What Are RV Propane Regulators?
The RV propane regulator is a crucial part of any camper’s LP gas system, controlling tank pressure and ensuring appliances work properly. Most RVs and propane systems use 2-stage regulators.
Related: 7 Signs Your RV Propane Regulator Has Gone Bad
If your regulator fails, replacing it is simple since RV propane systems use standard inlet and outlet sizes. You don’t need the exact same model—upgrading to a higher BTU capacity or waterproof design is an option.
This review highlights top 2-stage RV propane regulators for dual-tank systems, all with automatic changeover features. Some are even adjustable, catering to a variety of needs, including finding a direct replacement for your original regulator.
Summary (Links to Amazon)
- Best Overall – Flame King 2-Stage Auto RV Propane Regulator
- Best Propane Tank Indicator – Marshall Excelsior RV Propane Regulator
- Highest BTU Output – Fairview High Capacity RV Propane Regulator
- Camco Double Stage Dual RV Propane Regulator
- Premium Option – Cavagna Kosan RV Propane Regulator
Best Overall
Best Tank Indicator
Highest BTU Output
Last update on 2025-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best RV Propane Regulators Reviews & Info
1. Flame King 2-Stage Auto RV Propane Regulator
The Flame King dual-tank LP gas regulator is a popular choice in the RV world, often installed by manufacturers. Our travel trailer came with one, and replacing it was straightforward when issues arose. For detailed instructions on how we changed our RV propane regulator check out this post here.
It’s a 2-stage, dual automatic changeover regulator with pre-attached pigtails, a plastic rain cover, and a mounting bracket. The regulator comes pre-set to the proper pressure but is adjustable if needed.
RV Life Hack: How To Check How Much Propane You Have Left
The automatic changeover works seamlessly—just open both tanks, and it will switch to the secondary tank when the primary is empty. A clear window turns red to indicate an empty tank, and the black lever allows manual tank selection.
The inlets are ¼” SAE inverted flare, and the outlet is 3/8” NPT—standard for most RVs and travel trailers. Rated at 190,000 BTU, it meets the needs of RV propane appliances and should be compatible with most systems.
The Flame King 2-stage regulator is reliable, easy to install, and hassle-free—a great replacement for any RV dual propane tank system.
PROS
- Automatic Changeover
- Empty Propane Tank Indicator
- Comes with Dual Propane Tank Pigtails
- RV Bracket Pre-Installed
- Comes with Rain Cover
- Adjustable
CONS
- Pigtails Can Get Sun Damaged (Lasts Longer When Covered)
2. Marshall Excelsior RV Propane Regulator
The Marshall Excelsior is a reliable RV propane regulator commonly used in travel trailers and RVs. It doesn’t include pigtails or a mounting bracket, so you’ll need to reuse your old ones or purchase replacements. Compatible stainless steel braided pigtails and a matching Marshall bracket are available online.
This 2-stage regulator with automatic changeover is simple yet effective. Its top-mounted indicator makes it easy to check if the primary tank is empty (red) or still has gas (green), saving you the hassle of looking at the side. The regulator is powder-coated for durability but lacks a rain cover.
See Also: Best Propane RV Tankless Water Heater Reviews
With a 150,000 BTU capacity, it’s suitable for most campers or travel trailers. The standard ¼” female inverted flare inlets and 3/8” NPT outlet ensure compatibility with nearly all dual-tank RV propane systems.
While the missing rain cover and accessories are drawbacks, the Marshall Excelsior is a dependable replacement option that will keep your RV appliances running smoothly.
PROS
- Propane Tank Gas Level Indicator on the Top
- Adjustable
- Automatic Changeover
CONS
- No Pigtails Included
- No Mounting Bracket Included
- No Rain Cover
3. Fairview High Capacity RV Propane Regulator
The Fairview automatic dual-tank RV propane regulator offers the highest BTU capacity at 345,000, making it ideal for heavy propane use, such as fueling a grill, furnace, and water heater simultaneously. It’s a significant upgrade from most factory-installed regulators, especially for winter campers or those with propane quick connects.
