The Best RV Propane Regulators for More Consistent Flow

In the camping world, It’s everyone’s goal to live a comfortable life on the road. You need a good propane regulator to control the gas supply for all your RV appliances, from stoves to heaters and fridges. It would be frustrating to wake up on a cold, freezing night due to a lack of propane supply.

The best RV propane regulator should optimize your appliances’ operation while keeping a constant gas flow at a safe level. There are various brands out there; that’s why I streamline your choices to 10.

• Design: RV propane regulators may come in different varieties, and your choice depends on your needs. If you own a high-capacity appliance, use a high-pressure regulator to meet such demand and a propane tank dual regulator for more stability. A first-stage regulator reduces pressure in one step while a second-stage model minimizes pressure in two steps.

• Capacity: The BTU rating determines the capacity of a propane regulator. Most of the RV propane regulators we reviewed below have a BTU rating between 160,000 to 500,000. For pop up camper, 50,000 BTUs seem enough to supply all appliances, while a big RV may benefit from a high flow dual propane regulator that can reach up to 1,000,000 BTUs.

• Other Features: The components of the regulator should be solid, including the hoses and fittings. To ensure that you don’t run out of gas, consider an RV propane regulator with gauge. An overfill prevention device is necessary to keep the tank safe from overflows.

Here are the top-rated RV propane regulators that you can try.

Top 10 RV Propane Regulator Reviews

1. Flame King KT12ACR6 Propane Regulator

The Flame King KT12ACR6 is an excellent two stage propane regulator for RV with its 190,000 BTU rating. This RV gas regulator automatically changes to the reserve tank when the primary tank is empty. The double stage design allows you to connect two propane tanks and ensures that your gas pressure remains constant despite varying conditions.

This Flame King is easy to install as it already comes with two pigtails. With the direct bolt-in installation process, it’s easy to replace the old one with a new one. The most crucial detail you should remember during installation is putting a gas line tape to forbid leaks.

I’m glad that the switchover valve and indicator are clearly visible on the front. The auto change-over is an excellent function because it tells you the right time to fill a tank when you see a red flag indicator. With this function, you never have to worry about propane running out in your RV again.

The tank selector lever is easy to operate, which adds appeal to the KT12ACR6. I see no leaks, so I have to applaud the impeccable valve design of this unit. This RV LP gas regulator also performs well in maintaining pressure even under heavy load.

2. Marshall Excelsior MEGR-253 Vert Bulk

The Marshall Excelsior MEGR 253 is a great pick if you’re looking for a durable auto changeover propane regulator. The MEGR 253 is made of raw zinc exterior finish, which seems to endure a hard beating.

This 2 stage auto vert product automatically switches to the second bottle once the primary one gets empty to ensure that your RV trip remains uninterrupted.

It’s easy to know when your primary tank gets empty because the green indicator changes to red. Simply turn the lever towards the second bottle once you remove the empty propane tank to supply constant gas in your RV. Like the Marshall Excelsior MEGR-253H, the MEGR-253 meets the NFPA, RVIA, and UL standards, ensuring safe and quality use.

The MEGR 253 has two fittings to accommodate a double flare connection, but they can be removed and replaced with a ¼-inch NPT. I took out these fittings and placed ¼-inch pigtail hose connectors in their position. Even in wet conditions, I’m surprised this unit still performs well.

Furthermore, the inlet pressure is up to 250 PSI, which is relatively high compared to other competing products.

I like that the switch is simple to turn. All fittings are secure, and the price seems to be reasonable for its quality. Having used the product for several months, I haven’t encountered any RV propane regulator leaking issues with this model.

3. Camco 59313 Propane Regulator

The Camco 59313 is a vertical propane gas regulator that delivers two gas supply stages in your RV appliances. This dual propane tank regulator allows you to use two propane gas tanks: one primary and another secondary. When your primary propane tank runs out of gas, this 58313 redirects the gas supply to the second one, ensuring uninterrupted LP gas flow.

I noticed that this 2 stage RV propane regulator produces a brighter initial flame on my stove. No more restarting, and I had fewer travels to the refill station. Regardless of temperature, the gas flow in my RV seems to be more consistent and more outstanding.

