Best RV Propane Regulators: Protect Your Camper and Appliances

Power your appliances quickly and efficiently with these RV propane regulators

byLinsay Thomas, Scott Roepel|
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BYLinsay Thomas, Scott Roepel/ LAST UPDATED ON May 27, 2021

Keeping tabs on the amount of propane you have can be a hassle when you’re traveling in an RV. Propane powers the appliances inside the camper, and without it you run the risk of losing food and warm or cold air. Being able to properly regulate how much gas is sent to each item is a bonus. The best RV propane regulator can guarantee a safe and proper flow of propane throughout the RV. Check out these RV propane regulators before setting off on your next journey.

Best Overall

Flame King Propane Gas Regulator

Summary

The regulator automatically switches and gauges the flow between two propane tanks for extra convenience. It includes two 12-inch pigtail hoses for a quick and easy flow of propane.

Pros
  • Built to reduce noise from the propane tank
  • Designed with durable and solid construction that features a plastic rain cover to protect it
Cons
  • Does not come with operating instructions
  • May need to make small alterations to get the regulator to fit
  • May include drilling an extra mounting hole for the device
  • Only rated for 30,000 BTU
Best Value

Marshall Excelsior Propane Regulator

Summary

The regulator is made from a tough, raw zinc material to ensure it holds up to any harm or damage. It’s rated to handle up to 225,000 BTU.

Pros
  • High amount of BTU means it can easily power every appliance efficiently 
  • As an automatic dual tank regulator, the device ensures you won’t run out of propane quickly 
  • Also features a color indicator to alert you when the tanks need to be refilled
Cons
  • Mounting holes may not be threaded, so you may have to make your own mount to hold it
  • May not come with the necessary screws to mount it
  • LED light may be difficult to see
Honorable Mention

Mr. Heater Propane Regulator

Summary

It comes with a 200,000 BTU max flow and a rugged and sturdy brass body and frame.

Pros
  • Device features a pre-installed POL fitting to make things easier and more convenient during installation
  • Also includes a plastic cover to protect the valve from the sun
Cons
  • Device may freeze up during cold nights and not work as effectively
  • A bit pricey since it only includes the regulator and not the hoses

Benefits of Propane Regulators

  • Control propane pressure. Having access to constant gas pressure is important while RVing. An RV propane regulator allows you to control the amount of pressure released from the tank. Regulators help ensure the propane levels are exact, so you can power your appliances more efficiently.
  • Avoid leaks. With the best RV propane regulator, you can reduce or prevent unnecessary leaks. This works by making sure your RV appliances get the power they need to run without worrying about the tank running low too early.
  • Monitor usage. RV propane regulators should come with a gauge that informs you of how much propane is left in the tank. Knowing when you need to refill it lets you know when you need to get more propane. You can also judge how much propane you use on a daily basis.

Types of Propane Regulators

High-Pressure Regulators

A high-pressure propane regulator features a higher-pressure inlet side and a lower-pressure outlet side for appliances. However, you can use them independently when necessary. High-pressure regulators are often used in tandem with a second-stage regulator or single-stage regulator to control flow.

Adjustable Regulators

As the name implies, adjustable regulators allow you to freely adjust the flow of the propane tank. They will generally include a gauge with a scale that lets you know how much propane is flowing through the lines.

Top Brands

Camco

As one of the leading manufacturers of RV products and supplies, Camco also designs regulators. The company also focuses on designing products for camping, hiking, and boating. The company was founded in 1966 and is located in Greensboro, N.C., but has locations all across the United States. One of its RV regulators is the Camco Propane Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator.

Mr. Heater

Based out of Cleveland, Ohio, Mr. Heater is owned by Enerco. The company began in 1957 and started by designing consumer heating products. While it is known for creating and manufacturing heaters, the company also makes propane regulators. Consider the Mr. Heater Propane Regulator if you’re looking for a quality regulator.

Propane Regulator Pricing

  • $20-$40: The cheapest regulator will typically be about $20. That being said, they typically aren’t the most durable, and their gauges, if they have any, are generally plastic. 
  • $40 and up: You may want to consider spending a bit more on your regulator for a better quality item. They tend to be made out of a tough brass or stainless steel and may include a functioning gauge with PSI levels. They may also have an indicator to let you know when the propane is running low.

