Many consumers are looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint. Whether it’s your goal to eliminate the need for disposable water bottles, or you’re just tired of worrying about what is in your tap water, there are many easy and affordable solutions that can help you achieve these goals. One such solution is converting a natural gas grill to propane.
How To Convert A Natural Gas Grill To Propane?
Natural gas grills typically use more energy than propane grills do, and they also emit much higher levels of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere – not something that we want when we’re trying to decrease our impact on climate change! Converting takes less than an hour and will not only save money but also make you feel good about yourself (or at least less guilty) knowing you’ve done your.
You’ve seen the commercials; you know that propane grills are better than natural gas. But what if you already own a natural gas grill? You can convert it to propane with this quick and easy tutorial.
How to convert a natural gas grill to propane? After reading this blog post, I hope you will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not converting your grill is worth it for you!
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Comparisons Between Natural Gas And Liquid Propane?
Do you need a high-energy alternative to liquid propane (LP)? Consumer and industry experts compare natural gas and liquid propane as heating fuels.
Comparisons:
Natural Gas vs Liquid Propane – Home Heating – Which is Best for You?
For many homeowners, there’s nothing like the warm feeling of knowing they have plenty of home heating fuel stored for those long cold winter nights or frigid days. While some homeowners choose electricity as their primary source of energy, others prefer natural gas or liquid propane as their best insurance policy against those long periods of chilly weather. But which one is right for your family? Let’s look at the differences between these two forms of home heating fuel and how they might be able to meet your specific heating needs.
Natural Gas vs Liquid Propane – Home Heating – Which is Best for You?
Liquid Propane and Natural Gas are both used as a home heating fuel, but they do have some differences that you should know before changing your source of heat or adding one to your home’s energy plan. To determine whether natural gas or liquid propane might be best for your household, it’s important to understand how they work and the cost associated with each one.
How They Work
When you turn on a heater in an empty room, it can take several minutes for the air inside to become warm enough to feel comfortable. Heaters that run on liquid propane are likely to provide heat more quickly because they are designed specifically for this purpose. Natural gas, however, is used more often as a secondary source of energy by many homeowners. For example, if you’re using electricity to power your home’s lights and appliances but need extra heating capacity during the evening hours or on chilly weekend days, natural gas can be added to your system with minimal changeover or installation costs since your furnace may already be connected to the main supply line.
Cost
Natural gas is less expensive than liquid propane because it requires less refining and manufacturing before it enters the supply line, but there is still some cost associated with its installation and use as a home heating fuel. While the cost of heating your home may vary by region, the average cost per therm is $1.07 for natural gas and $2.20 for liquid propane, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). With current atmospheric conditions favoring gas heating over electric, it’s not surprising that natural gas has become the preferred choice in many communities across the country.
You may like this: Top 12 Best Propane Grill Under $300
How long does a liquid propane tank last?
How long a liquid propane tank lasts depends on the type of appliance it is powering as well as the amount of use.
For instance, a portable grilling unit will have a smaller tank than those used for home heating purposes. A grill might require one 20-pound cylinder per season while larger propane tanks are often shared between several homes.
A standard 20lb (9kg) LPG cylinder will last approximately 8 – 12 hours and costs around $2-$3 to refill (at 2011 prices). If you’re looking at purchasing or hiring cylinders then it’s important that you understand the differences between each model and find out how much they cost to fill up with your chosen fuel supplier.
When calculating how long your cylinder will last, it’s important to remember that the average household will only use around 20lb (9kg) of propane per month. If you’re running a restaurant or pub then this figure can be as high as 200lb (90kg).
Working out how long your large tank will last is simple if you know what size it is. Simply divide the cylinder’s capacity in pounds by 18 and you’ll get an answer in days – so a 300lb tank will last 16 days and so on.
For those living in cold climates, we would recommend getting a model with double wall construction – these are more expensive but they store heat from the surrounding air and release it slowly into your home, preventing disruption to your heating cycle.
It’s also worth noting that propane cylinders can last for different lengths of time depending on how often you use them – the more you use your cylinder, the quicker it will run out.
