Gas Regulator: LPG Regulator, Gas Fittings & Connections
So, you’ve just moved into your first home that has LPG gas.
You go outside and look at the gas bottles, with all the valves, connections and other gear, and you wonder:
“What is all of this stuff and how does it work?”
Find out here…
What is an LPG Gas Regulator – Propane Regulator?
Gas regulator, changeover valve & pigtails
Gas regulators automatically modulate high pressure gas to a maximum pre-determined limit.
The image show a gas regulator, a manual changeover valve and pigtails.
LPG (propane) gas regulators reduce the LPG pressure delivered to the gas appliances from the gas bottles.
The pressure within a gas bottle can be 800-900kPa vs the 2.75kPa typically required.
LPG gas regulators are usually factory pre-set to the standard operating pressure for the appliances.
This short video (8:29) explains all of the basics of LPG, gas regulators and fittings…
LPG Gas Regulator Functionality – How They Work
Gas regulators have a diaphragm, which is a flexible rubber disc that responds to pressure changes and functions to regulate the flow of gas to the proper pressure.
The diaphragm works in combination with springs and other parts within the regulator.
The diaphragm actuates when pressure changes and adjusts the inlet valve accordingly to produce a consistent output pressure.
It also works in conjunction with the regulator vent which allows the diaphragm to move freely.
If the vent is obstructed, the diaphragm will not operate properly.
The vent should remain free of dirt and debris to ensure the regulator operates correctly.
LPG is Stored Under Pressure
2x 45kg gas bottles
LPG is stored under pressure as a liquid in a gas bottle.
It turns back into a gas when you release some of the pressure in the gas bottle by turning on your appliance.
The pressure within a gas bottle can be 800-900kPa.
This varies based on the ambient temperature, exposure to the radiant heat of the sun and the amount of gas remaining in the gas bottle.
Bottle Pressure vs Appliance Pressure
Whilst the gas bottle pressure can be 800-900kPa, the required appliance inlet pressure for Australian LPG gas appliances is typically only 2.75kPa.
So, a regulator is required to reduce the pressure and ensure a consistent 2.75kPa is safely delivered from the gas bottle to your appliances.
What are LPG Gas Fittings?
LPG Automatic changeover valve
The gas fittings include all the gas valves, piping and connectors required to build a complete LPG gas system, connecting the gas bottles to the appliances.
Changeover valves determine from which gas bottle the gas is being taken.
Licensed gas fitters are required for all gas related work, involving regulators and fittings, on homes and businesses.
BBQ gas regulators
BBQ regulator & hose
Typical BBQ gas bottle fittings include an LPG gas regulator with gas hose.
The connector fitting can be an older POL fitting or the newer LCC27 fitting.
The LPG gas regulator, gas hose, and connector usually come as an assembly, but hoses are also sold separately.
Camper valve adapters may also be required.
Gas Pigtails
Copper pigtail
Home gas bottles are connected by tubing, known as “pigtails”, to a changeover valve and the changeover valve is connected to the regulator.
Pigtails can be made of solid copper, rubber or braided metal over a rubber interior.
Copper is generally considered the best choice, as rubber and braided pigtails have a limited life span.
Rubber pigtail
Also, pigtails can catch or trap debris over time so they should be replaced any time the regulator is replaced.
Pigtails are “flexible” and will absorb the shock of sudden movement or jarring, if the installation is accidentally bumped or moved out of place.
Without the flexible regulator connection, the piping would be rigid and more susceptible to leaks caused by movement.
LPG Gas Changeover Valves
Manual LPG changeover valve
The changeover valve controls which gas bottle is in use, when two gas bottles are installed on your home.
Changeover valves come in two types, with manual (shown) and automatic changeover versions.
As the names imply, manual changeover valves require manual intervention while automatic changeover valves automatically switch between gas bottles when the first bottle runs dry.
Gas Bayonet Connections
LPG bayonet connection
If you have a portable gas heater, it will be connected to your home LPG supplied using a bayonet connections.
Bayonet connectors can be floor or wall mounted.
The male connector, on the end of the heater hose, plugs into the female connector which is, in turn, connected to the LPG service piping.
Please see:
How to Connect & Disconnect Gas Bayonet Fittings
Gas Service Piping
LPG gas piping
A gas line runs from the regulator to your appliances, inside your home.
This gas line is the service piping. It generally consists of copper tubing or flexible composite piping.
The service piping needs to be installed correctly and legally, in conjunction with the gas bottles, for the entire installation to be safe and serviceable.
Licensed Gas Fitter is Required
Please remember that all gas installations must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter.
Give us a call on 131 161 if you need help finding one in your area.