To convert a natural gas stove to propane, you need a propane conversion kit that matches your stove model. Most stoves can be converted, but you must change the small parts that control gas flow to handle propane’s higher pressure.
Start by turning off the gas and unplugging the stove. Then remove the burner grates and caps to access the orifices. Using the kit, replace the natural gas orifices with the propane ones. These have smaller holes that control the stronger flow of propane gas. Next, locate the regulator on the stove and switch it to the propane setting, following the instructions in your manual.
After that, reconnect the stove and check all fittings for leaks using soapy water. If bubbles form, tighten the connections until no leaks appear. Finally, light each burner to make sure the flames are steady and blue.
If anything seems off or you’re unsure about handling gas lines, call a licensed technician to do the job safely. Converting a stove is simple with the right parts and care, but safety should always come first.
Introduction
Did you know propane burns almost twice as hot as natural gas? That’s one big reason people switch! If you’ve moved to an area without natural gas lines or want a more portable fuel source, converting your stove might sound like a good idea. But here’s the catch, it’s not just about swapping out the gas. You’ll need the right tools, safety gear, and a conversion kit made for your stove model.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step of the conversion process, explain why safety comes first, and share some tips I’ve picked up while helping others do this same job. By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to do and what mistakes to avoid before firing up your first propane-powered meal!
Understand the Difference Between Natural Gas and Propane
Most people think natural gas and propane are basically the same thing. They both power stoves, right? But the truth is, they work very differently, especially when it comes to how much heat they produce and how they’re stored. Natural gas comes straight from a pipeline that’s connected to your home. Propane, on the other hand, is stored in a pressurized tank and delivered as a liquid. That’s why you often see big propane tanks outside homes in rural areas or campers carrying small ones for cooking.
The biggest difference between the two is pressure. Propane burns hotter and stronger than natural gas, which means it needs smaller openings (called orifices) for the gas to flow through. If you use a natural gas stove with propane without changing those parts, the flame will be way too high, and that’s dangerous. It could damage your stove or even cause a fire. That’s why every conversion requires switching out those tiny orifices and adjusting the regulator so the pressure matches propane’s strength.
Propane also has more energy in it. To give you an idea, one cubic foot of propane has about twice the energy of natural gas. This is great for cooking because your food heats up faster, but it also means mistakes can be costly. Even a small leak with propane can build up quickly since propane is heavier than air and sinks to the floor. That’s one reason you always test for leaks after doing any kind of conversion.
Another big thing to know is how these fuels reach your home. Natural gas comes through underground pipes and is always available if you’re connected to a utility line. Propane is stored in a refillable tank that you either own or rent. Some people like propane because it gives them more control. You can use it anywhere, even off-grid. But it also means you have to watch your fuel levels and get regular refills.
When you understand these differences, it’s easier to see why you can’t just hook up a propane tank to your natural gas stove and call it done. The two fuels need different equipment to work safely. The stove’s burners, regulator, and connections all have to match the pressure and energy level of propane. Once you get that part right, the rest of the process makes a lot more sense.
So before you even touch your stove, take a few minutes to really understand what’s changing. Natural gas and propane both cook your food beautifully, but they speak different “languages.” And once you learn how to translate between them safely, you’ll be ready for the next step: checking if your stove can actually make the switch.
Check If Your Stove Can Be Converted
Before grabbing tools or buying a propane tank, the first thing you need to find out is whether your stove can even be converted. Not all stoves are made to handle both types of gas. Some are designed only for natural gas, while others come ready to switch between natural gas and propane with the right kit. The best place to start is by checking your stove’s manual or looking for a small label, usually found behind the oven door, inside the drawer, or on the back of the appliance. If you see something like “convertible to LP” or “LP kit included,” that’s a good sign it means your stove is designed to handle propane with a few changes.
If you can’t find the label, don’t worry. Most manufacturers list this information online. You can search for your stove model number (which is usually printed on the same sticker as the serial number) along with the words “LP conversion kit.” If it shows up on the manufacturer’s website, you’re in luck. That means a conversion kit exists specifically for your model, and you’ll be able to make the switch safely. But if no kit is listed, it’s better not to try a DIY fix. Using random parts or “universal” kits can be risky because gas systems are designed to fit exact pressure ratings and connections.
Some brands, like GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, and Frigidaire, make the process fairly easy by selling conversion kits that match their stoves perfectly. These kits usually include new orifices, a pressure regulator, and instructions that show exactly where each piece goes. The tricky part is that even within the same brand, not all models work the same way. That’s why matching your kit to your specific model number is so important. A wrong part can cause uneven flames or leaks, which is the last thing you want when dealing with gas.
