Best Propane Regulator for Campers: Auto Changeover Regulators for RVs
Camping with an RV or camper relies on a steady propane supply. Auto changeover regulators automatically switch between tanks, ensuring you don’t run out mid-use. The products below are popular, two-stage regulators designed for dual-tank setups, offering safety features and easy operation for American campers. This guide highlights five top options, comparing their capabilities, connections, and suitability for trailers, vans, and motorhomes.
| Product | Brand | BTU (Primary / Reserve) | Key Feature | Inlet / Outlet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flame King KT12ACR-2 | Flame King | 345,200 BTU | Two 12″ pigtails, dual-tank auto changeover | 1/4″ SAE Inverted Flare / 3/8″ NPT |
| RecPro 2-Stage Auto Changeover | RecPro | 250,000 BTU | Auto switch to full tank, red indicator window | 1/4″ female NPT / 3/8″ female NPT |
| PYXGLAQ 2-Tank Kit | PYXGLAQ | 210,000 / 130,000 BTU | Dual tanks with color indicator, CSA certified | 1/4″ SAE Inverted Flare / 3/8″ NPT |
| Flame King ACR-2a | Flame King | 345,200 BTU | Dual-tank auto changeover (no pigtails) | 1/4″ SAE inverted flare / 3/8″ NPT |
| Alloxity 2-Stage Auto Changeover | Alloxity | 210,000 / 130,000 BTU | Rotary indicator, dual tanks, stainless hose option | 1/4″ SAE inverted flare / 3/8″ NPT |
Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or living off-grid, each option supports dual tanks and maintains steady pressure. When comparing, consider the BTU capacity, connection types, whether pigtails are included, and any built-in indicators that show when a tank needs refilling. The following sections detail five top choices and how they perform in real-world camper setups.
Flame King KT12ACR-2: 2-Stage Auto Changeover Regulator
The Flame King KT12ACR-2 provides a dual-tank auto changeover with two 12-inch pigtails for easy hookup to dual propane tanks. It automatically switches from the primary to the reserve tank when the primary empties, ensuring an uninterrupted propane supply for RVs, vans, and trailers. This UL-listed regulator has 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlets and a 3/8″ NPT outlet, rated up to 345,200 BTU. It enables removing an empty cylinder for refilling without interrupting service.
RecPro 2-Stage Auto Changeover
RecPro’s regulator design aims for ease of use, featuring an automatic switch to the full tank and a red indicator window. Weighing about 2.5 pounds, it includes pigtails and is compact, helping save space on RV dual-tank holders. It supports up to 250 PSI and uses 1/4″ female NPT inlets with a 3/8″ female NPT outlet. The unit’s construction emphasizes safety and reliability for outdoor use in varied environments.
PYXGLAQ 2-Tank Kit
PYXGLAQ offers a two-tank regulator with dual-stage design, ensuring stable gas flow and automatic switching between primary and reserve tanks. The unit includes CSA certification for safety and uses 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlets and a 3/8″ NPT outlet. Primary capacity is 210,000 BTU/hr and reserve 130,000 BTU/hr, suitable for RVs, trailers, and campers seeking dependable performance in outdoor settings.
Flame King ACR-2a (Without Pigtails)
The ACR-2a model offers reliable dual-tank regulation with auto changeover and standard inlet/outlet connections. Without included pigtails, it’s ideal for campers who already have compatible hoses or a pre-existing regulator setup. It is UL-listed and rated similarly to other Flame King products at 345,200 BTU, with 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlets and a 3/8″ NPT outlet, making it suitable for many RV configurations.
Flame King KT12ACR-2a: Dual-Tank Changeover
This variant mirrors the KT12ACR-2 with dual tanks and auto-changeover. It includes two 12″ pigtails for quick connection to dual propane sources, facilitating uninterrupted supply when refilling one tank. It features UL-listed regulation with 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlets and a 3/8″ NPT outlet, rated at 345,200 BTU. It’s suitable for RVs, vans, and trailers requiring dependable dual-tank operation.
Alloxity 2-Stage Auto Changeover
Alloxity’s regulator provides a two-stage auto-changeover with robust materials for outdoor use. It delivers up to 210,000 BTU/hr on the primary and 130,000 BTU/hr on the reserve. Inlets are 1/4″ SAE inverted flare, with a 3/8″ NPT outlet. The kit includes a propane hose with regulator features and is CSA certified for safety and reliability when wiring dual propane tanks for a camper or trailer setup.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a propane regulator for a camper include BTU capacity, compatibility with dual tanks, presence of auto-changeover, inclusion of pigtails or hoses, and certification for safety. Consider the expected propane demand from cooking, heating, and appliances; higher BTU ratings support consistent pressure at altitude or with longer hoses. Ensure the regulator’s inlet and outlet sizes match your existing hoses and tanks (commonly 1/4″ SAE inverted flare inlets and 3/8″ NPT outlets). Look for indicators or color changes that signal tank depletion and the overall build quality, including corrosion resistance and stainless steel components for outdoor use. Compatibility with QCC1 connections and CSA/UL listings enhances safety and ease of use in a family-cabin environment. If you already own hoses, a regulator without pigtails may align better; otherwise, select units that include pigtails for quicker installation. Finally, verify the unit’s mounting compatibility with your RV or trailer’s dual-tank rack to ensure secure installation and optimal gas flow.
This selection provides options with and without included hoses, varied BTU ratings, and easily identifiable indicators to help you pick a regulator that aligns with your camper’s propane needs and safety preferences.