Propane Regulator Replacement

[scoostraw]

We had someone back into the gas pipe at a house near us and damage the regulator. Fortunately the valve was shut off at the tank (about 100 feet away).

I need to replace the regulator. It is mounted upright outside the home on 3/4" iron pipe. The line from the tank is copper (1/2" I think). The only appliance is a high-efficiency furnace, which is direct vented (no chimney).

Here is a photo: http://www.geocities.com/scoostraw/IMG_1368.JPG

Are natural gas and propane regulators the same? Grainger has a good supply, but theirs do not say "natural gas" or "propane" on them.

Any input would be most appreciated!

[HayZee518]

Propane or LP regulators should have a preset output of 10 wc. Natural gas regulators have an output of about 4-5 wc. (LP=Liquid Propane, LNG=Liquid Natural gas) The WC means water column. Pressure is measured using a water manometer.

[LazyPup]

ABSOLUTELY DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE A NATURAL GAS REGULATOR FOR PROPANE.

Residential service line pressure on natural gas is generally either 4oz(1/4psi) or 8oz.(1/2psi.)

Propane bottle pressure is proportionate to the ambient temperature. At -30degF the liquid to gas conversion pressure is 6.8psi. At 70degF it is 53psi and at 110degF the line pressure is 204psi.

If one should happen to connect an LP service to a natural gas regulator it would produce a nearly uncontrollable flame with dissastrous results.

When installing gas appliaances it is vitally important to make sure you have the appropriate type appliance for the type of gas service you have.

[scoostraw]

Ok that makes sense. Is there a simple way to measure the output so it is adjusted correctly? I am looking at Grainger # 4E224. It has Gas Pressure Regulator, Pipe Size 1/2 x 1/2 Inch, Outlet Pressure Range 4-12 Inches WC, Maximum Inlet Pressure 2, 5, 10 PSI.

Thoughts?

The local gas company will sell me one for $38.50 but I have not laid eyeballs on it yet.

[scoostraw]

Lazypup,

This system has a first stage regulator at the tank. So the input to the regulator at the house is already reduced. That much I know...

[LazyPup]

You must use a regulator rated for LP on an LP system.

[JCA1]

Because of liability issue's concerning your LP gas supplier you really should have them do this for you. Gas is not something to play with scoostraw, it will cost more but it is well worth it, also add some barriers around the new regulator.