Free Guide to Converting Gas Stoves to Propane

Understanding the Basics of Gas Stove Conversion

Converting a gas stove from natural gas to propane involves changing specific components so the appliance can safely burn propane instead of natural gas. While these fuels are both gases, they have different pressure requirements and burn characteristics. Natural gas typically operates at lower pressures (around 7 inches of water column), while propane requires higher pressure (around 11 inches of water column). This difference means you cannot simply switch fuels without making modifications to the stove's internal parts.

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The conversion process is similar across most gas stoves, though specific steps vary depending on the stove's age, brand, and model. Many stove manufacturers design their appliances with conversion in mind, knowing that customers move between areas with different fuel availability. Some stoves come with conversion kits already available from the manufacturer, making the process straightforward. Others may require custom modifications or may not be convertible at all.

Before considering conversion, understand that this is a technical project involving gas appliances. Improper installation or modification can result in gas leaks, carbon monoxide production, or fire hazards. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission maintains strict standards for gas appliance safety. Whether you decide to handle this yourself or hire a professional, knowing the basic process helps you make informed decisions and communicate effectively with technicians.

• Natural gas and propane have different pressure requirements
• Most modern stoves can be converted with manufacturer kits
• Conversion involves changing orifices and regulators
• Safety testing is essential after any modification

Practical Takeaway: Check your stove's manual or manufacturer's website first to see if a conversion kit is available for your specific model. This single step determines whether your stove can be converted and what materials you'll need.

Identifying Your Stove Model and Finding Conversion Kits

The first step in converting your gas stove involves identifying the exact make, model, and year of manufacture. This information appears on a manufacturer's plate typically located on the back of the stove, inside the oven, or on the side panel. Write down the brand name, model number, and any other identifying information. This detail matters because conversion kits are model-specific—a kit designed for a GE stove won't work for a Viking or Whirlpool.

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Once you have the model information, contact the manufacturer directly through their website or phone number. Most major appliance manufacturers like GE, Whirlpool, Electrolux, and LG offer conversion kits for their gas stoves. The manufacturer can tell you whether your specific model is convertible and provide the correct kit. Some manufacturers offer kits free or at minimal cost, especially for newer appliances. Older stoves may have kits that cost between $15 and $100, depending on complexity.

If the manufacturer no longer makes kits for your stove, third-party suppliers and appliance parts retailers may carry universal or adapted conversion kits. However, using non-manufacturer kits carries more risk since they haven't been tested specifically with your appliance. Read all product descriptions carefully to ensure any kit you purchase matches your stove type. Request documentation showing how the kit was tested and what safety standards it meets.

The conversion kit typically includes replacement orifices (small brass pieces that control gas flow), an adjustment screw for the regulator, and detailed instructions. Some kits include new valve springs or other small components. High-quality kits come with clear diagrams and step-by-step photographs showing the exact location of each part that needs replacement.

• Locate the manufacturer's plate on your stove
• Contact the manufacturer for kit availability
• Document the model number and purchase date
• Request specific installation instructions before ordering
• Compare pricing across multiple retailers

Practical Takeaway: Before purchasing anything, call the manufacturer's customer service line with your model number. Ask three questions: Is this model convertible? What is the correct kit? Do they provide installation support? This conversation takes 10 minutes and prevents ordering wrong parts.

Understanding the Technical Components That Need Changing

A gas stove has several critical components that control how fuel burns. The most important part for conversion is the burner orifice—a small brass fitting with a precisely sized hole that controls how much gas flows to each burner. Natural gas orifices have larger holes because natural gas needs less pressure to produce the same heat. Propane orifices have smaller holes because propane provides more energy per unit volume. When converting, you must replace each burner's orifice with the propane-sized version. A typical four-burner stove requires four new orifices plus one for the oven burner.

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The oven has its own burner and orifice system, which operates differently from the stovetop burners. Access to the oven orifice requires removing the oven floor panel or burner assembly. The oven's orifice is often smaller and more difficult to reach than stovetop orifices. Many people successfully convert stovetop burners but skip the oven conversion. This creates a safety problem—the oven can overheat, produce incomplete combustion, or release carbon monoxide. Always convert both the stovetop and oven together.

The regulator, which maintains consistent pressure, may also need adjustment. Some conversion kits include a different regulator spring or adjustment screw. The pressure regulator sits near the gas inlet and ensures steady fuel delivery regardless of how many burners are running. Testing the pressure after conversion confirms the regulator is working correctly. This requires a manometer—a specialized pressure-measuring device—and should be performed by someone trained in its use.

Valve springs and seals rarely need replacement during conversion, but they should be inspected. If springs appear corroded or seals look cracked or hardened, replacement is worth considering while you have the stove apart. These small parts are inexpensive but can cause leaks if they fail.

• Burner orifices control fuel flow and must be replaced
• Each burner requires a correctly sized orifice
• Oven conversion is essential for safety
• Regulators may need pressure adjustment
• Pressure testing confirms proper operation

Practical Takeaway: Before opening your stove, purchase a basic flashlight and take photographs of the current setup from multiple angles. These images help you remember component placement when reassembling and provide reference if you need to ask for help.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process and Safety Considerations

Begin conversion by ensuring the gas supply is completely shut off. Locate the shutoff valve on the gas line connecting to your stove—typically found on the wall behind or below the stove. Turn this valve perpendicular to the gas line. A valve parallel to the line means gas is flowing; perpendicular means it's shut off. If you cannot locate the shutoff valve or it won't turn, contact your gas utility company before proceeding. Never proceed with gas supply on.

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Next, allow the stove to cool completely if it has been used recently. Gas stoves retain heat for extended periods. Give yourself at least two hours cooling time before touching internal components. Working on a hot stove risks burns and can damage plastic seals or rubber gaskets in the conversion kit.

Remove the stovetop burner caps and crowns (the metal pieces that sit on top of the burners). These usually lift straight up or unscrew. Underneath, you'll find the burner base where the orifice sits. Most orifices unscrew by hand or with a small wrench. Remove one orifice completely and compare it to the propane orifice in your kit—the propane version will appear noticeably smaller. Install the propane orifice, being careful not to overtighten. Brass fittings strip easily if forced.

Repeat this process for each burner. Many people remove all components first, then install all new orifices, as this reduces confusion during reassembly. Take photographs after removing each burner to document the original layout. After all stovetop orifices are replaced, reassemble the burner crowns and caps in reverse order.

For oven conversion, the process is more