Key Features

PSI Level

All regulators will come with a PSI level or capacity that they are able to manage. Research the range your RV is capable of handling so the device functions effectively. It is typically standard for RVs to release around 11 PSI to power appliances.

Quality Construction

Consider an RV propane regulator that is made out of high-quality material. Since regulators are left outside next to the tank, they need to be sturdy. A plastic regulator functions well, but may freeze up and crack in extremely cold temperatures. We recommend a regulator made out of solid brass or stainless steel construction. 

Other Considerations

  • Hoses and Tubes. While not directly part of the regulator, they are important. Look for a hose that is durable and reliable. Those made out of a strong thermoplastic work best and are the most dependable.
  • Gauge. Consider an RV propane regulator equipped with its own gauge. This will allow you to see how much propane you are using. Many even feature an LED light that turns on due to an empty cylinder.

Best Propane Regulators Reviews & Recommendations 2021

If you have multiple propane tanks equipped to fuel and power your RV, then the Flame King Propane Gas Regulator is a good option. As an automatic changeover regulator, it switches the flow between two propane tanks for extra convenience. Plus, it has a built-in indicator, so you can keep track of how much propane is left in the tank.


One big benefit is that you don’t have to worry about it being too loud. The propane tank regulator is built to reduce noise from the propane tank, so the flow is silent and swift. Another upside is it’s designed out of durable and solid construction that features a plastic rain cover to protect it. And it includes two 12-inch pigtail hoses for a quick and easy flow of propane.


You need to look up how to properly install the device, as it does not come with operating instructions. Another issue is you may need to make small alterations to get the regulator to fit properly. This may include drilling an extra mounting hole for the device. Plus, it is only rated for 30,000 BTU.

With a powerful name like Excelsior, this regulator is capable of powering your propane system efficiently. It is developed out of a tough and long-lasting raw zinc material to ensure it holds up to any harm or damage. Another big benefit is the little device is rated to handle and pump out up to 225,000 BTU.


The high amount of BTU means it can easily power several appliances efficiently and quickly. Plus, as an automatic dual tank regulator, the device ensures you won’t run out of propane anytime soon. Another benefit is it features a color indicator to alert you when the tanks need to be refilled.


Prepare to bring some power tools when it’s time for installation. The mounting holes may not be threaded, so you may have to make your own mount to hold it to the propane tank. It also may not come with the necessary screws to mount it. Plus, if it is in a well-lit area, the LED light may be difficult to see.

Here is a solid and heavy-duty regulator with a 200,000 BTU max flow. And while that is certainly impressive, another bonus of this regulator is its design. It has a modern and simple look, plus it is developed out of a rugged and sturdy brass body and frame for additional strength.


One huge benefit of the Mr. Heater Propane Regulator is it features a pre-installed POL fitting to make things easier and more convenient during installation. The device also comes with a plastic cover to protect the valve from the sun and any other damage that might prevent it from functioning.


One drawback involves its design. Even though the regulator is made out of high-quality brass, it may freeze up during cold nights and not work as effectively. You should consider keeping it somewhere where the temperature won’t dip as low. It’s also a bit pricey since it only includes the regulator and not the hoses.

This dual regulator from GasOne is simple and affordable. It is designed for a smooth and leak free propane connection. While meant for the RV, it is also great for propane heaters, generators, and propane-based appliances. The benefit of getting this two stage regulator is that you can control the propane pressure that is required for your specific device. 


Dealing with the pressure that is released from the first stage, the second will ensure further control and safety. Its inlet is QCC type 1 connection, and its outlet 3/8-inch female flare fitting. It only weighs 15 ounces and is small and simple in design. 


There are reports of the product arriving faulty with tears or already leaking. You do get what you pay for, and with the highly reduced price this product might not last long term or not be as efficient as you hope with propane regulation. Be sure to be vigilant and test for yourself.

