Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit

The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit offers a simple solution for converting your propane-fueled Camp Chef stove to natural gas, eliminating the need for propane tank refills. Camp Chef, a name synonymous with quality outdoor cooking equipment, designed this kit with ease of use and convenience in mind. The Natural Gas Connection Kit promises a continuous fuel supply, allowing you to focus on cooking without worrying about running out of propane mid-meal.

I’ve always appreciated the power and convenience of my Camp Chef stove for everything from backyard barbecues to backcountry cooking. The constant trips to refill propane tanks, however, became a major inconvenience, especially when hosting large gatherings. I needed a solution that would provide a reliable and consistent fuel source without the hassle of propane.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit was positive. The hose felt sturdy and well-made, and the fittings appeared to be of good quality. The kit felt lightweight, but the materials seemed durable enough to withstand regular outdoor use.

I considered a universal natural gas conversion kit from a local hardware store, as well as one from a competitor brand (let’s call them “Outdoor Gourmet”). Ultimately, I chose the Camp Chef kit for its guaranteed compatibility with my Camp Chef stove and the perceived reliability of the brand. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if the kit lived up to its promise of a hassle-free natural gas conversion.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit on my Camp Chef Explorer stove in my backyard, connecting it to the natural gas outlet on my patio. The initial setup was straightforward, taking about 15 minutes, and I double-checked all connections for leaks using soapy water. The kit was first tested during a family cookout with about 20 people.

The performance was initially underwhelming; the flames were significantly weaker compared to propane, even after allowing the gas line to fully purge. It took longer to heat up the grill and cook the food, and I had to adjust cooking times accordingly. This was a surprise, given that the product description specifies compatibility with 30,000 BTU/hr burners.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few weeks of use, including several weekend barbecues and a couple of weeknight dinners, the initial disappointment faded slightly. The kit has held up well physically, showing no signs of wear or tear, despite being exposed to the elements. I keep the hose covered when not in use, but even after rain and sun exposure, the material still looks new.

Cleaning is simple; I just wipe down the hose and fittings with a damp cloth as needed. The biggest drawback remains the lower heat output compared to propane; cooking takes longer, and achieving a good sear on steaks is more challenging. While convenient, the performance difference compared to propane leaves something to be desired.

Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit

Specifications

• The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit features a 10 ft hose, providing ample length to connect your stove to a natural gas outlet. The 3/8″ hose diameter is designed to deliver sufficient gas flow for typical outdoor cooking needs.
• The kit includes a 3/8″ flare female swivel appliance end, compatible with all Camp Chef stoves and most BBQ grills, which offers universal compatibility and ease of connection. The kit weighs in at a light 1.1 lbs, making it easy to handle and install.

The 10 ft length is crucial for reaching gas outlets that may not be directly adjacent to the cooking area. The 3/8″ flare female swivel ensures a secure and leak-free connection, essential for safety and efficient gas flow. The light weight ensures ease of handling during installation and portability if needed.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit is to convert a propane stove to natural gas, and it does accomplish this goal. However, the performance is where it falls short; the lower heat output compared to propane is a significant drawback. The ease of use is a definite plus, and the kit is reliable in terms of maintaining a consistent gas supply once connected.

The major weakness is the diminished cooking power; it takes longer to heat up and cook food, especially when searing or grilling at high temperatures. While the kit meets the basic expectation of providing a natural gas connection, it doesn’t exceed expectations in terms of cooking performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit is simple and functional. The hose is made of durable, weather-resistant material, and the fittings are solid and well-constructed. The kit is lightweight and easy to handle, making installation a breeze.

There is no learning curve; connecting the hose to the stove and gas outlet is straightforward, even for those with limited plumbing experience. The straightforward design means it’s immediately user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit appears to be built to last. The hose is made of a durable material that resists cracking and wear, and the brass fittings are corrosion-resistant. Maintenance is minimal; simply wiping down the hose and fittings with a damp cloth is sufficient.

The overall build quality suggests that the kit will last for many years with proper care. The simple design also reduces the likelihood of any mechanical failures, making it a reliable long-term solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit itself does not come with any additional accessories. However, depending on your specific natural gas outlet, you may need to purchase additional fittings or adapters. The connection end is standard, but older or non-standard outlets might require extra parts from a hardware store.

The Natural Gas Connection Kit is primarily designed for converting a Camp Chef stove or grill to natural gas. The kit does not provide any extensive customization options, focusing instead on its specific intended function.

Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit?

The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit is perfect for homeowners who have a natural gas outlet on their patio and frequently use their Camp Chef stove. It’s also a great option for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle and expense of refilling propane tanks. This kit benefits those who prioritize convenience over maximum heat output.

Anyone who demands the highest possible heat output for searing and grilling might want to skip this product and stick with propane. Additionally, those without a readily accessible natural gas outlet would find this kit useless. A must-have modification, depending on your gas outlet, might be a quick-connect fitting for easier hookup and disconnection.

Conclusion on Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit

The Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit offers a convenient solution for converting your propane stove to natural gas, eliminating the need for constant propane refills. While the lower heat output is a drawback, the ease of use and continuous fuel supply make it a worthwhile investment for many. The price of $99.99 is reasonable, considering the convenience and long-term cost savings on propane.

I would recommend this product to anyone who values convenience and has a readily available natural gas outlet. Despite the performance limitations, the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit provides a reliable and hassle-free cooking experience. Ditch the propane tanks and enjoy the ease of natural gas – buy the Camp Chef Natural Gas Connection Kit today!