11 Best Propane Regulators For Your RV

Last updated on May 22nd, 2023 at 02:53 pm

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There’s so much to RVs that operates unnoticed, without much need for maintenance or updating. Your RV’s propane regulator is one of these things, taking care of your rig and propane supply with little trouble.

But what if your RV’s propane regulator needs replacing?

How can you tell when this important piece of equipment needs maintenance, and what are some of the best propane regulators on the market in case yours needs replacing?

And what does a propane regulator even do!? There’s a lot to learn about your RV’s propane regulator, and that’s what I’m here for.

Let’s take a look at everything regulator-related, as well as find your perfect match from a list of top-rated products!

But if you want to skip ahead and check out my favorite picks you see them all here: 

What Does A Propane Regulator Do?

You may be wondering what exactly a propane regulator does. A propane regulator is an important piece of RV technology, in charge of keeping your propane lines properly pressurized so that all of your RV appliances get a steady amount of propane when needed. 

So most of what a propane regulator does happens behind the scenes, and you shouldn’t have a thing to worry about should your regulator be functioning properly. However, having a faulty regulator can be dangerous for the life of your propane system as well as the life of your rig.

Propane regulators do exactly what the name suggests, as they regulate pressure in your propane lines, and should you have a faulty regulator, you will notice either too little or too much propane activating in your various appliances. Both too little or too much pressure can present a danger to your rig and propane system. But more on that soon!

What Does Two-Stage Mean When It Comes To Propane?

You’ll begin to see a lot of new and fun phrases in this article, such as BTUs, PSI, and two-stage. While BTUs are important for figuring out how intense a regulator you need, PSI refers to the initial pressure found in your propane tank, as well as the pressure needed to adequately fuel your propane appliances.

But are these numbers different?

In fact, they are. This is where the phrase two-stage propane regulators come in. All RV propane regulators should be two-stage regulators, or else you’re asking for trouble. Essentially, propane gas needs to go through a two-step or two-stage process in order to be harnessed for our RV appliances.

Using the pressure of propane straight from the tank is often too much for our propane system to handle. It must be reduced or lowered to a more tolerable and even pressure so that we can maintain a consistent level of propane gas throughout our RV’s propane system. This may sound a bit confusing, but don’t worry; you’ll get it!

This two-stage regulator is similar to any RV water pressure products you may have seen on the market. These pressure controllers are necessary in order to protect your RV’s delicate systems from any sort of burst pipe or unruly propane supply! This is why I have only included two-stage regulators in this article. It is dangerous to have a single-stage regulator on your RV, as the pressure is not nearly as controlled as found in a two-stage.

Single-stage regulators may be ideal for your simplified camp stove or backyard grill, but ultimately they can’t handle an RV’s complicated system. You will either end up with a level of propane that’s too weak or too high. 

Many two-stage regulators are not adjustable, which means you won’t have control over the amount of pressure going into your RV’s systems. However, this is usually not an issue and would only ever be a problem if your propane regulator is broken, or if you have a rig that needs a large amount of pressure not normally found in standard set regulators.

Some two-stage propane regulators are adjustable, but very few. If you think your rig is tricky (we all have our secret hacks!) keeping an eye out for an adjustable option may be smart for you. 

What Are The Different Types Of Propane Regulators?

Not all propane regulators are created equally. Just like different types of RVs, propane regulators can vary in type, being suitable for different needs. Hopefully, my breakdown below will help give you some idea of what propane regulator you need, based on the type of rig you have. Here are the main types of propane regulators on the market today.

Automatic Dual Tank Regulator

If you own an RV with two propane tanks side by side, chances are you’ll need to shop around for an automatic dual tank regulator. This piece of RV technology is great because it allows you to have both of your propane tanks hooked up at the same time, and the regulator will automatically switch to the second tank should the first one run out.

Why might this be important? Should you be taking a shower or washing the dishes, the last thing you need is for the propane to run out and force you to go outside and switch your tanks. This is even more important when it’s winter, in the middle of the night, and you need propane to keep your rig warm!

