Can You Convert Your Nexgrill 720-0888S to Natural Gas? A Comprehensive Guide

The Nexgrill 720-0888S is a popular propane grill known for its affordability and decent grilling performance. However, many owners often wonder if they can bypass the propane tank and connect their grill directly to a natural gas line. This article delves into the possibilities and challenges of converting a Nexgrill 720-0888S to natural gas, providing a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Basics: Propane vs. Natural Gas

Before diving into the specifics of the conversion, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental differences between propane (LP gas) and natural gas.

Propane and natural gas are both hydrocarbon fuels, but they differ significantly in their chemical composition and properties. Propane is a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), typically stored under pressure in tanks. Natural gas, primarily methane, is supplied through underground pipelines.

One of the most important differences is their BTU (British Thermal Unit) content. BTU measures the amount of heat energy released when a fuel is burned. Propane has a significantly higher BTU content per cubic foot than natural gas. This means propane burns hotter than natural gas.

Because of this difference in BTU content, appliances designed for propane have smaller orifices (the small openings that control gas flow) than those designed for natural gas. If you were to connect a propane grill directly to a natural gas line without modification, it would likely produce a weak, yellow flame and insufficient heat. Conversely, connecting a natural gas grill to a propane tank without modification could create an extremely dangerous, excessively large flame.

Is Converting Your Nexgrill 720-0888S Even Possible?

The short answer is: it depends. Officially, Nexgrill does not recommend or support converting the 720-0888S model from propane to natural gas. Attempting to convert your grill without proper knowledge and components can be dangerous and void any warranty.

However, many grill owners have successfully converted similar propane grills to natural gas using aftermarket conversion kits or by sourcing individual components. The feasibility of converting your specific grill largely depends on the availability of a suitable conversion kit or compatible parts.

Always prioritize safety. If you are not completely comfortable working with gas lines and making modifications to your grill, it is highly recommended that you hire a qualified professional to perform the conversion.

What’s Needed for a Successful Conversion

If you’re determined to proceed with converting your Nexgrill 720-0888S to natural gas, you’ll need to gather the necessary components and tools.

First and foremost, you’ll need a natural gas conversion kit. Unfortunately, there isn’t a specific kit designed explicitly for the Nexgrill 720-0888S. You will need to search for a universal conversion kit, making sure it has compatible parts for your grill. Carefully review the kit’s specifications and ensure it is designed for a grill with a similar BTU output.

A typical conversion kit includes:

• Natural gas orifices: These replace the propane orifices and have a larger opening to allow for the correct flow of natural gas.
• A natural gas regulator: This reduces the higher pressure of the natural gas line to the pressure required by the grill. Propane regulators deliver gas at approximately 11 inches of water column (WC), while natural gas regulators deliver gas at approximately 4 inches of WC.
• A hose and fittings: To connect the grill to the natural gas supply.

Besides the kit, you’ll also need some basic tools, including:

• Wrenches: For disconnecting and connecting gas lines and fittings.
• Screwdrivers: To access and replace the orifices.
• Pipe thread sealant: To ensure gas-tight connections.
• Leak detector solution: To check for leaks after the conversion.

The Conversion Process: A Step-by-Step Guide (General)

While the exact steps may vary depending on the specific conversion kit you use, here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Safety First: Disconnect the propane tank and ensure the grill is completely cool before starting. Turn off the gas supply at the source.
2. Access the Orifices: Locate the burner orifices. This usually involves removing the grill grates, heat tents (or flavorizer bars), and sometimes the burners themselves. Consult your grill’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
3. Replace the Orifices: Using the appropriate wrench or screwdriver, carefully remove the propane orifices and replace them with the natural gas orifices from the conversion kit. Ensure they are securely tightened.
4. Install the Natural Gas Regulator: Remove the existing propane regulator and replace it with the natural gas regulator included in the kit. Follow the kit’s instructions carefully to ensure proper installation.
5. Connect the Gas Hose: Connect the natural gas hose to the regulator and to the natural gas supply line. Use pipe thread sealant on all threaded connections to prevent leaks.
6. Leak Test: Turn on the gas supply at the source and apply leak detector solution (or soapy water) to all connections. Look for bubbles, which indicate a leak. If you find a leak, turn off the gas, tighten the connection, and repeat the leak test.
7. Test the Burners: Once you’re confident there are no leaks, light the burners and observe the flame. The flame should be blue with a slight yellow tip. If the flame is mostly yellow or orange, there may be an issue with the gas pressure or the orifices.
8. Reassemble the Grill: Once you’ve confirmed the burners are working correctly, reassemble the grill components.

