Converting propane grill to natural gas

[jsfinn]

I can get a conversion kit for my grill to change it from propane gas to natural gas. It would be nice to not have to get propane tanks anymore.

Is there an advantage to cooking with propane over natural gas? Do they both cook the same? Does one burn hotter than the other?

Thanks!

 

[schematic]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

If its a proper conversion, the heat should be the same. There is no advantage. Natural gas is cheaper...

 

[JB]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

The only advantage of propane that I can see is that you can put it anywhere you want and move it around.

For a fixed location NG is less expensive and never runs out in the middle of broiling a chunk of dead cow.

 

[DJ]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

It's basically just an orifice change.

There are more more BTU's in propane (LPG). I've had both, they seem to cook about the same with propane being a little hotter. You probably won't notice any real difference. If you have the choice, go natural.

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

For a fixed location NG is less expensive and never runs out in the middle of broiling a chunk of dead cow.

Unless your a smartassed teenager and go and turn the outside gas valve at the meter to off at the local McDonalds at 3am.
And then it takes em till noon before they all figure out what is wrong and can reopen for business.
hehehe

 

[JB]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Well now. There is an argument in favor of my favorite grill fuel. . .mesquite.

 

[jsfinn]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Thanks for the information. Is there a flexible hose that goes at the end of the gas line so the grill can move a foot or two for cleaning the deck around the grill? Can I disconnect natural gas myself when it's time to power wash or stain the deck? The reason I ask is when I had a new gas hot water heater installed a few years ago, the county had to send out an inspector after it was installed - something about every time you connect a gas appliance, it needs to be looked over by a county inspector...

 

[Limited-Time]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Thanks for the information. Is there a flexible hose that goes at the end of the gas line so the grill can move a foot or two for cleaning the deck around the grill? Can I disconnect natural gas myself when it's time to power wash or stain the deck? The reason I ask is when I had a new gas hot water heater installed a few years ago, the county had to send out an inspector after it was installed - something about every time you connect a gas appliance, it needs to be looked over by a county inspector...

They actually make a quick disconnect for just that purpose. I've seen them at the local Lowes and Home Depot. As for the conversion, kits are generally available from the appliance manufacture. I believe Propane and NG run at different pressures so you'll need to change the regulator as well as the afore mentioned orifices.

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

They actually make a quick disconnect for just that purpose. I've seen them at the local Lowes and Home Depot. As for the conversion, kits are generally available from the appliance manufacture. I believe Propane and NG run at different pressures so you'll need to change the regulator as well as the afore mentioned orifices.

Changing the regulator.........usually not required as long as your downstream of the meter and regulator for the house.
Some conversions kits will come with a little replacement regulator with the proper orifice instead of having the consumer change just the orifice in some odd ball regulator.
I think as long as it is outside and not in a building, the connections do not have to be re-inspected each time you reconnect.
A simple gas **** with a downstream union may be acceptable in your area.
I would call your gas company or go online and see if they also sell gas appliances and grills to get all the right info and regs for your area. They should also be able to tell you what type og piping is required to get from your existing gas line to the grill.

 

[zoe'sdad]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Don't mean to steal this thread but how about a turkey fryer? I have a propane one that I would like to convert to natural gas.

 

[cbac]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Don't mean to steal this thread but how about a turkey fryer? I have a propane one that I would like to convert to natural gas.

It would take the same as the above, a regulator and orifice kit.

 

[jsfinn]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

That answers my question. They do sell a conversion kit for my grill (a Capt'n Cook from BBQs Galore - best grill I've ever used) so I'll check out to see what it costs.

I'm pretty handy and I'll do most things around the house myself, but I know my limits, and I don't mess around with Natural Gas (or most things that can explode) so I'm going to get a plumber to run the line.

Thanks guys!

 

[orion25]

Re: Converting propane grill to natural gas

Don't mean to steal this thread but how about a turkey fryer? I have a propane one that I would like to convert to natural gas.

If you are frying Turkeys in it you do not want it any near your house while in operation. UL has never certified a turkey fryer for a reason. One mistake, like too much oil, oil above 400 degrees, or ice in the cavity of the bird and your house is gone. If you can have a ng line ran out into your yard then go for it.