These regulators are found on many travel trailers and RVs and are identifiable by their two pigtails or hoses on either side of the regulator mechanism. Having an automatic system that can monitor your propane levels and automatically switch over is handy, and the way most RVs are leaning towards.

Manual Dual Tank Regulator

Seeing double? That’s because this regulator installs and operates similarly to the automatic dual tank regulator already mentioned, except for one key feature: the automatic part. This regulator is meant to be used with two propane tanks, but it is incapable of switching tanks when the first tank runs out.

It’s still very easy to operate and can be found on many older RVs or slightly less luxurious ones. My vintage rig can have two tanks hooked up to it (a necessity for full-timers!), but I have to go outside and turn a dial when one tank runs out. Not the end of the world, certainly, but it can be inconvenient from time to time. 

If you have the budget, I recommend going for the automatic dual tank regulator over the manual. However, these manual regulators are often budget friendly and very easy to operate. It’s all up to you, of course! Most propane regulators are automatic at this point in time, so that you don’t have to worry about exiting your rig when you need heat in the middle of the night. Convenient, right?

Single Tank Regulator

If you have a teardrop trailer or small RV, you may have a single propane tank regulator hooked up to your rig. You may also have a single tank regulator should your propane tanks be separated on your rig, found on either side or toward the front and rear. 

These single-tank regulators operate the same as your dual-tank regulators, except there’s no dial or switching involved. It’s only responsible for regulating one tank, so there’s even less to worry about there. However, should both of your single tank regulators break at the same time, it does mean double the installation work!

These regulators are fairly simple but do still involve an intricate pressurizing system. These regulators will keep your propane system properly pressurized, whether it be one tank or two! It should be fairly obvious if you need a dual tank or single tank regulator, as this just refers to the number of pigtails or propane lines present.

What Should I Look For In A New Propane Regulator?

While propane regulators are fairly easy to install, you want to make sure you get the right one to begin with! There are a lot of factors to look for in this necessary piece of RV equipment. Let’s take a look at what you should be keeping an eye out for.

Material

What your propane regulator is made out of matters, as these pieces of equipment can be built to last. Looking for regulators that are made of stainless steel is your best bet for a long-lasting regulator. Aluminum is often cheaper and will do for some time, but not as long as stainless steel.

Propane regulators are also made of brass or zinc fittings and fasteners. You shouldn’t have to worry too much about this aspect of the regulator, but keeping an eye out for regulators that don’t rust or corrode is always a good idea.

Brass fittings often attach more securely than other materials, and brass is commonly used in propane systems. While there will be many regulators that boast a long lifetime, a propane regulator is usually only meant to last 10-15 years. However, choosing better materials won’t hurt the overall life of your regulator, that’s for sure!

Dual Tank Or Single Tank

While this may be an obvious answer to you and your rig, there is something to consider when it comes to choosing a dual tank or a single tank regulator. For example, if you own a small teardrop or travel trailer that may not have many propane appliances inside, a single tank regulator may be a good fit for you!

Dual tank regulators are most common for larger RVs and travel trailers, given how much propane is needed to fuel your RV’s various systems. Many rigs use propane for heating, cooking, water heating, and more. It is smart to install a dual tank regulator if you know your propane usage is high.

Often, it is recommended that you stick with whatever type of regulator your rig started with. I can’t help but agree, especially if you are replacing the regulator yourself. Your propane system is nothing to mess with, so I wouldn’t recommend making too many big changes to your existing propane regulator.

Easy Installation

This is something to consider if you plan to replace your propane regulator yourself. This is a totally achievable goal for many RVers, especially you DIY-ers out there! Why not make it easy on yourself and look for regulators that are easy to install?

The ease of installation will unfortunately depend on where your propane tanks are located. Some RVs have their propane systems on the tongue, others have them underneath the rig or in a storage compartment. It is important to get a new propane regulator that fits where your old one is.

