Articles
March 6, 2025
Gas regulators have a wide variety of different applications, types and designs. This makes it critical to understand the difference between regulators before selecting or working with one for your next project.
Here is a complete guide which outlines types of regulators, how they work, regulator accessories and which one is best for you.
Gas regulators are essential devices that control the pressure and flow of gas from a high-pressure source to a safe and usable level for appliances. They ensure consistent performance, safety, and efficiency in residential, commercial, and industrial gas systems.
By automatically adjusting gas pressure, regulators prevent overpressure issues, reduce gas waste, and maintain stable appliance operation. They are used in applications such as BBQs, gas stoves, LPG cylinders, industrial machinery, and more, making them a critical component in gas distribution and usage.
Gas is often stored at high pressure, which must be regulated before it can be used by an appliance. While there are multiple applications where a gas regulator is used, this basic function of the gas regulator remains the same.
A common use for a gas regulator is for household appliances. Regulators are essential for controlling gas flow from LPG and natural gas supplies. Household appliances that rely on gas regulators include BBQs, gas stoves, gas water heaters, heating systems and more.
Gas regulators are also used in industrial environments where precise gas control is required. Some uses include welding and cutting torches, HVAC and boiler systems, manufacturing and industrial processing, laboratories, medical facilities and more.
Gas regulators are also frequently used in conjunction with LPG cylinders. LPG cylinders are commonly used in homes, business and outdoor settings.
Due to the high pressure of gas being stored in cylinders, a gas regulator is needed to minimise the pressure and ensure it safely provides the right amount to appliances. These use cases can include food trucks and mobile kitchens, industrial uses, caravans, RVs and more.
Here is a step-by-step overview of how a gas regulator works and some things you should look out for when adjusting a gas regulator.
Most regulators will have safety features such as a pressure relief vent or shut off valve to prevent any dangerous gas leaks. It is important to regularly check and maintain your regulators as over time seals, diaphragm and spring systems can wear out.
So, are all gas regulators the same? The short answer is no. One major distinction is between dual stage and single stage regulators.
The main difference between the two is in their characteristics and how they regulate and control gas pressure.
A single stage regulator has only one pressure reducing chamber. This means the gas will enter the regulator from the gas source, the diaphragm and spring system work together to adjust the pressure and then the regulated gas exits to the application in use.
Single stage regulators are for applications in which a constant outlet pressure is not vital, where an operator can monitor and re-adjust pressure, or where an inlet pressure is stable. This makes them suited to single LPG cylinder systems for domestic applications.
Single stage Bromic gas regulator.
On the other hand, a dual stage regulator has two pressure reducing phases within the same device. It reduces pressure in two controlled steps further refining it, leading to more stable and reliable output pressure.
Advantages of a dual stage regulator include more accurate pressure control and the presence of multiple safety valves to handle over pressured conditions. Dual stage regulators are recommended for applications that require a constant outlet pressure for the life of a gas cylinder.
6060513 Dual stage LPG regulator 160Mj adj. with metal bracket
Gas regulators are essential for controlling gas flow and pressure, but they don’t work alone. Various accessories play a crucial role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation.
Below is a list of some key gas regulator accessories. Depending on your application, additional accessories may be needed to meet safety regulations and performance.
Hoses and pigtails are critical components in any gas system, serving as the primary connection between the gas regulator and the appliance. They ensure a safe, leak-proof flow of gas, allowing the system to operate efficiently and reliably.
Gas-rated hoses and pigtails are manufactured with high-quality materials to withstand temperature changes, UV exposure, and pressure variations.
Many come with internal safety features, such as excess flow protection, to prevent gas leaks in case of hose failure or disconnection.
6SHW 6mm Stainless steel pigtail 7/16-24 I/Flare x POL hand wheel – connections.
Often, gas regulator fittings don’t match perfectly with your cylinder or appliance, making installation difficult. That’s where adapters come into play. They bridge the gap and ensure that the fittings between the gas regulators and applications match. By choosing the right adapter, users can eliminate compatibility issues, ensure proper gas flow, and maintain safety standards. Adapters are frequently required in applications like BBQs, camping stoves and commercial gas systems.
Brass gas adaptor or jet nozzle, typically used in gas fittings, propane, or natural gas applications.
Pressure gauges provide real-time readings which tell you if the regulator is operating correctly and providing the right amount of pressure needed for the application in use. Regular monitoring with a pressure gauge helps detect leaks, optimise gas flow, and prevent regulator malfunctions. This makes it an essential component in residential, commercial, and industrial gas applications.
Bromic LPG high pressure (HP) regulator.
Valves provide safety, control, and efficiency. Key valves, such as excess flow valves (EFVs) and shutoff valves, help prevent uncontrolled gas flow in the event of system malfunctions and allow for quick shutoff in emergency situations.
Ball valves like the one pictured below help accessibility when gas services are required, so that gas can be shut off for maintenance to be completed safely.
By automatically responding to changes in gas flow or providing manual control, these valves help reduce the risk of leaks, fires, and equipment damage, ensuring a safe and stable gas supply.
1210424 Ball valve gas brass 3_8SAE MxM flare w nut T-hand.
To ensure a secure and tight position of a gas regulator, a mounting bracket is essential to prevent any unnecessary movement or strain on gas lines. This helps with the overall performance of a gas regulator. Without proper support, a regulator may shift, vibrate, or become misaligned, increasing the risk of leaks, pressure fluctuations, or even regulator failure.
Metal mounting bracket universal for dual stage regulators.
A test point adapter is a small fitting or connector that allows technicians to measure gas pressure at specific points in a system. These adapters provide an access point for pressure measurement without disrupting the system’s normal operation.
Test point adapters help with measuring gas pressure and can highlight any potential issues such as leaks, pressure drops and malfunctions.
A metallic hexagonal test point connector.
Below is a list of tips to maintain a gas regulator and ensure you are getting the best results.
Inspection, cleaning and maintaining
Maintaining your gas regulator is important for longevity. Regularly check for any damage, cobwebs, cracks or debris. If you hear hissing from the regulator, it could be a sign of a leak or failure. It is also important to look for wear on hoses. For more information, check out our complete guide to how often gas regulators need to be replaced.
Leak test
It is crucial to carry out a leak test on a gas regulator. You can do this by applying soapy water or a leak detector such as LA-CO Visu-glow Fluorescent Leak to all connections, including the regulator, hoses, and fittings. Turn on the gas supply without igniting the appliance and if bubbles form, there is a leak that needs to be fixed before using the system.
Gas flow
Regularly check for gas flow by turning on your appliance in use and looking at the flame for a small yellow tip. If you see this tip, you have a healthy gas flow. If the flame is weak, inconsistent, or mostly yellow, the regulator may not be functioning correctly.
Monitor & adjust
Adjusting settings to a gas regulator carefully as many require precision to ensure safety and proper appliance efficiency. A licensed gas technician can use tools such as a manometer to measure the correct pressure of gas.
The right regulator
Selecting the correct gas regulator is crucial for safety, efficiency, and performance. The wrong regulator can cause pressure issues, equipment failure, or safety hazards. You can speak to a licensed gas technician to help assist in choosing the right one for a specific installation.
Gas regulators play a vital role in a wide array of commercial, residential and industrial settings. While these environments can widely vary from one another, the use and importance of a gas regulator stays the same.
Choosing the right gas regulator is essential for ensuring safety, performance, and compliance in any gas system. Explore our range of Bromic gas regulators and ensure your gas system operates safely and efficiently for your next project.
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