It’s great that the POL valve fitting comes with an O-ring seal because it makes the connection tight and prevents leaks. The holes line up well with the bracket on my RV, so installation was relatively easy. I love the regulator’s plastic wheel quick connection to the tank because it’s more convenient than using a wrench.

The 59313 pushes 160,000 BTU per hour, which is enough to power a heater or a fridge. I love this RV propane regulator hose’s length because it’s long enough to be used for many areas. As for the construction, this propane tank regulator seems heavy-duty.

4. JR Products 07-30325 Regulator

The JR Products 07 30325 is a 30 PSI RV propane regulator that offers 500,000 BTU per hour. This single-stage propane tank regulator accommodates ¼-inch of FTP for both output and input. The 07-303025 regulator is great because it doesn’t have replaceable parts, meaning no adjustment is needed.

This JR Products 07 30325 high-pressure regulator is specially made for high-demand propane devices. It’s mainly used for dual-tank PSIG setups with far separation applications. I used my JR Products regulator to run my freestanding heater with a 15-foot hose, and it works well.

This JR Products model seems reliable and attractive with its vibrant red color that appears to fight rust. It’s an exact replacement regulator with my Keystone’s Cougar Fifth Wheel, and it does what it’s expected – that to help run my gas appliances properly. One best features of this model is its price, which is way less than other similar products.

Replacing the old regulator with the new one is easy. Just don’t forget to use the right plumber’s tape to prevent leaks. Also, install this device in a vertical position; otherwise, it would likely cause some RV propane regulator problems.

5. Fairview RV Camper Regulator

This Fairview RV propane regulator is another excellent product that will replace any current automatic changeover regulator on your recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and 5th wheels. This 2 stage auto changeover device delivers up to 262,500 BTUs per hour, which is quite high, given its compact design. It lets you use two 20-lb propane tanks for constant gas supply.

I like this Fairview RV camper LP regulator because it automatically diverts to the second tank after the first one becomes empty. The tank runs out of gas when the indicator light changes from green to red. When I used this high capacity regulator, I’m amazed by the green/red indicator’s smooth and accurate operation.

As for its design, I love the rugged appearance and feel of this Fairview RV camper LP propane regulator. The lever switch located in the middle of the two propane tanks is smooth and easy to use. Additionally, this unit comes with a pressure tap to ensure uninterrupted gas supply to your RV appliances.

This Fairview regulator supplies constant gas pressure despite changing conditions and circumstances, thanks to its dual-stage design. This 2-stage auto changeover regulator is easy to install since it comes with all necessary accessories, including fittings. The instructions are easy to understand so installation can be as quick as five minutes.

6. Flame King ACR6 Propane Regulator

The Flame King ACR6 allows you to remove the empty tank without terminating the propane supply in your RV. The ACR6 double stage design makes sure that you have perpetual gas pressure in any condition, whether wet or dry. The inlets can fit a ¼-inch SAE inverted flare, while the pipe thread outlet accommodates ⅜-inches.

This propane two-stage regulator is one of the top-tier because it changes over tanks and controls the gas pressure at 11 water columns. The regulator directly shows the red flag on the main tank once it’s empty. The indicator is located in front of the valve, so it’s easy to view.

Another thing that I love about this regulator is its protective weather cover. The cover helps in protecting the vent from getting lodged with dust, water, and other elements. Best of all, this unit is so compact that it won’t take much space in your RV.

This Flame King automatic dual tank regulator appears to be well made of heavy metal. It’s rated to flow 190,000 BTU per hour, which is sufficient to supply more propane appliances. Furthermore, it’s easy to install with its perfect fittings and brackets.

7. Cavagna 52-A-890-0006B Regulator Kit

The Cavagna 52-A-890-0006B is a double-stage auto changeover regulator kit that offers everything you need for installation. This kit includes a mounting bracket and a plastic protection cover. This Cavagna RV propane regulator automatically shifts to the full reserve tank once the main one gets empty, ensuring ceaseless gas flow to RV devices.

