KiwiGas Handy Tips

We're not a big corporate offshore monster that prefers you to go through an awful phone prompted process.

We actually do care!

Please call us if you need to know something on 0800 166 619 as we will help you however we possibly can

But here are some quick handy helpful tips that may help you..

How are my LPG gas bottles connected?

The gas bottles are connected by tubing or "pigtails", to a changeover valve and the changeover valve is connected to a regulator. A gas line then runs from the regulator to your gas appliances. The changeover valve controls the gas bottle that is in use.

Who provides the regulator, changeover valve & "pigtails"?

The property owner must have a licensed gas fitter install the gas regulator, changeover valve and "pigtails". The gas fitter also connects the gas line from the regulator to your gas appliance(s). All 45KG gas bottles are the ownership of KIWIGAS and we only provide our gas bottles.
If you have just moved into a home or business that already has LPG, all of this would have previously been sorted. You just simply need to select from your LPG Gas Delivery Options.

What is a Gas Fitting Certificate?

Before getting connected, the installation of your appliances and the gas plumbing must be certified by a gasfitter registered and approved by the NZ Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board.

How do I operate the gas bottle changeover valve?

Examples of automatic changeover valves

These automatically switch from one gas bottle to another, when one is empty. To do this, both gas bottle valves are left in the OPEN position. Your automatic changeover valve is likely to look like one of the valves pictured here:
Several types of automatic changeover valves are available. All use a visual indicator to show you when a gas bottle is empty and it has switched over to the other gas bottle. The indicator typically turns red when the first bottle is empty. Do not touch or turn the indicator. When it turns red, that's your signal to call 0800 166 619 for a delivery. We will replace the empty bottle with a full one and reset the indicator.

How is LPG gas delivered?

You have 4 ways to have your LPG delivered:

PH: 0800 166 619

Email: needgas@kiwigas.co.nz

Website: www.kiwigas.co.nz

Or simply call in and see us at our depot 37 Shands Road Hornby.

When do I need LPG?

Depending on your set up, when your gas runs out to one side of your gas regulator, you simply change your changover dial on your gas regulator to point to the other gas bottle(s) and always remember to turn the one(s) in use on and the one(s) or side not in use off.

What do I do if I have existing gas bottles still there from my old gas supplier

When you have opened your account with us you then simply call us when you need LPG and we will take care of the rest! We will take the other gas bottles away, and return them to the former supplier. We will also ensure that they sign for receipt of the gas bottles and weight of the gas (if any) that is still in them.

We also return the old gas bottles for you, at no charge. You can just sit back and relax while we handle everything!

How to pay for your gas

Please see our Payment Options for your various choices that also includes online payment options.

How not to run out of gas

• Always order gas as soon as you notice the first bottle has run out. Don't wait until the gas bottles are both empty or near empty if you do, you are virtually assured to never run out of gas.

• Remember to check your gas bottles more often in cold weather or when you have additional guests.
• Remember to order sooner, rather than later, during the busy winter seasonal months.
• It is not recommended to only have 1 45KG gas bottle connected to your house, please consider adding a second gas bottle. This is particularly wise if you use it for hot water or heating.

How much gas is left in the gas bottle(s) in use?

Gently pour a cup of hot water down the side of the bottle and a line of condensation will appear at the level of the remaining gas. If no line is apparent, you can also wait a few seconds and run your hand down the cylinder. It will feel cool to the touch at the level of the gas. If you see no line and feel no difference in temperature, chances are the bottle is empty. Remember to always use care with the hot water.

Also, please be aware that gas bottles are designed to be 80% full or just over 3/4. The bottles are oversized so you get the full measure of gas. The unfilled space is called "ullage" and allows for the natural expansion of the gas during warmer temperatures.

How regular should I check my gas bottle(s)?

This really depends on the number of appliances, the seasonal climate, the number of people in your home and how often you use your appliances. Cooking only - Every 9 to 12 months

• Hot water useage only - Every 2-3 months depending on climate and the number of people in your home.
• Heating only - Every month during heating season or more often with large or multiple units and in colder climates.
• Combinations of hot water and heating - Every 2 -3 weeks or more often during the colder months. Especially if you have large or multiple water heating or room heating.