Introduction: Connecting your gas bottle to your Weber barbecue safely and correctly is essential for proper operation. In the UK, Weber gas barbecues are designed to use Patio Gas (propane) bottles with a 37mbar clip-on regulator. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: understanding Patio Gas, choosing the right bottle size, connecting the clip-on regulator step-by-step, performing safety checks, and disconnecting after use. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure safe, reliable grilling every time.

Understanding Patio Gas (Propane) in the UK

Patio Gas is a brand of propane gas supplied by Calor Gas, specifically designed for outdoor use with barbecues, patio heaters, and other garden appliances. It's the most popular and convenient option for Weber gas barbecues in the UK.

Why Patio Gas?

• Works in all weather: Propane performs reliably in all UK weather conditions, including winter (down to -40°C).
• Clip-on regulator: Patio Gas uses a simple clip-on regulator—no tools required. Quick and easy to connect and disconnect.
• Widely available: Patio Gas bottles are available at garden centres, DIY stores, petrol stations, and Calor Gas stockists across the UK.
• Safe and reliable: Propane is a clean-burning, efficient fuel designed for outdoor cooking.

Patio Gas Bottle Sizes

Patio Gas is available in two sizes in the UK:

• 5kg bottle (green): Compact and lightweight. Ideal for smaller barbecues (Weber Q series, Spirit 2-burner models) or occasional grilling. Provides approximately 6–8 hours of grilling (with burners on medium-high).
• 13kg bottle (green): Standard size for most Weber gas barbecues (Spirit 3-burner, Genesis, Summit). Provides approximately 15–20 hours of grilling (with burners on medium-high).

Weber Recommendation: For regular grilling, the 13kg bottle is the best choice. For portable or compact grills, the 5kg bottle is sufficient.

Understanding the 37mbar Clip-On Regulator

The 37mbar clip-on regulator is the standard regulator for Weber gas barbecues in the UK. It reduces the high pressure in the Patio Gas bottle to a safe, usable pressure (37 millibar) for your barbecue.

Key Features:

• Tool-free connection: The regulator clips directly onto the Patio Gas bottle valve—no spanners or wrenches needed.
• Quick release: Press a button or lever to disconnect the regulator from the bottle.
• 37mbar pressure: This is the UK standard pressure for propane barbecues. Always ensure your regulator is rated for 37mbar.
• Built-in hose: Most clip-on regulators come with an integrated hose that connects to your barbecue's gas inlet.

Where to buy: Clip-on regulators are included with most new Weber barbecues in the UK. Replacement regulators are available from Weber UK, Calor Gas stockists, or barbecue specialists.

What You'll Need

• Your Weber gas barbecue
• Patio Gas bottle (5kg or 13kg)
• 37mbar clip-on regulator with hose (usually included with your barbecue)
• Soapy water solution (for leak testing: mix washing-up liquid with water in a spray bottle)
• Soft cloth (for cleaning connections if needed)

Step-by-Step: Connecting a Patio Gas Bottle

Before You Start:

• Ensure the barbecue is outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
• All burner control knobs should be in the "OFF" position (turned fully clockwise).
• The Patio Gas bottle should be upright, stable, and positioned in the designated storage area (under the side table, in the cart, or beside the barbecue).

Step 1: Position the Patio Gas Bottle

1. Place the bottle upright: Position the Patio Gas bottle in the storage area designated by your barbecue's design (usually under the left side table or in the cart). Ensure it's stable and won't tip over.
2. Check for damage: Inspect the bottle for dents, rust, or damage. Do not use a damaged bottle. Check the expiry date on the bottle collar—bottles must be inspected and recertified every 10 years.

Step 2: Prepare the Regulator and Valve

1. Remove the bottle valve cap: Unscrew the green protective cap from the top of the Patio Gas bottle. Keep this cap safe—you'll need it if you disconnect the bottle for storage.
2. Inspect the bottle valve: Check the valve for dirt, debris, or damage. Wipe clean with a soft cloth if needed.
3. Inspect the regulator: Check the clip-on regulator for cracks, wear, or damage. Ensure the rubber seal inside the regulator connection is intact and in good condition. Replace the regulator if damaged.

