Venting; Regulator Diagnostics - Whirlpool 4322452 Service Manual

Pressure regulators contain an air vent in the upper chamber to allow a free flow of air in and out
of the chamber during operation (see Figure 2-7). The vent's secondary purpose is to safely control
the flow of gas to the atmosphere (200cc-per-hour or 7 BTU-per-hour) in case the diaphragm
ruptures. If the vent is partially or completely plugged, the regulator will become sluggish. It can
also become fixed in the high or low position, depending on which position the diaphragm was in
when it became plugged.
Common causes for regulator failure are:
A. Ruptured diaphragm.
B. Broken or worn valve.
C. Debris accumulating around the valve seat.
D. Restricted (plugged) vent.
E. Internal corrosion due to water in the L.P. gas system. Keep the tank full to prevent this
from occurring.
As a safety feature, the regulator will "lock-up" and restrict all gas flow during any situation that
applies extreme pressure to the incoming gas supply line. The pressure regulator can be unlocked
by removing the cap, and pushing down on the diaphragm with the eraser end of a pencil.
Usually the appliance regulator is replaced rather than serviced, since it has few replaceable or
serviceable parts, and is a relatively inexpensive device.

VENTING

Vent (Through
Hole In Cap)
Figure 2-7

REGULATOR DIAGNOSTICS

Cap
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