Top 9 Best RV Propane Regulators On The Market In 2023 Reviews

As we’re sure you’ll agree, RVs are awesome. They help you keep comfortable while away from home, which makes them so much better than camping.

But do you know just how important your RV’s propane regulator is?

This device ensures your appliances work at their optimal level by regulating the amount of gas delivered. That means you’ll need to rely on the regulator for your stove, furnace, water heater, oven, and any other propane-powered appliances.

However, when it comes to buying a new one, there are seemingly countless options available. So, how do you decide on which of the best RV propane regulators will best suit your specific needs?

We’ll we decided to review the top 9 propane regulators for your RV currently on the market as well as including a useful buying guide.

So, let’s go through them and find the best propane regulator for your RV…

Top 9 Best RV Propane Regulators To Purchase In 2023 Review

1 Camco 59333 Horizontal Two Stage Propane Regulator with POL – Best Budget RV Propane Regulator

If you’ve done any kind of work on your RV in the past, then you have likely already heard of Camco. They make a wide selection of high-quality parts, including their model #59333. This is a horizontal two-stage propane regulator, and it’s one of the best for a few reasons.

Are you looking for an easy to install regulator?

If so, then look no further than the 59333 from Camco. This regulator features a female POL inlet tank connection, which we highly appreciate. This makes it considerably easier to hook up, as well as disconnect.

The outlet is a 3/8” female NPT, and has a pressure of 11” WC. This makes it able to provide up to 160,000 BTU per hour. So, you shouldn’t have any issues running most RV appliances off of this unit.

Practical and versatile…

This unit is also available without the POL tank connection or in a vertical mounting option. These additional choices make it one of the most versatile propane regulators for your RV.

The two-stage system also works to ensure a smooth and consistent gas flow. No matter what you’re running, you’ll be good to go. Plus, this setup is designed to work with other Camco products. We’d advise the #59843 20” Pigtail Propane Hose for an easy connection. You’ll have no problem hooking up 20 or 30 round LP tanks with ACME threads.

But quality does come at a cost…

Unfortunately, the cost of this device is too low for long-lasting quality. We haven’t seen the issue ourselves, but we have heard complaints. It seems that this regulator is prone to leaks over time.

Considering the low cost, it’s not overly surprising, but it is a letdown.

Specifications

• Inlet: POL tank connection
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 160,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.2 / 5)

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2 Flame King KT12ACR6 2-Stage Auto Changeover LP Propane Gas Regulator With Two 12 Inch Pigtails – Best Low Cost RV Propane Regulator

One of the best propane regulators for trailers, vans, and RVs is made by Flame King. Their 2-Stage Auto Changeover LP Propane Regulator is sold under model #KT12ACR6. And we think you’ll like it for quite a few reasons.

Do you have a double tank propane system in your RV?

Easily the best feature on this item is the auto-changeover design. This allows you to hook up two different propane tanks at the same time. When one empties out, the system automatically switches to the second tank.

It even works in the other direction. That means you’ll never be without propane. At least, not as long as you can remember to fill the first before the second empties.

Just how good is your memory?

Actually, it won’t matter too much due to the empty/full indicator. This changes color once the tank is depleted, which means you’ll always have a reminder of which tank needs to be filled.

We also like that you can remove the empty cylinder without needing to turn off the gas supply. This means you’ll have an uninterrupted gas flow for your RV appliances.

But will it fit your application?

This setup features a 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlet and a 3/8″ NPT female outlet. This makes hooking it up straightforward enough for any DIYer.

Plus, the system comes with two pigtail hoses measuring 12 inches each. These allow you to quickly connect a propane tank without worrying about connections.

A superb all-rounder…

Overall we found this unit to provide a consistent gas pressure even under changing demands. It’s rated for 190,000 BTU per hour, making it ideal for most RVs.

However, we have heard numerous complaints of the unit developing cracks, and thus, leaks. Considering the price, it’s not completely shocking, and we’d still consider this one of the best propane regulators for RV for those on a tight budget.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ SAE inverted flare
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 190,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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3 Marshall Excelsior MEGR-253 Reg 2-Stage Auto Vert Bulk – Most Durable RV Propane Regulator

Marshall Excelsior makes an entry on our list with their 2-Stage Auto Vert Regulator. Sold as model #MEGR-253, this regulator is built tougher than some other options on our list.

