Community Alumni
Oct 27, 2017Most all RV gas appliances operate at 11” WC pressure (about 1/2 PSI). A two stage regulator provides steady even flow even though the supply tank pressure can vary through a wide range of pressure depending on ambient temperature. Many dedicated RV ranges and grills with no built-in regulation must connect to the RV system though a quick connect. Any appliance with a regulator is designed to work from tank pressure. A single stage usually suffices. A replacement regulator and hose for a typical home BBQ grill can be installed on the non- regulator grill so that be used from a portable tank. On the other hand, to use a regulator type grill on the built in RV system, a separate regulator has to be installed tapped into the tank ahead of the RV regulator. A 10 or 15 PSI single stage should be sufficient to allow the grill regulator to function. Another point to keep in mind is that other appliances such as fire pits or cookers have higher BTU outputs and need to operate at higher pressures. Fixed or adjustable regulators can be installed to satisfy the increased gas flow. On my last RV I installed a 10 PSI regulator teed ahead of the system regulator. With a quick connection, I could use ordinary BBQ grills. On my new RV there is a convenient place to tap into the system pressure and use a modified Weber Grill. As it turns out the 2018 Navion has a three stage system. A 30 PSI regulator knocks down the pressure for delivery to the two stage regulator located at the remote filling connection. From there the gas is distributed throughout the RV. I might also take advantage of this and tap in for use for high pressure appliances like a fire pit. In modifying you gas system you must be careful not to have excessive pressure in long pipes or hoses. It is dangerous and you can have liquid propane condense in the line. You only want vapor. Bottom line is that you must know the operating pressure for the appliance and depending on the use you can build a delivery system. In my case, not having to tote around dozens of disposable cylinders and the convenience of a quick connection is worth the effort. My 2002 RoadTrek had a quick connection built in with a 15 PSI regulator. That spoiled me to be able to use a wider range of gas grills.