Propane is a crucial part of the power system in an RV, but controlling the pressure in the line, as well as the flow of gas to appliances is crucial for safety. For that, you need a propane regulator. But what is the best RV propane regulator?
The best RV propane regulator is the Flame King KT12ACR6a Two Stage Automatic Changeover Regulator. It is rated for 190,000 BTU and will provide a very steady, even flow of propane into your RV. It is excellent value for money.
There are many things that you need to think about when selecting an RV propane regulator.
And don’t worry. If you aren’t sure why you need one, how to pick one, when it’s time to replace your one, or how to know if your old one is broken, I have an FAQ section down below the products.
But today, let’s have a look at how to select the perfect RV propane regulator for your requirements. Here are my top picks:
1. Flame King (KT12ACR6a) 2-Stage Auto Changeover Regulator
This is a nice powerful regulator that is rated for 190,000 BTU. That is more than enough power for your gas grills, water heater, and other appliances. It is the best option in my opinion. It is priced fairly and comes with two 12-inch pigtails to connect to your propane tanks.
Pigtails are small hoses that come out of the regulator. They are not included in all propane regulators. The dual tank regulator will allow for constant pressure, even when there is an empty propane tank. It will automatically switch over to the full tank when required.
This is super handy. In addition to this, you can remove the old can of propane from the regulator without disrupting the flow of gas from the other tank. So, you can replace a propane tank whilst you are using propane.
This regulator is factory set at 11wc (water column). This is the amount of water required to push a column of water up 11 inches in a manometer. You don’t really need to know that. But as a general rule, 11wc is powerful enough for residential use. It will be more than sufficient for your RV.
This regulator also comes with a plastic rain cover. This will prevent the regulator from getting rusty in bad weather.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
2. Kibow Two Stage Propane Regulator
This is probably the best RV propane regulator for those with class B motorhomes. It has the perfect amount of power and is rated at 165,000 BTUs. So that’s more than enough power to run basically all of your RV appliances.
It won’t be suitable for super heavy use though. So, if you travel in the midst of winter, and devour propane like there’s no tomorrow, this won’t be enough. But if you are a normal RV traveler, it is sufficient.
This is a two-stage regulator, so you will have a more consistent gas flow. Consistent gas pressure helps tons when you are cooking, and using naked flames powered by propane. It is also important if you want good performance from your hot water heater too.
Although this regulator does not have a super high capacity, it is a good option for those looking for an affordable regulator.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
3. Fairview GR-9984 Automatic Changeover Regulator
This propane regulator has a high flow valve system. So, you can run very powerful appliances on there. This regulator is easy to install and is more propane efficient than other regulators. This automatic changeover regulator allows for constant gas pressure and is perfect for RV use.
The Fairview RV propane regulator is a dual propane tank regulator. Perhaps the best part about this propane regulator is that it has a color indicator on it. When you have an empty tank, the color on the indicator will change.
This lets you know when you need to replace the empty cylinder, so you don’t run out of propane when you are traveling.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
4. Cavagna Kosan 924N RV Automatic Changeover Regulator
This is another auto changeover regulator, so you can use dual propane tanks with it. This is a good idea if you are going to travel on long trips in your RV. This propane gas regulator is a reasonable price.
It is a little bit more costly than other ones since it is made of aluminum. Aluminum regulators are lightweight, durable, and safe. Aluminum is used to make aircraft! This regulator has a rating of 160,000 BTU, which is enough for most RVs.
The aluminum is highly temperature resistant. Users of this product also said that the regulator is easy to install.
This propane regulator comes with an indicator to tell you whether the RV propane tank is full or empty.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
5. Camco Propane Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator
This RV propane regulator has a double-stage design. This makes it a very good propane regulator that provides a consistent flow of propane gas. This regulator allows you to remove the empty tank without affecting the flow of propane from the new one.
This propane regulator is rated at 210,000 BTU for the primary tank and 130,000 BTU for the second tank. So, it is not as powerful when you are using the reserve propane cylinder. However, 130,000 still makes it a high-pressure regulator.
