Propane Regulator 101

The Basics

The Reliable Propane Regulator:
A good understanding of regulator operation will help customers get the most
out of their propane regulator, and enjoy their propane applainces safely.
Most regulators have a simple and proven diaphragm, spring and lever system.
This ingenious mechanism allows the consistent delivery of propane gas to the propane
powered appliance regardless of tank pressure or the affect of related weather conditions.
Please consult a local, qualified technician regarding propane regluator issues.
NEVER MODIFY OR TAMPER WITH A PROPANE REGULATOR!

Maintenance:

Most propane regulators requires little in the way of maintenance and care, in order to
delver many years of good, safe, service. The most common mistake made by many,
is to simply connect the regulator to the propane cylinder and forget. To maintain
a safe environment, one only need pay attention to a few details.

1. Propane regulators are designed for OUTDOOR USE ONLY. Safety first!

2. Most regulators have a small vent, covered with a screen or
plastic grid. This vent must not become blocked or restricted by dirt, insects,
or other matter. Keep the vent Clean!

3. Most propane regulator manufacturers specify that the regulator is to be mounted
with the vent opening FACING DOWN. This keeps rain, snow, dust, debris, and condensation
out of the propane regulator.

4. Most regulators use a diaphragm, which is a rubber disc, designed
to flex and move whenever the applied pressure from the propane cylinder changes.
This usually occurs due to changes in temperature. As the temperature of the liquid propane expands,
it exerts more pressure on the regulator inlet. The diaphragm then flexes, operating
a series of one or more levers and springs. This automatically then maintains proper
output pressure to your propane gas grill or outdoor appliance. In order for the
diaphragm to work properly, you must KEEP THE REGULATOR VENT CLEAN and facing down!

5. Pressure relief valves are used by many manufacturers. This is designed within
the regulator. Should the pressure become excessive, the regulator will vent off the
excess pressure throught the propane regulator vent, rather than send the excess pressure
to the grill or appliance.

So a small amount of attention to detail when installing a propane regulator, with the vent
facing down, and under a cover to prevent rain, snow, and moisture, as well as dirt
from entering the vent, will go a long way toward ensuring that you get the maxmimum
life out of your propane regulator, and having done so safely.

Identifying Different Types of Regulators

For the novice, the variety of styles and variations on the propane regulator can be overwhelming!
No need for worry.

First one must determine if the propane regulator is a high pressure or a low pressure propane
regulator. This is quite simple. As seen in the photos below...

HIGH PRESSURE PROPANE REGULATORS High Pressure Regulator 1/4'' Out 0-60 Lbs Pressure

High pressure propane regulators are usually RED, and are sized in PSI or pounds per square inch.
This type of propane regulator is commonly used for boiling and frying large quantities of food,
as well as in pottery kiln manufacture, and beer brewing equipment, where a lot of heat and a fast recovery
is required.

LOW PRESSURE PROPANE REGULATORS

low pressure propane regulator UL approved

Low pressure regulators are usually GREY or SILVER in color, and are sized in WCI. Also known as "Water Column Inches". The most types used on propane grills
are usually set at 11-12 Inches of Water Column. They are then sized further according to the BTU
output of the gas grill.

TWO STAGE PROPANE REGULATORS

Two Stage regulators typically are elongated, as seen in the photo below. These are really two
regulators built into one casting. These regulators are usually low pressure, and provide a very
steady flow of gas regardless of weather conditions. The two stage regulator is most commonly used
on LARGE gas grills, and RV Campers.

Identifying A Propane Regulator... Part II

Once you identify whether you have a HIGH or LOW pressure propane regulator, there are only a couple
of other varibles left, and they are straightforward. Low pressure regulators are usually rated in BTU.
Most gas grills and small appliances use a 75,000 btu, 11 WCI low pressure regulator. Larger gas grills,
firepits, and heaters, typically use a 200,000 BTU low pressure regulator set at 11 WCI.

Inlet Sizes

Most propane regulators have a pipe thread inlet and outlet. The most common inlet sizes for portable outdoor
propane grill, firepits, heaters and appliances is 1/4" FPT or Female Pipe Thread. This works out great because
the majority of the propane cylinder connector fittings that go between the propane regulator and the propane cylinder
come standard with 1/4" MPT or Male Pipe Thread.

Propane Regulator Outlet Sizes

There is a slight difference, however, in the outlet diameters. The standard high pressure propane regulator
usually comes equipped with a 1/4" FPT Female Pipe Thread Outlet. Since the gas is running at high pressures
the smaller 1/4" outlet works well.
Becaue they put out such a tiny pressure, a larger outlet is usually desired, and most
manufacturers use 3/8" Female Pipe Thread on regulators for Outdoor Cooking and Entertaining.

Propane Regulator Warehouse

Our propane parts collection is the largest of it's kind. We have the largest propane parts collection IN STOCK. Whether you need a propane regulator, propane hose, propane fitting, Two Stage Regulator, R.V. propane hose or regulator, POL Fittings, or a Type One Acme Connector... If it is available, we have it! See our huge propane parts inventory by using the link bar at the top of every page!