This 2-stage regulator features automatic changeover and a top-mounted empty tank indicator that turns red when the primary tank is empty. The lever on top lets you switch tanks easily, and it’s pre-set to the standard 11” water column pressure for RVs, 5th wheels, and travel trailers.
See Also: Best Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grills For Camping
The standard ¼” inlets and 3/8” NPT outlet ensure compatibility with most RV propane systems. While it doesn’t include a rain cover, pigtails, or a mounting bracket, you can reuse your old ones or purchase compatible replacements like stainless steel braided pigtails and a mounting bracket also used for the Marshall regulator.
With its high capacity and durable design, the Fairview regulator is perfect for RVers needing extra propane power, though it may be overkill for standard setups.
PROS
- Empty Propane Tank Indicator Located on Top
- Automatic Changeover
- Adjustable
- High BTU Capacity
CONS
- No Pigtails Included
- No Mounting Bracket Included
- No Rain Cover
4. Camco Double Stage Dual RV Propane Regulator
Camco’s dual-tank 2-stage RV propane regulator is a solid replacement for most campers. It supports up to 210,000 BTUs per hour, ideal for standard RV use and running multiple propane appliances simultaneously.
While it lacks pigtails, a mounting bracket, and a rain cover, you can reuse your old bracket (with possible drilling for fit) or purchase compatible stainless steel braided pigtails and a mounting bracket. The regulator’s ¼” inverted flare inlets and 3/8” NPT outlet ensure compatibility with most RV propane systems.
See Also: Best Small Portable Propane Heater For Indoor & RV Use
The black switch selects the primary tank and includes an indicator that turns red when the tank is empty and the regulator switches to the secondary tank. It’s pre-set to the standard 11” water column for RVs, requiring no adjustments.
Though it lacks a rain cover, this is easily addressed with a waterproof propane tank cover or by storing it in a compartment. The Camco regulator is reliable, versatile, and well-suited for dual-tank LP gas systems.
PROS
- High BTU capacity
- Automatic Changeover
- Adjustable
CONS
- No Pigtails Included
- No Mounting Bracket Included
- No Rain Cover
5. Cavagna Kosan RV Propane Regulator
The Cavagna Kosan RV propane regulator is user-friendly, easy to install, and comes with a mounting bracket and pigtails. It features automatic changeover and a clear tank level indicator that switches from green to red when the primary tank is empty.
See Also: Best Portable Solar Panel Charger For RV Camper/Boondocking
With a 220,000 BTU capacity, it’s ideal for dual-tank RV systems. The regulator’s standard ¼” inlets and 3/8” outlet ensure compatibility with most RV LP gas setups. While it lacks a rain cover, its stainless steel screws and bolts resist rust, enhancing durability.
The Cavagna regulator stands out for its sturdy build and high BTU rating, making it a reliable and affordable option for RV propane systems.
PROS
- Automatic Changeover
- Adjustable
- Comes with RV Bracket
- Includes pigtails
CONS
- No Rain Cover
What To Look For In An RV Propane Regulator
Rain Cover
RV propane regulators are constantly exposed to the elements, especially without a propane tank cover. Sun and rain can take a toll, even though most regulators are made with rust-resistant materials and are watertight.
To extend their lifespan, consider choosing a regulator with a plastic rain cover or investing in a propane tank cover. These simple additions can help protect your system and keep it functioning properly for longer.
Pigtails & Mounting Bracket
Many RV propane regulators don’t include pigtails or mounting brackets, likely because users prefer components tailored to their specific setup. However, dual-tank LP gas systems are generally standard.
For a typical setup with two propane tanks side by side, a regulator with pre-attached pigtails and a bracket makes installation quick and easy. If your setup is more complex—like propane tanks on opposite sides of a 5th-wheel—a regulator without pigtails might be a better fit for customizing your connections.
BTU Output
RV propane regulators vary in BTU output, but higher capacity doesn’t always mean better performance. Most campers and trailers use a standard 1/2″ propane pipe, which has a limited BTU delivery capacity. Even the lowest BTU regulator in this review matches or exceeds what a 1/2″ pipe can handle.
For larger RVs or 5th-wheels with more propane appliances, a high BTU regulator might be necessary to meet the demand. Generally, it’s best to choose a regulator that closely matches your original one. If you opt for a different capacity, go with a higher BTU rating rather than a lower one for better performance.
