BBQ GAS

The petrol stations were correct. They can only supply a new bottle if you have a valid inspection certificate for the gas 'installation'.

You can either ask Repsol or Cepsa who in your area could issue the certificate or, as most people do, buy an empty gas bottle - frequently advertised on this forum - and just go and swap it for a full one.

I have now contacted Repsol who have told me in no uncertain terms that a contract is not needed for a BBQ. He was annoyed to put it mildly at he said it is the forecourt staff job to sell Repsol products not refuse to sell. In his opinion the forecourt staff probably couldn't not be bothered as it would not be an easy sale as they would have to take the canister deposit as well.  He told me to go back and to tell them no contract is needed for a BBQ and to phone him if they refused and he would talk to them directly..........

That's very interesting, and thanks for posting the information. It's the first time in fourteen years that I've heard that it's possible to buy a new gas bottle without an inspection certificate.

Agree. I tried at SMDS to get one for our BBQ. He told me to go to Torrevieja and fill in some paperwork.

Just went the garden centre, didn't need contract or anything 

It is a lot cheaper to buy an empty one!

I think the comment that it's "forecourt staff job to sell Repsol products not refuse to sell" is scandalously cavalier and irresponsible and I wouldn't like to be in their shoes when a bottle they were ordered to sell simply because the customer claimed it to be for a BBQ ended up costing a life when in truth it was for use with an uncertified gas installation in a dwelling.

Well that is what he said. I have my house certified and inspected by Campsa. Needed a particular size of bottle which only Repsol do. If somebody is going to lie and say it is for a BBQ they would only issue a contract and not do the full inspection - unless you expect Repsol to come and check my B.B.Q over. Seems some people buy second hand bottles to get gas for their house....

Can’t legislate against idiots.