You should also get a propane regulator that fits your current propane tanks unless you plan to buy new tanks with different fittings. Some RVs have vertical propane tanks; others are horizontal and stored differently. Getting a regulator that matches your current setup will ensure an easier installation. 

Making sure you have all of the necessary components and tools will also ensure an easy installation. You’ll likely need a wrench sized to fit your propane fasteners, as well as properly sized hoses that reach from the regulator to your propane tanks. Your nozzles and other gadgets should also be similar to whatever your propane regulator was before.

All this to say: if you aren’t building a propane system from scratch (I don’t recommend doing this!), use your existing propane regulator as a guide to what new propane regulator you should buy. The more similar, the better, and it will make the entire installation process easier!

Capacity/BTUs

Propane regulators do exactly what they sound like they do: regulate the amount of propane going into your RV. This regulation is important, and having a regulator that works properly ensures everyone’s safety! Because a regulator is monitoring your propane’s BTUs and overall capacity.

Finding a regulator with the proper BTUs for your needs is vital. It’s all about making sure your propane has been properly pressurized to both not overload your appliances, but also allow for a steady, even flow of the gas to all of your RV accessories.

Starting off with a regulator that supplies at least 100,000 BTUs of propane per hour is an excellent place to begin. You should get in touch with your RV manufacturer or the manufacturer of your current propane regulator should you have any questions or concerns.

If you have a small rig, this level of BTUs is possibly enough, but getting a regulator with more isn’t harmful either. If you own a large rig, you’ll no doubt need more BTUs to supply propane to your various RV appliances and systems.

This may be confusing, and difficult to figure out without knowing what your existing propane regulator’s capacity is, but unless you have a small rig that only uses propane for one or two accessories, the bigger the better. If you need propane for your furnace, hot water heater, RV stove, and more, go for more than 100,000 BTUs per hour!

Ease Of Use

How easy are propane regulators to use? Thankfully, you shouldn’t have to worry about this very often. However, there are some cool perks and features to more expensive propane regulators, such as automatic secondary tank detection. 

If you’re looking to set up camp, open your full propane tanks, and not think about them for the rest of the trip, you should keep an eye out for automatic regulators. These are designed to pull propane from one tank and automatically switch to pull propane from a second tank once the first one runs out.

This means that you’ll never have to turn a dial, move your tanks, or do anything once you set up! However, many dual tank regulators have very simple operations as well; they just aren’t automatic. It’s up to you in terms of an easy-to-operate propane regulator. It usually just boils down to cost.

Cover Or Coverless

While you may find some propane regulators without covers, you’ll need to purchase a cover separately if your tanks are stored outside of your rig. A propane regulator cover is a small but necessary device, as moisture or other elements can damage your regulator.

If you have propane tanks and regulators stored inside a storage cubby or elsewhere, you can get away with not having your regulator covered. However, even regulators found beneath a rig should have a cover, given the possibility of being in contact with water.

It’s an important consideration when you are shopping for propane regulators. A cover is a necessity, even if you find a regulator without a cover. Keeping out water and other harmful substances is the only way to extend the life of your regulator!

Cost

Lastly for your consideration: the cost of the regulator. This can be tricky for those of you on a budget, but thankfully most regulators are affordable. There are very few propane regulators on the market for more than $100, and the most budget-friendly regulators will be between $20-$40. 

While it may seem like a good time to save a few bucks (I know how expensive RVing can get!) I don’t recommend skimping on this key piece of RV equipment. Your propane regulator is a necessary and life-saving device. If you find a regulator that matches your old one or has all sorts of bells and whistles, go for it.

Choosing a well-made propane regulator may seem difficult, especially given how many there are on the market. I have found some of the most reliable options for you, and I hope it allows you the peace of mind you’re looking for!

11 Best Propane Regulators For Your RV

Feeling confident in your propane regulator needs and wants? Here are some of the best propane regulators on the market so that you can make the best choice for your RV!

