Can I operate a gas stove or gas hob with LPG instead of compressed natural gas (CNG)?

In the case of natural gas, there is a risk of scarcity in winter 2022/2023, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is still available in sufficient quantities. Many people who own a gas stove or a gas hob are therefore wondering whether they can simply convert from using natural gas to LPG. We tell you whether this is possible and how it works!

Natural gas (compressed natural gas, CNG for short) is becoming scarce and has already become extremely expensive. As regards saving measures for the medium of natural gas, it is often reported that this means indoor temperatures will fall. In many places, however, natural gas isn’t just used for heating purposes. In some households and industry kitchens, CNG is the primary source of energy to be used for cooking, for operating a gas stove or a gas hob, for example.

Is a conversion possible?

In this case, saving energy is, of course, far more difficult. As regards the uncertain future of natural gas in Germany, some people think LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) could be an alternative. But is this an alternative that is suitable for everyone?

It isn’t possible to answer this question straight off. However, it is frequently the case that operators can convert a gas stove or a gas hob from natural gas to LPG. The extent to which this is easy or complicated, or whether it is possible at all, always depends on the individual case.

Checking purchase accessories

Manufacturers of such gas equipment often include two sets of nozzles: one for operation with natural gas, one for LPG. Ideally, anyone who has used natural gas to operate a stove, oven or hob has also put the set of nozzles for LPG away in a safe place. It may also be the case that the manufacturer has given details on how to replace the nozzles in the assembly and operating manual.

Contact the manufacturer

Of course, it becomes more complicated when the replacement set of nozzles for LPG is no longer available or has never been and/or no documentation is available. What should you do? Our recommendation: try to contact the manufacturer first to get the original set of nozzles as well as a guide to the conversion.

If this is not possible, various online and offline marketplaces offer a wide range of nozzles or full sets of nozzles. We are, of course, unable to say which piece of equipment is right for you. As a rule, you should always bear in mind that – despite numerous safety devices within the system – gas is a potentially dangerous medium.

Recommendation: specialist company!

We therefore recommend: ideally contact a specialist company that has already carried out a conversion of this kind. The specialist company will know the right kind of nozzles and be an expert in these tasks. Among others, the different working pressure of both media (natural gas: 20 mbar / LPG: 50 mbar) must be taken into account. In addition, constructional factors must be taken into account, such as the need for a pressure reducer on the gas cylinder. GOK has developed its own set for this purpose.

Anyone who wants to change the nozzles must be aware that they do so at their own risk and according to their personal responsibility. And: many manufacturers explicitly point out in their assembly and operating manual that only professional personnel may carry out work on or complete repairs to gas equipment!

This video includes some useful information about replacing nozzles:

Summary

Yes, on many pieces of gas equipment there is the option for converting from natural gas to LPG. As a rule, this can also be done in quite a cost-effective way, as some manufacturers include a conversion kit with a new purchase.

If you no longer have an original set from the manufacturer, you should contact the manufacturer first. If no conversion kit is available from the manufacturer, conversion sets are available online and at local specialist retailers. Important: Make sure that the installation is carried out by a specialist company which is able to configure, check and document the LPG system according to the Technical Rules on LPG 2021 (TRF).