How to Convert a Propane BBQ to Natural Gas

Many expert grillers have converted their propane BBQ grills to ones that use natural gas. Natural gas is cheaper and lasts longer than liquid propane, and by purchasing a conversion kit, hooking up a longer gas line, and drilling a few holes, you'll be able to save money on gas costs almost immediately.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Conversion kit, including T-section of pipe and gas line
• Power drill and bits
• Screwdriver
• Wrenches
• Natural gas hook-up

1. Determine whether your grill is up to the conversion process by inspecting all burners, igniter and the housing of the grill itself. If you notice any corrosion or damage, you may want to start with a new grill when you convert from propane to natural gas.

2. Install a T-section of pipe into your natural gas line to convert your propane BBQ grill to natural gas. The T-section should have an independent shut-off valve and a connector to hook up the gas line. Just remember to shut the gas off before you install the T-section, and to check for bubbles around the seal of the new section when you turn the gas back on by pouring soapy water on the pipe.

3. Remove the propane regulator on your BBQ grill, which is usually connected to the hose that leads to the propane tank, since the natural gas regulator for your house will now control the pressure of the gas. You will probably need to use a screwdriver to remove the regulator from both the housing and the burners of your propane BBQ grill.

4. Take out the control knob assembly, which should be attached directly to the burner. You may need to remove the entire front panel of your BBQ grill in order to detach the knobs from the burner.

5. Drill out the burner and control knob orifices so that they will be slightly larger for the natural gas hook-ups. Gradually widen the holes using a drill set until you have increased the diameters to the point where the new fittings can be connected. Take care not to go too far and make the holes too big.

6. Connect the hose from the gas line to the burners. The length of line you will need will depend upon how close you can place your grill to the gas line.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're nervous about installing the T-section of pipe to the gas line, call your natural gas service and have them convert it for you.

[cardiffdave]

on 6/27/2009 Re ... Jet drill, use a 1/16 drill, You also need to allow more air into the burner, Usually there is an air intake (carburetor) opening in the burner tube right near the jet. If it is adjustable open wider until you get a blue flame (usually all the way)

[cardiffdave]

on 6/27/2009 Here is how to convert to natural gas for just a few $$
Brinkman – Model 810-8410-5

Propane to Natural Gas Conversion – Brinkman Grill

Converting the grill is quite simple.
1. Enlarge the jets from #60 to #52 (1/16”)
2. Open the burner carburetor air intake from ½ to full
3. Remove the regulator and connect the male ¼” pipe thread to a natural gas supply

Natural gas (1,030 BTU/cuft) has less energy than LP propane (2,516 BTU/cuft). That is why the jets must be larger and more air is required. In addition the LP (11” water column or 0.4 psi) is delivery at higher pressure than propane (~6” water or 0.22 psi).

The jets are part of the valves. Remove the side tables. Remove the front panel. You will see 4 valves and the small brass jets, Remove the jets with a 7mm socket wrench. Clamp them is a vice. Run the drill at high speed and drill through (1/16”).

You will also see the burne...