Forum Discussion

facory's avatar
facory
Explorer
May 13, 2017

Propane Regulator Noise

Does anyone know why the regulators on our propane tanks howl when being used. It could be the stove or the furnace or the water heater. Whenever gas is being drawn from the tanks the regulator makes the pulsating howling sound. Very annoying. I have changed out the regulator for a new one and it still does it. How do you stop it?
  • SCVJeff's avatar
    SCVJeff
    Explorer
    May 13, 2017
    Some do, some don't. Mine will occasionally howl, so I'll shut it off and release pressure on the low side, then turn on the main S l o w l y..... that usually fixes it
  • bobndot's avatar
    bobndot
    Explorer II
    May 13, 2017
    If you changed out the regulator then its probably the hoses.
    I think there are check valves in the hoses that malfunction.
  • mobeewan's avatar
    mobeewan
    Explorer
    May 14, 2017
    The POL/acme nut fittings are designed to restrict flow so there isn't a big rush of propane if the hose ruptures or fails. The noise you hear could be propane whistling through them, especially if there is a little oil residue from the propane. It could also be a little oil residue in the regulator. There are no check valves in the hoses.
  • bobndot's avatar
    bobndot
    Explorer II
    May 14, 2017
    mobeewan wrote:
    The POL/acme nut fittings are designed to restrict flow so there isn't a big rush of propane if the hose ruptures or fails. The noise you hear could be propane whistling through them, especially if there is a little oil residue from the propane. It could also be a little oil residue in the regulator. There are no check valves in the hoses.



    :) i didnt mean inside the rubber part of the hose.
    "in" the hose = as part of the hose. doesn't the pigtail hose have a check valve at the end ?

    The Acme nut has the restrictor flow valve.
    Its part of a DOT law regarding 20/30/40# cylinders because the tanks are removable unlike a MH stationary tank.
    I think it was designed because of the constant moving (mounting-dismounting) of the tanks for refilling purposes.

    For informational purposes, what check valve are they talking about in this thread ?
    https://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/25482343/print/true.cfm
  • fallsrider's avatar
    fallsrider
    Explorer
    May 16, 2017
    Mine does that at higher flow rates (furnace and/or water heater). Use of the stove doesn't cause it.
  • mobeewan's avatar
    mobeewan
    Explorer
    May 16, 2017
    I figured you didnt mean the rubber part of the hose. However I did think you may have meant they were in a hose end fitting.

    I have no idea which "check valve" they are referencing in your link. Sounds like they have a second regulator with a third cylinder. It may have to do with that set up.

    IIRC the restrictor in the acme nuts are in case the hose is cut, bursts or is severed and the cylinder valve is open. The cylinder will not be able to blow a large amount of propane all over before the valve can be shut off.

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