Convert Appliances Safely To Natural Gas

Overview of Natural Gas and Its Benefits

Converting from other fuels to use lpg natural gas, which mostly comprises methane, brings several benefits. It’s commonly used in homes for heating, cooking, and powering appliances. There are several key benefits of using natural gas, especially when considering the efficiency and cost differences between natural and other energy sources like propane:

• Natural gas appliances generally exhibit higher energy efficiency than propane, leading to reduced energy bills.
• Using natural gas can cut down on household expenses thanks to its stable pricing over time.
• Lower carbon emissions - When burned, natural gas emits around half the carbon dioxide compared to coal and 30-40% less than oil or propane.
• Abundant supply - New drilling techniques have unlocked vast natural gas reserves, ensuring plentiful availability.
• Safety - Natural gas has a narrow flammability range, making it a relatively safe fuel source when proper precautions are taken.

A gas BBQ conversion from propane to natural gas requires changing components such as orifices, regulators, and burner tubes to accommodate the pressure differences. It’s crucial to use certified conversion kits and have the work done by a licenced professional to ensure safe and proper functioning.

How Natural Gas Compares to Propane

Supply and Availability

In Strathfield, Sydney, natural gas is readily available through city supply lines. Unlike the convenience of home natural gas delivered directly to your residence, with propane, you may run out and it requires scheduled deliveries and tank refills. Natural gas offers more than a consistent, uninterrupted supply.

Cost

Historically, natural gas is more cost-effective than propane per British Thermal Unit (BTU), thereby being a household favourite for various applications. Moreover, natural gas prices tend to be more stable, reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs after conversion. However, propane appliances themselves tend to be less expensive upfront.

Efficiency

Gas natural appliances generally have higher energy efficiency ratings than propane models. The high heating value of natural gas means it provides more BTUs per cubic foot.

Emissions and Pollution

The combustion of natural gas opens new perspectives in environmental responsibility, emitting around 15% less carbon dioxide than propane. It also produces less particulate emissions. This makes natural gas the cleaner burning option.

Installation and Maintenance

Connecting your existing lines to run natural gas can take less effort than installing a new propane tank and gas line piping. However, professionals tasked to do conversion of propane appliances to natural gas must change orifices and regulators.

Overall, natural gas offers greater convenience and efficiency for Strathfield homes. However, propane offers greater flexibility for off-grid applications. Subscribe to our newsletter for further insights. Professional advice on how to convert natural appliances is recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Requesting a Natural Gas Connection

To get connected to natural gas lines, whether you’re in Strathfield or wondering what was needed in New York, the first step is to contact your gas service company to inquire about availability and applying for a new gas connection.

Conduct a preliminary check to ensure gas lines are accessible near your property and arrange a site visit to assess connection costs.

Some of the key steps involved in the residential natural gas connection process include:

• Submitting an application for natural gas connection and placing your order for a conversion setup, which may include initial fees
• A property inspection to decide on the most efficient pipe route
• Obtaining any permits or approvals required from local council
• Trenching work to install underground gas pipes to your metre location
• Installing the gas metre, ensuring connection to your hot water system and establishing an account
• Pressure testing the new gas lines for leaks
• Issuing a Certificate of Compliance once the work is completed

It’s mandatory for the entire process to adhere to the Australian Plumbing Standards AS/NZS5601 and AS/NZS 3500. For specialised help with your natural gas connection in Strathfield, subscribe to our newsletter or contact Strathfield Plumbing Pty Ltd at 1300 349 338.

Securing a skilled gas plumber for the conversion process is essential.

Selecting the Right Conversion Kit

Choosing the right BBQ gas conversion kit is essential for a successful shift from propane to natural gas. Using the wrong kit can lead to performance issues, gas leaks or even dangerous malfunctions.

Here are some key tips for selecting the right conversion kit:

• Confirm the exact model number and brand of the appliance you want to convert. Conversion kits are precisely tailored to specific models, guaranteeing compatibility and streamlined performance.
• Purchase a bbq approved conversion kit listed as suitable for your appliance by the manufacturer, or verified by local gas authorities.
• For your bbq gas stoves, the conversion kit will likely come with a new hose regulator unit, replacement burner orifices, and a durable gas valve.
• For your bbq conversion and whole-home conversions, kits feature new pilot assemblies and safety valves for furnaces, water heaters and other appliances.
• It’s imperative to have a licenced gas fitter install the kit, ensuring a safe and correct setup. Proper installation is crucial for safe operation.
• Ask the gas fitter to pressure test for leaks and issue a Certificate of Compliance when the work is completed.

Matching your appliance with a certified LPG conversion kit ensures optimal performance and adherence to regulations. Don’t hesitate to contact Strathfield Plumbing if you need assistance finding the right kit.