This bright red high pressure propane regulator from JR Products is also quite affordable. It has a 1/4-inch female part inlet and a 1/4-inch female part outlet. You can also buy this in a package of six if you are worried about needing to replace it, or needing more than one. It's ideal for where PSIG rather than W.C. is needed. 


It only weighs 7 ounces and has a simple, sleek design. It also has 30 psi output. It uses standard pipe thread fittings. In addition to the RV, this also works easily for appliances where you need to regulate a high pressure of propane. 


For the price, this is a very sturdy and dependable model. There are next to no reports of it being faulty, coming not as described, or breaking down after extended usage. Although this propane regulator is pretty specific in its specialty, it should be a strong choice for your RV.

One of the biggest perks of this RV propane regulator from GasPro is its hose feature. Stretching out to 10 feet, this is great for regulating propane that is further away from the appliance. It is a two-stage regulator to ensure consistent and safety pressure. Its end fitting to the appliance is 3/8-inch female flare fitting and it works for your RV appliances, gas generators, gas grills, hot water heaters, propane fireplaces, and propane stoves.


It has a standard P.O.L. tank connection and is made of 100 percent solid brass. For an added perk, this regulator is CSA Certified to automatically shut off if there is excess flow. It weighs more than 2 pounds and the hose is made from rubber. 


You cannot adjust the pressure, but it does regulate it for safety. It also is more pricey than other models, but for that you do get the hose and certification for added peace of mind. It has a lower gas output than you might expect, as well.

This two stage propane regulator is perfect for RVs with dual propane tanks. This regulator will ensure you don’t run out of gas without interruption. It has an auto-changeover feature to switch from an empty propane tank to the full tank while ensuring continuous flow. 


You can even remove the empty cylinder without a stoppage of propane supply. The two hoses are short, only a foot long a piece. But for two propane tanks placed close together, this shouldn’t be a problem. 


It is on the pricier side compared to others due to its pigtail function. There are some reports of leakage and it is not automatically switching over when one tank is empty. It also can be a bit noisier than you would expect.

This RV propane regulator from Cavagna includes a mounting bracket and plastic cap cover to assist with its installation. It will automatically switch from an empty cylinder to a full reserve cylinder to ensure you have no interruptions to your gas flow. 


It also has colorful empty signal indicators so you know quickly when it needs a refill. You can adjust your propane pressure with this regulator, and altogether it weighs just over a pound. It is easy to install as well.


This is another model that is more expensive than others on the market due to its extra features. Its inverted flare fittings are not removable, so you will need adapters if it doesn’t fit up to your RV needs. There are some minor reports of it breaking, and Cavagna is not responsive to requests for returns.

Tips

  • To ensure your RV propane regulator operates efficiently, make sure to conduct routine maintenance on the device. Check it for any damage to the exterior or hoses to ensure there are no leaks.
  • Before setting off on a camping excursion, always check the amount of propane in the tanks. The regulator has a gauge that will inform you if the tanks are getting low.
  • If you have several appliances in your RV, consider getting a propane regulator with increased levels of BTU. One gallon of propane equals around 91,500 BTUs. 

FAQs

Q: Can I manually control the amount of pressure a regulator releases?

A: Yes. Regulators come with a valve that measures just how much propane is released throughout the RV. By turning the valve, you can control just how much is released.

Q: Is mounting an RV propane regulator difficult?

A: It should be simple to mount an RV propane regulator. The device should come with mounting holes that you drill or screw into a nearby wall or above the propane tanks. You may have to make small adjustments by drilling new holes in the device to properly mount it, but they should not harm the regulator.

Q: How can I tell if the regulator isn’t working?

A: There are a few ways to tell if the regulator is failing. If the LED light is not turning on, there may be an issue with the connection hoses. Also, check your appliances. If the shower water isn’t hot or doesn’t heat up quickly enough, the regulator may not be pumping enough propane to all of your appliances. Check the hoses to ensure they are not leaking.

Final Thoughts

To keep track of the amount of propane fueling your RV appliances, consider the high-quality functionality of the Flame King Propane Gas Regulator

Or, if you need to power more appliances and monitor how much propane you have left, check out the Marshall Excelsior Propane Regulator.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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