Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Wednesday Why: where to find butane stoves

Where can butane stoves and butane fuel canisters be purchased in the low-country?

In some areas butane stoves and canisters are more readily available; but in others, they aren't.  I've searched the regular stores and drugstores in this area but haven't found any that sell butane stoves, the only place I've found so far that sells both the stove and the fuel is R&R Restaurant Supply.  They have a location in Bluffton, SC, and a location in Savannah, GA.  For directions go to their website:  randrrestaurantsupply.com.  They are open to the public, you do not need to have a restaurant or catering company to be able to purchase from them.  Both on the phone and in person, I was impressed by their kindness and helpfulness.

I've not bought from them so can't vouch for that aspect or the aspect of the quality of their products.  But having looked at the stove, it looks very similar to ones I've seen and used in the past (just a different brand).  I didn't find the stove on their website, I called them and asked, then went and did a visual check of it.  The stove and fuel were Chef-master and Winco brands.  The stove itself I was told is priced at 33.75, while the butane fuel canister is priced at 3.10 (plus tax both together would cost 39.43).  By not buying the fuel online, you save on the extra shipping charges required for shipping fuel.  The stove I looked at did have a black carry case similar again to past ones I've seen and used--it is a firm plastic not a fabric case.

If you don't live in the Savannah area, some ideas for you to find local stores that may sell butane stoves and fuel:  check for restaurant supply companies near you.  Asian stores/markets might also sell them.  Some sporting goods stores may sell different types of butane stoves--as there are some made more for backpacking, so just be sure it is the type you want.  In south Florida, during the beginning of hurricane season, Walgreens had butane stoves and fuel.  There are also many places online that sell the stoves and fuel--BUT anytime you have fuel or flammable liquids shipped you will be paying for extra shipping and handling, so just be sure to calculate the shipping costs into your final cost.

I hope this helps!

Please remember be sure to follow the directions with the stove/fuel on how to use, be safe.    Remember, with any fire/flame you want a well ventilated area--fire needs oxygen to burn.

If your stoves on/off switch (the knob that goes from off to on and to the clicking lighting thing) is not shutting the flame/fuel off or adjusting, something is probably wrong.  In Dec 2010, some 37,000 plus Sterno butane stoves were recalled because this switch wasn't working right and completely shutting the fuel off which causes a fire hazard.  Be sure your stove is in working order each time--I suggest trying any alternative cooking method outdoors first to be sure it is working properly before trying indoors, for those that are "safe" for indoor usage that is.


No comments:

Post a Comment