One of the main reasons why this is such a good propane regulator is because it is a two-stage regulator. The propane gas goes through two stages before it gets to your RV. This means there is less chance of the gas being too high in pressure and causing damage to RVs and travel trailers.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
6. Stanbroil Vertical Two Stage Propane Regulator
This is one of my top picks for a safe, effective propane regulator. It is a good fit for people with small RVs that use low-power appliances. It is mainly suited for gas grills and cooking. This is a high-quality propane regulator that will deliver a consistent propane supply.
That’s all thanks to the two-stage system. A great feature of this regulator is that it has a propane tank gauge. This helps you detect leaks and check the volume of gas in your cylinders with ease.
The only downside to this RV propane regulator is that some customers complain that the regulator was leaking when it got delivered.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
7. Gaspro Two Stage Propane Regulator
This is one of the best propane regulators if you use different propane tanks. This regulator can be hooked up to tanks between 5lbs and 100 lbs. So, you have complete control over how much propane you are carrying.
Another good thing about it is that it is a two-stage regulator. So, you will have peace of mind knowing that you don’t have too much propane flowing into your RV.
This is not something you will have with a single-stage regulator. You need a two-stage propane regulator for maximum safety and consistent performance.
Since there is more control over the flow of propane, you won’t use as much propane. Single-stage regulators can often waste some propane.
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8. GGC Two Stage Propane Regulator
The most important thing about this propane regulator is that it is a two-stage regulator. This allows for very steady propane pressure in your RV pipes. Therefore, you will be less likely to have to take your RV to a repair shop.
This regulator is very solid and made of brass. Brass is not as strong as stainless steel, but it is anti-spark. So, it is much safer, especially if there are propane leaks. This regulator operates at a safe level to meet many specific needs.
You can use it to fuel your generator, grills, stoves, fire pit, or hot water heater. It is a very versatile piece of kit.
You may be wondering how much propane you are going to need in order to use your stove.
In this recent article on my site, I talk about how much propane your RV stove uses. This article will teach you how to calculate the amount of propane you need.
Just click that link to read the article on my site.
The hose of this regulator also provides overflow protection. So, you are less likely to damage your RV propane system.
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9. JR products Compact Low-Pressure Automatic Changeover Regulator
This RV propane regulator is about 25% smaller than most others. However, it is rated at 262,500 BTU! That’s a whole lot of power. You probably won’t need that much for an RV.
The good news is that a high-pressure regulator will perform well in cold conditions. It can also operate well at low pressures.
If you are looking to replace your RV’s propane regulator and you have a large RV, this may be the one for you. Of all the different types of propane regulators, you are going to need a two-stage, automatic changeover regulator.
There is also an indicator dome on this regulator that turns red when the cylinder needs to be filled.
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10. Only Fire Vertical Two Stage Regulator
If you require a propane regulator for a vertical mount, this is the one for you. This regulator is two stages, so it will give a consistent, reliable flow of propane into your RV’s propane system. In addition to that, the regulator has a 160,000 BTU capacity.
160,000 BTU is the sweet spot really for an RV. It is powerful enough to cope with the demands of your stoves, grills, hot water heater, and other RV appliances.
This regulator is also made of solid brass. Therefore, it will be super secure and durable.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
11. Poweka RV Two Stage Propane Regulator
This is another automatic dual tank regulator. It is one of the best regulators on the market today and will last you a long time. The good thing about this is that the automatic changeover will allow you to draw propane from your reserve tank without having to get out of the RV.
So, if you are looking for an RV propane regulator replacement that is an affordable price, this is a great option. This regulator also comes with two pigtail hoses. The hoses will allow you to hook up the regulator to two cylinders of propane.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
12. Marshall Excelsior Two Stage Propane Regulator
This is another great two-stage regulator that will provide a nice flow of propane into your RV. The main benefit of this regulator over the other ones on this list is the fact it is made of zinc. Zinc alloy regulators are super durable, and reliable.