If your stove turns out not to be convertible, don’t try to force it. Converting a non-compatible stove can cause serious damage and void your warranty. In that case, it’s safer to sell or trade in your current stove and buy one that’s “dual fuel” or listed as convertible between natural gas and propane. While it might cost a little more upfront, it’ll save you from expensive repairs or safety issues down the road.
I once helped a friend who didn’t check before starting his conversion. He assumed all stoves were the same and tried using a generic LP kit. The result? The burners hissed and the flame turned yellow, which is a big red flag that something’s wrong with the pressure. He had to call a technician to fix it and it cost more than the right kit would’ve in the first place. So trust me, a quick check now will save you a lot of frustration later.
Once you’re sure your stove is compatible and you have the correct conversion kit for your brand and model, you’re ready to move on. Next comes the fun part gathering your tools and preparing everything you’ll need to safely make the switch to propane.
Gather the Right Tools and Propane Conversion Kit
Now that you know your stove can be converted, it’s time to gather the tools and parts you’ll need. Don’t skip this step it’s what makes the actual conversion go smoothly without back-and-forth trips to the hardware store. You don’t need fancy equipment, but you do need the right basics to make sure everything fits tightly and safely.
Start with your propane conversion kit. This is the heart of the project. Each stove brand makes its own version, and they’re usually not interchangeable. For example, a GE kit won’t fit a Whirlpool stove, even if they look similar. Inside the kit, you’ll find small brass orifices (sometimes called jets), a new pressure regulator or a setting screw for the old one, and instructions from the manufacturer. These orifices are tiny but crucial they control how much gas flows through the burners. Propane burns hotter than natural gas, so these holes are smaller to handle the higher pressure.
Next, you’ll want a few common tools: a set of screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench or two, pipe thread sealant made for gas connections, a leak detection solution or soapy water mix, and a flashlight. Some people also like using a small manometer to measure gas pressure. You don’t absolutely need one for a basic conversion, but it’s handy if you want to double-check your work before lighting the burners.
Before starting, make sure your work area is clear and well-lit. Move the stove gently away from the wall so you can access the gas connection. It’s also smart to keep the instruction manual nearby or open on your phone. Every stove has a slightly different setup, especially around the regulator, and you’ll want to make sure you’re switching the right parts.
When it comes to buying your kit, always stick to genuine parts from your stove’s brand. It’s tempting to go with cheaper, off-brand kits online, but many of those don’t fit perfectly, and small leaks or loose fittings can lead to big problems later. I once helped someone who used a no-name conversion kit for their Samsung stove. Everything seemed fine at first, but a few days later, they noticed a faint gas smell. Turns out the orifices weren’t the right size, and propane was escaping through one of the connections. They ended up replacing the whole kit with an original one anyway so it’s just not worth the risk.
Finally, grab some safety gear before you start. That means gloves, safety glasses, and good ventilation in your kitchen. Gas work isn’t complicated, but it does require steady hands and patience. Having everything ready before you turn off the gas line will help you stay focused and calm through the whole process.
Once you’ve got all your tools and your proper LP conversion kit in hand, you’re ready for the real work disconnecting the stove and starting the actual conversion.
Turn Off Gas and Disconnect the Stove
Before touching a single screw, make sure the gas is completely off. This is the most important safety step in the entire process. You’re dealing with flammable gas, and even a small leak can cause a fire or explosion if you’re not careful. Find the shutoff valve behind your stove it’s usually located on the gas line close to where it connects to the wall. Turn the valve until it’s perpendicular to the pipe. When it’s turned sideways, the gas is off. Don’t rush this step. Double-check that the stove knobs are in the “off” position too, just to be safe.
Once the gas is off, unplug your stove from the wall. A lot of people forget this part, but most modern stoves have electric ignition systems or digital displays, which means there’s still power running through them. Unplugging it makes sure there’s no chance of a spark while you’re disconnecting the gas line. If your stove is hardwired into the wall instead of plugged in, flip the breaker for that outlet before continuing.
Now, move your stove slowly away from the wall so you can reach the gas connection. Be gentle it’s easy to kink or damage the gas hose if you pull too hard. Use your adjustable wrench to carefully loosen the fitting where the hose connects to the stove. You might hear a tiny hiss when it first loosens, but that should stop right away. If the hissing continues, stop immediately, open windows, and back away. That means the gas wasn’t fully shut off. It’s better to pause and check than risk a leak.