I appreciate that the indicator signals are highly visible, making refilling easy. You’ll know that the tank needs refilling when you see red. The regulator’s dial is only there to display the tank’s present condition.

The most appealing factor of this Cavagna 2 stage propane tank regulator is its safety. This device offers maximum protection with all hose attachments. In the event that the hose gets ruptured or accidentally disconnected, the device will limit the gas flow.

When the Cavagna regulator reaches a PSI lower than 2, the device immediately reduces the propane flow. There’s a check valve built at the back, making it even more convenient to remove and refill the secondary propane tank. Remember that the inverted flare inlet accommodates ¼-inch fitting while the outlet fits a ⅜-inch female pipe thread.

8. Camco 59005 Propane Regulator

The Camco 59005 is specially designed for RVs with two propane tanks. This propane double stage auto changeover regulator behaves like what you expect from a double stage regulator- it switches to the reserve tank once the main one is fully unloaded. The main tank can supply 21,000 BTU per hour while the second one provides a BTU capacity of 130,000 per hour.

When my old regulator got damaged, the RV shop recommended the Camco 59005. I used the 59005 regulator to feed my RV heater and gas range, and noticed that this unit has plenty of gas pressure to provide both appliances. I checked for leaks, and there seems to be no problem with that.

I love the aluminum body of this unit because it feels heavy and durable. The brass connections are corrosion-resistant and seem to give a tight seal. Moreover, the plastic switch is easy to handle and operate.

Operation is fairly easy with this Camco model. Simply connect the cylinders to the pigtails, switch on the tank you like to use, and then open both cylinders. It’s such a great convenience to have the color indicators because they tell you when the tank is full (green) or empty (red).

9. Appizz GR-630B Propane Regulator

The GR-630B regulator is an LP/propane gas regulator that offers a capacity of 500,000 BTU per hour. This high-pressure regulator is crafted to control gas supply and minimize pressure to safe levels. Both the inlet and outlet fit a ¼-inch FPT thread.

This GR-630B regulator is preset at 30 PSI, meaning that it will control the gas supply from a propane tank down to 30 PSI. As you already might know, it’s not ideal to go above 50 PSI because the vapor turns back to liquid. I love to hook my high cooker with this regulator because it makes it work more efficiently and safely.

I love the 100% brass construction of this regulator. The material makes it feel solid and durable to last for any harsh conditions. Besides giving an attractive aesthetic to the device, the red color helps fight corrosion and rust.

The most appealing factor of this regulator is its price. It cost lower than its counterparts, plus installation is a breeze. Simply find a good pair of braided pigtails.

10. JR Products 07-30385 Regulator

The JR Products 07-30385 is an outstanding low-pressure regulator that fuses two stages: high pressure and low pressure. This 2 stage regulator ensures that you get a continuous supply of gas to all your camping appliances. Since this product is UL certified, it means that it has passed the safety and quality standards.

For the installation, this regulator needs a ¼-inch FPT thread for the inlet and a ⅜-inch FPT for the outlet. I love the molded rubber diaphragms because they give a dynamic seal to the valve.

I use a protective cover to shield the vent and the entire device from harsh elements. The vent is positioned at 9:00, so ensure that you protect its opening from water and dust. Thankfully, this regulator comes with a dust cap design to prevent the dust from blocking the vents.

This regulator of zinc die-cast, which is incredibly strong and extraordinarily corrosion-resistant. The body is powder-coated to protect itself against scratches and chipping. As for the capacity, expect 225,000 BTU per hour.

What To Know Before Buying An RV Propane Regulator

Shopping for new RV propane regulators is quite challenging if you lack knowledge about them. Before you visit the nearest local store or add a propane regulator to your cart online, take a look at this vital information you need to learn.

The Different Types Of RV Propane Regulators

Propane regulators aren’t built the same. They’re available in different types to suit your specific needs. Here’s a run-through of all these regulator types.

• High-Pressure Regulators

A high-pressure regulator is a safe connection to high-demand appliances that need pressure regulation. This regulator type is often marked with a red color and tends to be fused in a two-stage regulator system to indicate high-pressure modulation. These models can deliver up to 100 psi and even up to 10,000,000 BTU per hour.

