A natural gas regulator is a device that controls the pressure of natural gas as it flows from a high-pressure pipeline or storage tank to a lower pressure used by appliances such as stoves, water heaters, and furnaces. The regulator works by reducing the high-pressure gas to a safe and usable pressure for the appliance. Typically, it consists of a spring-loaded diaphragm that responds to changes in pressure and a valve that regulates the flow of gas. Properly functioning regulators are essential for the safe and efficient use of natural gas appliances.