When the hose is free, take a moment to ventilate the area. Open a window or turn on a fan to make sure any leftover gas in the line clears out. You can even mix a bit of soapy water and brush it over the connection to confirm there’s no gas escaping no bubbles means you’re safe. Keep that soap mixture handy, because you’ll need it later when checking for leaks again.
Once everything is disconnected and safe, you can remove the back panel of the stove if needed. This gives you access to the burner orifices and regulator. Keep screws organized in a small bowl or cup so you don’t lose them during the process. It’s one of those simple steps that makes everything easier later on.
I still remember the first time I helped a neighbor disconnect their gas stove for a propane conversion. We thought we’d turned everything off, but when we loosened the hose, there was still a faint gas smell. Turns out their shutoff valve was jammed halfway. It was a scary reminder that safety steps aren’t suggestions they’re must-dos. We ended up calling a technician to replace that valve before touching anything else.
By now, your stove should be completely free from the natural gas line, unplugged, and ready for conversion. The workspace should smell clean no hint of gas. If it does, stop and double-check every connection. Once you’re sure everything is secure, it’s time for the next big step: installing your propane conversion kit.
Install the Propane Conversion Kit
This is the part where things start to get hands-on. Installing the propane conversion kit is what actually changes your stove from running on natural gas to propane. It might sound a little intimidating, but as long as you take your time and follow the instructions carefully, it’s a manageable job for most people. The key is to go step by step and not rush anything.
Start by finding your stove’s burner orifices. These are small, round metal fittings under the burners that control how much gas comes out. Each burner has one, and your conversion kit will include new ones made specifically for propane. Propane burns hotter and under higher pressure, so these orifices have smaller holes to keep the flame the right size. Using your wrench, gently remove the old natural gas orifices and replace them with the new ones from the kit. Make sure you tighten them snugly but don’t overdo it these pieces are small and can strip easily if you apply too much force.
Next comes the pressure regulator. This piece controls how much gas flows into your stove. Most stoves have a built-in regulator that can be adjusted between natural gas (NG) and liquid propane (LP).
You’ll usually find a small cap or screw marked “NG” or “LP.” To switch it, remove the cap, flip it over to the “LP” side, and screw it back in. Some models may have a lever or knob instead of a cap check your manual to be sure. If your kit includes a new regulator, replace the old one by disconnecting it from the gas line and attaching the new one with pipe thread sealant to ensure a tight seal.
After that, adjust the oven burner and broiler if your stove has them. The conversion kit might include a small tool or instructions for changing these parts too. Just like the stovetop burners, the oven orifices and air shutters might need minor tweaks to handle propane’s higher energy. When you’re done, double-check that every fitting is secure and that all parts are reattached in the right places.
Once everything’s in place, reconnect the gas line. Make sure the connection is tight, but don’t use excessive force hand-tightened first, then a small turn with the wrench is usually enough. Apply a thin layer of pipe sealant made for gas lines around the threads before tightening. Never use plumber’s tape unless it’s rated for gas; the wrong kind can break down and cause leaks.
Before you move the stove back into place, do a quick inspection. Make sure no wires are pinched, all parts are reassembled, and the regulator is clearly set to “LP.” If anything feels loose or uncertain, stop and recheck the instructions. Propane burns hotter than natural gas, so even a small mistake can lead to uneven flames or pressure problems later on.
I remember when I converted my first stove years ago I thought I had everything right, but one burner kept making a sputtering noise. I took it apart again and found that one of the new orifices wasn’t tightened enough. A tiny adjustment made all the difference, and after that, the flame was perfect. It taught me that patience matters more than speed with gas work.
When you’re confident that everything’s installed and connected properly, leave the stove pulled out from the wall for now. The next step is to test the connections and make sure everything’s leak-free before lighting it up. Testing is what keeps your kitchen (and your nerves) safe.
Test for Leaks and Proper Flame Color
This is the step where you find out if everything you’ve done so far is safe and working right. Never skip it. Testing for leaks and checking the flame color is what confirms your stove is truly ready for propane. It’s not complicated, but it does take patience and attention to detail.
First, make sure your work area is still clear and well-ventilated. Open a window or two just in case. Now slowly turn the gas shutoff valve back on. You might hear a faint hiss for a second while the line fills with propane that’s normal. What’s not normal is a continuous hissing sound or a gas smell. If you notice either one, shut the valve off immediately. That’s a sign there’s a leak somewhere that needs fixing before you go any further.
Next, grab your leak detection solution or the simple homemade version just a little dish soap mixed with water in a spray bottle. Spray the soapy water around every gas connection you touched: the hose fittings, the regulator, and the orifices if they’re visible. Watch closely for bubbles. If you see any forming, that’s propane escaping through a leak. Turn off the gas again, tighten that fitting, and test it once more. No bubbles mean you’re good to go.
