An LPG regulator is an important part of any propane gas system, whether you use it at home, for BBQs, caravans or motorhomes. The regulator reduces the high pressure of the propane from the bottle down to a safer and more usable pressure for your appliances. It also regulates the flow of gas as you use it. A quality lpg regulator will last you for years, but like any other mechanical product it needs to be looked after and maintained.

Propane regulators are mechanical products with no electric parts. They include a rubber diaphragm, springs, levers, and pivot points that work together to reduce the high pressure of the gas from the cylinder down to the lower and more acceptable pressure for your appliance or equipment. They can be bought and installed at your local gas outlet or online. The regulator is the heart of your propane system and should be checked regularly for any wear and tear, as well as being lubricated to ensure smooth operation.

The pressure of an LPG cylinder stays the same throughout the life of the contents, but the regulators are different sizes and categories and are set to different levels of pressure. They will need to be adjusted by a qualified technician, and the pressure should be checked with an instrument called a manometer. A good quality lpg regulator will have an adjustment dial with a range marked on it, from 0-20 psi (or 9-14 ''WC). Most of the time, the adjustment dial should be left alone as you will rarely need to readjust your gas pressure, but if there is a problem then you can turn the knob clockwise to increase the gas flow and counter-clockwise to decrease the gas flow.

Unlike a tyre, which has a valve that is blown off with heat, the pressure of an LPG cylinder does not change through the life of the gas inside it. The pressure will remain the same until it is empty, and when it is, the pressure drops, but only by a small amount. The cylinder will then need to be filled with new propane.

There are two types of LPG regulators, first stage and second stage. First stage regulators are responsible for decreasing cylinder pressure but will not decrease variable tank pressure down to the level required by your appliances. Second stage regulators will do this and also adjust for droop.

LPG regulators need to be protected from the elements, so they should be covered when not in use. Typically, they will be found under the dome of a gas tank or if mounted outside, they will have the second stage vent pointing downwards. This will prevent rain, ice and debris from entering the regulator. The second stage vent should also have a screen to prevent insects from making nests in the regulator.

The best way to prevent gas leaks is to turn off the regulator and the cylinder valve handwheel above it when not in use. Make sure to always put a safety cap on the cylinder when you are finished using it and open windows and doors to ventilate your home. If you do have a gas leak, contact your local gas company immediately.