• First Stage Regulator

Also known as single-stage regulators, a first stage regulator often comes with only one propane tank. These models are typically connected to a camping stove or gas grill to deliver low BTU ratings. The purpose of this regulator is to provide propane at a lower pressure level before it enters the gas line.

Now, you can’t install a first stage regulator without a downstream connection of a second stage regulator. The first stage regulator will make up for varying tank pressures and provide a pressure of not more than 10 lbs.

• Second Stage Regulators

The second stage regulator stands between the first stage regulator and the actual application. This type further reduces the propane tank’s pressure and ensures that it won’t overload the appliance with high gas pressure. These models may be linked to premium appliances and usually deliver about 175,000 BTU per hour.

Likewise, the second stage regulator can’t work without the first stage unit.

• Two-Stage Regulators

The two-stage regulators are what you commonly see in RVs. This type combines the first and second regulators to deliver a steady flow of gas in multiple appliances. Most models have an automatic changeover function to switch to the second tank when the primary one needs refilled.

These regulators are your most suitable option when your tank is far away from your appliance or RV. Since a two-stage regulator won’t deliver the propane that the demand of the appliances, a long connection from the tank to an RV with a total capacity of more than 1,000,000 BTU would benefit from this system.

Benefits And Drawbacks Of Propane Regulators

The RV propane regulator is crucial to your RV’s propane system. Without it, your appliances won’t work properly, even if your tank is full of propane. Its purpose is to moderate the gas flow and reduce the gas tank’s pressure to the appliances.

The regulator serves as a safety barrier between your appliances and the tank’s high pressure. Additionally, the propane regulator is relatively easy to install. The outlet and inlet fit different sizes, so you don’t get confused between them.

On the downside, an RV propane regulator may pose a serious risk when propane gas leaks occur. This gas may increase the risk of fire and explosion when it gets close to ignition sources.

The Basic Components Of An RV Propane Regulator

Features may differ from one regulator to another, but the essential components remain the same in many regulators. The basic parts and components of a regulator are:

• Body: This is the primary physical portion of the regulator, usually the lower part.
• Cover: Above the body is the cover, which is color-coded for its function type. For instance, red can mean high pressure.
• Inlet and outlet: These ports are where the gas vapor enters and exits the regulator.
• Lever: This part pushes up on the diaphragm when the vapor flows through the orifice, a piece that identifies the vapor amount that passes into the regulator.
• Diaphragm: Feels the pressure and controls the gas vapor flow.
• Vent: Designed into the cover to allow the regulator to breathe while it operates.
• Fittings: The oldest fitting type is the POL fitting, which requires a wrench to secure it. New propane models usually use hand-tightened Acme fittings, which are often designed with a safety mechanism that keeps the propane from leaking.
• Overfill Prevention Device: Also known as OPD, this safety component prevents the tank from overflowing with propane.
• Hoses: These components connect the propane tank regulator with the RV appliance. They’re either made from rubber or plastic and often enforced with a steel mesh for durability.
• Gauges: These components tell you how much propane remains in your tank.

What To Look For On A Good RV Propane Regulator

Sometimes, there comes a situation when your regulator gets crappy in the middle of your RV trip. If you want to shop for your own RV propane regulator, you must pay attention to these features.

• Material: You’ll want to check the propane regulator’s material so that you can evaluate its durability. The most durable regulators are made of zinc, aluminum, and brass. Look for something that’s powder-coated or built for heavy-duty.
• Capacity (BTU): A regulator’s capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The price of a regulator is usually dependent on the capacity: the higher, the more expensive the regulator becomes. But for RVs, they need not more than 50,000 BTUs.
• Accessories: Some of the top-quality models include many accessories, like a protective cover for dust protection. Others also offer hose and screws for easy installation.
• Automatic Change Over: If your RV uses dual propane tanks, look for a regulator with an automatic change over function. This feature allows your regulator to automatically shift from the bare cylinder to the full one, ensuring a ceaseless gas supply. When it’s time to refill the empty tank, you can operate a propane auto changeover valve without a regulator.
• Color Indicators: Most two-stage regulators have color indicators to tell you when the tank is empty or not. Red means that the tank has run out of propane, while green means it’s full.

