Is It Illegal To Refill Exchange-only Gas Bottles?

NOTE: Flogas and Calor are UK brands, and are used only for exchange-only.

As far as the legality of users in some country, refilling exchange-only bottles is totally illegal. In the UK, Calor warns about unlawful refilling of its LPG cylinder bottles at unauthorized refilling sites. However, in most low income countries, it's difficult to see how this practice can be ever be considered illegal. For example, in most Africa countries, most of this private companies cylinder bottles such as Flogas, Calor gas and Supagas, are shipped, imported illegally via the country port. These cylinder bottles are then used by local LPG retail resellers in shops across different countries. But note, whether the 47kg cylinder bottle comes from a foreign or UK gas suppliers, contractually, the bottle will always remain the property of that distributor who will always prohibit illegal refilling of its products.

If you purchased a Calor propane cylinder bottle for a few cash from a sales shop or get given one by a friend, it will never be 100% yours. Even if you actually own your gas bottle rather than hiring it (as is the case with exchange-only cylinder bottles from Calor and Flogas), some gas stations may prohibit you from refilling it. Most Calor and Flogas propane tanks are mostly used by local LPG resellers for tank-to-tank method. Refilling of gas cylinder bottles in illegal refilling sites have been banned by the LPG regulatory bodies in some countries. 

My advice, stay far away from Calor, Flogas or Supagas propane 47kg brands. These exchange-only cylinder bottles are mostly sold at outdoor sales, car-boot and online retail store like eBay , where people sell things that they no longer want. Go for other brand names of 47kg cylinder bottles instead.

FAQS 

Q: Can I refill exchange-only gas bottles?

A: Generally, no. Exchange-only gas bottles are meant to be swapped for filled ones, not refilled.

Q: Why is it not allowed to refill exchange-only gas bottles?

A: Refilling these bottles might not be safe because they may not be designed for multiple uses.

Q: What should I do if I need to refill my gas bottle?

A: Instead of refilling exchange-only gas bottles, you should exchange them for filled ones at a gas bottle exchange location.

Q: Is it illegal to refill exchange-only gas bottles?

A: It might be illegal depending on the regulations in your area. It's best to check with local authorities or the gas supplier to be sure.

Q: What are the risks of refilling exchange-only gas bottles?

A: Refilling these bottles could lead to safety hazards like leaks or explosions because they might not be properly designed for refilling. It's safer to use them as intended, which is for exchange.