Best Overall: Flame King (KT12ACR6a) 2-Stage Auto Changeover LP Propane Gas Regulator

As I mentioned earlier, dual tank propane regulators with automatic tank changeover, are the most convenient option, that’s why I’ve started this list with the Flame King KT12ACR6a. This auto-changeover propane regulator lets me hook up 2 Propane tanks, and when the first one runs out, the regulator automatically switches over to the second tank, making it simple to use and effective.

The tank indicator changes color which I find helpful, as it lets me know when a tank has been emptied and I need to refill it, so it takes a big job of checking the tanks constantly off my plate. The inlet is a 1/4″ inverted flare and the outlet is a 3/8″ female, able to be hooked up to most existing RV propane lines, and there are also two 12″ pigtails to connect the regulator to the propane tank or propane supply.

You can buy this product with or without the pigtails, but I always advise replacing the whole system should you be planning on replacing your regulator in the first place, to avoid any regrets further down the line! Although the color-change feature is handy, I would prefer if Flame King had a gauge to indict the level of propane less as, from experience, these are often more accurate and reliable. 

I do, however like that this regulator has about 190,000 BTUs, as it means it will suit many RVs and different appliances well. An added bonus for me is the Flame King name, as its renowned for being a helpful company, able to provide great customer service, and answer manufacturer questions.

You can check out the latest price and read more reviews on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Dual Tank Regulator: Marshall Excelsior MEGR-253 2-Stage Auto Regulator

Most RVers tend to have different rigs, and different needs, including everything to do with propane. I enjoy the comfort of knowing my appliances are supported whenever I choose to use them, and that’s why I’ve included this Marshall Excelsior Auto Regulator in this list as it’s capable of handling 225,000 BTUs!

Not only is this Marshall Excelsior regulator automatic, but it can also provide propane to all of my appliances such as the stove, oven, and on-demand hot water heater. This regulator has a solid steel body construction, made to withstand the elements, so I know I won’t be replacing it any time soon.

Similar to the last regulator on this list, it features an easy-to-read green indicator that changes to red when the service cylinder needs to be refilled, so it’s easy for me to see exactly what’s happening with my propane supply. The MEGR-253 and MEGR-253H Series regulators meet UL, RVIA, and NFPA requirements, and as safety is my top priority, I have peace of mind this is a safe addition to my RV.

One of the frustrating things about this regulator is that it doesn’t come with pigtail connectors, and some RVers have also not received the mounting screws needed to help with installation. Overall, however, this is an ideal dual-tank regulator, and screws and connectors can easily be found at the local hardware shop so the downsides aren’t too awful!

See more reviews and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Single Tank Regulator: Flame King 2-Stage Propane LP Horizontal Super Compact Regulator 

Some RVs may need a single tank regulator, and this one by Flame King ensures a smooth, leak-free propane connection with a POL valve connection and Flame King’s reliable name. Popular with RVs, propane heaters, RV generators, and many other propane appliances, this two-stage regulator is a must-need connection for heavy-duty propane use.

One of the standouts for this generator is the POL valve connection, which allows me to control the propane to match the pressure I need for specific propane devices. It doesn’t have quite as many BTUs as other regulators on this list, but it does have 160,000 which is plenty for solo RVers, and even those traveling as a couple. It may, however, not be enough for larger families or travel groups, so this is something to consider.  

Dealing with the pressure released from the first stage, the second stage regulator will further control the pressure to safely meet the propane pressure and supply needed for the propane appliance in use. This means I feel safe and secure in my rig, something that’s a top priority for me. To help the longevity of this Flame King regulator, I would advise using a cover, so you can use your propane safely for many RVing adventures to come.

You can check out the latest price and read more reviews on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best on a Budget: Only Fire Vertical 2-Stage Propane Regulator

RVing can be an expensive lifestyle, so I always keep a lookout for budget-friendly options when I need to replace something in my rig. That’s why I’ve included this affordable single-tank propane regulator from Only Fire, a relatively new brand for me. I can’t attest to their customer service or warranty options, but this regulator seems to be built to last beyond what I’d expect! 

