Propane Regulator Instructions

If you backyard barbecue with liquid propane (LP) gas, or have a travel camper that uses propane, you are probably aware of the need to regulate the fuel. Modern LP tanks use a dial referred to as the propane regulator to help control fuel flow volume or to stop the fuel flow entirely. These regulators also control the flow between two tanks, should your setup be so equipped.

Instructions

    • 1

      Check that all propane-powered appliances connected to the LP tank and regulator are turned off and that any pilot lights are out (pilot lights are the small permanent flames at the fuel outflow valve, letting the fuel ignite when needed).

    • 2

      Check your tanks and cylinders to make sure they have LP gas inside. Pick them up, shake them and listen for the sound of jostling liquid.

    • 3

      Turn the black regulator dial so the black lever on the edge of the dial points to the tank you wish to use first. The first tank used becomes known as the "service" tank and the other the "backup" or "reserve" tank.

    • 4

      Turn the top fuel valve dials on the top of each propane tank (or if you have just one, turn its handle). This turns the fuel flow on and sends it into the regulator where it is then redirected through the regulator hoses into the propane appliance(s).

    • 5

      Look at the regulator dial and make sure the gauge is showing green, indicating that it is drawing on the service tank. When the service tank runs dry, the regulator automatically switches over to the reserve tank and the gauge indicates red for the reserve tank.