Is your propane grill suffering from low flame or uneven heat? There could be a simple fix. Upgrade your backyard cooker with our easy fixes for the most common gas grill regulator problems.
If you have a gas grill, you also have a regulator. The regulator is installed on every gas grill to help control the flow of fuel from your propane tank to the grill, keeping it steady and helping to keep an even burn.
However, the regulator is prone to problems. Like many other parts of your gas grill, it can degrade and may need replacing over time. We’ve included instructions to make a replacement below, but before you look for a replacement regulator, it is worth troubleshooting to see if you can fix the problem. It could be something pretty simple.
From bypass valve issues to gas leaks, fix your backyard cooker with our guide to the most common gas grill regulator problems and how to solve them.
What Does the Regulator Do on a Gas Grill?
The regulator is installed on a gas grill to ensure that the right level of gas is flowing to the burners. A fully-functioning regulator keeps a balanced and controlled level of gas going through to your burner. It also means it is easy to turn it up or down depending on the heat level you need.
The regulator itself is recognizable due to its design which is not dissimilar to a disc or a flying saucer. It connects to the grill burner and the tank that contains your burner fuel.
Most regulators come in a single-hosed design, but you may notice that your grill has multiple extensions, which split off and give the hose area a Y shape. If you’ve got an additional burner, such as a side burner, then this is a common thing to see.
Whichever type of gas regulator you have, it needs to be functioning when you use your grill. If it’s not working, it can be uneven and even cause a potential health and safety risk, as it can allow gas to escape or build up.
Symptoms of a Faulty Gas Regulator
Let’s explore some ways you can diagnose a faulty regulator and the signs that something is wrong.
Low Flame
If your gas grill is not getting hot, or the flame is low and not as strong as you would like even when you try to turn it up, it could be an issue stemming from the regulator. It usually means there is not enough pressure in the device, possibly caused by a leak somewhere along the line, a crack or breakage, or even a loose connection.
Yellow Flame
You’re looking for a blue flame on your grill. If it is yellow, there is a chance there is either a leak or even something in the gas line or regulator that is obstructing the gas from flowing through properly.
Uneven Heat
If the burner is sometimes running nice and hot but sometimes sputtering or getting cooler, then it is a clear sign of an issue. This could be due to a blockage, but it also commonly happens as the regulator gets older and less capable of retaining the pressure.
Hissing Sound
An unusual hissing sound is another potential symptom. It usually comes from a leak on the line but can also come from loose connections on the regulator itself.
Visible Cracks and Damage
Sometimes you won’t have to do a lot of diagnosing to find the problem. You should regularly inspect your grill and all of its components, and if you see that it has a crack or that an area has become damaged by heat or just wear and tear, it is time to replace it.
Common Gas Grill Regulator Problems
These are the most common problems that are causing your grill to operate inefficiently (or not at all).
Gas Leaks
It doesn’t take much for the gas to leak, but it is hazardous if this happens. At the first sign of gas leaking, you should turn off the gas altogether.
There is a trick to work out where the leak may be. Fill up a bowl with soapy water, and then put the regulator inside. Take it out, reattach it, and make sure the burners are not turned on. Then turn the valve on.
If bubbles start to appear from one area, it is a clear sign that there is a leak, and it is time for a replacement regulator.
Bypass Valve
The bypass valve is designed to shut off the gas supply if it doesn’t feel pressure. Sometimes it can get stuck and prevent gas from flowing.
If you suspect that the bypass valve could be the problem, it could be that it has been tripped.
To try and repair this, switch off your tank as well as all of the burners. Wait a couple of minutes, before turning one of the burners on. Allow the gas to (hopefully) flow and try to ignite it. The bypass valve may now have righted itself.
Faulty Regulator
If you have recently bought your grill and find that the regulator is not working as expected, it could be that you have had some bad luck and got a faulty model. You may notice that something is not right with your regulator which could be cracked or misshapen. Consult the manufacturer’s warranty, and your grill may still be covered. It could be that they will just send you a replacement regulator, assuming you are happy to carry out the work yourself.
How to Replace a Gas Grill Regulator
Before diving into the steps to replace the regulator, we must stress that it is important to do this with incredible care. If you aren’t confident about your ability to do it safely, seek the help of a professional. Also, be sure to check the manual that came with your grill. There may be specific instructions on the replacement.
Firstly, you need to make sure you have identified a compatible replacement model. Ask your grill manufacturer if you are in any doubt. Then, to make the replacement:
- Turn off your grill altogether and disconnect the fuel source (the propane tank)
- Take a photo of the current setup and connections for reference if required
- Unscrew the screws that are keeping the regulator attached
- Pull out the regulator, removing the hoses from the end
- Replace it with your new model of regulator, thoroughly connecting all of the hoses
- Connect the tank back to the grill and you are ready to test your new regulator
