Find The Best Gas Regulator for Your LPG Bottles Guide
The right gas regulator depends on what you are connecting it to: the gas bottle, the appliance, the pressure required and whether the setup is for a BBQ, home, static caravan, motorhome, catering appliance or twin-cylinder LPG system. If you are not sure, the easiest first step is to use our Regulator Finder Tool, which helps point you towards the correct regulator in around 30 seconds.
At GasRegulators.co.uk, we supply LPG gas regulators, hoses and fittings for domestic homes, static caravans, motorhomes, touring caravans, BBQs, catering, camping and many other low-pressure LPG applications. This guide explains the main regulator types, when to use them and which product is best for the job.
Use Our Gas Regulator Finder First
Answer a few simple questions about your gas bottle, appliance and setup. No technical knowledge needed. This is the fastest way to avoid ordering the wrong regulator.
Find the Right Regulator →In this article
- What does a gas regulator do?
- Do I need a propane or butane regulator?
- What is the best gas regulator for each use?
- Gas regulator comparison table
- What is an OPSO gas regulator?
- When should I use an automatic changeover regulator?
- What should I check before buying?
- Frequently asked questions
What does a gas regulator do?
A gas regulator controls the pressure coming from an LPG bottle before the gas reaches your appliance. Gas inside the cylinder is stored at a higher pressure than most appliances can safely use. The regulator reduces this pressure to the correct level so the appliance can run safely and consistently.
Choosing the wrong regulator can cause poor performance, failed ignition, low flame, excessive pressure or an unsafe connection. The correct regulator must match the gas type, bottle connection, outlet pressure and appliance demand.
Do I need a propane or butane regulator?
The first thing to check is whether your gas bottle is propane or butane.
Propane regulators are commonly used for homes, static caravans, park homes, commercial LPG, outdoor LPG installations and larger appliances. Many UK low-pressure propane systems use a 37mbar regulator.
Butane regulators are commonly used with blue butane cylinders for BBQs, camping stoves, patio heaters and smaller low-pressure appliances. Many blue butane cylinders use a 21mm clip-on regulator, but you should always check the cylinder valve and appliance instructions before buying.
A complete 21mm butane regulator kit with hose and clips. Ideal for many blue butane cylinders, BBQs, patio heaters and low-pressure appliances.
What is the best gas regulator for each use?
Best gas regulator for BBQs and portable appliances
For many BBQs, patio heaters and camping appliances using blue butane cylinders, a 21mm clip-on butane regulator kit is the simplest choice. It connects directly to compatible cylinders and is often supplied with hose and clips, which saves time when replacing an old or worn setup.
Best gas regulator for domestic homes and static caravans
For domestic LPG homes, static caravans and park homes, propane is a common choice. These installations often require a 37mbar propane regulator, and many fixed LPG systems use OPSO protection for added safety.
A propane regulator kit for suitable LPG installations where OPSO protection, POL pigtail connection and dependable pressure control are required.
Best gas regulator for motorhomes and touring caravans
Motorhomes and touring caravans can vary depending on the age of the installation, appliance type, gas bottle and country of use. Some setups use propane, some use butane, and some may need specific caravan pigtails or adapters. Always check the existing regulator, appliance data plate and bottle connection before ordering.
Best gas regulator for twin-cylinder LPG supply
If you run a home, static caravan, park home or off-grid property from LPG bottles, a twin-cylinder automatic changeover regulator can make life easier. It allows one cylinder to supply gas while the second acts as a reserve, helping reduce the risk of unexpectedly running out.
A twin-cylinder automatic changeover kit with OPSO protection, pigtails and fittings for suitable LPG installations.
Gas regulator comparison table
| Use case | Likely regulator type | Best for | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBQ, camping, patio heater | 21mm butane regulator kit | Blue butane bottles and portable low-pressure appliances | View kit |
| Domestic home or static caravan | Propane OPSO regulator | Fixed LPG propane installations | View OPSO kit |
| Twin LPG bottles | Automatic changeover regulator | Homes, static caravans and continuous gas supply setups | View changeover kit |
| Not sure | Use the Regulator Finder | Anyone unsure about bottle type, gas type, pressure or fitting | Start finder |
Still comparing options?
If you are unsure whether your appliance needs propane, butane, OPSO, 21mm clip-on, POL or automatic changeover, use the finder before buying. It is designed to help customers avoid the most common ordering mistakes.
Open Regulator Finder →What is an OPSO gas regulator?
OPSO means Over Pressure Shut Off. It is a safety feature that shuts off the gas supply if the outlet pressure rises above a set level. OPSO regulators are commonly used in fixed LPG installations where extra protection is required.
If your current installation uses an OPSO regulator, replacement parts should match the correct gas type, pressure, connection and capacity. Do not downgrade safety-critical LPG equipment without suitable advice.
When should I use an automatic changeover regulator?
You should consider an automatic changeover regulator when you use two LPG bottles and want a more reliable gas supply. The regulator draws from one cylinder first, then changes over to the reserve cylinder when the first is empty.
This is useful for homes, static caravans, park homes, off-grid living, heating, cooking and hot water systems where suddenly running out of gas can be a major inconvenience.
What should I check before buying a gas regulator?
Before buying, check these details:
- Gas type: propane, butane or LPG mix.
- Bottle connection: POL, 21mm clip-on, F-Valve, Campingaz or another fitting.
- Outlet pressure: this must match the appliance or installation.
- Capacity: the regulator must supply enough gas for the connected appliance.
- Hose and clips: check condition, type, length and expiry markings.
- Installation type: portable appliance, BBQ, motorhome, static caravan, home or commercial setup.
For fixed domestic, caravan or commercial LPG installations, use a competent LPG engineer where required. You can also read official LPG gas safety information from the HSE at hse.gov.uk/gas/lpg and check registered engineers at gassaferegister.co.uk.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which gas regulator I need?
Check your gas type, bottle valve, appliance pressure and installation type. If you are unsure, use the GasRegulators.co.uk Regulator Finder before buying.
Can I use a butane regulator on a propane bottle?
No. Butane and propane bottles often use different fittings and may require different regulator types. Always match the regulator to the gas bottle and appliance.
What gas regulator do I need for a BBQ?
Many BBQs using blue butane bottles need a 21mm clip-on butane regulator. Some BBQs use propane instead, so check the appliance and gas bottle connection first.
What regulator do I need for a static caravan?
Many static caravans use propane LPG and may require a 37mbar regulator with OPSO protection. Because static caravans are fixed LPG installations, the regulator should match the existing specification.
Is an automatic changeover regulator worth it?
Yes, if you rely on two LPG bottles for heating, cooking or hot water. It helps maintain supply by switching to the reserve cylinder when the first runs empty.
Find the Right Gas Regulator in 30 Seconds
Answer a few simple questions and we will help guide you towards the right regulator for your bottle, appliance and setup.
Use the Regulator Finder →No technical knowledge needed. Ideal for BBQs, homes, static caravans, motorhomes, LPG bottles and more.
Ready to shop? Browse our full range of gas regulators, domestic and static caravan regulators, automatic changeover regulators, BBQ and camping regulators, and gas hose and clips.
