Choosing the wrong cylinder size means refilling too often — or hauling a tank your kitchen can't fit. Here is every size sold in Kenya, what it holds, and who it's for.
The Sizes at a Glance
| Size | Typical use | Lasts (family of 4) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3kg | Camping, emergencies, light cooking | ~1–2 weeks | |
| 6kg | Bedsitters, students, small homes | 2–3 weeks | |
| 13kg | Standard family kitchen | 4–6 weeks | |
| 22.5kg | Large families, small eateries | 2–3 months | |
| 50kg | Restaurants, hotels, institutions | Commercial use |
3kg — The Emergency Cylinder
Small enough to carry in one hand. Popular for camping, emergency backup when the main cylinder runs out, and very light cooking. Refills are cheap but the per-kg price is highest.
6kg — The Starter Size
Pairs with a meko burner top and grill to make a complete cooking set. Fits under counters. Best for 1–2 people. If you're switching from charcoal for the first time, a 6kg complete set is the cheapest entry point.
13kg — The Kenyan Standard
The default family cylinder. Holds enough gas for a month of daily cooking, fits most kitchens, and every brand sells it — meaning refills are available everywhere. If in doubt, choose 13kg.
22.5kg — The Middle Ground
Less common but useful for large families or small food businesses that find 13kg too small and 50kg too large. Not all brands stock it.
50kg — Commercial Grade
For restaurants, hotels, schools and institutions. These need a fixed installation — usually piped to the kitchen — and are often run in pairs with a changeover valve so supply never stops. PataGas supplies 50kg new cylinders and refills for businesses; see our bulk LPG guide for businesses.
Can You Mix Sizes?
Many homes run a 13kg main + 6kg backup — the backup saves you on refill day. Just remember the regulator types differ between sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 13kg cylinder fit in a small kitchen?
It's about 45cm tall — fits beside or under most counters. Keep it upright with ventilation space around it.
Is a bigger cylinder better value?
Per kilogram, yes — bigger refills cost less per kg. But only buy what your household actually uses within a reasonable time.
Do all brands sell every size?
No — most brands focus on 6kg and 13kg. 50kg is available from Afrigas, Total, Hashi, Ola, Lake, Supa and Jatel on PataGas.
Not sure which size? Browse all sizes with live prices — or call us and we'll recommend based on your household. Shop cylinders →