Winter brings increased energy costs and colder temperatures, prompting many South Africans to rely on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for heating and cooking. LPG offers many benefits, including being a cleaner and safer energy source when used correctly. However, discounted cylinder refills that seem too good to be true may pose serious risks to your property, health, and financial security.

“The hazard lies not in the gas itself, but in how cylinders are being refilled,” explains Jeremie Tromp from Easigas.

“Legal requirements mandate that gas cylinders be filled exclusively by trained, certified professionals adhering to strict safety protocols. However, illegal operators disregard these standards, cutting corners and tampering with contents to offer cylinder refills at reduced prices.”

The Hidden Dangers of Buying from Illegal Operators

Illegal operators engage in unsafe practices which create critical risks, he stresses. “Overfilled cylinders increase pressure to dangerous levels, making them unstable. Even minor impacts, temperature changes, or mishandling can lead to leaks or potentially catastrophic failures.”

Contaminated gas is another serious hazard. Illegal operators often add water, paraffin, or other substances to increase cylinder weight. “These mixtures burn inefficiently, damage appliances, and compromise seals, creating hidden leaks that endanger homes and occupants,” points out Tromp.

The True Cost of “Cheap” Gas

Cylinders may also be underfilled to appear like a better deal but actually contain less gas than advertised, forcing consumers to refill more frequently and spend more overall.

Before considering that seemingly attractive discount, consider Tromp’s warning:

“Contaminated fuel can destroy a R3,000 gas stove, while hidden leaks can trigger fires. Insurance companies may likely repudiate claims when investigations reveal the use of illegally refilled cylinders. Families have lost their homes entirely. The question isn’t whether this could happen to you – it’s whether you’re prepared to risk everything you own.”

Community-Wide Dangers

The risks extend beyond individual homes to entire communities. Illegal operators transport numerous improperly secured cylinders on vehicles without adequate safety measures.

“A pothole or sudden turn could damage a valve, creating a mobile hazard on public roads,” he says. “These operators also store hundreds of cylinders in cramped garages or makeshift workshops. One accident could devastate an entire neighbourhood.”

Additionally, illegal operators avoid paying taxes, depriving the country of millions in revenue that could support essential infrastructure like roads, hospitals, and schools.

Be Alert for These Red Flags

• Prices significantly below market rates
• No receipts, documentation, or certification proof
• Seals that don’t match the cylinder brand
• Blank or generic neck rings (legitimate cylinders display company name, weight, serial number, and country of origin)
• Multiple brands delivered from the same vehicle

“If something appears questionable, it likely is,” advises Tromp.

If You Believe Your Cylinder Has Been Illegally Refilled

• Do not ignite the gas or handle the cylinder roughly
• Contact a licensed gas supplier to safely remove and replace the cylinder or return the cylinder to the purchase point
• Report the seller to your local municipality or the LP Gas Safety Association
• Alert your community through appropriate channels.

“LPG offers many benefits, from cost savings to sustainability, but when family safety is at stake, shortcuts can prove far more costly than any initial savings,” he concludes.

“Choose licensed suppliers and pay fair market prices. When protecting those you care about, the only acceptable option is the legitimate one.”