Do I need the pressure regulator to connect my gas cooktop to my Gas pipe?

Question

I just bought a gas cooktop and it comes with a "Maxitrol appliance pressure regulator". How ever the instruction did not state very clear. It only said that what do you need to do with it if you want to convert the cooktop to use LP gas(I guess it is propane gas). It did not say whether I need the pressure regulator if I am using the nature gas. My old one when I removed, it did not have the regulator. Now, my question is do I need the regulator or not? If yes, I am having the problem to fit my pipe from the nature gas to the regulator since the opening of the regulator is samller then the pipe from the gas. IF I don't use the regulator then it fits perfectly. Please help. my cooktop is Jeann-air JGD8345.
Thanks

Answer 1

Tough question. If you are on natural gas, there is a pressure regulator attached to your meter which drops the gas main pressure. Furnaces, water heaters and most stoves and dryers are designed to run at this pressure. Since you say you got a regulator with the cook top is it possible that the regulator is for use with LP from a tank. Barbecue's have a regulator in the hookup hose.. The name plate on the cook top should have the particulars on gas pressure required to operate the unit. Ask your natural gas supplier if you can safely run the cook top. If you at all uncertain, have a professional install the cook top. They are licensed to work on these units and are insured. If you install it and make a mistake your insurance company may have a case for denying a claim.

Answer 2

I would have said copy what you have and you should be OK. Memory serves me correctly. Natural gas fitting and LP are different. In line Natural gas is regulated at the meter pressurewise. LP tanks need a pressure regulator. If the instructions do not mention a pressure regulator, don't need one(unless you have natural gas in a tank)like propane. The reason for the different sizes of pipe is so you don't mix them up. Some even have left hand thread so you cannot connect. Industry standard.