Newly manufactured LPG gas appliances, including outdoor patio heaters and barbecues, will be fitted with a safer gas cylinder connection from Friday 1 April 2022, under new Standards driven by Energy Safe Victoria (ESV).

Over the past 12 months, appliances and LPG cylinders, between 4.5kg and 9kg, have gradually transitioned to include the safer LCC27 connection under new Australian Standards. This transition concluded on 1 April with the mandating of newly manufactured gas appliances to include the new connection.

The safer connection prevents gas being released if the connection is not properly fitted, meaning that if the hose connection has been disconnected or the cylinder valve has been left open, gas will not flow, reducing the risk of an explosion or fire.

ESV, who with other industry stakeholders supported the new Standards, has found that leaking connections, through LPG cylinders have been the leading cause of fires involving portable appliances.

Barbecues, in particular, have been a major concern with Fire Rescue Victoria and the CFA receiving a combined 63 calls relating to barbecue-related fires during the 2020-21 financial year.

LPG cylinders with the corresponding new valve have been available for purchase over the past 12 months at local Swap and Go locations, including service stations and hardware stores.

Gas appliances with the new connection (LCC27) are only compatible with the corresponding LCC27 cylinder valve. Appliances with the older connections (Type 21) are compatible with both LCC27 and Type 21 cylinder valves. These appliances will continue to be available until sold out.

ESV is also warning Victorians not to use an adaptor to connect an appliance with the new connection to an older cylinder valves as this can cause a gas leak. People should swap their cylinder for one featuring the new valve.

ESV’s Know The Drill Before You Grill campaign also reminds the community to ensure they follow some simple safety tips to avoid the dangers of damaged, old or loose LP gas cylinder connections, causing fires and putting lives and property at risk.

By simply squirting soapy water from a plastic bottle onto the cylinder connection after turning the gas on, you can tell if there is a gas leak. If no bubbles appear, you’re safe to cook. If you see bubbles, turn off the gas immediately and re-check the hose and connections to make sure they are tight.

For more information and images go to esv.vic.gov.au/saferbbq.