Propane regulators are devices that control or regulate the flow of propane fuel. Regulators are found on all appliances that make use of propane gas, such as barbecue grills, camping heaters, and even lights that are operated with the use of liquid propane. A propane regulator allows for easy adjustment of the amount of fuel in use, making it simpler to prevent accidents or other issues arising from the use of LP gas.
The principle behind a propane regulator is simply to control the rate or pace that propane passes through the fuel line. Often, the regulator can be manually operated, making it possible to completely shut off the flow of fuel when the device is not in use. While the appliance is in use, the regulator makes it possible to adjust the flow of the liquid propane so enough fuel is emitted to complete the task, but not so much that there is a danger of causing an explosion, fire, or some other mishap.
One of the more common applications of the propane regulator around the home has to do with the backyard barbecue grill. When the grill is outfitted for propane use, the regulator must be opened in order to allow the fuel to reach the burners and the oven compartment on the grill. Many models make use of electric ignitions to light the escaping fuel. Once the flame is lit, it is possible to use the regulator to decrease or increase the propane flow, thereby controlling the cooking process.
The same idea holds true with a camping heater that works with the use of propane. The heater is equipped with a simple propane regulator that can be turned to open the fuel line, allowing a small amount of the fuel to escape. As with the grill burners and oven, the regulator controls the amount of propane that escapes, making it possible to light the flame and then adjust it to create the right amount of warmth in the cabin, tent, or the outdoor sleeping area.
While the basics of the propane regulator have remained the same for decades, a few enhancements have been added over the years. Many devices manufactured today make use of regulators that will automatically cut off the flow of fuel in the event that the device is tipped over, or if the channel cannot be closed using the manual controls. Additional safeguards like these have made the use of propane fuel for a wide range of cooking and heating options much safer than in years past.
