How to Convert a Propane Range to a Natural Gas Range

If you have a natural gas range on your stove and you wish to convert it to a propane range, you'll have to adjust the size of the opening into the burner, which in turn will control the amount of gas that is supplied to the burner. This opening is commonly referred to as the "orifice." The reason that you have to change the opening is that propane ranges and natural gas ranges require different amounts of gas in order to operate properly. Follow the steps below to convert a propane range burner to a natural gas burner; if you wish to convert multiple burners, you'll have to repeat the process for each one.

Step 1 - Turn off the Gas

It is absolutely crucial that you turn off the gas supply at the source stop valve before you begin. Failing to do this could put you and anyone in your home in serious danger.

Step 2 - Remove the Old Orifice

Begin by removing the gas line from the heater. Next, using a wrench, unscrew the control valve on the heater of the burner itself. Then, using two wrenches, remove the existing orifice. You'll need to hold one wrench on the orifice itself and another on the control valve. Unscrew them in opposite directions and remove the orifice from the control valve of the burner. If you wish, clean the orifice and the connecting lines at this point.

Step 3 - Tape the New Orifice

Using Teflon seal tape, tape several rolls around the new orifice threads. This helps to seal them and protect them against damage later on.

Step 4 - Attach the New Orifice to the Valve Body

Screw the new orifice into the valve body by hand until it will not go any further. Carefully screw the valve body back onto the console with your wrench and rethread the gas line to the new orifice. At this point, your new orifice is connected, however, you'll need to test it for leaks and to make sure that it delivers gas properly.

Step 5 - Test with Detergent

Turn the gas on at the stop valve on the wall and off at the control valve for the heater. Using a paintbush or other fine brush, stir the detergent solution until it gets frothy and you can see bubbles. Use the brush to spread a few bubbles on all of the different connection points. Notice if any of the bubbles begin to grow or pop; this is a sign that there is a leak somewhere in your system. You'll need to retighten the joints in this case, or use more tape to secure them further. If no bubbles form up, your joints are secure and you can turn the gas back on.