Lately we’ve been seeing posts about LPG accidents. We want to share my knowledge about LPGs and the common misconceptions about it. This is from a LPG regulator brand trusted for 46 years.
What should you consider when buying an LPG regulator?
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY. Always remember that the job of your LPG regulator is to protect you 24/7. They work even when we are away and most especially, when we are asleep. So always always always invest on high quality LPG regulator.
How will I know if my regulator is a good quality one?
First, what is the material used? Most LPG regulators are made of ALUMINUM, some are made of PLASTIC, and very few are made of ZINC ALLOY. So which of the three is the best? First is ZINC ALLOY, then ALUMINUM and lastly PLASTIC. I won’t discuss plastic made regulators because we all know why plastic regulators are not recommended.
– Zinc Alloy vs. Aluminum, which is better?
Longer Tool Life: Simply put, zinc is much stronger and more durable than aluminum.
Lower Cost: Zinc materials are initially more costly than aluminum because this alloy is of a higher quality.
Facts: Zinc is one of the toughest alloys around, and it surpasses even aluminum in its ability withstand impact. “Zinc die casting is used wherever safety and maximum stability are required in a vehicle”. Zinc alloys are also used for automotive.
Should I purchase the safety device separately from LPG regulator?
NO. Most LPG regulators has built-in safety device. Does having a gauge makes it safe? It depends on which gauge, is it for the tank content or for pressure control?
First of, we should know that the content of our LPGs are inconsistent. Why? Because they expand when heated, and compresses when cooled. That explains why there are articles saying not to put our tanks directly on top of our tiled floors. They compress on low temperatures. This is also the reason why local businesses like eatery/carinderya/restaurants, they pour hot water over the tank, so that the content would expand and they’ll able to use it until the last drop.
If the gauge is for pressure control, then YES. BUT keep in mind that ONLY THE HIGH PRESSURE REGULATORS NEED THE PRESSURE GAUGE. Household regulators/low pressure regulators has a specific range of pressure, while high pressure regulators ((for 50kg tanks)) requires high pressure depending on how many burners or where it is being used (usually for 6 burners). High pressure regulators are usually used on canteens, restaurants, even laundry shops.
How does the safety device of a regulator work? And how to turn it off (safety device)?
The auto-safety device for regulator works by blocking the gas flow shall the change in outlet pressure be higher than the standard outlet pressure range. Inside the regulators with safety device, there is a stainless ball that blocks the gas flow. This is where the sound you here when you turn it on. Usually this is deactivated by a push-button system, but most brands use a tap system.
SO what regulator should i buy?
It would depend on what tank you use. The regulator for Thread type tank is different for Petron and Solane tank
Note: You should also consider the gas hose that you’ll use. Opt for weatherproof hoses that remains flexible. Most hoses become brittle when over heated. This brittle hoses are prone to cracks when we move our tanks.