How often do you change your regulator?

Some regulators in our review are budget friendly in the short term. However, these units tend to have a rather short life span due to poor quality control during production. With this option, that’s far less of a concern.

While this unit certainly costs a bit more than the options we’ve already reviewed, it is also backed by a solid warranty. In fact, you get a 5-Year Limited Warranty with the purchase of this propane regulator.

So, what about the details?

Like the Flame King regulator we’ve just reviewed, this is an automatic changeover regulator. That means it will automatically switch from one tank to another when the first goes empty.

However, unlike the Flame King, this does not come with the necessary hoses required to attach the tanks. You’ll have to purchase these separately if you don’t already have them from an older unit.

The inlet connections for this unit are 1/4″ female inverted flare, and a 3/8″ NPT female makes up the outlet. There is also an easy to read indicator in green to mark when the tank is full. It turns red when it’s ready to be refilled.

Are there any known issues?

Unlike some cheaper options, this one is not known to fail nearly as often. Instead, the only real issue here is making sure your purchase falls under the warranty. We advise you to make sure that your distributor honors the warranty or go to the manufacturer directly.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ Female inverted flare
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 225,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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4 Camco 59005 Propane Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator – Best Heavy Use RV Propane Regulator

Another option from Camco is their model #59005, which is a Double-Stage Auto-Changeover Regulator. This unit might be a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it if you need the extra BTUs.

What are your propane system requirements?

This setup allows for 210,000 BTUs per hour capacity on the primary tank. The secondary tank, on the other hand, is limited to only 130,000 BTU/hr. This provides you with an increased running time.

We like this as it means we can stay away from civilization for longer. Plus, the automatic changeover means you won’t have to swap tanks when one runs empty. The system will make the change automatically, leaving you to enjoy your time away from it all.

Do you have supply issues?

If you’re currently experiencing a drop in propane supply on your stove whenever the heater switches on, then yes, you do. This will be cured by the double stage design of the 59005 from Camco.

This design provides constant gas pressure even when the demand and conditions change. This makes it one of the best propane regulators for heavy use.

Again, there is a 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlet and a 3/8″ NPT female outlet. So, once again, this is a unit that can be installed by anyone with moderate DIY capabilities.

What about issues?

Yes, unfortunately, even at this price point, Camco seems to have issues providing a reliable product. There are numerous reports of the unit failing within a few months of purchase.

It seems to be an issue with production quality. You know, a ‘made in wherever?’ kind of problem. If you get a good one, you’ve got nothing to worry about, but there’s a chance you may end up speaking with customer service…

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ SAE inverted flare
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 210,000 BTU/hr (primary tank only)

Our rating: (4.3 / 5)

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5 Heater Propane Two Stage Horizontal Regulator with P.O.L – Most Reliable RV Propane Regulator

The Mr. Heater brand is one of the many trading divisions of Enerco. They have been producing forced air propane units since 1984. We think their Two Stage Horizontal Regulator is one of the most reliable propane regulators currently on the market.

Dependability is key when it comes to propane regulators…

If you can’t already tell, we think it’s worth spending a few extra bucks to acquire a more reliable product. While this may mean a higher upfront cost, you’re most likely going to save money in the long run, as well as an increased level of long-term safety.

After all, regular replacements add up quickly. Not only in terms of replacing the unit, but in sorting a new one, and re-installing.

But with Mr. Heater, you get the industry standard for dependability…

You also get a two-stage regulator design that will provide a smooth and steady flow of propane. You also get unmatched quality and some very good customer service.

There’s also a built-in excess flow safety feature. This works in conjunction with the POL low-pressure output. It’s built for both indoor and outdoor appliances as well, which makes it incredibly versatile.

Simple installation…

The unit is supplied with a 1/4″ female pipe inlet and a 3/8″ female pipe outlet. Both of which are threaded, of course, for easy installation.

