A Guide to Understanding RV Propane Regulators

An RV is the best choice for relaxing and recreational purposes, and it should provide you with convenience, safety, and comfort. RV has many components to take care of all your needs.

One such component is the RV’s propane system. It is necessary if you want to have access to the appliances running on gas in your RV. In addition, the extra comfort and homely feeling you get after taking a hot shower on a cold night while traveling could be possible because of this system.

The RV propane system not only gives you access to these gas-filled appliances but also provides you with the safety of using them. Again, it’s because of the RV propane regulator in it.

Thinking about what is it and how it works? Do not worry, and we got all the details related to the RV propane regulator here.

What Is An RV Propane Regulator?

An RV propane regulator is a device that controls the propane flow from the propane tanks to the RV appliances. Since the pressure of the propane in the tank is high, and in the gaseous form, it expands its volume. That is why it needs to be regulated so that the direct flow of propane to the appliances does not blow them up or cause any other damage. That’s why an RV propane regulator is also known as the propane system’s heart.

Types Of RV Propane Regulators:

Two-Stage Regulator- Also known as the integral twin-stage regulator, this regulator should have both stages built into a device and installed in the propane tank. The pressure from the tank is around 100 to 200 pounds per square inch which is directly regulated by the first stage into 10 to 15 pounds per square inch.

As the first stage regulates the pressure from the tank, the second stage takes that pressure and further reduces it into standard pressure according to the appliance’s requirements. It is around 4 pounds per inch. Each stage has levers, pivot points, a rubber diaphragm, and other mechanical components for the process of pressure regulation.

Hose Kits And Basic Regulators- These regulators are generally good for small appliances such as gas grills. It will be better to use a two-stage setup if the output goes above 50,000 or 60,000 BTUs.

How To Install An RV Propane Regulator

Turning Off The Propane Tank

Turn the valves of your propane tanks off and empty the gas line. Then remove the regulator. You can burn off the remaining propane by lighting the stove burner and switching it off after the flame goes out.

Removing Old Regulator

If you are installing a regulator for the first time, then no need to follow this step. If not, then using tools like a wrench might help loosen the old fittings.

Retape Gas Lines

Wrap a plumber’s tape around the propane line threads. But before that, you need to remove the older tape. First, make sure that you are using yellow tape. Plumbers tape helps in preventing leaks. Yellow tapes are recommended because they are rated to use with propane and other similar types of gases. Now attach the regulator to the gas line.

Attaching Regulator To Propane Tanks

Screw the lines coming from the regulator to the propane tank and make sure that there is a tight connection to prevent leaks.

Turning The Propane On

You can now open the propane tank. But, if you get any signs of a leak, then to check it, you can brush over the connections with soapy water. If there is a leak, then bubbles will appear. In such a case, you need to turn off the propane, unscrew the regulator, and put more tape around.

Choosing The Best RV Propane Regulator

Here are the following tips for choosing the best RV propane regulator:

The Right Type

When looking for the right RV propane regulator, the type of your RV should always be kept in mind. For example, an integral twin-stage regulator could be selected as most of the RVs require this.

Second Stage Vent Orientation

You need to check the second-stage vent while purchasing the regulator. If the regulator’s second stage vent is oriented downwards when installed, then it will prevent the debris from entering the vent and probably would be a better choice.

Capacity

Check the demand for your appliances and the regulator’s capacity and ensure that it meets the requirement before deciding to make a purchase.

The Quality

Check if the regulators are made of good quality material. Aluminum and brass are generally spark-resistant. Since propane is combustible, it becomes important to check the material of the regulator.

The Reviews

It is better to buy a product after checking the reviews about it. If the reviews are positive, then you are good to go with purchasing it. But, if there are a majority of bad reviews, then it is better to look for another model or brand of the regulator.

Regulator With An Automatic Changeover

You must purchase a regulator with an automatic changeover if you have two DOT cylinders. However, if you want to change tanks, it will allow you to do that easily by just flipping the switch.

Advantages Of Using An RV Propane Regulator

• One advantage of using the RV propane regulator is that it does not require any battery or electrical connection. It had mechanical components and could be carried easily. One doesn’t need to worry about problems related to charging and electricity.
• Safety and protection are among the biggest advantages of using an RV propane regulator. It allows you to safely enjoy the benefits that the gas-appliances bring.

Conclusion

An RV propane regulator is an important part of the RV propane system. It regulates the flow of propane from RV tanks to the appliances and provides safety to the RV owners in turn to use the appliances that run on gas. You need to follow the step-by-step guidelines to install an RV propane regulator safely and consider all the points discussed while purchasing the propane regulator for your RV.