Coleman PerfectFlow 2-Burner (example propane stove)
Converting a propane stove to natural gas (or vice versa) involves swapping the burner orifices and adjusting the pressure regulator. It's a job a confident DIYer can handle in 30–60 minutes with the right conversion kit. Here's how to do it safely and correctly.
⚠️ Before you start
This guide covers residential range-style stoves. Camping stoves are not designed for natural gas conversion — they use portable canisters with different pressure systems. If you're converting a home stove from propane to natural gas (or the reverse), this guide applies.
Why convert?
Natural gas costs roughly 30–50% less per BTU than propane in most US markets. If your home has natural gas service and you're running a propane stove, the conversion pays for itself in fuel savings within a year or two. The reverse — natural gas to propane — makes sense when moving to a home without gas service or installing an outdoor kitchen.
What you'll need
- Model-specific conversion kit — critical. Must match your exact stove make, model, and year. Universal kits don't exist; the orifice sizes must match your burner specifications precisely.
- Adjustable wrench and Phillips screwdriver
- Orifice removal tool or deep socket (usually 1/4" or 3/8")
- Gas-rated Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant
- Leak detection solution (or diluted dish soap)
- Your stove's owner manual
⚠️ Get the right kit
Using the wrong conversion kit is dangerous. Always get the kit specified for your exact stove model from the manufacturer or a certified HVAC supplier. Never substitute orifices from another source.
Step-by-step conversion
Step 1 — Shut off the gas supply. Turn off the gas shutoff valve at the wall, not just the stove knobs. Confirm no gas is flowing by turning a burner knob — you should hear nothing after 30 seconds.
Step 2 — Remove grates and burner caps. Set them aside. Take photos of the burner layout for reassembly reference.
Step 3 — Remove burner heads. Lift the burner heads off their seats. Most lift straight up; some have a retaining screw.
Step 4 — Remove the existing orifices. The orifice is a small brass fitting threaded into the valve body beneath where the burner head sits. Use your orifice wrench to unscrew each one counterclockwise. Keep them — you'll need them if you ever want to convert back.
Step 5 — Install the new orifices. Thread in the new orifices from your conversion kit. Apply gas-rated Teflon tape to the threads (2–3 wraps). Tighten firmly but don't overtighten — brass threads strip easily.
Step 6 — Adjust or replace the regulator. Most conversion kits include a new regulator or a reversible regulator that you flip or adjust. Natural gas runs at lower pressure (3.5" WC) than propane (11" WC). Your kit instructions will specify the adjustment.
Step 7 — Reconnect and check for leaks. Reconnect to the gas supply. Apply leak detection solution to every connection you touched — valve body threads, regulator connections, supply line. Turn on the gas slowly and watch for bubbles. Any bubble means a leak: shut off gas immediately, tighten the connection, recheck.
Step 8 — Test the burners. Turn on each burner and ignite. The flame should be blue with small yellow tips, steady and even. A predominantly orange or yellow flame indicates incorrect orifice size or an air/gas ratio problem — shut off and consult your conversion kit instructions.
⚠️ When to call a professional
If you smell gas at any point that you cannot immediately identify and fix, shut off the main gas supply and call your gas utility or a licensed plumber. Don't attempt to find the leak source with an open flame.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can all propane stoves be converted to natural gas?
No. Many modern stoves are designed for conversion and include or offer approved kits. Others are not rated for conversion. Check your owner manual — if it doesn't mention conversion, contact the manufacturer before proceeding.
- What's the main difference between propane and natural gas orifices?
Natural gas orifices have larger holes than propane orifices because natural gas has lower BTU density per cubic foot and lower delivery pressure. Installing propane orifices on a natural gas line will produce a weak, yellow flame. Installing natural gas orifices on propane will create an unsafe overpressure condition.
- How do I know if my conversion was done correctly?
A correctly converted stove will have a blue flame with small yellow tips on full heat, stable and even across all burners. Simmered down, the flame should remain steady without blowing out. If anything looks off, have a licensed gas technician inspect it before continued use.
Summary
Propane-to-natural-gas conversion is a manageable DIY job if you get the right kit and follow each step carefully. The fuel savings over time make it worthwhile. If you're converting a camp stove setup or looking for a portable propane option, see our best propane stove conversion kits guide.