Leave a Comment
Camper FAQs is reader-supported. Buying through links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Propane is a convenient fuel source powering many RV appliances like the water heater, stove, furnace, and fridge. However, propane can also be very dangerous!
So, to help safely operate a propane system, you must use a high-quality propane regulator.
Below, I look at three popular RV propane regulators and provide some important information about these must-have devices.
Comparison Chart
*Buying through links in this chart may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Flame King Propane Gas Regulator
- Best Overall
The Flame King Propane Gas Regulator is a two-stage automatic changeover regulator that includes two 12-inch pigtails. It is perfect for RVs and trailers with dual propane tanks.
This best-selling product is easy to use, maintaining consistent gas pressure even under heavy use and changing demand. It supplies propane to your appliances without interruption and even automatically switches over to your reserve tank when the first is empty.
The Flame King makes it easy to install not one, but two propane gas tanks – meaning less frequent tank refills for you and your family on long road trips and camping expeditions. It comes with a color indicator, which lets users know when a tank is empty.
Overall, the installation of this regulator is very simple and takes very little time. With just four rotations per tank, you can hit the road with a sturdy and reliable connection.
User Manual
Specifications
- Rated for: 190,000 BTU/hr
- Inlets: ¼” SAE inverted flare
- Outlet: ⅜” NPT female pipe thread
- Dimensions: 7” x 4” x 4”
- Stages: Two-stage design
- Warranty: 1 year limited
- Two 12-inch pigtails to connect two propane tanks
Flame King Propane Gas Regulator
Price:Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Camco Vertical Two-Stage Propane Regulator
- Best Value
RVs come with a lot of equipment and expenses, so any item that can give you great value is one to keep handy on your list. The Camco Vertical Two-Stage Propane Regulator is our choice for the best value because it gives you everything you need for a great price.
The Camco model is a simple design that features integral first and second stages. This ideal setup allows for a smooth and consistent flow of propane to your appliances, so you’re never left hanging with weak power.
To use this setup with more reach, you can use it with Camco’s 20-inch pigtail propane hose connectors. You can also purchase this regulator in three versions: horizontal mount with POL, horizontal mount without POL, and vertical mount.
And if there’s any confusion about the type of pigtail and connection to use, check out this video which will help clear the air.
Not only does this regulator promise a good flow, but it’s easy to adjust. All you have to do is unscrew the eye-catching blue cap and turn the outer washer to adjust the pressure.
User Manual
Specifications
- Rated for: 160,000 BTU/hr
- Inlet: ¼” female NPT
- Outlet: ⅜” female NPT
- Outlet pressure: 11″ water column
- Available mounts: Horizontal with POL, Horizontal without POL, Vertical
- Warranty: 1 year
Camco Vertical 2 Stage Propane Regulator
Price:Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Marshall Excelsior Two-Stage Auto Regulator
- Honorable Mention
Another popular option is the Marshall Excelsior. This two-stage automatic regulator stands out among its competitors, offering a raw zinc powder-coated finish that helps it withstand the elements.
The automatic feature is highly convenient, as it automatically redirects the gas flow once your primary tank is empty. You won’t have to worry about switching it over yourself, which means fewer interruptions while on vacation.
The green indicator changes over to red when your cylinders are empty, so you don’t have to constantly check your tank pressure.
Not only is installation simple, but Marshall Excelsior Company offers over 40 years of experience and high-quality manufacturing for excellent pricing.
User Manual
Specifications:
- Rated for: 225,000 BTU/hr
- Max inlet pressure: 250 psi
- Inlet: ¼” female inverted flare
- Outlet: ⅜” FNPT
- Stages: Two-stage regulator
- Warranty: 5-year limited
Marshall Excelsior Two-Stage Auto RV Propane Regulator
Price:Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Types of RV Propane Regulators
There are a few different types of RV propane regulators, which can make purchasing one for the first time feel a little overwhelming. Let’s look at these types and what makes them differ from one another.
First-Stage Regulator
A first-stage regulator implements a single cylinder of propane and is often used for small appliances such as a gas grill or a camping stove. They are also often called single-stage regulators or even low-BTU regulators.
First-stage regulators connect from the propane tank to the service valve. When using a first-stage regulator, you must also use a second-stage regulator. These two pieces of equipment work together to get the job done.
The first-stage regulator will compensate for varying tank pressure, delivering propane at ten psi or less. Then comes the second-stage regulator’s job.
Second-Stage Regulator
Second-stage regulators work differently from first-stage pieces in that they do not minimize tank pressure. Because of this, you must install them downstream of the first-stage regulator. Otherwise, the RV propane system won’t function properly.