Specifications

• Inlet: POL tank connection
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 160,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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6 Marshall Excelsior MEGR-253H 2-Stage Auto Vert Bulk Regulator – Best High Capacity RV Propane Regulator

Marshall Excelsior makes another entry on our review of the Best RV Propane Regulators with a second 2-Stage Auto Vert Regulator. Sold as model #MEGR-253H, this regulator is almost exactly the same as the MEGR-253 we’ve already reviewed.

How often do you change your regulator?

Some regulators on our list are budget friendly in the short term. However, these units tend to have a rather short life span due to poor quality control during production. With this option, that’s far less of a concern.

While this unit does certainly costs a bit more than the budget options we’ve reviewed, it is also backed by a solid warranty. In fact, you get a 5-Year Limited Warranty with the purchase of this propane regulator.

So, what about the details?

Like a number of regulators we’ve reviewed, this features an automatic changeover design and will automatically switch from one tank to another when the first goes empty.

However, it doesn’t come with the necessary hoses needed to attach the tanks. You’ll need to purchase them separately if you don’t already have them from another install.

The inlet connections are 1/4″ female inverted flare, with a 3/8″ NPT female making up the outlet. There is also an easy to read green indicator to mark when the tank is full that turns red when it’s time for a refill.

Wait, so what’s the difference?

This unit is built to handle a considerably higher propane flow. The primary can hit as high as 350,000 BTU per hour, while the reserve tank is limited to 150,000 BTU/hr.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ Female inverted flare
• Outlet: 3/8″ Female NPT
• Max Flow: 350,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.5 / 5)

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7 JR Products 07-30325 High Pressure Regulator – Best Budget High Capacity RV Propane Regulator

The next option on our list is a little bit different. It’s produced by JR Products and sold as model #07-30325, which is a High Pressure Regulator. We think it’s a great piece of equipment for some RVs.

Not everyone will need one, but some certainly will…

This unit is not like those above, by which we mean it’s actually a giant version of them. It’s big and red and can handle way more than most regulators.

This little engineered marvel has been designed to work where PSIG is needed instead of W.C. Or, if you prefer, the JR 07-30325 is built for those applications with a long separation between your primary propane tank and your appliances.

Also known as Large RVs…

This is most apparent when you note two sets of numbers. There first is the outlet size. The second is the regulators’ capacity. This unit features a 1/4” FPT inlet and outlet. There is no need for a larger outlet with this unit.

And when it comes to capacity, this is the big daddy on our list. It’s capable of supporting up to 500,000 BTUs per hour. We think this makes it one of the best heavy duty propane regulators you can buy.

Are you looking for a replacement part?

The best thing about this option is its specs. It’s an exact replacement for a factory supplied propane regulator. This makes it one of the best propane regulators for large RVs.

However, this unit isn’t any better at leaks than you’d expect for the price. Therefore, we don’t expect it to be doing its high capacity magic for a large number of years.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ FPT
• Outlet: 1/4″ FPT
• Max Flow: 500,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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8 Marshall Excelsior MEGR-230 Low Pressure Regulator Bulk – Best Low Pressure RV Propane Regulator

Just for fun, this next option takes things in completely the opposite direction. We’re just making sure we have all needs covered on our list, and Marshall Excelsior fills a niche perfectly.

Do you have low pressure requirements?

The MEGR-230 is one of the best low pressure regulators for the price. This is because it is designed for use with small portable cooking appliances. It’s capable of handling up to 140,000 BTU per hour with a max inlet pressure of 250 PSI.

However, this unit features a single-stage design. This means it is not approved for use in an RV.

So, why is it on our list?

Well, we often take an outdoor BBQ along with us on our RV trips. There’s no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than cooking outside. Besides, if you’re going to spend the whole time inside, why waste the gas money leaving home?

While this might not be the propane regulator you use for your RV heater, it is one of the best BBQ propane regulators currently available.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ FPT
• Outlet: 3/8″ FPT
• Max Flow: 140,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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9 Camco 59013 Single Stage Propane Low Press Regulator – Best RV BBQ Propane Regulator

We end our Best RV Propane Regulators review with another low-pressure propane regulator, this time from Camco. Just to prove that they make every regulator you could possibly want, the model #59013 is a single-stage option. It’s similar to the above, but not entirely the same.