This regulator is constructed from solid brass and bears around 160,000 BTUs an hour, much like its Flame King predecessor. This solid brass construction allows for a more durable and seamless connection to my propane tanks, which means I’ll be able to worry less about leaks. This is something I want to be able to do where possible as RV leaks can be a nightmare and take considerable time, effort, and money to fix.  

This propane regulator ideally needs to be installed vertically, which is different from other regulators I’ve seen on the market. But it does still mean it can be tucked away neatly, just be sure the vent is placed correctly to provide a safe and long-lasting installation. 

Read more reviews and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best for Large RVs: Camco Propane Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator

This Camco Propane Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator is for RVs with dual propane tank hookups. It’s simple to use, and maintains a constant gas pressure, automatically changing from an empty tank to a full one, much like most dual tank regulators on this list. Along with making my life easier by automatically switching to my full tank, I also enjoy that I can remove the empty cylinder for refill without interrupting the propane supply.

The inlet is a 1/4″ SAE inverted flare and the outlet is a 3/8″ NPT female, so I would advise checking these measurements will fit your unit as nothing is worse than purchasing something online, only for it to arrive and not fit! The need for appropriate connections is talked about in the video below from Camco. 

This Camco regulator can maintain a whopping 210,000 BTUs which makes it a perfect fit for larger rigs with high demands for propane, as discussed in the video below.

With high BTUs it also keeps my RV warm throughout the night, so I know during the winter I won’t need to stress about going outside and changing the tanks over when needed. This regulator even comes with little covers where it counts: on its necessary dials and components, improving longevity, a big bonus in my eyes I don’t want to be replacing my regulator again in a few months.

Plus, Camco has amazing customer service and has been a huge name in the RV game since the beginning, and can no doubt help with any regulator issues, should something go wrong. The lack of mounting screws is a bit annoying, but nothing that can’t be fixed by a quick trip to the hardware store.

Read more reviews and check today’s price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best for Small RVs: Camco 59333 Horizontal Two Stage Propane Regulator

Did I already mention how great Camco is? You can’t throw a rock without hitting a Camco product in the RV world, and it even extends to propane regulators! This single tank propane regulator is just the little brother of the regulator I just described, which means it’s backed by Camco’s excellent knowledge and customer service, as well as high quality – ticking plenty of boxes for me.

Camco’s Horizontal Two Stage Propane Regulator has integral first and second stages that ensure a smoother, more consistent flow of gas to all appliances, which is ideal as flickering gas on my stove or improper heat regulation are pet hates of mine!

Its inlet is a female POL tank connection and the outlet is a 3/8″ female NPT, so as long as this fits your system, you’ll be good to go! This Camco regulator, unfortunately, doesn’t come with pigtails included, so I would advise using Camco’s 59843 20″ Pigtail Propane hose Connectors – ACME x 1/4″ male NPT to connect to a 20 lb or 30 lb LP tank with ACME threads for ultimate safety and compatibility.

The outlet pressure is 11″WC and has a 160,000 BTU/hr capacity, which is enough to power most appliances, although bigger rigs, with higher demand may need a bit more. There’s a considerable amount of plastic in the construction of this regulator from the dial covers to one of the fixtures, but with careful use and correct storage, it should last for a good while.

You can click here to check out today’s price on Amazon. 

Best Regulator with a Cover: JR Products 07-30385 Low-Pressure Two-Stage LP Gas Regulator and JR Products 07-30305 Horizontal Regulator Cover

I always keep an eye out for the most convenient RV products, you know, the ones that go above and beyond. That’s why I’ve included this reliable regulator from JR Products that are equipped with a cover and comes in a pack of 5 for future replacements. I like that this little product combines both a high-pressure first-stage and a low-pressure second-stage regulator into one unit, ensuring a smooth and continuous flow of gas to all of my propane appliances.

