Can a Natural Gas Range Be Converted to LP?

Are you thinking about converting your home to propane from natural gas? Both of these fuel sources have their advantage and disadvantages, so making the switch can be a difficult choice.

Both natural gas and propane provide a very efficient, clean-burning energy source to power your appliances. Can a natural gas range be converted to LP?

Here we’ll dive into answering this question as well as looking at some of the advantages of converting to propane.

Why convert from natural gas to LP?

Natural gas and propane each have their pros and cons. Propane prices will vary depending on price shifts and where you live. normal shifts in natural resource prices.

However, the ability to fill up your propane tanks when propane prices are low is a big win. (When using natural gas, you’re at the mercy of whatever your gas company’s rates are at that given moment.)

Can a natural gas range be converted to LP?

The short answer to this question is: Yes, conversion is possible. Your gas range may even have come ready from the factory for a propanol based LP conversion.

Check the instruction manual for your appliance to ensure conversion is a possibility.

For example, some water heaters have a warning saying they can only be used with either natural gas or propane and not both, and they cannot be converted.

This is something to keep in mind when purchasing any appliance if you know conversion may be in your future.

DIY or hire a professional?

Although converting natural gas to propane seems quite easy, some municipal codes dictate it must be performed by a professional. If that’s the case in your area, be sure to follow the rules!

Otherwise, you can definitely do it yourself with a few tips and the right tools.

Understanding the types of gas ranges

The burners on your gas range come in two types: sealed one and non-sealed. Sealed top burners have a seal over which you place your pots and pans. This seal prevents any spillages from affecting the brass fitting and clogging up its orifices.

Non-sealed burners have an open top, with nothing to prevent the spillages from blocking the brass fittings. Naturally, the sealed kind of gas ranges will require a few more steps to disassemble.

Performing the conversion

You can find conversion kits for appliances, including gas ranges, at most hardware stores. You’ll want to follow these steps to complete your conversion from natural gas to propane:

1. Consult the owner’s manual to make sure your range can be converted to propane.
2. Check your local city regulations to see if professional conversion is required. (If so, stop here and hire a pro!)
3. Disconnect your stove from its gas line.
4. Disassemble your range by removing the stove burners and fittings.
5. Attach the new burners you purchased which are specifically designed for propane.
6. Carefully adjust your burner settings until you get your desired flame level.
7. Enjoy cooking with your new propane range!

Learn more about gas ranges

If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll want to check out our guide to installing a gas range.

Before doing so, be sure you’re familiar with gas range safety tips and read up on how gas ranges produce carbon monoxide. You’ll also want to find out if gas ranges need a dedicated circuit.

And whether your range is fueled by natural gas or propane, you’ll want to make sure you know the proper way to clean a gas range (no, they’re not hard to clean!).

Not yet sure if gas is for you? Read our answer to “Are Gas Ranges Better Than Electric” to determine what’s best for your home.