Installing the Conversion Kit

After choosing the suitable conversion kit, enlist a qualified professional for installation. Here are some key steps involved:

1. Shut off the gas supply and disconnect all fuel lines from the appliance.
2. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove existing gas orifices, regulators, valves and other components.
3. Clean surfaces thoroughly and apply thread sealant to parts as specified.
4. Install the new natural gas orifices, regulator, hoses, valves and other kit contents as per instructions.
5. Reconnect and re-affix all parts, ensuring a snug fit - do not over tighten.
6. Restore gas supply and use leak detector solution to check for any leaks, tightening fittings as needed.
7. Turn on appliance and pilot it, adjusting flame height and colour per guidelines.
8. Test operation of all functions and safety mechanisms.
9. Enquire, 'Do I have the correct gas pressure?' and have the gas fitter verify it and issue a Certificate of Compliance.

Proper installation of the kit demands meticulous attention, adherence to guidelines, and fine-tuning of the flame configuration. Attempting a DIY gas conversion is not advisable. To convert your bbq professionally in Strathfield, contact our adept technicians at Strathfield Plumbing on 1300 349 338.

Adjusting Appliance Settings

Adjusting appliance settings is an important final step when converting from propane to propane natural gas. With the propane to natural gas conversion kit installed, gas pressure and burner adjustments help ensure optimal performance.

Checking Gas Pressure

Natural gas typically has an inlet pressure around 1.5 psi, compared to propane’s 10-11 psi. After conversion, a gauge should be used to verify the inlet pressure meets use natural appliance specifications.

Tuning the Burners

Ideal flames burn consistently with a distinct inner cone and barely visible outer mantle. Adjust air shutters, gas valves, and regulators as needed to achieve this. Blue flames indicate proper combustion.

Conducting Leak Tests

Apply leak detector solution to all connection points and watch for bubbles. Tighten fittings as needed to prevent hazardous gas leaks.

Testing Safety Mechanisms

Check that pilot lights, thermocouples, gas valves and other safety features activate and deactivate properly.

Inspecting Conversion Work

Have a certified gas fitter validate all adjustments meet manufacturer specifications. They should issue a Certificate of Compliance once satisfied.

Fine tuning your appliance’s newly converted gas components ensures efficient, trouble-free operation for years to come. The experts at Strathfield Plumbing can assist with any natural gas conversion needs.

Safety Protocols and Compliance

• Verify appliance flame characteristics and combustion performance meet manufacturer specifications after conversion.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector to monitor indoor air quality when using gas appliances.
• Ensure adequate ventilation around appliances to prevent dangerous buildup of emissions.
• Obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the gas fitter to certify adherence to the code AS/NZS 5601.

Following proper protocols helps minimise risks during the conversion process, so do not hesitate to call us at Strathfield Plumbing Pty Ltd for expert guidance. Call us at Strathfield Plumbing, our technicians are fully compliant gas fitters dedicated to safe installations. Contact us at Strathfield Plumbing on 1300 349 338 to confidently arrange your natural gas conversion.

Hiring a Certified Professional

It’s crucial to engage a licenced professional gas fitter for converting appliances from propane to natural gas to avoid hazards and ensure insurance remains valid.

There are several key reasons why hiring a certified gas fitter is so important for conversions:

• Gas fitters have extensive training and knowledge of gas systems and standards.
• They have experience servicing and adjusting specific appliances.
• They have the proper tools and equipment to conduct pressure, flow and leak tests safely.
• They can legally purchase and install certified conversion kits.
• They will calibrate burners, valves, regulators for optimal efficiency and performance.
• They will issue a Certificate of Compliance when the work meets regulations.

At Strathfield Plumbing, our licenced technicians demonstrate their expertise through certified gas fitting training. We take pride in performing gas appliance conversions with the highest standards of safety, legality, and excellence. For total peace of mind, you can also contact our team on 1300 349 338 or [email protected] to convert your appliances to natural gas.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Thorough testing and troubleshooting are essential to identify and resolve any problems after converting from propane to natural gas. This helps identify and resolve any issues to ensure safe and optimal performance.

Testing for Gas Leaks

Utilise a commercial leak detector solution to inspect all fittings, connections, and joints for gas leaks. Watch for bubble formation which indicates a hazardous gas leak that requires tightening or resealing the connection.

Verifying Proper Gas Flow

Technicians should use manometers to ensure inlet and outlet gas pressures are within standards for effective conversion.

Inspecting Flames

The side burner flames should be visually inspected. Blue flames with defined inner cones are ideal. Yellow, floating flames indicate problems with air mixture.

Checking Appliance Functions

Turn converted grills on and off to ensure burners, pilots, and controls function properly. Test safety valves and thermostats.

Monitoring Combustion Emissions

Employ combustion analyzers to detect any incomplete combustion that could release carbon monoxide. Proper ventilation is required.

If any issues arise, experienced professionals like those at Strathfield Plumbing can troubleshoot and rectify them promptly. For propane grill natural gas conversions or assistance, contact us on 1300 349 338.