Potential Problems and Solutions

Converting a propane grill to natural gas isn’t always straightforward. Here are some common problems you might encounter and potential solutions:

• Incorrect Orifice Size: If the flame is too weak, the orifices may be too small. If the flame is too large or yellow, the orifices may be too large. You may need to experiment with different orifice sizes to find the optimal setting.
• Gas Pressure Issues: If the gas pressure is too low, the burners may not light properly. If the gas pressure is too high, the flame may be unstable or dangerous. Ensure the natural gas regulator is functioning correctly and that the gas supply pressure is within the recommended range for the grill.
• Leaking Connections: Leaks can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately. Always use pipe thread sealant on all threaded connections and perform a thorough leak test after the conversion.
• Incompatible Conversion Kit: Make sure the conversion kit is compatible with your grill’s BTU output and burner design. If the kit is not compatible, it may not provide the correct orifice sizes or regulator settings.

Safety Considerations: A Paramount Concern

Converting a propane grill to natural gas involves working with flammable gas, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Safety should be your top priority throughout the entire process.

• If you are not comfortable working with gas lines, hire a qualified professional to perform the conversion.
• Always disconnect the propane tank and turn off the gas supply at the source before starting any work.
• Use pipe thread sealant on all threaded connections to prevent leaks.
• Perform a thorough leak test after the conversion.
• If you smell gas at any time, turn off the gas supply immediately and contact your local gas company or fire department.
• Ensure proper ventilation when working with gas.

Why Convert to Natural Gas? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Converting to natural gas has some attractive benefits, but it’s also important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision.

Pros:

• Convenience: No more running out of propane in the middle of a cookout. Natural gas provides a continuous fuel supply.
• Cost Savings: Natural gas is often cheaper than propane, especially if you grill frequently.
• Environmental Friendliness: Natural gas typically produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than propane.

Cons:

• Complexity: Converting a grill to natural gas can be complex and requires some technical knowledge.
• Cost: The cost of a conversion kit and professional installation can be significant.
• Permanence: Once converted, the grill is permanently connected to the natural gas line, limiting its portability.
• Warranty Voidance: Converting your Nexgrill 720-0888S may void the manufacturer’s warranty.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

Whether or not converting your Nexgrill 720-0888S to natural gas is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you value convenience and potential cost savings and are comfortable with the technical challenges involved, it may be a worthwhile endeavor. However, if you are not comfortable working with gas lines or are concerned about voiding the warranty, it may be best to stick with propane. Always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified professional if you have any doubts. Carefully consider all the factors before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

FAQ 1: Is it possible to convert my Nexgrill 720-0888S from propane to natural gas?

Yes, it is technically possible to convert your Nexgrill 720-0888S from propane to natural gas, but it’s not a straightforward process. The grill was originally manufactured and designed to operate with liquid propane (LP), which has a higher pressure than natural gas (NG). This difference in pressure requires adjustments to the orifices, regulator, and potentially other components to ensure safe and efficient operation on natural gas.

Converting without the proper knowledge and parts can be extremely dangerous, leading to gas leaks, improper combustion, or even explosions. It’s highly recommended to consult with a qualified gas technician or a certified grill repair professional before attempting any conversion. They can assess the feasibility, identify the necessary parts, and perform the conversion safely and correctly, ensuring your grill operates as intended and meets safety standards.

FAQ 2: What parts would I need to convert my Nexgrill 720-0888S to natural gas?