In addition to that, this regulator has a powder coating. Powder coating is where the surface of the regulator is coated in a polymer. This makes the regulator more weatherproof, and it will last longer.
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13. Ajinteby Two Stage Propane Regulator
This regulator can be used for your RV grill, stove, heaters, fire pit, generator, or fireplace. It is a very versatile device. It is also one of the most affordable propane regulators on this list. So if you are looking for a super cheap two-stage regulator to replace your old regulator, this is the one.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
14. Feikeer Vertical Two Stage Propane Regulator
This propane regulator is made of brass, so it is very durable and weatherproof. It is also not going to rust like other regulators. This makes the regulator much safer than other ones. The only issue with this regulator is that it has a measly 16,000 BTU capacity.
Therefore, it is only really useful for powering your gas grills outside. It can’t be used for high-powered appliances like your gas generator, or hot water heater.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
15. GCBSAEQ Two Stage RV Propane Regulator
The key stand out of this RV propane regulator is overflow protection. It will automatically shut off the regulator before you are in danger. So if you have a young family to look after, or are using your RV at a crowded site, this should give you some peace of mind.
You can use a 100 lbs propane cylinder with this device without any issues. I would not recommend using anything larger than that though.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
16. Marsh Excell RV Propane Regulator
This propane regulator is rated at 140,000 BTU. This is more than enough power for most RVs. It is made of die-cast aluminum. Aluminum is a great material for RV propane regulators, as we already know.
However, die casting is not the most accurate way of producing a metal product. Therefore, the tolerances on this regulator will be much larger than on other ones. But this is a budget regulator after all, so you get what you pay for.
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17. Mr. Heater F273763 Two Stage Vertical Propane Regulator
This regulator is rated at 160,000 BTU and comes with one year warranty. This is great, as most regulator companies have no regard for customer service! It is a two-stage regulator and will provide you with consistent gas flow.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
18. Wadeo Adjustable High-Pressure Propane Regulator
This is another budget regulator and is CSA certified. Therefore, it is nice and safe. This regulator has an automatic shut-off feature to enhance safety. It is rated at 130,000 BTU, which is fine for small RVs.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
19. Camco 59333 Horizontal Two Stage Propane Regulator
This regulator is rated at 160,000 BTU, giving you all the power you need to operate your RV. It is very reliable and has an outlet pressure of 11 wc.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
20. Mr. Heater Two Stage Horizontal Propane Regulator
The Mr. Heater regulator is rated at 160,000 BTU. It has an excess flow safety feature and will provide a super even flow of propane into your RV. It is designed to fit onto a standard POL tank. This regulator is nice and lightweight too.
It weighs just 1 lb and comes with a one-year warranty.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon.
21. Azdele Two Stage Propane Regulator
This propane regulator is rated at 150,000 BTU, so it is the perfect amount of power for your RV. It is a two-stage regulator that you can hook up to your regular POL tank. This regulator also comes with a 10-foot hose, which makes things much easier.
However, if you don’t need a hose that long, it will get in the way. But that’s the only downside to this really. In the past, there was an issue with this regulator leaking. However, the company has now resolved this issue, and the regulator no longer leaks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need an RV propane regulator?
An RV propane regulator is only a small device; however, it is pivotal to your RV’s gas supply. You see, the job of your RV propane regulator is to keep the propane lines pressurized.
When you buy a fresh can of propane for your RV, the pressure inside there is very high. And then, as you use the propane gas in the tank, the pressure in there drops. This is because there are fewer propane molecules in the container.
Therefore, you need to have a device that ensures the flow of propane into your RV propane lines is consistent. This is super important. If there is not a steady flow of propane into your RV, it could cause damage.
For example, if you don’t have a propane regulator and the pressure is too high, your RV could get damaged. This is because your propane lines have a system of valves and connections. There are three main ways high pressure can damage your RV propane lines:
1. Damage to the lines – Your RV propane lines are capable of handling a certain pressure. If the pressure goes beyond that safe level, there is a risk that the propane lines could burst. A burst propane line can cause damage and be costly and difficult to replace. You can’t really repair a burst RV propane line.