Once you’re sure there are no leaks, it’s time for the fun part lighting the burners. Turn one knob slowly until you hear the click of the igniter. You should see a clean, steady blue flame appear. Blue is what you want. It means the air-to-gas ratio is balanced and the pressure is right. If the flame is mostly yellow or orange, that’s a problem. It usually means there’s too much gas or not enough air, and you’ll need to adjust the air shutter under the burner or recheck your regulator setting.
Sometimes the flame might flicker or look uneven at first. Don’t panic it can take a few seconds for the gas flow to stabilize after the first light-up. If it doesn’t even out after a minute, turn it off and inspect that burner again. A dirty or misaligned orifice could cause it. Propane flames should be tight and quiet, not tall and noisy. If it’s roaring or lifting off the burner, that’s another sign of too much pressure.
Repeat this process for every burner and for the oven if you have one. For the oven, you’ll want to look through the window or open the door slightly (just enough to peek safely) and check that the flame is also blue and even. Any yellow tips mean something still needs fine-tuning.
I remember the first time I lit my stove after converting it. I was nervous. The flames shot up higher than I expected for a second, and I nearly jumped back. Turns out one orifice wasn’t fully tightened. A quick fix, and the next try was perfect calm, blue, and steady. That moment taught me why testing matters more than anything else. It’s your chance to catch small mistakes before they turn into real problems.
Once you’re satisfied that the flames look right and there are no leaks, turn everything off and let the stove cool for a few minutes. You’ve just finished the most technical part of the job. From here, it’s about safety checks and getting professional confirmation that your setup meets all the right standards.
Call a Professional for Inspection
Even if everything looks perfect, this is the step that gives you true peace of mind. Calling a professional to inspect your propane conversion isn’t just about following the rules it’s about making sure your stove is safe and efficient for long-term use. Propane burns hotter than natural gas, and even the smallest adjustment error can lead to uneven heating, leaks, or pressure problems. A licensed technician has the right tools to test the pressure, check for leaks you can’t see, and verify that everything meets local safety codes.
When you schedule your inspection, tell the technician you recently converted a natural gas stove to propane. They’ll usually start by checking the regulator to make sure it’s properly switched to the “LP” setting. Then they’ll test the gas pressure with a manometer, which measures how much pressure is running through the line. Propane pressure should be around 10 to 11 inches of water column, while natural gas runs at about 4 to 6. That’s a big difference, and getting it wrong can make the flames too high or too weak.
The technician will also test every connection for leaks using professional-grade detectors, which are more sensitive than the soap-and-water test you did earlier. They’ll likely check each burner to confirm the flame shape and color. You might think it’s overkill, but they can spot things that are easy to miss like a slightly misaligned orifice or a regulator spring that isn’t calibrated just right. Catching those tiny issues now can prevent future gas buildup or uneven cooking.
Some areas actually require an inspection after a gas conversion. Local safety codes often state that any modification to a gas appliance has to be verified by a certified gas fitter or plumber. If you skip this and something goes wrong later, it can void your warranty or even your homeowner’s insurance. So even if your stove seems fine, it’s smart to have official documentation that the conversion was done properly.
I’ve seen what happens when people skip this step. A neighbor of mine once converted his stove himself and didn’t get it checked. It worked fine for a few months, but one winter day, the flames started flickering yellow and making a popping sound. Turned out the regulator was over-pressurizing the burners. It wasn’t a full-blown emergency, but it could’ve been if left unchecked. After a technician came and adjusted everything, the stove ran better and used less propane too.
The inspection doesn’t take long maybe an hour or two and the cost is small compared to what you’d pay for a repair or replacement later. Once it’s done, the technician can also give you some maintenance tips, like how often to test your lines, when to replace hoses, and what signs to watch for if pressure starts to drift. It’s one of those cases where a little professional help adds years to the life of your stove and keeps your kitchen safe.
When your technician gives the all-clear, you can finally relax. You’ve done the hardest part converting your stove safely and making sure it’s up to standard. Now, all that’s left is learning how to take care of it so it stays in perfect shape for years to come.
Maintenance and Safety Tips After Conversion
Once your stove has been officially checked and cleared for use, the job isn’t quite over. Keeping it running safely and efficiently takes a bit of care. Propane stoves can last for decades if you maintain them right, but ignoring small things can cause problems later. The good news is, most of the maintenance is simple and doesn’t take much time.
