Red Seal Gasfitter — Class A Practice Exam

What is the function of a gas regulator?

1. To increase the volume of gas

2. To reduce and maintain a constant output pressure of gas

3. To filter impurities from the gas

4. To measure gas flow rates

The correct answer is: To reduce and maintain a constant output pressure of gas

The function of a gas regulator is to reduce and maintain a constant output pressure of gas. This is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operation of gas-powered appliances. When gas is supplied from a high-pressure source, such as a storage cylinder or pipeline, it needs to be reduced to a much lower, consistent pressure that safely matches the requirements of the appliance. By regulating the pressure, the gas regulator allows for the safe delivery of gas without the fluctuations that could occur from changes in supply pressure. This consistent pressure is vital for the proper functioning of burners, heating systems, and other gas-controlled devices, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely. Each of the other functions includes elements that are not the primary role of a gas regulator. Increasing the volume of gas is contrary to the purpose of regulation, which is to control pressure, not volume. Filtering impurities is a function typically associated with filters rather than regulators. Measuring gas flow rates is done by flow meters, so that aspect is separate from the pressure regulation function. Thus, reducing and maintaining a constant output pressure is the central and defining function of a gas regulator.