Small LPG cylinders offer convenience for students, small families and travellers, but home delivery comes with an additional charge.
Highlights
- Home delivery of 5kg LPG cylinders attracts an extra ₹25 per refill.
- Customers can buy the cylinder with only a valid identity proof.
- Empty cylinders can be returned for a fixed refund of ₹500.
- Commercial LPG prices fell by ₹183.50 on July 1, raising hopes of further relief.
India’s compact 5kg LPG cylinder, popularly known as the “Chhotu” cylinder, is becoming an increasingly popular cooking fuel option for people with limited LPG requirements. Ideal for students, small families, tenants, shopkeepers and travellers, the lightweight cylinder is easy to carry and store. However, many customers are unaware that opting for home delivery of the refill comes with an additional charge of ₹25.
Consumers can avail home delivery by booking a refill through authorised Points of Sale (PoS), but the convenience service is not included in the refill price. The extra ₹25 delivery fee is applicable for every refill delivered to the customer’s doorstep.
One of the biggest advantages of the 5kg LPG cylinder is its hassle-free purchase process. Unlike regular domestic LPG connections, customers do not need to submit address proof. A valid identity card is sufficient to obtain a connection, making it especially useful for migrants, students and people living in rented accommodation.
The cylinder is available through authorised Indane LPG distributors, Indian Oil fuel stations, selected supermarkets and retail outlets. Customers can also refill the cylinder from any authorised distributor or Point of Sale across the country, making it a convenient option for people who frequently relocate.
Another customer-friendly feature is the refundable security deposit. If a consumer decides to discontinue using the cylinder, the empty cylinder can be returned to the company, which refunds a fixed amount of ₹500 per cylinder. There is no restriction on the duration of usage before returning it.
The discussion around LPG prices has gained momentum after oil marketing companies reduced the price of the 19kg commercial LPG cylinder by ₹183.50 from July 1. The move followed easing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and improved energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, many consumers are now expecting a reduction in the prices of domestic LPG cylinders as well.
While the 14.2kg domestic LPG cylinder price remains unchanged at ₹942 after the last revision in June, the price of the 5kg cylinder currently stands at ₹821.50 following a recent increase of ₹11.
For consumers who use LPG sparingly or need a portable cooking solution, the 5kg “Chhotu” cylinder remains a practical option. However, customers planning to use home delivery should factor in the additional ₹25 service charge while estimating their refill costs.
