# How to connect a gas bottle to a BBQ Source: https://charandsmoke.co.uk/blog/how-to-connect-a-gas-bottle-to-a-bbq Published: 2026-10-12 Publisher: Char and Smoke **In short:** Make sure all BBQ controls and the bottle valve are off, then fit the regulator that matches your bottle: propane usually uses a screw-on regulator, butane and patio gas use clip-on types. Tighten by hand, open the bottle valve, and brush soapy water over every joint. Growing bubbles mean a leak: turn the gas off and refit. Only light the BBQ once there are no bubbles. Connecting a gas bottle is a simple job, but it is the step where most gas BBQ safety problems start. UK bottles come in different gases and fittings, and a regulator that fits one will not fit another. This guide explains how to match the parts, how to connect the two common types of regulator, and how to check for leaks. Always follow your BBQ's manual and the gas supplier's instructions, which take priority over general advice. ## Match the gas, bottle and regulator Your BBQ's manual or rating plate says which gas it is set up for, usually propane in the UK. The regulator reduces bottle pressure to the low, steady pressure the burners need, and it must match both the gas and the bottle valve. Most UK propane BBQ regulators are rated at 37 mbar, and butane ones at a lower pressure, but always check the marking on the regulator and the BBQ. Our [what gas bottle for a BBQ](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/blog/what-gas-bottle-for-a-bbq) article explains propane, butane and patio gas in detail. | Gas | Typical bottle colour | Typical regulator fitting | | --- | --- | --- | | Propane | Red (Calor) or other supplier colours | Screw-on, often a left-hand thread | | Butane | Blue (Calor) | Clip-on | | Patio gas (propane) | Green | Clip-on | Common UK bottle types (check your supplier) ## Before you connect Work outdoors, away from drains, cellars and any source of ignition, as bottled gas is heavier than air and pools in low spots. Do not smoke. Check the hose for cracks, stiffness or damage and the regulator for corrosion, and check the hose and regulator dates if marked. Replace any part that looks worn rather than trying to repair it. Stand the bottle upright on firm ground or in the BBQ's bottle bay. Never lie a gas bottle on its side while connected. ## Connecting a screw-on regulator If the thread does not start easily, stop. A crossed thread or wrong regulator can leak. 1. Turn all BBQ control knobs to off and make sure the bottle valve is closed. 2. Remove the plastic cap or seal from the bottle valve. 3. Hold the regulator straight to the valve and turn the nut by hand. Many propane fittings use a left-hand thread, so they tighten anticlockwise. Check your regulator. 4. Tighten firmly by hand, or with a spanner only if the maker says so. Do not overtighten. 5. Open the bottle valve slowly and carry out a leak test before lighting. ## Connecting a clip-on regulator To remove a clip-on regulator later, turn the lever to off first, then lift the collar to release it. 1. Turn the BBQ controls off and make sure the regulator lever is in the off position. 2. Remove the safety cap from the bottle. 3. Push the regulator straight down onto the valve until it clicks into place. 4. Move the regulator lever to on, then carry out a leak test before lighting. ## The soapy water leak test Mix washing-up liquid with water and brush it over the joint at the bottle valve, the regulator, both ends of the hose and the BBQ inlet, with the bottle valve open and the burners off. Watch for a minute. Growing bubbles mean gas is escaping. Close the bottle valve, remake the joint and test again. If a leak persists, do not use the BBQ; replace the faulty part or get advice from your gas supplier. Never test for leaks with a flame. If you smell gas when the BBQ is off, close the bottle valve and move away from the area until the smell clears. Note: Gas safety matters. Use only the regulator and hose specified for your BBQ, test every joint after each bottle change, and contact a Gas Safe registered engineer for any fixed gas supply or if you are unsure. Store bottles outside, upright and away from heat. ## Swapping and storing bottles When a bottle runs out, turn the BBQ controls off, close the bottle valve, then disconnect the regulator. Fit the safety cap to the empty bottle and take it back to a stockist for exchange; see [where to buy BBQ gas in the UK](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/blog/where-to-buy-bbq-gas-uk). Our [gas bottle burn time tool](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/tools/gas-bottle-burn-time) estimates how long a bottle lasts on your BBQ. If the BBQ lights but gives a weak flame after connecting, the regulator's safety device may have tripped. Our [BBQ gas regulator problems](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/blog/bbq-gas-regulator-problems) guide explains how to reset it. Our [best gas BBQs guide](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/best/best-gas-bbq-uk) notes which models include a regulator in the box. [See the best gas BBQs](https://charandsmoke.co.uk/best/best-gas-bbq-uk) ## Frequently asked questions **Which way do you turn a BBQ gas regulator?** Many propane regulators use a left-hand thread and tighten anticlockwise. Clip-on regulators push on and lock with a lever. **Can I use a butane regulator on a propane bottle?** No. Use the regulator made for the gas and bottle you have. **How tight should the regulator be?** Firm by hand is usually enough. Overtightening can damage the seal. Always leak-test afterwards. **How often should I replace the BBQ gas hose?** Replace it if it is cracked, stiff or damaged, and follow the date or replacement interval given by the maker. ## Buying guides on this topic - https://charandsmoke.co.uk/best/best-gas-bbq-uk - https://charandsmoke.co.uk/best/best-small-gas-bbq-for-a-patio - https://charandsmoke.co.uk/best/best-portable-gas-bbq-for-camping ## Sources - [Gas Safe Register](https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/) - [Calor](https://www.calor.co.uk/)