What Happens If You Use Natural Gas On A Propane Grill?

Are you a fan of grilling? So are we. This time around, we’re looking at gas types – propane, butane, and that’s right, natural gas. Now, you might be asking, natural gas in a grill made for propane? Can it work?
 

This is our focus today – exploring the facts about propane and natural gas. We’re curious too, asking the big question: can we use a propane grill with natural gas? We’ll compare these gases, look at their make-up, heat levels, and common uses. We’re also going to clarify any doubts about their role in grilling.  And, in the end, help you switch with ease. 

NATURAL GAS VS. PROPANE: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Cast a keener eye on propane and natural gas. Both gases have unique mixes, heat values, and pressure rates.

Usually, grills are designed specifically for one or the other. Since natural gas has lower pressure, it may seem odd to use it in a high-pressure propane grill. But let’s explore further.

Lots of grills use liquid propane (LP) fuel, but people are increasingly choosing natural gas for their outdoor cooking needs. Why? It’s more readily available and wallet-friendly. 

In 2022, the U.S. consumed roughly 32.31 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. That’s about 33.41 quadrillion BTUs, folks! This made up 33% of the nation’s primary energy use. This means that natural gas is very popular.

A roaring flame from propane beats the gentle warmth of natural gas, thanks to its high heat yield. But for long-term use, you’ll find that natural gas costs less. No need for tank swaps or refills. 

Propane – a packed mix with a hefty heat yield per unit. It shines on grills, stoves, and room heaters. Natural gas, mostly methane, offers less heat but excels in indoor settings. 

Propane is pricier than natural gas, and it’s a hassle to keep buying and transporting those heavy tanks. But switching from propane to natural gas isn’t straightforward.

Don’t try using a propane grill with natural gas; you can’t swap them willy-nilly, without proper conversion, for reasons we will soon reveal. Natural gas could save money over time, but switching involves risks, and the initial cost erodes some savings. Consider all factors before deciding.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU USE NATURAL GAS ON A PROPANE GRILL?

Many grillers consider a natural gas-powered propane grill. They expect a shift in the whole grilling process. This mismatch has several effects, though:

For one, your grill may end up giving off less heat. Burners mix fuel and air at specific ratios. Compared to propane, natural gas needs more volume to give the same heat. If you try using natural gas in a propane burner, you’ll get weak flames or maybe no flames at all.

This means more time spent cooking and a chance of altering the taste and texture of your food.

Switching the gas without proper adjustment also raises safety flags. Propane and natural gas handle pressure differently. Without the right setup, natural gas, which operates under higher pressure, could leak. 

This gas leak can lead to a serious fire risk, when your grill produces too much gas, goes out, and then restarts, causing a mini-explosion, that threatens your home and loved ones. 

Trust that the grill manufacturer has set everything up for a reason. Switching gas types could make the grill too hot or too dangerous to use.

In our view, the type of gas your grill needs matters a lot. Using a different one from the intended one could spoil your food and with many side effects. 

The safest bet? Just invest in a brand-new grill made for natural gas. If your current grill has seen better days or isn’t worth much, it could be prime time to level up to a more cost-effective natural gas grill.

HOW TO CONVERT A PROPANE GRILL TO NATURAL GAS?

You are still thinking of switching your grill from propane to natural gas? 

Given such stark gaps between the two gases, can any propane grill make the leap to natural gas? In short: not without some tweaks.

Propane grills are built to work with the pressure from propane tanks. The switch to natural gas hinges on the sort of grill you have. Often, your grill will need some fine-tuning for a safe shift. 

The grill’s journey from propane to natural gas may seem tough. Yet, with the right gear and a clear plan, we at our camping harmony guide you safely through it. 

Check The Grill Brand’s Instruction 

Step one is to find out if your grill adapts to the change. Look at your manual. It holds key data. Some grills come with a kit to switch to natural gas. If not, buy one. Usually, grills run on one kind of gas. So, verify if your grill can go through this big shift. 

This kit comes with parts like hoses, linking units, and tapes fit for gas. Usually, the kit will cost around $50 to $100, and the project can span one to three hours.

Next step is to aware— the manufacturer might wash their hands of warranty claims if anything goes wrong. 

Swapping Process

Now, let’s ease the swap method for you: 

A right kit will have all you need, like new gas jets, a loose gas hose, gas links that fasten and unfasten with ease, and gas valve stops. 

Changing the grill leans on three factors; tweaking the grill valves, setting the gas links, and tuning the burners right:

Step 1: Tweak the Valves

Your grill’s valves control gas flow. Propane and natural gas differ in pressure. Tweak the grill valves to allow the right flow of natural gas. 

Swap out the existing small jets, known as orifices, with ones for natural gas. Think of it as changing the nozzle on a hose; different size for a different job.

Step 2: Set Up the Gas Links

Next, unplug your propane hose and regulator. Think of it as unplugging a charger and plugging in a different one that fits. Replace them with a natural gas setup. Make sure it’s tightly connected, like double-knotting your shoes so they won’t come undone. 

Remember to check all links for leaks. Carry out this task in an open area, far from any flames or sources of fire.

Step 3: Tune Those Burners

Now that you’ve got new orifices and hoses, it’s time to tune the burners. 

Make sure you align the burners just like they were. Turn on the grill. Check the flames like you’d check the water temp for a bath: not too hot, not too cold. If needed, tweak the air-gas mix. Your grill manual is the go-to guide here.

Be aware; burners for natural gas come with larger holes than those for propane gas. 

These steps ensure your grill switches smoothly to natural gas. Always check your manual or get a pro involved for a safe switch-up. It’s like converting your bike from a city ride to a mountain bike; better safe than sorry!

My Own Experience: I switched a grill to natural gas by enlarging holes in the control valves. Started small, tested it, and then picked the right size. I did the same for all burners. I have many drill bits and didn’t use a regulator.

Safety Rules for the Swap

Safety should always be top of mind when making grill tweaks. A bad swap can lead to gas leaks, which can lead to fire or grave harm.

• Always turn off the gas before you start to swap. 
• Use a soapy mix to look for gas leaks, apply it to the links. If you see bubbles, you have a leak; seal the link and check once more. 
• Don’t risk safety to save cost; gas can be risky if not handled with care.

We firmly back the plus points of changing, chiefly if natural gas is easier to get or costs less where you stay. However, while we love a good DIY, safety should never be in the line of fire for trying new things. If the change process seems tricky, getting a pro to help might be money well spent. 

Though the steps seem plain, they involve tight methods that might need a pro’s touch. Working with gear that could pose threats if mishandled calls for high alert. From using the correct tool for disconnecting the propane system, ensuring enough air flow to avoid gas pileups to changing connections without leaks, a trained hand could spot and fix wrongs fast.

CONCLUSION

We wrap up this look at grill gas use. So, you use natural gas in a propane grill: What then? The risks are clear.

Switching your grill from propane to natural gas can pay off. Propane grills lack the zeal of natural gas. You see more heat woes, more cook time, and food that tastes off.

Safety is key to everything we grill. If we do it wrong, gas leaks and fires may follow.

Can all propane grills work with natural gas? Sure, but check your grill type first. This task needs thought, and often pro help. A focus on safety can ward off grill blunders.

We end with a nod to the key role of the right gas. For grill buffs like us, fine heat control trumps all. We all want more than grilled meat. We’re after the warm memories we make by the grill!