Answering the common buyer question: a natural gas to propane conversion kit for grills and outdoor cooking equipment can simplify fuel management and reduce tank refills. This article profiles five top options and clarifies who each is best for, with practical notes on compatibility and usage. The kits below are suited for backyard cooks, frequent entertainers, and those who want a steady fuel supply without swapping tanks. Use the quick comparison table to pick the right kit for your appliance and fuel type.
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| Blackstone 5249 | Outdoor griddle owners converting to natural gas | 10 ft natural gas hose with orifices and fittings |
| Weber NG Conversion Kit | Weber Genesis/Spirit grills needing a full NG upgrade | Regulator, hoses, multiple orifices |
| Nexgrill NG Conversion Kit | Nexgrill grills transitioning to natural gas | 10 ft hose, regulator, complete hardware |
| BlueStars 5249 Kit | BlackStone 28″ and 36″ series and related lines | 10 ft hose, quick disconnects, orifices |
| Nexgrill Compatible NG Kit (Variant) | Various Nexgrill models needing complete NG parts | All-in-one kit with orifices and hose |
Blackstone 5249 Propane to Natural Gas Conversion Kit
Best for outdoor griddle enthusiasts who want a reliable natural gas feed. This kit includes a 10 ft (3/8″) natural gas hose, 3/8″ quick connect fitting, natural gas orifices, 2 thread check gauges, and a 7mm orifice wrench. It’s made in the USA and uses brass components for durability. Best for users who prioritize a straightforward upgrade path with all essential hardware in one package. Limitations: compatibility is primarily framed around Blackstone griddles; verify your model’s hose and connector sizes before purchasing.
Weber Genesis/Spirit Natural Gas Conversion Kit
Best for Weber grill owners seeking broad compatibility and a complete NG conversion. It supports a wide range of Weber Genesis, Genesis II, Spirit, Spirit II, and Summit models, covering many generations. The kit includes a 10 ft natural gas hose, regulator, multiple orifices, quick connect, and installation tools. Choose this if you own a Weber grill and want a single kit that targets numerous Weber lineups. Caution: verify specific model compatibility as Weber model numbering can be nuanced.
Nexgrill Propane to Natural Gas Conversion Kit
Best for Nexgrill users seeking a complete NG upgrade. This kit includes a 10 ft, 1/2″ natural gas hose, regulator with fittings pre-installed, and multiple orifices with a removal tool. It provides an all-in-one solution designed to convert propane grills to natural gas with included instructions. Better for Nexgrill owners who want a robust, turnkey conversion. Limitation: compatibility is focused on Nexgrill models listed; confirm your model number before purchase.
BlueStars 5249 Propane to Natural Gas Kit
Best for BlackStone equipment and similar griddles that require a CSA-certified kit. This kit features a full package: 10 ft natural gas hose, quick disconnect and flare fittings, thread check gauges, 16 orifices, and a 7mm wrench. It emphasizes wide compatibility with Blackstone lines while warning users to double-check connection sizes and thread types. Use this when you need a CSA-certified, safety-focused option with extensive orifice options for precise tuning.
Nexgrill Natural Gas Conversion Kit (Propane to NG)
Best for broad Nexgrill compatibility with an emphasis on easy installation. The kit includes all custom drilled orifices, a 10-foot gas hose, regulator with screws, and essential hardware to complete a propane-to-natural-gas transition. Choose this option if you own a Nexgrill model from listed series and want an all-in-one conversion package. Limitation: ensure the kit’s orifice sizes match your grill’s burner configuration for optimal performance.
Buying Guide
What to consider before buying
Fuel type and appliance compatibility: Confirm your grill or outdoor appliance model and whether it officially supports natural gas. Some models may require specific orifice sizes or regulator settings.
Hose length and fittings: A 10-foot hose is common and generally adequate for most setups. Check quick disconnects, flare fittings, and thread types to match your equipment.
Orifices and regulator options: A kit with multiple orifices lets you tune heat output. Ensure the kit provides the correct regulator for your gas line pressure and appliance rating.
Safety certifications: CSA or equivalent certifications help ensure pressure integrity and leak resistance, especially for outdoor use and heat exposure.
Brand and model support: If you own a Weber, Blackstone, Nexgrill, or other specific equipment, prioritize kits advertised as compatible with those lines to minimize compatibility issues.
Installation difficulty: Some kits include comprehensive tools and instructions, while others assume basic grilling maintenance experience. Consider whether professional installation is preferred.
Practical questions to guide your choice
- Which kit offers the broadest model compatibility for my grill line?
- Do I need a CSA-certified kit for outdoor safety standards?
- Is the provided hose length sufficient for my outdoor layout?
- Do I value an all-in-one package with regulator and tools included?
- Are there any model-specific restrictions I must verify before purchase?
Tips for a smooth conversion
- Turn off all gas sources and depressurize lines before beginning any work.
- Verify gas type (natural gas vs propane) and ensure the correct orifice is installed for each burner.
- Follow included manuals step-by-step and double-check all fittings for leaks after installation.
- Test the system outdoors in a well-ventilated area using proper leak-detection practices.
FAQ
- Q: Can I convert any grill to natural gas with these kits?
A: Conversion kits are designed for specific brands and models. Always verify compatibility with your exact grill model before purchase. - Q: Do these kits include everything needed for installation?
A: Most kits include hoses, regulators, orifices, and basic tools; some may require additional model-specific parts. - Q: Is a professional installation recommended?
A: If you’re unsure about gas line connections or leak testing, professional installation is advised. - Q: Are these kits safe for outdoor use?
A: Reputable kits comply with safety standards (e.g., CSA/ANSI). Follow all safety guidelines during installation and testing. - Q: Will switching to natural gas affect heat output?
A: Conversions adjust gas orifices to match gas type; proper tuning is essential to maintain expected heat and performance. - Q: How do I know which kit is best for my grill?
A: Start with your grill’s brand and model, then compare listed compatible models and included components to find the closest match.