Step 3: Connect the Regulator to the Bottle

1. Align the regulator with the valve: Hold the clip-on regulator so the connection aligns with the Patio Gas bottle valve (the green valve on top of the bottle).
2. Push firmly onto the valve: Push the regulator straight down onto the valve until you hear a distinct "click." This sound confirms the regulator is locked in place.
3. Test the connection: Gently pull on the regulator to ensure it's securely attached. It should not come off easily. If it feels loose, remove it and reconnect, ensuring you hear the click.

Step 4: Connect the Hose to the Barbecue

1. Locate the gas inlet: The gas inlet on your barbecue is usually located near the control panel, under the side table, or at the back of the grill. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure.
2. Connect the hose: The hose from the regulator connects to the gas inlet. Most Weber barbecues use a hand-tightened screw connection or a push-fit quick-connect fitting. Hand-tighten the connection until snug. Do not use tools unless specified in your manual—over-tightening can damage the connection.
3. Check the hose: Ensure the hose is not kinked, twisted, or stretched. It should have a gentle curve from the bottle to the barbecue.

Step 5: Perform a Gas Leak Test

Before opening the gas bottle valve, always perform a leak test to ensure all connections are secure and gas-tight.

1. Prepare soapy water solution: Mix a few drops of washing-up liquid with water in a spray bottle.
2. Leave burner knobs OFF: Ensure all burner control knobs are turned fully clockwise to the "OFF" position.
3. Open the bottle valve: Slowly turn the valve on the Patio Gas bottle anticlockwise (turn it about 1–2 full rotations until it stops). You may hear a slight hiss as gas flows into the hose—this is normal.
4. Spray all connections: Spray soapy water generously on:
   • The regulator connection to the bottle valve
   • The hose connection to the regulator (if separate)
   • The hose connection to the barbecue gas inlet
5. Look for bubbles: Watch for bubbles forming at any connection. Bubbles = gas leak.
6. If bubbles appear: Turn off the gas bottle valve immediately. Disconnect the regulator, check all seals and connections, reconnect, and test again. If bubbles persist, replace the faulty component (regulator, hose, or seal) before using the barbecue.
7. No bubbles = safe to proceed: If no bubbles appear after 30 seconds, your connections are secure and leak-free.

Critical Safety Step: Never skip the leak test. Perform it every time you connect or reconnect the gas bottle, or replace any gas components. Related: #How to Perform a Gas Leak Test on Your Weber Grill.

Step 6: You're Ready to Grill

With the gas bottle connected and leak-tested, your barbecue is ready to light. Follow your barbecue's lighting instructions (usually: open the lid, turn on one burner, press the igniter, then light remaining burners). Related: #How to Light a Weber Gas Grill Safely.

Gas Bottle Connection Checklist

How to Disconnect the Gas Bottle After Use

1. Turn off all burner knobs: Ensure all burners are turned to "OFF" (fully clockwise).
2. Turn off the gas bottle valve: Turn the valve on the Patio Gas bottle clockwise (righty-tighty) until it's fully closed.
3. Disconnect the regulator (if storing the bottle separately): Press the release button or lever on the clip-on regulator and pull it straight up and off the bottle valve. It should come off easily once the release mechanism is activated.
4. Replace the bottle valve cap: Screw the green protective cap back onto the bottle valve to keep it clean and protected.
5. Store the bottle safely: Store Patio Gas bottles upright in a well-ventilated outdoor area (not in a shed, garage, or enclosed space). Keep away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and flammable materials.

Important: Always turn off the gas at the bottle valve after each use (in addition to turning off burner knobs). This is a critical safety practice that prevents gas leaks when the barbecue is not in use.