RV Propane Regulator Troubleshooting Tips

The worst scenario that can occur to your vacation is to get regulator problems in your RV camp in the middle of a freezing night. Once this happens, here are some troubleshooting tips you can follow.

• If your RV propane isn’t flowing, check whether the propane valve’s on. Usually, a regulator has a 36-degree-turn handle or a half-turn knob; turn the valve clockwise. If it’s on, proceed to the excess flow valve.

The excess flow valve stops the gas flow when it detects a leak or you open it too quickly. Sometimes, the valve remains closed when you forget to screw the propane hose fitting correctly.

• If you smell gas, shut off the propane regulator system immediately. Check for leaks around the hose assembly, valve, and the regulator itself. Spray or paintbrush some soapy water into these parts. If you see some bubbles, that area leaks and needs to be tightened with a wrench immediately.
• If your burners produce uneven light and low heat, check the burners and look for holes. The problem is with your regulator if you find no holes on the burner. When the light is uneven, it’s time to replace your old regulator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do RV propane regulators work?

RV propane systems use a permanently installed ASME tank to store liquid propane. These tanks can store larger propane volumes for RVs. Usually, an RV propane tank consists of a regulator and a fill valve.

Since liquid propane inside the tank can generate high pressure when consumed, it needs a regulator. A propane regulator dispenses the liquid propane to a safe level. Usually, these regulators use brass connections and an aluminum body to prevent generating a hazardous spark.

Generally, a propane regulator dispenses a working gas pressure of less than 1 pound. Due to the pressure spring riding against the diaphragm, the existing gas pressure is reduced to a safe level. The spring’s backpressure slows down the high-pressure propane flow in the tank.

Who makes the most trusted RV propane regulator?

Flame King makes the top-rated RV propane regulators because it usually produces the top-tier two-stage models, like KT12ACR6. Flame King’s two-stage regulators are easy to install as they already come with sturdy pigtails. Additionally, these regulators have color indicators to tell you when the tank is empty and automatically switch to the second full tank.

Other good contenders of propane regulator brands are Marshall Excelsior, Camco, and JR Products. These brands also offer sturdy two-stage regulators that can supply multiple appliances in your RV.

How do I know if my propane regulator is bad?

One of the symptoms of a bad propane regulator is the smell of propane. The unique propane odor you smell could clearly indicate that you have an RV propane regulator leaking from the vent or hose. Whatever the source is, quickly turn off the tanks and appliances. Keep away any lit cigarettes and put down nearby campfires.

Other signs that your propane regulator has gone wrong are when you see orange or yellow blazes, and hear popping sounds when turning on/off the tank. For these situations, you may need to conduct a minor RV propane regulator adjustment.

Remove the controller top and turn the screw, underneath the spring, clockwise. Turning the screw slightly makes a small weight increment modification.

Why is my RV propane regulator venting?

Maybe your tanks have simply overfilled. The extra spring heat might have swelled the gas and boiled off the excess propane. Try weighing the tank to check whether they went out of scale. The tank should weigh around 54-55 lbs when full.

Then, there’s a problem with the regulator itself. If it’s newly bought and still under warranty, you should contact its customer service to find a solution. Propane regulators have a lifespan, which may last up to a decade. When your propane regulator is venting/leaking, you might need to replace it with a new one.

How to set up and use?

Install the regulator on the ASME propane tank, not over 36 inches from the tank’s valve. Whatever regulator type you use, you must protect it with cover, like the tank dome.

When you install the regulator outside the dome, ensure that the vent is facing down. This setup will help prevent any debris, water, and snow from entering into the vent. Try putting a screen on the vent to keep the insects out of the unit.

Always turn off the valve when you fill your propane tank. Once the refill is done, turn the valve back on to fire up your appliances.

For propane regulators with an automatic dual tank changeover function, turn on both propane tanks. Switch the lever from the empty tank to the full tank. Many of these models have color indicators to show you that the tank is empty or full (red means empty and green means full).