Conclusion & My Recommendations for Best RV Propane Regulator
If your RV propane appliances aren’t functioning properly—like yellow stove flames or a fridge not cooling—the issue is likely your propane regulator.
While vital to your LP gas system, regulators don’t last forever. Aging diaphragms, overfilled tanks leaking liquid propane, or freezing moisture can cause failure, even in newer RVs.
Regularly check your regulator to ensure it’s working properly. If replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward process, and there are plenty of excellent options available. The 2-stage regulators in this review are easy to install and reliable.
I’ve included recommendations tailored to specific needs to help you choose the right one.
Best Overall – Flame King 2-Stage Auto RV Propane Regulator
The Flame King is designed for RVs, 5th-wheels, and travel trailers, offering convenience with pre-attached pigtails, an RV bracket, and a rain cover—great for open propane tanks. It’s sturdy, well-built, and easy to install.
The automatic changeover works flawlessly, and it’s adjustable if needed. The only drawback is the side-mounted tank level indicator, which requires getting close to check. A top-mounted indicator would be more convenient, but this is a minor issue given the overall quality of the product.
Best Propane Tank Indicator (Easiest To Read) – Marshall Excelsior RV Propane Regulator
One drawback of the Flame King RV propane regulator is the side-mounted tank indicator, which requires getting close to check if the regulator has switched to the secondary tank.
A top-mounted indicator, like on the Marshall regulator, offers better visibility, especially with a tank cover that has a top opening.
The Marshall’s top indicator allows for quick checks to see if the primary tank is empty. It’s also well-built and reliable.
However, the Marshall regulator doesn’t include pigtails or a mounting bracket, which is a slight inconvenience compared to the Flame King.
Highest BTU Output – Fairview High Capacity RV Propane Regulator
If your camper has multiple propane appliances or you’re a winter camper or snowbird, upgrading to a high BTU dual-tank regulator is a smart choice. The Fairview RV propane regulator, with the highest BTU output in this review, is a top option.
It’s well-built and includes all the essential features found in other models.
The only drawback is the lack of included pigtails and brackets, but these can be purchased separately or reused from your current setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Propane Regulators
How does an RV propane regulator work?
Pretty much any LP gas system requires a 2-stage propane regulator to run the appliances.
RV propane regulators have both stages in one unit.
Together, they stabilize the pressure from the propane tanks so your propane gas system will work perfectly.
For more information about how an RV propane regulator works check out this article here.
How do I change my old RV propane regulator for a new one?
Changing an RV propane regulator is easy, you just need the right thread tape and to check for leaks when you are done.
For detailed instructions on changing an RV propane regulator check out this post here.
Why is my RV propane regulator venting?
All propane regulators have a vent on the bottom near the output. If the vent has propane coming out it can mean one of two things.
The propane tank was overfilled, and heat has expanded the gas inside so propane is leaking out of the vent.
The second reason is the propane regulator may have gone bad and needs replacing.
Are RV propane regulators adjustable?
A good quality propane regulator will be adjustable, and all the regulators in this review are adjustable.
It is recommended for professional use and all RV propane regulators should come pre-set at the proper pressure for RV use.
How to test an RV propane regulator to see if it has gone bad?
Troubleshooting propane regulators is simple, for the most part.
There are some easy ways to tell if the regulator needs replacing.
Check out this post for the 7 signs that an RV propane regulator has gone bad.
Can an RV propane regulator freeze?
It’s not common, but RV propane regulators can freeze.
Check out this post for information on freezing temperatures and how it affects propane and how propane regulators can freeze.
How to check how much propane is in my propane tank?
There are lots of different ways you can check the level of propane in your tanks, but my favorite way is the water method.
You can read about how it’s done here.
Have any more questions about RV propane regulators? Leave a comment below.
I know this a mostly RV website, but can this Flame King Auto 2 stage propane regulator have the same effect on a 18000 btu wall heater to be used in garage? Thanks
Yes, even though they are mostly used on RVs propane regulators like the Flame Kings work great in garages and shops. The Flame Kings is rated for up to 190,000 BTU so a 18,000 BTU wall heater should be no problem for it.