- Check with the manufacturer of the propane lines to see what pressure they can handle.
2. Damage to the valves – the valves are devices that control the flow of propane through the lines. If the valve is open, propane flows. If it is closed, then the propane does not flow. If the pressure is too high, it can damage the valves. So, propane will keep leaking through the lines, even if the valve is shut.
3. Damage to O-rings – O-rings are rings of rubber, and they are used at the joints in your propane lines. This is done to reduce leaks. If there is too much pressure, the O-rings can get cracked. This is because propane is a refrigerant. So, regulate the pressure, and keep O-rings lubricated.
A propane leak is perhaps more dangerous than a burst propane line. When a line bursts, you will immediately know. It will be loud, and when you turn the propane on, there will be a hissing sound that you hear.
On the other hand, when there is a leak, you won’t hear anything. You probably won’t even notice your propane-powered appliances stopped working. But propane will be silently leaking in your RV. If that propane burns, it produces carbon monoxide.
This is a toxic gas and can cause suffocation. Luckily, propane has a really bad smell to it, so you will be able to detect leaks. If you smell propane, don’t use the appliances or burn anything.
So, to sum up, you need an RV propane regulator to prevent damage to your propane lines. It will also provide a steady flow of propane to your lines, allowing for consistent performance from your propane-powered appliances.
Things to consider when getting a new RV propane regulator
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of RV propane regulators on the market. So, let’s have a look at what to look out for when selecting a propane regulator for your RV.
BTUs
BTU stands for British Thermal Units. The BTU rating tells you how much power the propane regulator can handle. Since the propane regulator is going to be regulating the flow of propane to your expensive RV, it is super important to pick an adequate BTU rating.
This will make things safer for you and your family. It will also improve the performance of your gas grills and other propane appliances.
The propane regulator you get will monitor the overall capacity of your propane lines.
As a general rule, you need to have a minimum of 100,000 BTUs for an RV propane regulator. This is because your RV has some appliances that require a lot of power to operate. For example, the hot water heater and stove.
If you have a larger RV and larger propane tanks, you are going to need a regulator with a higher BTU rating. There are a lot of people with class A motorhomes that will use 200,000 BTU regulators. If you have a large motorhome or travel frequently, 150,000 BTUs should be your minimum.
For class B motorhomes and smaller, less frequent journeys, 100,000 is okay. There are two main ways to confirm what BTU rating you need from your propane regulator.
You can check the user’s manual of your RV. This will contain all the information you need directly from your manufacturer. This is the best thing to do since they made the RV and know what is best for it.
The second thing you can do is check the BTU rating of your current regulator, which you are thinking of replacing. If the BTU rating is not displayed on the regulator, check the packaging. If it is not on the packaging, then just Google search the regulator model and check that way.
PSI
PSI stands for pounds per square inch, and it is a unit used to measure pressure. You need an RV propane regulator that can drop the pressure down between 10-20 PSI. This is the pressure required in your RV propane lines.
There are more premium propane regulators that can operate at up to 60 PSI. These regulators are a bit overkill, and you won’t be using that much pressure in your RV. However, the benefit of a regulator with such capabilities is that it will last longer.
If a regulator has the ability to handle 60 PSI, then 15-20 PSI is light work for the regulator.
Two-stage
A two-stage regulator is where the propane has to go through two components before it reaches your RV. If the propane were to go straight from the tank to your RV, there would be too much pressure. This will damage the RV.
Having a two-stage regulator increases the control of propane flow. It is much safer, reliable, and definitely worth the money. Two-stage regulators are super consistent.
With a two-stage regulator, you are much less likely to have a burst pipe or damaged valves. Single-stage regulators can be used occasionally. But only for small appliances like gas stoves and grills. You should not be using a single-stage propane regulator on the complex and expensive pipes of an RV.
There is one major downside to having a two-stage propane regulator though. That is, you can’t adjust the pressure on most models. There are some two-stage RV propane regulators where you can adjust the pressure, but they are very expensive.