Start with regular cleaning. After every few uses, take a few minutes to wipe down the burners and remove any food crumbs or grease buildup. Propane flames burn hotter, which means spills and residue can bake onto the surface faster. Once a month, remove the burner caps and clean around the orifices with a small brush or even a toothpick to clear out any clogs. Don’t use anything sharp that could widen the holes. Clean burners mean steady blue flames and better heat control.
Next, make it a habit to check your flame color once in a while. The flame should always be mostly blue with a small, steady shape. If it turns yellow or orange, that’s a warning sign. It could mean the air shutter needs adjusting, the burner is dirty, or there’s a gas pressure issue. Turn off the stove and inspect things before continuing to cook. Small problems caught early are easy to fix; ignored ones can become dangerous fast.
One of the biggest safety tips is to install a carbon monoxide detector in your kitchen or near the stove. Propane burns clean when everything’s working properly, but incomplete combustion can still produce carbon monoxide a colorless, odorless gas that can make you sick. Detectors are inexpensive, easy to install, and could literally save your life. Test it once a month and replace the batteries regularly.
You should also inspect your gas hose and connections a few times a year. Look for cracks, fraying, or corrosion on the fittings. If anything looks off, replace it before it fails. Propane leaks are heavier than air, so they settle low to the ground. If you ever smell gas near the floor or in your kitchen, shut everything off immediately, open windows, and don’t use any electrical switches until you know it’s safe. Then call your gas supplier or a licensed technician for help.
If your stove uses an external propane tank, remember to store it safely. Tanks should always be upright, outside, and in a well-ventilated area. Never keep them indoors, even in a garage. Propane expands with heat, so leaving a tank in a closed, hot space can be dangerous. When it’s time to refill, check the valve for rust or wear, and have it inspected if it’s been more than a few years since the last check. Most suppliers can do this for you during a refill visit.
It’s also smart to schedule an annual maintenance check. A technician can test the regulator pressure, clean the internal components, and make sure everything’s still in balance. Propane burns hotter than natural gas, and over time, that heat can slightly affect the settings. Keeping things tuned up ensures your stove runs efficiently and saves fuel too.
I learned the hard way what happens when you skip maintenance. A few years ago, I noticed my propane burners weren’t as strong as they used to be. I ignored it for a while, thinking it was just the cold weather. Turns out the regulator was clogged with dust, and it was choking the gas flow. A quick professional cleaning fixed it right away but I could’ve avoided weeks of uneven cooking if I’d just kept up with simple checks.
Lastly, always keep safety first. Teach everyone in your home how to turn off the gas valve in case of an emergency. Keep flammable items like towels, curtains, and paper away from the stove area. And if you ever smell gas or notice strange sounds when the burners are off, take it seriously. It’s always better to stop cooking for a bit than to risk an accident.
Keeping your propane stove clean, safe, and regularly checked isn’t just about avoiding problems it’s about peace of mind. You’ll cook better, save gas, and know your kitchen is safe every time you turn that knob.
Conclusion
Converting a natural gas stove to propane might sound like a big job, but when you take it one careful step at a time, it’s completely doable. You’ve learned that the difference between the two gases isn’t just about where they come from it’s about how they burn, how much pressure they need, and the equipment that controls that flow. Once you understand that, the rest is just about following the right process.
If you’ve made it this far, give yourself some credit. You’ve learned how to check if your stove is compatible, how to gather the right tools, how to safely shut off and disconnect the gas, and how to install and test your conversion kit. You even went the extra mile by having a professional inspect everything a step most people skip but shouldn’t. That’s what separates a safe DIY project from a risky one.
Now, your stove is ready to run on propane, and you can cook anywhere even if you’re off the grid or living in a spot where natural gas lines don’t reach. Propane is efficient, burns hotter, and gives you the flexibility to keep your kitchen running during power outages or in remote areas. Just remember, this new setup comes with responsibility. Keep an eye on your flames, test for leaks occasionally, and don’t forget your yearly maintenance checks. Small habits keep your home safe and your stove working perfectly.
I still remember how proud I felt the first time I finished a conversion like this on my own. The first meal cooked on that new propane flame tasted even better because I’d done the work myself and done it right. You’ll probably feel the same way. It’s more than just swapping fuels it’s learning how to take care of something important in your home.
So, here’s my advice: take what you’ve learned, stay patient, and always put safety first. If a friend or neighbor ever talks about switching from natural gas to propane, share what you know. You could save them from making the same rookie mistakes we all make the first time around.
Ready to light that first blue propane flame? Go for it, just remember to double-check those connections and keep that soapy water nearby. Once you see that steady glow, you’ll know you did everything right. Safe cooking, my friend.