What is it designed for?

This regulator is specifically designed for use in low-pressure situations, such as small gas appliances. It can also be used for many outdoor BBQs, which is why we’ve included it here.

Now, as a single-stage regulator, this is not meant to govern the heating in your RV or run the appliances. It’s meant for outdoor use, to connect a free-standing gas bottle and a grill.

This makes it perfect for camping, but there’s more to it…

The best thing about this regulator is the constant 11” water column propane pressure it delivers. We found this to be ideal for low-pressure gas appliances.

The unit is rated for up to 200,000 BTU per hour, making it big enough for even monster grills. It features a 1/4″ inlet and a 3/8″ outlet, both of which have female NPT connections.

Specifications

• Inlet: 1/4″ FNPT
• Outlet: 3/8″ FNPT
• Max Flow: 200,000 BTU/hr

Our rating: (4.4 / 5)

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Best RV Propane Regulators Buying Guide

Hopefully, our review of propane regulators has provided you with all the information that you’ve been looking for. As you can see, there are all types of regulators to choose from.

So, how do you narrow down the options?

Well, the first thing we would advise you to consider is the capacity. However, understanding your needs here can feel overly complicated. So, we’ll try to help with that…

The capacity is the volume of gas that can reliably be controlled by a regulator. To calculate your RV’s maximum capacity requirements, you’ll need to do some maths.

Consider the consumption rate of each propane-powered appliance you have in your RV. Factor that in with your supply rate, and you’ll be able to determine your own requirements.

Most RVs require nothing more than a standard RV propane regulator…

These will generally suffice, but some people use more than others. So, if you have a high consumption RV, or love to run all your appliances at the same time, maybe a high capacity regulator is required.

You’ll also want to consider the hook-up style…

By this, we actually mean a few different things. First, ensure the connection points will fit your requirements. Meaning, do you need the standard 1/4″ FNP inlet and 3/8″ FNPT outlet?

Do you have a double tank setup?

We love the automatic changeover regulators. It allows us to keep our reserve attached and continue being lazy when the primary empties. And we do love being lazy when on vacation.

After all, isn’t that what going away in your RV is all about? Leave behind the chores for as long as possible, we say. Certainly, it’s worth a few extra bucks for this feature, wouldn’t you agree?

Durability is a huge consideration…

Let’s face it; a gas leak can be rather scary. Besides the dangers that surround a failing propane regulator, there is also the possibility of being stuck without your appliances.

For these reasons we highly recommend you forget considerations involving price. Instead, focus on products and manufacturers with good reputations for dependability. It’s a rare thing in products these days, and one worth spending a bit more on.

Now, none of the products is going to last forever. These devices do break down over time. However, with some options, there is a significant difference in the speed at which this is likely to happen.

Installation is another big factor to consider…

When it comes right down to it, most RV propane regulators are fairly straightforward to install. As long as you have basic DIY knowledge and abilities, you should be fine.

Having said that, some options are easier to install than others. We’d recommend you find a balance between ease of install, and being highly durable. Otherwise, you’ll quickly become frustrated with the job.

Looking for more superb products for your RV?

Then check out our in-depth reviews of the Best RV Tool Kit, the Best RV Slide Toppers, the Best RV Surge Protectors, the Best Fibreglass RV Waxes, and the Best RV Door Locks you can buy in 2023.

If you’re looking to improve your RV’s comfort level, then take a look at our reviews of the Best RV Mattress Short Queen, the Best RV Recliners, the Best Coffee Maker for RVs, the Best RV Toilets, as well as our Best Luxe RV Accessories Reviews and our Best Car Neck Pillows Reviews.

So, what are the Best RV Propane Regulators?

While there are a number of great options out there, the ones we’ve reviewed are easily some of the best propane regulators for RVs currently available. Each one has its place on our list, and they all differ to various degrees in application.

In the end, you need to find a perfect match for your needs…

Our recommendation would be the…

Heater Propane Two Stage Horizontal Regulator

It’s designed to maintain perfect pressure in your RV’s propane system, and it’s far more reliable than most other options.

Happy adventures in your RV!