Vent Lines
Venting requirements and codes vary from County to County, State to State. Always follow local code requirements in venting regulators. Vents not only provide a leak path for gas when a diaphragm ruptures but also allows the diaphragm to "breathe" and function properly. If a vent is restricted a regulator's performance will be adversely effected and tend to "hunt" or not properly control the pressure. Do not use excessive long runs or amounts of fittings in plumbing vent lines. If piping becomes excessive due to physical limitations of the jobsite, bush to the next size up of pipe to increase the stack effect and reduce frictional losses. Never reduce the vent piping size from that of the connection on the regulator. Always turn outlet of the vent line downward so as to limit the effects of outdoor weather and debris. Install a bug screen on the vent outlet to prevent insects from nesting in the line. Insure that bug screens are not painted over. In venting to a roof in an area that commonly gets winter snow fall, make sure the vent discharge is sufficiently above the roof line to account for a snow layer on the roof. Always insure venting is done in a safe area, away from any fresh air intakes, windows, and people. When venting propane, take extra care to insure no pockets of gas can collect in low-lying areas, REMEMBER, propane falls to the ground, and natural gas floats away!