If you’re only going away for a few weeks and your tank runs out before you get back – then you’ll need to arrange a refill before taking off. A good tip is to simply swap cylinders or locate the ones that are filled and leave them on your premises before leaving town.
It’s also worth noting that many appliances will run with less than half of their propane tanks filled – so if you’re only cooking once every couple of days, it might be best to try filling up smaller containers instead of buying one large cylinder which will last for months.
Having said all that, it’s fair to say that most household users could expect around 3-4 months usage from an average 300lb tank. However, this depends on how often the tank is used and what size it is.
If you’ve followed all of these steps then you’ll get an accurate idea of how long your propane tank will last. Remember, even if your container runs out after a month or two don’t panic – simply pick up the phone and order another one today. The good thing about propane suppliers is that they deliver tanks every day of the week!
Can liquid propane go bad?
Standard propane tanks are filled with liquid propane (LPG) and can go bad for two reasons. 1. Low temperature 2. Poor quality
If the standard 20lb or 1 gallon tank gets too cold, it will freeze and cause the pressure to build up inside of the cylinder causing a risk for explosion. It is recommended that you leave your tank indoors in a heated area especially if it has been outside all winter long stacked away in your garage waiting for warmer weather before using it again. Keep an eye on your tanks to ensure that they do not get cold enough to freeze solid, especially during cold snaps where temperatures drop below freezing at night time and rise only into the 40’s during the day time hours which creates ideal conditions for LPG to freeze.
How do you know if your tank is frozen? Check around the fill valve port on top of the cylinder for any signs of frost build up on the cylinder, this means that there is pressure building up inside of it and could be an explosion hazard if released suddenly without warning. A good way to release all pressure in a tank that has some built up due to temperature conditions would be to disconnect the refill hose from the regulator while pointed away from anything combustible then open both valves at the cylinder and regulator while holding them upright facing into a non-combustible material such as dirt, sand etc where they will not cause damage or injury when releasing LPG vapors should they explode upon release Once depressurized turn off both valves and disconnect the regulator from the tank.
If this does not work, then it is advised that you call an expert to depressurize your cylinder safely otherwise do not attempt this at home for dangerous situations can arise if pressure was accidentally released into a confined space causing an explosion hazard.
Ensure that your standard propane tank is kept in good working condition by having it checked yearly before beginning of each refill season for any signs of leaks around the valve fittings and by ensuring all bolts holding on connecting hardware such as regulators and hose assemblies are tight and secure. If your 20lb or 1 gallon LPG tank has low pressure (indicated by one or more green bottom gas gauge indicator bars) then you get it refilled immediately once possible.
The lower the pressure in your 20lb or 1 gallon tank, the riskier it gets to continue using it. LPG tanks should not be used if they have less than 10lbs of gas pressure left inside. Tanks with low pressure are at risk for needing refilling often and could explode when least expected due to their high susceptibility to leaks from the low internal tank shell pressure. Always store your standard propane tanks indoors out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat such as a furnace, space heater etc even while attached to a regulator hooked up to a barbeque grill which can cause a build up of potentially explosive fumes if left too close for too long after use on hot burning grills.
Propane cylinders do not need special care but a good check up by a professional every year before the refill season begins will help ensure that your 20lb or 1 gallon tank is in safe working order.
Although there are many propane tanks out there such as those used for forklifts and larger ones used as stationary back-up heaters often found on construction sites, these should be hired from industries trained to fill them with high pressure gas safely and store them well enough where they do not freeze at too low of temperatures which could cause them to explode if allowed to remain pressurized when frozen solid.
One important thing to consider when refilling your 20lb or 1 gallon tank (regardless if kept inside or outside) is that it should not sit around unattended after being filled for any longer than it takes to return it to its original place of use. If left unattended and unused for a long period of time, propane cylinders could ‘go bad’ and explode when the tank is most needed and least expected.
If your 20lb or 1 gallon LPG tank has low pressure (indicated by one or more green bottom gas gauge indicator bars) then you get it refilled immediately once possible. The lower the pressure in your 20lb or 1 gallon tank, the riskier it gets to continue using it.
