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BBQ gas regulator problems and how to fix them

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In short

Most regulator problems are a low, weak flame after changing the bottle. Turn every burner and the bottle off, disconnect the regulator, wait a minute, reconnect, open the bottle valve slowly with the burners still off, then light as the manual says. If that fails, check you have the right regulator for the gas type, look for kinks or damage in the hose, and replace a regulator that is old, damaged or leaking.

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The regulator is the small device between the gas bottle and the BBQ hose. It turns high bottle pressure into the low, steady pressure the burners are designed for. When it goes wrong, the grill lights weakly, will not get hot, or will not light at all. This guide explains the common causes in UK gas BBQs and the safe fixes. Regulators and hoses are safety parts, so replace rather than repair them, and use your manual for model-specific steps.

How a BBQ regulator works

UK BBQ regulators are set to a fixed outlet pressure for the gas they are made for. Propane regulators, used on red bottles and green patio gas bottles, typically deliver 37 mbar. Butane regulators for blue bottles typically deliver around 28 to 30 mbar. The connection also differs: red propane bottles usually take a screw-on or clip-on regulator, blue butane bottles a clip-on regulator of a size that matches the valve.

The grill's burners and jets are matched to one pressure. Using the wrong regulator, or one meant for a different country, can give a weak flame or an unsafe tall flame. The BBQ's data plate or manual says which gas and pressure it is set for.

  • Propane

    screw-on regulator

    Typical sizes: 3.9, 5, 6, 13 and 19 kg

  • Butane

    clip-on regulator

    Typical sizes: 4.5, 7 and 15 kg

  • Patio gas (propane)

    clip-on regulator

    Typical sizes: 5 and 13 kg

Typical UK bottle colours and sizes; always fit the regulator made for your bottle and gas.

UK gas bottles side by side, with the regulator each one takes.

Problem 1: low flame after changing the bottle

This is the most common complaint. Many regulators and hoses include a safety feature that limits gas flow if it senses a sudden rush, such as when the bottle valve is opened quickly or with a burner already turned on. The grill then lights but stays low and will not get hot. The fix most manuals give is a reset.

  1. 1

    Turn all burner knobs to off and close the bottle valve.

  2. 2

    Disconnect the regulator from the bottle and wait about a minute.

  3. 3

    Reconnect the regulator firmly by hand.

  4. 4

    With all burners still off, open the bottle valve slowly.

  5. 5

    Wait a few seconds, then light the burners in the order the manual gives.

  6. 6

    Check joints with soapy water after the reconnection.

Problem 2: wrong regulator, hose or gas

If the flame has always been weak, check that the regulator matches the gas. A butane regulator on a propane bottle will not fit properly and should never be forced or adapted. A grill set up for one pressure may not perform on another without the maker's conversion parts. Some grills sold online were made for other markets; check the data plate states the UK gas category.

Look along the hose for kinks, cracks, stiffness or a crushed section where it passes the cabinet door. Hoses perish over time and most makers recommend regular replacement. Replace a damaged hose with the correct BBQ hose and clips.

Problem 3: frost, hissing or a smell of gas

Frost on the regulator or the bottle on a long cook means gas is being drawn off quickly, especially from a small bottle or butane in cool weather. Flow may drop as the bottle chills. A larger bottle, or propane instead of butane, helps; see what gas bottle you need.

A hiss at the joint or a smell of gas means a leak. Turn off at the bottle, then brush soapy water over the regulator, hose ends and joints with the valve open briefly; growing bubbles show the leak. Close the valve, refit the part and test again. Replace any regulator that leaks from its body, has a damaged seal or has been dropped.

Note:Never test for leaks with a flame. If you smell gas and cannot find or stop the leak, turn off at the bottle, move away from the grill, keep ignition sources away and contact the gas supplier or a qualified engineer. Do not tamper with or adjust a regulator.

When to replace the regulator

Regulators wear with age and weather. Replace yours if it is damaged, corroded, leaks, freezes on short cooks, or if the grill heats poorly even after a reset and burner clean. Fit one that matches the gas and pressure on the BBQ's data plate, and buy from a recognised supplier. If your grill also struggles with heat, work through gas BBQ not getting hot.

If a new regulator does not solve it and the grill is old, it may be time for a replacement grill; compare current models in best gas BBQs for UK gardens.

Compare gas BBQs →

Frequently asked questions

How do I reset a BBQ gas regulator? Turn burners and bottle off, disconnect, wait about a minute, reconnect, open the bottle slowly with burners off, then light. Check your manual for your model's steps.

Can I use a butane regulator on propane? No. They are made for different pressures and connections. Use the regulator that matches the gas and the BBQ's data plate.

How long does a BBQ regulator last? It varies with use and storage. Many suppliers suggest replacing regulators and hoses every few years, and at once if damaged.

Why does my regulator hum or whistle? A light hum can be normal on some regulators. A loud whistle with a weak flame can point to a fault or restriction; reset it and replace if it continues.

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