For properties without access to the mains gas network, LPG can provide an alternative way to power a gas boiler. It’s particularly common in rural and coastal areas, as well as new-build developments where gas infrastructure isn’t yet in place.
But how does an LPG boiler work, and how straightforward is it to convert a Navien boiler from natural gas to LPG?
Here, our Senior National Training Manager Sergio answers some questions people may have around LPG boiler conversions.
What is an LPG boiler?
An LPG boiler works in much the same way as a natural gas boiler but uses liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as its fuel. The central heating system itself is basically the same. The main difference for the installer is how the boiler is set up to operate safely with LPG over natural gas.
For properties that don’t have access to mains gas, LPG gives installers another opportunity to specify and install gas boilers. It means you can offer suitable heating options to more customers, including those in rural areas, coastal locations, static caravans, canal boats and residential lodges.
Can a natural gas boiler be converted to LPG?
Applicable Navien boilers can be converted from natural gas to LPG.
The conversion is designed meticulously to be straightforward. The LPG conversion kit is supplied with the boiler, so the required injector is included rather than needing to be sourced separately.
On the NCB range, the conversion involves replacing the injector with the LPG version and adjusting two DIP switches on the boiler’s circuit board in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This configures the boiler to operate on LPG rather than natural gas.
The appliance instructions supplied with the boiler also cover the conversion process.
How long does a Navien LPG conversion take?
On our NCB range boilers, you can complete the LPG conversion in around 10-15 minutes. With the required injector supplied with the boiler, you have everything you need to carry out the conversion without sourcing additional parts, helping you save time on installation and take on more LPG jobs.
For installers working on new-builds or properties where mains gas infrastructure isn’t available, this can make converting from a natural gas setup to LPG a simple part of a faster installation.
Why does the boiler need to be converted for LPG?
Changing the boiler from natural gas to LPG isn’t simply a case of changing the fuel supply. The type of gas affects the amount of oxygen required for combustion, so the boiler needs to be correctly configured for LPG to ensure it operates safely and as intended.
That’s why the correct injector and boiler settings are important when carrying out a natural gas to LPG conversion. When carrying out boiler installations and conversions, installers must be Gas Safe registered and hold the relevant LPG qualifications. Natural gas registration alone isn’t sufficient, so it’s important to have the appropriate LPG certification for the work being undertaken.
What makes Navien’s LPG conversion straightforward?
With the LPG injector supplied with applicable boilers, there’s no need to source additional parts. The conversion is quick to carry out, with clear instructions provided to guide you through the process, helping you save time on site.
LPG boiler questions, answered
Can I run a boiler on LPG gas?
The Navien NCB range being the NCB300, NCB500 and NCB700 can be converted from natural gas to LPG using the supplied LPG conversion components and the appliance instructions.
Where are LPG boilers used?
- Rural and remote homes: Houses in the countryside where the gas distribution network does not reach.
- Static caravans: Compact setups where portable or tank-fed gas is the most practical choice.
- Canal boats and narrowboats: Marine environments requiring localised fuel for heating and hot water.
- Park homes and residential lodges: Communities that rely on shared or individual bulk gas storage tanks rather than municipal pipelines.
What is LPG heating?
LPG heating uses liquefied petroleum gas as the fuel for a heating system. An LPG boiler operates in much the same way as a natural gas boiler, but the appliance needs to be correctly configured for LPG.
Is an LPG boiler different from a gas boiler?
The heating system itself is broadly the same. The key difference is the fuel being used and the boiler configuration required for LPG.
Do I need an LPG-qualified installer?
Yes. LPG work requires the appropriate LPG competence, so installers should have the relevant qualification in addition to Gas Safe registration.
LPG conversion made simpler
LPG doesn’t have to mean a complicated boiler installation. With the LPG conversion kit supplied with our boilers, the required injector included, and clear instructions provided with the appliance, converting a Navien boiler from the NCB range from natural gas to LPG can be a straightforward part of the installation process.
Whether you’re installing in a rural property, a coastal area or a new build without mains gas, Navien’s LPG conversion gives you more flexibility on site. Explore our LPG-compatible boilers and see how straightforward conversion can be for your next installation.