How do you clean and care for a propane regulator for RV?

When cleaning your propane regulator, shut off the tank’s valve and remove the regulator and the hose. Submerge the regulator into a mixture of soapy water, then reconnect the hose and regulator to the tank.

For proper care and protection, you’ve got to cover your two-stage propane regulator. Most models provide a plastic cover to serve this purpose. If your RV propane regulator comes without a cover, get a new one immediately.

Keep the vents clean; otherwise, the regulator won’t work perfectly. To keep the vents free from dust and debris, consider positioning the stage two vent downwards.

RV propane regulators should last for a long time, but it doesn’t mean forever. To enjoy maximum performance, replace the regulator every 10-15 years. The inside parts will wear out eventually, even if your propane system is still working properly.

How to fix an RV propane regulator?

It’s not uncommon that an RV propane regulator goes out, especially when it’s old. The first thing to do is to perform some RV propane automatic changeover regulator troubleshooting. Check the gas tanks to see whether they’re empty and try to reset the excess flow valve.

You can also conduct a gas pressure test to determine if the regulator is working well. Disconnect the hose that feeds propane into the RV and turn off all propane appliances. Insert a rubber adapter to the port whose hose you disconnected and connect the gas pressure test kit. Replace the regulator if it’s not working.

Another quick fix is to thaw the propane gas regulator, especially when it’s cold because the gas can freeze and stop flowing. To fix this, remove the regulator from the tank and leave it disconnected for 30 seconds. Reconnect the regulator after the time has passed.

Do I need a high or low pressure propane regulator?

Choosing the right RV propane regulator pressure depends on how much BTU your appliances actually need per hour. It’s not advantageous to get a high-pressure regulator even if you need less because it makes it difficult to control. The rule of thumb is to get a regulator that’s close to what your appliances need.

Outdoor gas appliances like fish fryers require a high-pressure regulator to flow a high volume of gas. The output of this device can reach up to 10,000,000 BTUs per hour.

You’ll need a low-pressure regulator if you own a low-capacity and demand appliance like a camping stove or gas grill. This type of regulator has a BTU output of around 70,000.

How long does an RV propane regulator last?

A propane regulator for camper should last around ten years. After a decade, you’ll notice a few issues like leaks, popping sounds, and being unable to switch over to the other tank if you have dual propane tanks. It’s better to replace the unit at this time.

1 stage vs 2 stage propane regulator: what is the difference?

An RV LP regulator can be a one-stage or two-stage variety. A one-stage regulator minimizes the pressure in a single step, whereas a two-stage model does it in two steps. This makes the flow of a two-stage regulator more stable and reliable.

While an end-of-tank dump is common in one-stage regulators, a two-stage regulator doesn’t have that problem. An end-of-tank dump occurs when the tank pressure declines to a certain level that the regulator ceases to regulate, hence dumping the rest of the propane.

Where to purchase an RV propane regulator near me?

Online stores like Amazon offer many brands of RV propane regulators at reasonable prices, while physical stores can let you see the actual product.

Some RV manufacturers like Airstream also provide RV propane regulators for their customers. Make sure that you keep yourself updated on any parts recall because you can ask your RV dealer for replacement.

Conclusion

It’s definitely a must to get an RV propane regulator for your appliances’ optimum performance. The 10 propane regulators I reviewed above are perfect options, but the Flame King KT12ACR6 slightly stands out as the best RV propane regulator. This model ensures that you don’t run out of propane as it automatically switches from the empty cylinder to the full one.

For quality and safety, the Marshall Excelsior MEGR 253 is an excellent option as it passed all standards from NFPA, RVIA, and UL. Now, I recommend the Camco 59313 if you want to ensure a leak-proof connection. The GR-630B and JR Products 07 30325 are your best bet for budget-friendly options.

Philip Lopez

Okay, so I’m Philip Lopez. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. I contribute to studies aimed at understanding the most typical problems encountered by RVers on the road. I also keep up with the newest RVing gadget innovations so that I can promptly evaluate and recommend the best options.