What is an appliance regulator used for?

An appliance regulator is specifically designed to control the pressure of the gas supplied to an appliance's manifold. This regulation is vital to ensure the appliance operates safely and efficiently, as each appliance is designed to function at a particular pressure range. When the pressure is too high or too low, it can lead to improper combustion, which could result in poor performance or dangerous conditions, such as gas leaks or incomplete combustion producing harmful gases.

While factors such as gas flow rates and leak prevention are relevant in overall gas management, the direct role of the appliance regulator is to maintain a steady and appropriate pressure for the appliance. This differentiation is what makes the option regarding controlling pressure to the appliance manifold the most accurate description of the regulator's function.