LPG tanks should not be used if they have less than 10lbs of gas pressure left inside. Tanks with low pressure are at risk for needing refilling often and could explode when least expected due to their high susceptibility to leaks from the low internal tank shell pressure.
Always store your standard propane tanks indoors out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat such as a furnace, space heater etc even while attached to a regulator hooked up to a barbeque grill which can cause a build up of potentially explosive fumes if left too close for too long after use on hot burning grills.
Propane cylinders do not need special care but a good check up by a professional every year before the refill season begins will help ensure that your 20lb or 1 gallon tank is in safe working order.
Though there are many propane tanks out there such as those used for forklifts and larger ones used as stationary back-up heaters often found on construction sites, these should be hired from industries trained to fill them with high pressure gas safely and store them well enough where they do not freeze at too low of temperatures which could cause them to explode if allowed to remain pressurized when frozen solid.
One important thing to consider when refilling your 20lb or 1 gallon tank (regardless if kept inside or outside) is that it should not sit around unattended after being filled for any longer than it takes to return it to its original place of use. If left unattended and unused for a long period of time, propane cylinders could ‘go bad’ and explode when the tank is most needed and least expected.
See more: Top 7 Best Gas Grills under $300 Reviewed in Detail
Benefits of Converting Natural Gas Grill To Propane
A natural gas grill is a convenient way for cooking barbeque. You do not have to worry about tanks or propane, since the grill itself provides the gas via a large pipe that runs directly into the bottom of your grill. However, if you’re one of those people who are only able to cook with charcoal, then you might want to consider converting your natural gas grill into a propane one.
If done properly, this task can be performed in under an hour and the benefits are undeniable .
How to convert a natural gas grill to propane? Here are some of the most important reasons why you should convert your natural gas grill into a propane one:
If You Live in an Apartment.
People who live in apartments would benefit the most since there are no outdoor propane tanks to keep track of, which means you can park your grill anywhere you like – on your balcony or kitchen . Converting would also give an apartment dweller the opportunity to cook with charcoal without moving their barbeque grill inside for this job.
If You Are Limited On Space
Another important reason why converting is a good idea is if you’re short on space. As mentioned before, having a portable grill that does not require an extra tank will allow you to use it anywhere – especially indoors during the winter months (however, cooking inside will produce fumes; make sure you have plenty of ventilation).
Conversion Is Cheap
It’s also a good idea to convert your grill if you are on a low budget. Since propane tanks are inexpensive, conversion will not cost you much at all . You can buy an adapter for less than $20 that allows you to use standard-sized propane tanks instead of the hookup that comes with natural gas grills. They even come in several different colors so you’re not stuck with an ugly blue tank!
Conversion is Easy:
And lastly, another great benefit of converting is the fact that it’s quick and easy! The connection process takes no more than 5 minutes, although it’s always wise to call a professional rather than do this yourself just in case there is a problem. It takes the same amount of time it would take to prepare your barbeque – and you won’t have to wait for gas to kick in, either.
So if you’re someone who needs to grill indoors during the winter or at night, has limited space or cannot afford to purchase a natural gas tank, then converting your grill into propane will be beneficial. Consider this as one of many options available when it comes to cooking with grills and barbeques!
Are you sure want to convert a natural gas grill to propane?
How to convert a natural gas grill to propane? Converting a natural gas grill to propane is not difficult at all. The hardest part might be finding the regulator for your grill, which you can get here.
Almost every home in America has natural gas lines running through it. The gas is automatically fed into homes through pipes coming from local utilities. If you have a natural gas line that goes into your backyard, you probably have access to natural gas in cylinders or bottles that are used to fuel portable stoves and grills- you just never knew it!
The only drawback with using a grilling appliance on natural gas versus propane, is that most appliances are designed around propane usage- not its cousin, Natural Gas . Keep this in mind when considering whether or not to go ahead with your conversion. If you are really determined, though, it is very simple.
Converting to natural gas will not only save you money each time you use the grill, but also give you a longer lasting flame because it burns much hotter than propane. Check out “What are the Differences Between Gas Grills?” by clicking here . You can easily convert an existing propane grill or purchase a brand new one that is designed for natural gas usage!
