All cylinders sold in Australia must meet strict specifications. LPG cylinders are certified for ten years. When they are out of date they need to be recertified or replaced. It is illegal to fill a "time expired" LPG cylinder.

A dew line may appear around the cylinder when an appliance is operating, indicating the level of liquid inside. This is not uncommon or dangerous. An ice build-up around the cylinder may occur in exceptional circumstances and is indicating the gas demand is exceeding the supply available, in which case, the cylinder will need to be refilled or a larger cylinder used.

Always transport, store and use portable LPG cylinders in an upright position. (Forklift and autogas cylinders are the exception to this rule.)

Keep cylinders secure during transport, and don't carry them in the passenger compartment. Use a sealing plug in the cylinder valve when the appliance is not connected.

Cylinders kept in a car during summer could overheat and exceed their maximum service temperature, so avoid doing this - it could cause the safety valve to operate, filling the car with LPG vapour. If you need to transport a portable LPG cylinder in a vehicle during hot weather keep it upright and wrap it in a wet towel to keep it cool.

Never tamper with the safety valve, cylinder fittings, or use undue force on the cylinder valve.

Always store cylinders upright, outdoors and in a well ventilated area away from excess heat and possible sources of ignition.

If the cylinder has been damaged by fire or heat, or has suffered physical damage, it should be inspected at an authorised test station before refilling. It should also be inspected if it is rusty (especially underneath).

Shut off the cylinder valve before disconnecting. When replacing a portable cylinder, ensure the appliance is turned off.

When replacing one of a pair of cylinders on a permanent installation, LPG appliances may need to be turned off, unless an automatic changeover valve is fitted.