Safety Tips

• Always perform a leak test: Test for leaks every time you connect or reconnect the gas bottle, or replace any gas components.
• Never use damaged components: Replace cracked, worn, or damaged regulators, hoses, or seals immediately.
• Store bottles upright outdoors: Gas bottles must always be stored upright in a well-ventilated outdoor area. Never store them indoors, in garages, sheds, or enclosed spaces.
• Turn off gas at the bottle: Always turn off the bottle valve after grilling, not just the burner knobs.
• Check expiry dates: Gas bottles must be inspected every 10 years. Check the expiry date on the bottle collar.
• Use only 37mbar regulators: Weber gas barbecues in the UK are designed for 37mbar pressure. Always use the correct regulator.
• Never use barbecues indoors: Gas barbecues produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly in confined spaces. Always use outdoors only.

Where to Buy Patio Gas and Regulators

• Patio Gas bottles: Available at Calor Gas stockists, garden centres (B&Q, Homebase, Wickes), petrol stations, and DIY stores across the UK. You can exchange empty bottles for full ones at most stockists.
• 37mbar clip-on regulators: Available from Weber UK, Calor Gas stockists, barbecue specialists, and online retailers. Always purchase from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and safety.

Related Articles

• #First-Time Setup Guide for Weber Gas Barbecues
• #How to Perform a Gas Leak Test on Your Weber Grill
• #How to Light a Weber Gas Grill Safely
• #Weber Gas Grill Burner Won't Light - Complete Troubleshooting Guide

FAQ

Q: Can I use a 5kg Patio Gas bottle with any Weber gas barbecue?

A: Yes, but the 5kg bottle is best suited for smaller barbecues (Weber Q series, Spirit 2-burner models) or occasional grilling. For larger models (Spirit 3-burner, Genesis, Summit) or regular use, the 13kg bottle is recommended for longer grilling sessions between refills.

Q: What if my clip-on regulator doesn't click when I connect it?

A: Ensure you're pushing the regulator straight down onto the valve (not at an angle). Press firmly until you hear the click. If it still doesn't click, check for dirt or debris on the valve or regulator connection. If the regulator is damaged or worn, replace it.

Q: How long does a 13kg Patio Gas bottle last?

A: A 13kg Patio Gas bottle typically provides 15–20 hours of grilling with burners on medium-high heat. Actual usage varies depending on burner settings, cooking temperature, grill size, and weather conditions (cold weather uses more gas).

Q: Can I leave the gas bottle connected to my barbecue when not in use?

A: You can leave the bottle connected if it's stored outdoors in a well-ventilated area, but always turn off the bottle valve after each use. For long-term storage (winter, several months), it's best to disconnect the bottle completely and store it separately.

Q: What should I do if I smell gas?

A: Turn off all burner knobs and the gas bottle valve immediately. Do not ignite any flames or use electrical devices nearby. Move away from the barbecue. Perform a leak test with soapy water to locate the source. If you cannot find or fix the leak, contact a qualified gas engineer or Calor Gas for assistance.

Q: Can I exchange an empty Patio Gas bottle?

A: Yes. Most Calor Gas stockists and retailers operate a bottle exchange scheme. Bring your empty bottle to a stockist, and exchange it for a full one. You pay only for the gas, not the bottle (as long as you're exchanging a Calor bottle).

Q: Do I need to buy a regulator separately, or is it included with my Weber barbecue?

A: Most Weber gas barbecues sold in the UK include a 37mbar clip-on regulator and hose. Check your barbecue's packaging or owner's manual. If not included, purchase one from Weber UK or a barbecue specialist before first use.

Conclusion

Connecting your Patio Gas bottle to your Weber barbecue is quick and straightforward with the clip-on regulator system. Follow the connection steps carefully, always perform a leak test, and prioritise safety by turning off the gas at the bottle after each use. With a secure connection and proper gas supply, you're ready to enjoy reliable, delicious grilling all year round. Now fire up your Weber and get cooking!