This regulator is a direct factory replacement for some travel van propane systems, which excites me, as I like to keep a bit of an old-school-homely theme in my rig, and can buy a replica of my old regulator! This single tank option doesn’t come with pigtails or mounting hardware, but after a visit to the store, the installation is pretty easy. It installs horizontally too, so I’d make sure it works with your existing system, ahead of purchasing.

The cover is a perfect fit, built exactly for this brand and model of regulator, so I know it will remain in good condition and hopefully last long into the future. It will most likely not fit many other regulators on this list, so I wouldn’t recommend purchasing the cover for another brand as it probably won’t do a very good job. However, I can’t recommend enough how great it is to purchase a regulator and a cover that fits like a glove!

You can read more reviews and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Most BTUs: Fairview GR-9984 High Capacity RV Camper LP Propane Automatic Changeover Regulator

I don’t need an extraordinary amount of BTUs in my travel trailer setup, but some of you out there may be concerned about your overall BTU usage while looking at the numbers on this list of propane regulators. If you know you have high demands and hope to have them filled by one regulator, I would suggest taking a look at this Fairview high-capacity regulator before considering any others!

This regulator can handle up to 345,000 an hour, no problem, taking away the stress I often feel when winter is approaching and I need to start using my wood stove or propane gas heater. I like the sturdy steel construction, as I know this is a regulator built to last.

The inlet is a 1/4″ SAE inverted flare and the outlet is a 3/8″ NPT female pipe thread. The inclusion of both a gas pressure adjustment and pressure tap means I can relieve any unnecessary pressure whenever I need to. Although strong and robustly built, this regulator is a bit tricky to install and needs additional mounting hardware for correct installation which is a bit frustrating, but luckily is something that’s able to be solved. 

The auto changeover propane regulator allows me to hook up two propane tanks and like many of the regulators on this list, it automatically shifts to the second tank once the first one runs out changing the indicator color in the process; one less thing I need to be concerned about doing!

The indicator changes color to let you know when a tank has been depleted and needs to be refilled. 

You can see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Easiest for Existing Regulator Replacement: Skyflame RV Propane Regulator for Dual Tanks, 2-Stage Auto Changeover LP Regulator

I’ve already mentioned the ease of an auto changeover when it comes to propane tanks, and this one by Skyflame is no different. It allows me to connect both propane tanks at the same time and will automatically switch them over when needed. As there’s a handy indicator light that changes to a red color when the tank is empty, I don’t need to worry about checking the propane tanks in my trailer all the time – the color change will tell me!

This regulator is also easy for replacing an existing regulator as it has universal standard specifications of 1/4″ SAE inlets with inverted flares and a 3/8″ NPT female thread outlet. I like that Skyfalme has also included 2 of the 12″ pigtails for connecting the regulator and the propane tank as it means I don’t have to run around making yet another repurchase!

With a strong brass construction, and boasting 190,000 BTUs an hour, this is a regulator built with longevity and convenience in mind. I always think it’s wise to keep an eye on the regulator in my rig as it’s something that gets used a lot, and maintenance along with correct usage can help prolong its life.

Installation is straightforward, but I would advise thoroughly reading the manufacturer’s instructions as some RVers have experienced leaking with this regulator. With correct installation, however, this is a regulator well worth considering and is ideal for a range of RVs.

You can read more about this regulator and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best CSA Certified Option: GGC 5FT 2-Stage Propane Regulator with Hose, Dual Stage Propane Hose with QCC1/Type1 Connector

RVing may be less luxurious than house life for some, but nothing beats the feeling of parking my rig up in the wilderness and making dinner in the heart of nature. I often find myself in particularly peaceful locations, and I want the stability that my rig and its components are safe, secure, and ready to be used.

This GGC 5FT 2-Stage Propane Regulator is CSA Certified, so I know it’s safe for use in my RV, and as it’s a two-stage regulator, the inlet pressure between the first and second stage is smooth and consistent so I don’t experience dramatic drops in pressure. The solid construction of brass makes this regulator sturdy and also creates a seal from the application and the tank for enhances safety.