See more: Top 7 Best 2 Burner Gas Grill
Things You Will Need To Convert A Natural Gas Grill To Propane
Many of the newer natural gas grills come with a regulator and hose included. You can buy a new grill and get everything you need to hook it up and start barbecuing right away. If your only option is to convert an existing propane grill, more work is involved.
You’re going to need:
1) A new regulator (2 if you’re converting 2 or more burners)
2) A hose that fits on your new regulator (Make sure the hose end has female connections that fit your grill’s connectors). The chains hanging down from the ceiling are usually there for decoration, not functionality! 3) An adapter fitting that goes between your old tank valve and the new regulator 4) Fix-It Epoxy 5) A wrench or pliers 6) Some pipe tape.
You’ll need to make sure the regulator you buy fits your propane tank, so bring it with you when you go shopping. Also make sure the hose connector has female connections that fit your grill’s connectors. Your new regulator may only need one silver screw holding it in place — check the manufacturer’s instructions that come with it if you’re not sure how to attach it.
If possible, have a friend help you when attaching anything under the grill next to the burners. If all else fails, just be careful!
Converting two or more burners will require 2 regulators and hoses attached together, but this is much cheaper than buying 2 complete grills or an expensive conversion kit. Note: Again, this will only work for natural gas grills that have the regulator and hose on them from the factory.
This diagram shows how to hook up a 2 burner grill with 1 regulator and hose. If you’re converting more than two burners, add another regulator and add all your hoses together so there’s only one place they connect to the main propane tank. You’ll probably need pliers or another wrench to tighten everything down!
The key here is not to get stressed out while working with propane gas because it may cause an explosion if released into the air at all times. Note that when you are dealing with such, safety should always be observed by everyone involved in either preparing or cooking food. You surely do not want to end up causing a lot of damage and injuries which will require medical care.
When it comes to safety, you should always think ahead of what may happen. Never wait for an accident before taking precautions on such events. There is no room for mistakes when it comes to dealing with propane gas since this has already taken the lives of many people before. Avoid any regrets by putting your safety first!
Read more: Best Gas Grill Smoker Combo of 2022
How To Convert A Natural Gas Grill To Propane
If you live in an area where natural gas is not available, converting your grill to propane can be done with little effort. However, if you already have a full-size natural gas grill and want to convert it to propane for another reason, it can be done quite easily. Propane doesn’t burn as hot as natural gas does but there are still many advantages such as cost and convenience so follow these simple steps and start grilling!
How to convert a natural gas grill to propane:
Turn Off The Gas To The Grill
Before any work on the grill might be performed it is important to turn off the main valves that supply the fuel source. If they aren’t turned off then there’s a chance that someone could get hurt or you could damage your equipment.
Disconnect Hoses
Both hoses that supply the natural gas to your grill need be removed. They screw on and off, so simply grab a wrench and unscrew them. If you don’t have a wrench, you can use vise grips or any other type of pliers. Label each hose so you know which hose connects where later on.
Connect The Propane Tank Hose To Your Grill
This is where all your work will pay off! Each different grill has different fittings on the tank port so if yours is anything like mine it won’t fit at first. I ended up using some Teflon tape that’s used for threaded fittings to seal the leaky connection then tightened really hard with a wrench. Once it’s tight, use some pipe sealant to prevent any leaks from happening later on.
Connect The Other End Of The Hose To Your Propane Tank
Now that the hose is connected to your grill you can turn on your main gas supply and check for leaks again. If there are no leaks found, turn the valve on the propane tank all the way off and light a match or lighter to test if there are any gas leaks coming from the connection (be careful as this could flare up). If everything seems ok then you can now open up your propane tank completely and light up those burners!
>> How to convert a BBQ from LPG to natural gas – How to convert a natural gas grill to propane?
Blog Post Conclusion
If you’re considering converting a natural gas grill to propane, it’s important that you take the time to follow these steps. It will make this process much easier and safer for yourself as well as your loved ones. Let us know if we can help by providing any conversion or installation services! We also have great tips on how to maintain your new propane appliance so it lasts longer and works better. How to convert a natural gas grill to propane? Give our blog post a read through now for all of the details!
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