Important Safety Warnings
- Gas type conversion must be performed by a licensed technician. Incorrect orifice sizes create a fire or asphyxiation risk.
- Do not operate an LP-configured range on a natural gas supply, or vice versa.
Step-by-Step Guide
Identify Your Current Configuration
Check the model sticker (typically inside the door frame or behind the lower drawer) for "NAT" (Natural Gas) or "LP" (Liquid Propane) designation.
Verify Your Gas Supply Type
Contact your gas utility or propane provider to confirm the gas type and supply pressure available at your installation location.
Order Factory Conversion Kit
La Cornue supplies model-specific conversion orifice kits. These are not generic — each kit is matched to your range's exact BTU configuration. Order through a La Cornue authorized service provider.
Schedule Licensed Installation
A licensed gas plumber and a La Cornue-certified technician must perform the conversion. This involves swapping burner orifices, adjusting the regulator, and verifying supply pressure.
Verify & Test All Burners
After conversion, each burner should be lit and tested. Flame shape and height should be consistent with factory specification. A gas leak test must be performed on all connections.
Natural Gas vs LP: The Key Differences
Natural gas (methane) and liquid propane are different fuels with significantly different energy densities and delivery pressures. LP propane contains approximately 2,500 BTU per cubic foot versus 1,000 BTU per cubic foot for natural gas. This means LP requires smaller orifices to deliver the equivalent BTU output — using natural gas orifices with LP produces dangerous, oversized flames.
The Conversion Process
Converting a La Cornue range from one fuel type to another requires:
- Replacing every burner orifice with the correctly sized jet for the new fuel
- Adjusting the pressure regulator setting
- Rechecking all air shutter settings for proper air-to-gas mix
- Burning off at low heat and confirming flame stability across all burners
LP Storage & Pressure Considerations
La Cornue LP-configured ranges require a regulated pressure of typically 11 inches water column (WC) at the appliance. If your property uses a large bulk LP tank, ensure the second-stage regulator is set correctly. LP tanks also experience pressure variations in cold weather — if the tank temperature drops below 20°F (-6°C), delivery pressure may fall below operating specification, causing weak flames or ignition failures.
Still Experiencing Issues?
Our factory-trained technicians are ready to diagnose and repair any La Cornue appliance.