Ease of installation and ease of use
Of course, you don’t want to get an awkward regulator that does not fit onto the propane tank. The best way to ensure compatibility is to look for a regulator with a lot of positive reviews.
Most RV propane regulators will only take a few minutes to install. It is a simple job.
The material the propane regulator is made of
Propane regulators can be made of zinc alloys, brass, stainless steel, or aluminum. Zinc alloys are used mainly on small single-stage regulators. It is expensive, so only a small amount of it is used. Large regulators will be made of brass or stainless steel.
Brass is the best material for a propane regulator. This is because it is non-sparking. Therefore, if there is flammable propane leaking from the tank, you are less likely to have an accident with a brass regulator.
However, stainless steel is the most common material for propane regulators. It is affordable, easy to mold and cast, and very durable. You are probably going to get a stainless steel regulator.
What type of propane regulator do you need?
Single tank regulator
A single tank regulator is the cheapest option. And as the name suggests, these propane regulators are designed to be used with a single tank only. So, if you have a small RV or travel trailer and only have a single propane tank, this will do the job for you.
Dual tank regulator
Most of us that have RVs will have more than one tank. So, getting a dual tank regulator would be a better idea. With a dual tank regulator, you can attach the regulator to two tanks of propane and then attach them to your RV pipes. There are two types of dual tank regulators:
Automatic dual tank regulator
When one tank of propane runs out, the regulator will automatically switch to drawing propane from the second tank. These regulators are the best. Imagine if your propane runs out during the freezing cold, and you really don’t want to go outside.
Most of the RV propane regulators on the market are automatic regulators. There is not really much point in getting a manual regulator. They are the same price as automatic ones.
The other benefit of a manual regulator is that your appliances won’t stop working when one tank of propane runs out. So, if you are cooking or using warm water in the shower, you will still have power. If you had a manual regulator, the appliance would force you to stop what you are doing.
Then you have to get out of your RV and flick the switch on the regulator.
Manual dual tank regulator
With a manual regulator, you are going to have to go to the regulator and flick a switch to get the propane flowing into your RV again. It is a mall job. And the benefit of this is that you know exactly when the propane has run out of one of the cans.
This gives you the chance to replace that can. If you have an automatic regulator and both tanks are empty, and you don’t realize it, that’s a problem, especially if you are far away from a store and are not able to replace them.
How to know if your propane regulator is broken
There are some very clear signs that your RV propane regulator is broken or worn out. If you notice any of these signs, then it is imperative that you replace the regulator as soon as possible. Never use a faulty RV propane regulator.
Propane is a flammable gas, and it can cause fires and explosions. It is not worth risking your health and safety to save a few dollars.
Here are some signs that indicate your propane regulator needs replacing.
- The propane flames are yellow
- There are popping, and hissing sounds when you use propane
- There is an inconsistent flow of propane
- Rust on the regulator
- Damage to the regulator
- If the regulator was frozen or submerged in water
- If the regulator was left outside during extreme heat or cold
- If there is black residue around the regulator
Conclusion
When selecting an RV propane regulator, you have to make sure you get one with the right BTU rating. As a general rule, you need a minimum of 100,000 BTU for an RV. However, if you can get a 150,000 BTU regulator, this will give the best performance.
In addition to that, you need to decide whether you need a single or dual tank regulator. A single tank regulator will be good if you only have a single tank of propane – like many small travel trailers.
If you have a larger RV and carry more than one can, get a dual tank regulator. Also, get one that will automatically changeover between the two. This will save you the need to get out of your RV and change the regulator switch manually.
You may be wondering whether propane or electric power is better for RV appliances.
In this recent article, I talk about the pros and cons of propane and electricity for your RV refrigerator. I talk about costs, efficiency, and ease of use.
Just click that link to read the article on my site.
High pressure propane hose used on the low pressure side of the regulator. by lw5315us is licensed under CC2.0 and was cropped, edited, and had a text overlay added.
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