LPG Users Alert: Check Your Gas Pipe's Colour and Expiry Date Before the Next Gas Cylinder Refill

Domestic LPG cylinder prices were increased by Rs. 29 from June 7, which is the second hike this year. After the revision, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder costs Rs. 941.50 to Rs. 994 in the country.

As consumers are going to pay more for cooking gas amid West Asia-related supply concerns, oil companies are also urging households to follow safety norms, including the use of IS-certified LPG hoses.

Currently millions of Indian households rely on LPG cylinders for daily cooking, safety experts and oil companies continue to talk about the importance of using the correct gas pipe. While many consumers focus on the condition of their LPG cylinder and regulator, the color and quality of the connecting hose can be equally important.

According to LPG safety guidelines, the orange-colored LPG hose is the only recommended pipe for domestic LPG connections in India. Green, transparent or other colored pipes are not designed for LPG use and can cause serious safety risks, including gas leaks and fire hazards.

Why Are LPG Pipes Usually Orange?

The orange LPG pipe is specially manufactured for domestic gas connections and complies with Indian safety standards. The color helps consumers and technicians quickly identify that the hose is meant for LPG use.

These pipes are made from a special rubber compound designed to withstand gas pressure, heat and daily wear and tear. They also come with printed manufacturing and expiry dates, making it easier for consumers to know when replacement is due.

Oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) recommend the use of IS-certified orange LPG hoses for household connections.

Why other Pipe Colours Should Never Be Used for LPG

Many consumers mistakenly use green, pipes because they are easily available in local markets. However, green pipes are generally designed for water, drainage or wastewater applications and not for transporting LPG.

Unlike certified gas hoses, green pipes may corrode, crack or weaken when exposed to LPG over a long period which increases the risk of gas leakage, which can lead to fires or explosions in kitchens.

Transparent or clear pipes are also considered unsafe for LPG connections. These pipes are often made from lower-grade materials that can harden, crack or burn when exposed to heat.

Yellow pipes are often used for flammable gas pipelines in industrial settings, green pipes for water and wastewater systems, blue pipes for compressed air systems, and red pipes for firefighting networks.

However, these color standards apply to industrial infrastructure and should not be confused with domestic LPG connections.

LPG Safety Tips for Households

Consumers should always use an IS-certified orange LPG hose, regularly inspect the pipe for cracks or damage, ensure proper ventilation around the cylinder, and replace old hoses before the expiry date.

Any smell of gas should be reported immediately and the connection should be checked by an authorised technician.

With LPG cylinders used in millions of Indian kitchens every day, following basic safety practices can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe cooking environment for families.

One of the most important safety checks for consumers is to verify the expiry date printed on the orange LPG hose. Over time, exposure to heat, pressure and environmental conditions can make the pipe brittle.

Experts recommend replacing the LPG hose every five years or earlier if signs of wear, cracks or damage appear.