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Grill Regulators

How to Make Sure Your Grill Regulators, Valves & Hoses Are Ready For Outdoor Grilling

Grill regulators, valves and hoses are essential parts in your outdoor cooking equipment and must be maintained in optimum working order. All gas grill propane regulators attach to the gas grill valve on one side and the cylinder on the other. Since the tank’s pressure output is a lot more than the pressure need to get the grill working, the regulator controls this pressure to the required level. All gas grill tanks must have a regulator to avoid the risk of explosion. The barbecue grill valve connects the regulator and the tank. The latest grilling equipment have what is called a POL valve connecting the gas tank to a large nut.

Propane gas regulators for residential bbq grills are usually factory set at a particular outlet pressure and sealed. Users are advised not to adjust these by themselves. At the top of the regulator is a vent hole that must be kept clean and free of dirt. If this vent hole is clogged, it is unsafe. When the regulator is attached to the cylinder, the POL fitting’s O-ring seal must be checked. If this is cracked or distorted, it must be replaced immediately.

Gas grill hoses must be kept clean of grease and food residues as they can be gnawed at by mice and squirrels. It is advisable to use a cleaner that will put off creatures. Leaks are a common problem with gas grills and so, this must be checked frequently. While checking the natural gas grill, valves should be turned off.

Valves are vital as they supply and control the flow of gas to the gas grill burner. The valves come with a spring loaded locking feature and instantly lock in place when the valve is off. You do not get separate repair parts of control valves. It is necessary to replace the entire valve mechanism set. Care must be taken while getting the replacement as different manufacturers could vary in valve configuration. Therefore, quoting the make and model number is important.

Valves must be kept clean. The orifice of the control valve can clog with insects or dirt coming in through the venturi. These can be detached for cleaning with a cleaning tool or wire. The surface of the orifice must not be scratched or damaged. The grill must never be operated without ensuring that the orifice of the valve is in position since it can result in a dangerous fire accident.

You must order replacement gas grill regulators when there is a gas leak. Regulators have holes on the side so that if the gas leaks, you will know. Depending on your grill, you might probably need to replace the hose, valve and regulator separately or in combination.

If you are using LP gas for grilling, the gas pressure is much higher and you will need a valve with a small orifice since it is this which regulates the passage of gas going to the burner. The size of this valve orifice will differ depending on the pressure of the gas and the BTU rating of the burner.

You can switch from propane to natural gas with some grilling equipment brands with the help of conversion kits. This kit will contain suitable orifices, a flexible hose and an assembly that helps you connect quickly. Different grill brands have different types of control knobs. They vary in length, bezel type and the off position. It is best to get your control knobs from the manufacturer directly for a proper fit. The aftermarket has a variety of universal replacement parts that usually fit most grill brands.