Sunpak · Fuel & Conversion
Sunpak Natural Gas vs Propane: Fuel Selection and Conversion
Every Sunpak S25 and S34 is ordered as either natural gas (NG) or liquid propane (LP) from the factory. Converting after the fact requires an AEI factory conversion kit — you can't DIY-swap orifices between fuels.
By Ash · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
Step by step
Confirm fuel availability
Natural gas: utility line to the patio (cheaper per BTU, reliable supply, install cost higher). Propane: tank-based (works anywhere, tank refills required, slightly higher per BTU).
Calculate install cost per fuel type
NG: $500-$2000 to run a gas line to the patio if not already in place. LP: $0 if you have an existing propane tank, $200-$500 to add a tank + regulator.
Order the matching Sunpak SKU
Sunpak sells NG-specific and LP-specific SKUs. Confirm the model code on the box matches your fuel before accepting delivery.
Set manifold pressure at install
Natural gas = lower manifold pressure. Propane = higher manifold pressure. A licensed gas fitter sets this with a manometer during install — spec is in the install manual.
Plan for conversion if you must
If you have the wrong fuel type, call AEI at (949) 474-3070 and order the factory conversion kit for your specific Sunpak model. Have a licensed gas fitter install the kit — DIY conversion voids warranty.
Common mistakes
- Running an LP Sunpak on a natural-gas line. LP orifices + NG supply = starved burner, poor ignition, flame-sensor lockouts. Opposite case (NG orifices + LP supply) is dangerous — over-fueled burner, carbon monoxide risk.
- Running two Sunpaks off a single undersized propane tank. A 20-lb propane tank typically can't supply two Sunpak heaters at full BTU simultaneously — the tank freezes and gas pressure drops. Use a 100-lb tank or dual-tank regulator for multi-heater installs.
Hands-on tips
- For patios with existing gas lines nearby: natural gas is the easier install and cheaper to run long-term. The gas-line extension cost is a one-time hit.
- For patios with no gas line and limited use (10 hrs/week): propane is the fastest-to-deploy option — order the heater + a tank + install the regulator and you're done in a day.
Questions people ask
Can I use a BBQ propane tank with a Sunpak?
Technically yes, but the tank needs to be sized for the BTU output of the heater. A 20-lb (5-gal) BBQ tank struggles to supply 25,000-34,000 BTU continuously. Use 40-lb+ tanks or a stationary tank with proper regulator for best performance.
Does AEI's conversion kit include everything?
The kit includes the orifice(s) and any required regulator-change parts. Install hardware (gas-line fittings, teflon tape) is usually not included. Confirm contents with AEI at order time.
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