Fitting connections with a 3/8″ flare, this GGC regulator has a stable operation, as well as a hose to provide good overflow protection, keeping me, my partner, and our dog safe when inside the RV. Some RVers have experienced issues with leaking, so it’s essential to install this regulator correctly and help keep leaks at bay. If you’re struggling with the installation, there’s no shame in connecting a professional to land a hand, after all, safety is key!

You can see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Most Convenient Option: KIBOW 2-Stage Auto-Changeover Propane Regulator

I adopted the RV lifestyle to slow down my pace of life and free up time to spend my days traveling and exploring off-grid, that’s why I want RV accessories to be as convenient as possible. I’ve included this KIBOW 2-Stage Auto-Changeover Propane Regulator as it has everything I need for a simple installation such as the inlet, measuring 7/16″-24UNF, an outlet of 3/8″ Female NPT, and also the mounting bracket and screws many other regulators don’t seem to come with. 

This regulator fits pigtails with a 1/4″ inverted male flare and has an outlet pressure of 11″ W.C., so I know I’m receiving a quality regulator, able to handle my rig’s needs. I like that this regulator can fit small propane hoses, and has easy-to-remove brass adaptors if needed, making for an easy installation. 

The main drawback in my eyes for this regulator is the price as it’s considerably higher than many others on the market, however, its durable construction, easy installation, and convenient auto changeover make this a regulator worth considering. As always, it’s best to put safety first and if you’re not confident installing this regulator, contact a professional for some friendly advice or help. 

You can see the latest reviews and prices on Amazon by clicking here.

Is My Current Propane Regulator Broken? (How To Tell)

This may seem like a scary question, but it is a necessary one to ask. Finding out if your propane regulator is broken or malfunctioning is important so that you can make the repair before you try to use your propane appliances.

Listen For Hissing Noises

Some propane regulators are more obviously in need of repair than others. For example, if you hear your propane hissing out of your regulator, you may have a faulty regulator right off the bat. If you tighten all of your fixtures and the hissing still continues, your regulator is in need of replacement.

Look At The Propane Flow

You will also know if your regulator is struggling based on the general flow of propane in your propane-based appliances. If you have a full tank of propane that seems to deplete much faster than it should, chances are your regulator is pumping out too much propane and therefore needs to be replaced immediately.

On the opposite side of malfunctioning propane regulators, if your appliances are not working as efficiently as before despite having full propane tanks, you will need to replace your regulator. Sometimes the flow can be lower than usual because of a potential leak in your lines, but most likely your regulator is malfunctioning.

Watch The Flame Colors

An orange or yellow flame is a telltale sign that something is funky with your propane regulator. If your propane tanks are full and you still notice a weak, yellow flame coming through your RV’s stove or pilot lights, your regulator most likely needs replacing.

If you smell propane at any point during your regulator investigation, do close your tanks immediately and turn off any appliances utilizing this dangerous gas. If you are unsure if your regulator is malfunctioning, you can always take your RV to a repair shop.

I always recommend utilizing a professional when dealing with your RV’s propane system. While the system itself may not be very complicated, propane gas is not something to take lightly. It is a dangerous and volatile gas, so if you are nervous about fixing your regulator, don’t hesitate to seek help!

How Do I Replace My Propane Regulator?

There are two ways to replace your RV’s propane regulator: hiring a professional RV repair shop to do it, or taking on the challenge yourself. Utilizing a professional is a great idea, though it will be more expensive. If you are planning on replacing your propane regulator yourself, it can be easier than you think.

Much like we discussed in the “what to consider” category of this article, you’ll need to gather all of your tools and equipment before getting started. It is also important to have purchased a regulator that suits your needs and your style of RV, but I trust you to do that after looking over all the products I’ve gathered for you!

Replacing your regulator can be a bit complicated, but nothing you can’t master after some helpful youtube tutorials like this one.

Here’s a brief step-by-step guide I put together, as I had to replace my travel trailer’s propane regulator recently!