The primary parts needed for a propane to natural gas conversion on your Nexgrill 720-0888S are natural gas orifices, a natural gas regulator, and potentially a new gas hose and connectors compatible with natural gas. Orifices control the flow of gas to the burners, and since natural gas has a lower pressure than propane, the orifices need to be larger to deliver the appropriate amount of fuel. A natural gas regulator is also crucial to step down the higher natural gas line pressure to the level required by the grill.

Beyond these essential components, you might also require thread sealant designed for gas lines, new connectors to adapt to your natural gas supply line, and potentially even a different manifold if the original one isn’t compatible with natural gas. It’s critical to identify the exact size and specifications for each part needed for your specific Nexgrill model. Contacting Nexgrill directly or a reputable grill parts supplier is recommended to ensure you acquire the correct and compatible components.

FAQ 3: Is there a conversion kit specifically designed for the Nexgrill 720-0888S?

Generally, there isn’t a readily available “official” conversion kit specifically designed and marketed by Nexgrill for converting the 720-0888S from propane to natural gas. Nexgrill often designs their grills to operate exclusively with the fuel type they were initially configured for, typically propane. This simplifies manufacturing and reduces potential safety risks associated with improper conversions.

While a dedicated Nexgrill-branded kit might not exist, you may be able to find universal conversion kits or individual components that could potentially be adapted to your grill. However, using such kits or individual parts requires careful research and meticulous attention to detail to ensure compatibility and safe operation. It is strongly advised to consult with a qualified gas technician who can assess the suitability of any aftermarket parts and perform the conversion safely and correctly.

FAQ 4: What are the dangers of converting my grill to natural gas myself?

Converting your grill to natural gas yourself without proper knowledge and expertise poses significant dangers. Natural gas is highly flammable, and any leaks or improper connections can create a serious fire or explosion hazard. Improperly sized orifices or a faulty regulator can lead to incomplete combustion, producing carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

Furthermore, modifying a grill without the manufacturer’s authorization can void any existing warranty. Home insurance policies might also be invalidated if an uncertified conversion leads to property damage or injury. Ultimately, the potential risks to your safety, property, and legal standing far outweigh any perceived cost savings from a DIY conversion. Professional installation is always recommended.

FAQ 5: How much would it cost to have a professional convert my grill?

The cost of having a professional convert your Nexgrill 720-0888S to natural gas can vary considerably depending on several factors. These include the availability of qualified technicians in your area, the complexity of the conversion (which may require additional parts or modifications), and local labor rates. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of any necessary parts, such as natural gas orifices, a new regulator, and possibly a new gas hose and connectors.

As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 or more for a professional conversion. This price range includes both the labor costs and the cost of the necessary parts. Obtaining quotes from multiple qualified gas technicians or grill repair professionals in your area is highly recommended to get a clear understanding of the potential costs involved. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of the parts and labor included in the quote.

FAQ 6: Will converting my grill to natural gas void the warranty?

Yes, converting your Nexgrill 720-0888S from propane to natural gas will almost certainly void the manufacturer’s warranty. Grill warranties are typically based on the grill being used as intended and according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Modifying the grill by converting it to a different fuel source constitutes a deviation from those specifications.

Manufacturers like Nexgrill generally do not cover damages or malfunctions that result from unauthorized modifications. This is because they cannot guarantee the safety or performance of the grill after it has been altered. Before proceeding with a conversion, it’s essential to understand the implications for your warranty coverage. Contacting Nexgrill directly to confirm their specific warranty policy regarding fuel conversions is always recommended.

FAQ 7: What are the benefits of using natural gas over propane for grilling?

One of the primary benefits of using natural gas over propane for grilling is the convenience of a continuous fuel supply. With natural gas, you don’t have to worry about running out of propane in the middle of cooking and having to replace or refill tanks. Natural gas is typically piped directly to your home, providing an uninterrupted fuel source whenever you need it.

Another potential benefit is the cost savings. Natural gas is often, but not always, less expensive than propane on a per-BTU basis, potentially leading to lower fuel costs over time, especially if you grill frequently. However, it’s important to compare the prices in your local area to determine if natural gas is indeed the more economical option. The initial cost of conversion and the installation of a natural gas line must also be considered in the overall cost analysis.