Gas Stove Conversion: Propane to Natural Gas and Back
Everything about gas stove and range conversion — which parts change, why orifices matter, whether you need a professional, and safety checks before using a converted stove.
What a Gas Stove Conversion Involves
Converting a gas stove or range between propane and natural gas means changing the burner orifices and adjusting the regulator so the appliance burns the new fuel safely. Propane carries more energy per volume, so it needs smaller orifices; natural gas needs larger ones. Using the wrong orifices produces yellow flames, soot and dangerous incomplete combustion.
Which Parts Change in a Conversion
- Burner orifices: one per burner, replaced with the fuel-specific size
- Regulator spring or adjustment: propane regulators are set to 11 WC, natural gas to about 7 WC
- Oven orifice: the broiler and bake burners have their own orifices
- Conversion label: the manufacturer label is updated to record the new fuel
Is a Conversion Kit Brand-Specific?
Yes. Conversion kits are model-specific. The orifice sizes, regulator parts and instructions differ between brands and even models. Using a generic kit risks incorrect flame settings and voiding the warranty. Always order the kit by brand and model number.
Do You Need a Professional?
In many Canadian provinces, gas appliance conversions must be done by a licensed gas technician to remain code-compliant and insurable. Even where DIY is allowed, a certified technician verifies the conversion with a manometer (pressure test) and a leak check. The safest path: have the conversion done and inspected by a professional, then order the kit yourself to save on markup.
The Conversion Process (Overview)
- Identify the model and order the exact conversion kit.
- Shut off the gas and disconnect the stove.
- Replace each burner orifice with the fuel-specific size from the kit.
- Adjust the regulator spring per the kit instructions.
- Reinstall and leak test every connection with soapy water.
- Verify flames: blue with a small inner cone, no yellow tips.
Can You Convert Back?
Yes. Keep the original propane parts. Reinstalling them and re-adjusting the regulator returns the stove to propane. Never mix fuel-specific parts — mark the orifices clearly when you store them.
Safety Checks After Conversion
After any conversion, test each burner at low and high settings. Yellow flames or soot mean the wrong orifice is installed. If you smell gas at any connection, close the supply and have the stove checked before using it.