1. Close Propane Tanks

Close your propane tanks and ensure your propane systems are all off, except for a burner on the stove. You’re going to want your lines clear of propane to accomplish this job, so light a burner and let it flow out. Make sure you turn the burner off before you get to work. 

2. Remove Propane Regulator

While everyone’s regulator will be slightly different, there should be a main nut that can be twisted so that you can remove your old regulator. 

3. Remove Old Pigtails

Taking away the old pigtails is necessary should you be replacing them. More often than not, they are a smart thing to replace and should come off with the main regulator. If not, they should also be fairly simple to remove and replace!

4. Re-Tape Everything

Propane gas line tape is necessary when it comes to replacing your propane regulator. It’s a special yellow tape that is available at all hardware stores. The old gas line tape should be removed from your RV and you should re-tape everything that connects to your propane system. This tape ensures a tighter connection and is less likely to allow propane gas to leak from your newly installed lines.

5. Install New Regulator

This should be fairly self-explanatory if you were paying attention to the old regulator you removed. The new one should install along the same lines, and make sure to use plenty of that yellow gas line tape! Tighten it thoroughly, using two wrenches for extra security.

6. Hook Up Propane Tanks

Your new pigtails should attach to your tanks with ease, and it’s essential to test your propane lines before you assume your regulator is good to go. Open up your tanks, and listen for any consistent hissing. You can also use dish soap and water to check your propane lines for leaks, as the propane will create bubbles where you’ve placed your soap and water solution.

Again, do seek professional assistance if you feel nervous about making this installation yourself. It’s totally okay to want this upgrade performed accurately and safely, as your rig’s propane system is delicate and dangerous. It’s a relatively easy upgrade to make for the average person, but I do understand anyone’s caution when it comes to propane regulators!

How Do I Calculate How Many BTUs I Need?

This is a tricky question to answer, as it truly depends on your BTU usage. Calculating your BTU usage can be done as complicated as you’d like, but if you’re just shopping around for a new regulator, I would start with how many BTUs your current regulator is rated at.

Hopefully, you can calculate this with relative ease by reaching out to your current regulator’s manufacturer, but this may not always be an option. I had no idea what the BTUs were on my vintage propane regulator, nor did I want to stick around and find out! However, I knew I really only planned to use my propane for cooking.

If you have a larger RV or fifth wheel, or just so happen to know that you will be using a lot of propane at one time, it is recommended that you find a regulator that can handle at least 200,000 BTUs. However, this amount will not be necessary for everyone. Getting a regulator that advertises at least 150,000 BTUs is a great place to start! If you find that you need more, you can always replace it again.

How Can I Maintain My Propane Regulator?

Maintaining your regulator isn’t very difficult. There are a few tips and tricks for extending the life of your regulator and propane system, listed below!

Cover Your Regulator

Most regulators will have a plastic cover of some sort, but if they don’t, purchase a cover separately. Most RV owners will consider a propane regulator cover a necessity, not an optional piece of equipment. This helps your regulator from getting damaged by the elements!

Keep Propane Lines Clear

Just like your gutters or many systems in your car, your RV’s propane system and propane regulator can only perform at top-notch if you also maintain the propane lines. Spiders, dirt, and other things can clog your propane lines, leading to a less efficient regulator. 

Cover Propane Tanks

While your RV may have storage capabilities for your propane tanks, having a separate cover for them isn’t always a bad idea. These tanks can easily rust and grow damaged if left out in the elements. Plus, your propane tanks should be updated every decade or so!

Replace Regulator Before It Breaks

To ensure a healthy regulator and propane system, it is recommended that you replace your propane regulator every 10-15 years. This ensures the safety of your rig and family, as well as an efficiently working regulator!

Conclusion

While choosing a new RV propane regulator may seem daunting, it is an important and necessary piece of equipment that needs replacing from time to time. Picking one of the high-quality products from this list is a great place to start so that you can hit the road in your RV with nothing to worry about!