A second-stage propane regulator takes the lowered pressure propane supplied by the first-stage regulators and decreases it even more to working conditions for the appliances at hand.
While the first stage of propane is measured in psi, it’s measured in inches at this stage. The goal of the second-stage regulator is to get the pressure down to around an 11″ water column – or whatever is appropriate for your appliances.
Integral Twin Stage Regulator
An integral twin-stage regulator is most likely the regulator you will use in your RV or camper. You may also see them called inline twin-stage regulators or dual regulators.
These regulators are commonly found in RVs because you can use them to distribute your propane to multiple appliances.
Rather than installing a propane take and its regulators to every appliance in your RV, you can use one tank and attach it using a dual regulator.
High-Pressure Regulator
High-pressure regulators give their purpose away right in their name: they are used with high gas pressures and are designed to handle heavy-duty regulating.
There’s really no use for a homeowner or an RV user for high-pressure regulators. They are most frequently used in commercial locations that handle high levels of propane pressure.
Propane Regulator Buying & Maintenance Tips
Use a Two-Stage Propane Regulator
You must use a two-stage propane regulator to properly regulate the propane pressure in your RV. When propane is stored in a tank, it sits at very high pressure, so you can’t just use it straight into your appliances.
A two-stage regulator is designed to bring the fuel from the tank to lower the pressure. From there, the second stage of the process transfers the lower-pressure propane to your various appliances.
Your regulator’s goal is to bring the pressure from as high as 250 psi down to between 10 and 15 psi. This makes the propane safe to use, especially in a confined space.
Keep the Vent Clean
On a two-stage propane regulator, you will find that each stage has its own little vent. The first vent in the first stage is so small that you might miss it. The second vent is a bit larger and easier to find.
It’s critical that you maintain these vents by keeping them clean and clear of debris. If the vents get clogged up at all, the regulator will not be able to function as it should. The vents allow the regulator to release pressure, so anything stuck in them could be a problem.
If possible, try to keep both vents pointing down. This will help them work better, and it will help keep debris from getting caught.
Keep Your Regulator Covered
To get the most out of your regulator, you should always keep it covered to protect it from damage, especially in severe weather. Most newer recreational vehicles should come with plastic covers already installed specifically made to protect regulators.
However, older models or used vehicles could be missing one or come with a damaged cover, so you may have to purchase a new one.
Camco 59344 Two Stage Regulator Cover
Price:Clicking this link to make a purchase may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Replace it Regularly
Check the regulator’s lifespan in the owner’s manual and replace it when that time is up. They typically last 10-15 years with proper care. Because propane is highly flammable, it’s simply not worth the risk of trying to get a few extra years out of it. Replace the regulator when suggested to avoid any serious issues down the line.
Safety First
Whenever you’re working with propane, you should always be conscientious of any odd smells that waft through your rig. Luckily, propane is a gas with a distinct and noticeable odor. If you can smell propane in your RV, there’s a problem somewhere.
The smartest and safest thing you can do when you smell propane in your RV is to shut off the propane tanks as soon as you realize it. You should also flip all your appliances off and extinguish any flames in the area. Open all the doors and windows of your camper to get some airflow going.
Tip: You shouldn’t rely on smell alone to identify a propane leak. Instead, invest in an RV propane detector. Check out our reviews of the best RV propane detectors to help keep you and your family safe.
It’s not until you’ve done all of the above that you should further investigate the problem. Safety is always the most important step – you can always fix the problem once everyone and everything is safe.
Along those same lines, safety is critical in the installation process as well. For a regulator to do its job, it must be installed properly. The installation process isn’t difficult, but if you have doubts about your skills, you should hire a professional.
Once again, it’s better to be safe than sorry. A proper installation can guarantee peace of mind during a fun family trip.
Important Features
When purchasing a crucial piece of equipment like a propane regulator, there are a few features you want to keep in mind.
Price
Regulators are so vital to your safety and your RV’s functionality that you don’t want to go the cheap route. That said, most propane regulators are affordable (less than $50), so the price likely won’t be much of an issue.
Changeover
Automatic changeover allows your regulator to draw propane from the primary tank first and, once empty, automatically switch to the secondary tank. Plus, they often have a color indicator that lets you know when you have an empty tank.
Quality
It’s also important to go for a high-quality product made from sturdy and durable material. Most regulators are made of aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, and brass. Any of these options will serve you well – and for a long time.
Capacity
Your regulator’s capacity will be measured in BTUs, which stands for British thermal units. You can typically expect that the higher the BTU rating, the higher the price. However, most RVs do not need a BTU higher than 50,000.