Seven Things to Know about the RV Propane Regulator

By Al Cabrera
Water Heater

The propane system in your RV is one of the most important systems within your RV. It is critical to utilizing gas-fueled appliances, keeping your RV warm and your water hot! And one of the most important parts of the propane system is the RV propane regulator. If you’re new to RVing, a propane regulator is something you may not be familiar with, but here are seven things to know about it.

  1. The RV propane regulator helps make storing propane safe by reducing the pressure of the propane stored in the tank into a level that appliances can safely use. The normal pressure in a propane tank is much higher than what is required for using appliances and other items in an RV, so the propane regulator reduces the amount needed.
  1. A RV dual propane regulator is the most common kind of regulator. It has a two-stage process, the first lowers the propane down to 10 to 15 psi from a higher number of sometimes over 250 psi. The second stage of the RV dual propane tank regulator takes the propane down further, to around 11 water column inches.
  1. It’s affordable! The RV propane pressure regulator is arguably the heart of your RV’s propane system, because if it’s not working correctly, you can’t fuel your appliances. You can pick up a new propane regulator for less than $25. In fact, it’s so important and affordable that many RVers keep a spare one on hand in case of a breakdown.
  1. They are easy to install. If you’re comfortable doing some easy RV repairs, installing a new RV propane pressure regulator is typically an easy DIY task. The inlet and outlet are different sizes, so it’s hard to mix them up.
  1. They need to be replaced. While most RV propane regulators will last a long time, they won’t last forever, and should be replaced roughly every 10 to 15 years. In fact, if your regulator is old, you may want to consider replacing it, even if you’re not having any problems with the RV propane system.
  1. In some cases, an RV may have two propane tanks. In that case, you need an RV dual propane regulator. It works simply by switching the RV dual propane tank regulator lever to the tank that you are using.
  1. The RV propane regulators 2 stage needs to be covered. Plastic covers are made for this purpose, and if you are missing one or it’s damaged, you should replace it ASAP.

And one bonus tip: don’t forget that propane is extremely flammable! It should be handled with extreme care, and if you’re unsure about replacing or fixing any part of the propane system, don’t hesitate to get the help of a professional.

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