Christmas in Queensland means sunshine, long evenings, and the unmistakable smell of BBQs firing up across Noosa, Gympie and the Sunshine Coast. With more outdoor cooking happening in December than any other month of the year, it’s also the time when gas-related incidents are most common.

At Gas Services QLD, we specialise in all aspects of gas safety — and we see firsthand how easy it is for BBQ gas bottles, hoses and regulators to fail when they haven’t been checked in a while. A simple pre-Christmas safety check can prevent fires, leaks, or equipment failures during your holiday celebrations.

Here are the essential BBQ gas bottle safety tips every QLD household should follow before Christmas.

1. Check Your Gas Bottle’s Expiry Date

Every gas bottle sold in Australia must be tested and stamped with a certification date.
A bottle is valid for 10 years from its most recent inspection.

Look for the stamped date near the collar of the bottle (e.g., “03•15”).
If your bottle is expired, do not refill it — replace it or take it for re-testing.

2. Inspect the Hose for Cracks and Soft Spots

The hose is one of the most common failure points.
Before your Christmas cook-up, check for:

• • Cracking or brittleness

  • Soft or swollen sections

  • Kinks or bending marks

  • Any smell of gas around the hose

If anything feels “off,” replace the hose immediately — they’re inexpensive and easy to swap.

3. Perform a Soapy Water Leak Test

A simple test can detect even tiny leaks.

How to do it:

1. 1. Mix dish soap with water.

   2. Turn the gas bottle on.

   3. Brush or spray the soapy mixture over all connections.

   4. Look for bubbles — this means a leak.

If bubbles appear, turn the gas off and book a licensed gas fitter to repair or replace the faulty part.

4. Inspect the Regulator

Your BBQ regulator controls the flow of gas, and a faulty regulator can cause unpredictable flames or leaks.

Signs of regulator failure:

• • Yellow/orange flame instead of blue

  • Low heat output

  • Strong smell of gas

  • Whistling noises when operating

If your regulator is more than a few years old, consider replacing it before the holiday season. You may need to contact a licenced gas fitter for this part.

5. Store Gas Bottles Safely Over Summer

Queensland’s summer heat can be extreme, so gas bottles must be stored properly.

Do:
✔ Store upright
✔ Keep in a cool, shaded, well-ventilated area
✔ Place away from doors, windows and BBQs

Don’t:
✘ Leave bottles in cars
✘ Store indoors
✘ Lay bottles on their side

6. Always Transport Gas Bottles Safely

If you’re refilling for Christmas:

• • Transport gas bottles upright

  • Secure them in your vehicle

  • Keep windows open for ventilation

  • Never smoke near the bottle

7. When in Doubt — Call a Licensed Gas Fitter

If you’re unsure about your BBQ gas system, it’s always safest to have it inspected by a professional.

Gas Services QLD provides:
✔ BBQ gas leak checks
✔ Regulator & hose replacements
✔ Gas bottle safety advice
✔ Emergency assistance
✔ Full home gas safety inspections

Make sure your Christmas BBQ is safe, reliable and ready to go.