How to use a changeover gas regulator?

29th February 2020

How to use a changeover gas regulator?


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		Switching the gas supply – automatic
		Changeover gas regulators are available in both manual and automatic versions. If yours is automatic, the regulator will switch over to the fresh cylinder on its own when it senses that the pressure of gas in the first cylinder has fallen below a certain point. This means the lever will have already turned to face the reserve cylinder by the time you come to replace the empty one.

		Switching the gas supply – manual
		Step 1 – Check which cylinder is empty When the gas supply runs low, the lever will still be pointing towards the cylinder you’ve been using – the service cylinder. This is the one that needs changing.

		Step 2 – Switch supply to reserve cylinder Turn the lever on the regulator anti-clockwise until it’s pointing towards the cylinder on the other side.

		The lever should now be pointing at the reserve cylinder. This becomes the service cylinder, as it’s the one currently in use.

		Changing a gas cylinder
		Step 1 – Check hoses Make sure the hoses are long enough, but not too long or they could become tangled. Hoses, also called pigtails, on changeover regulators should be no more than 1m long. Check the condition of the hoses too, and replace them if there is any sign of damage such as cracks, kinks, nicks or crushed areas.

		Step 2 – Turn off gas Switch off the gas supply on the cylinder that you’re going to replace by turning the valve wheel clockwise.

		Step 3 – Undo locking nut Take a gas spanner and carefully loosen the locking nut where it’s attached to the cylinder valve.

		Step 4 – Check sealing washer Before reconnecting the hose, have a look at the rubber sealing washer to make sure it’s still in good condition and replace it if there are any cracks. A perfect fit is important to prevent leaks.

		Step 5 – Put new cylinder in place Remove the empty cylinder and put the new one in place, checking that there is enough slack in the hose. The cylinder must remain upright at all times. If you accidentally drop it, pull it back up and leave the contents to settle for several minutes before connecting.

		Step 6 – Check gas is off Turn the cylinder valve clockwise to make sure the gas is switched off, then remove the dust cap.

		Step 7 – Attach hose Push the hose on as far as it will go then tighten the locking nut by turning it anti-clockwise, finishing off with a spanner. Be careful not to over-tighten or you could damage the nut.

		Step 8 – Turn gas on Switch the gas back on by turning the cylinder valve anti-clockwise.