes to choosing the best fuel for your BBQ, the debate often centers around gas vs. charcoal. But when it comes to gas, there's more to consider than just propane. Calor gas, also known as butane, is another popular option. Let's dive into the details to help you decide which calor gas for BBQ is right for you.

The first step is understanding the difference between propane and butane. Propane is a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) that's commonly used in grills, while butane is a petroleum gas that's usually found in camping stoves and portable BBQs. Butane's lower boiling point means it starts to vaporize at just -2.5°C, making it less suitable for colder climates. So, if you're in a region with cold winters, propane might be the better choice.

Understanding Calor Gas Mains

Before we delve into the types of calor gas, let's talk about Calor Gas Mains. Provided by Cadent or National Grid, these deliver natural gas directly to your property. They're convenient and cost-effective, but they're not without their drawbacks. For instance, they can't be used with standard BBQs, and installing them is a substantial investment.

However, if you're planning a large-scale outdoor kitchen or multiple BBQs, Calor Gas Mains could be worth considering. They offer a constant supply, no need for refills, and can be integrated into your home's gas system. But remember, installation requires professional help and could take several weeks.

Calor Patio Gas: A Popular Choice

For most BBQ enthusiasts, Calor Patio Gas is the way to go. It's a mix of propane and butane, designed to work across a wide range of temperatures. This makes it an ideal fuel for both portable BBQs and built-in gas grills. Plus, it comes in various bottle sizes, from 3.9kg to 13kg, fitting most grill sizes.

Calor Patio Gas bottles are refillable, which is not only convenient but also eco-friendly. They're also designed to provide consistent heat, making them perfect for cooking large quantities of food. However, they require special care when handling and storing, and they can be heavy when full.

Calor Butane: Not Suitable for All Grills

While Calor Butane does have its uses, it's not as versatile as Calor Patio Gas. It's a cheaper option, but its lower operating temperature makes it less suitable for year-round use, especially in colder regions. It's best used in portable stoves or as a backup for camping and caravanning.

Calor Butane is also less common, so you might struggle to find it in some areas. It's typically sold in 7kg and 11kg bottles, which are lighter than their propane counterparts, but they don't last as long due to butane's lower energy density.

Choosing the Right Calor Gas Cylinder

Once you've decided on the type of calor gas, it's time to choose the right cylinder. This depends on your grill's BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, how often you grill, and how much area you need to cover.

Here's a general guideline. For a standard family BBQ, a 3.9kg Calor Patio Gas cylinder should last around 15-20 hours of cooking. For larger grills or more frequent use, a 13kg cylinder might be necessary. Always check your grill's manual for specific recommendations.

Cylinder Size: Balancing Cost and Convenience

The bigger the cylinder, the less frequently you'll need to change it. However, larger cylinders can be bulky and heavy, making them less portable. They're also more expensive upfront. On the other hand, smaller cylinders are lighter, cheaper, and more portable, but they need changing more often.

Mixed packs, like Calor's Family Fun Pack, can be a good compromise. They offer a mix of 6kg and 3.9kg cylinders, providing a balance of cost, convenience, and portability.

Cylinder Exchange or Refill?

You can choose between an exchange or refill service for your empty calor gas cylinders. Calor's exchange program is convenient as they deliver a new cylinder and collect the empty one. This is useful if you have limited space or time, but it comes at a slightly higher cost.

Refills, on the other hand, are cheaper and more eco-friendly. Calor offers a refill service where you can return your empty cylinder to a local stockist, and they'll refill it on the spot. This is a cost-effective and sustainable way to fuel your BBQ.

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to choosing the right calor gas for BBQ. Consider your climate, your grill type, and your specific needs to make an informed decision. Happy grilling!