Power outages are a major headache. They can also be a safety risk, disrupting everything from refrigerators to medical devices. Having a backup power solution is essential, and gas, diesel, or propane generators offer reliable options for homeowners.
Choosing the right generator involves many factors. You must consider fuel cost, fuel type, and environmental impact. Gas, diesel, or propane standby generators each have strengths and weaknesses.
Generator Fuel Types: Understanding Gas, Diesel, and Propane
Understanding fuel types is crucial when selecting a generator. Each fuel has unique properties impacting generator performance, cost, and maintenance.
Gas Generators
Gas generators are the most common for homes because gasoline is readily available. They are suitable for occasional use, like during a power outage. However, they require regular maintenance.
Gasoline has a shorter shelf life and doesn’t store well for extended periods. This can cause starting problems if your generator sits idle for months. Portable generators commonly use gas power.
Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are known for their efficiency and durability, especially for continuous use. They are often found in construction equipment and offer reliable power generation.
However, diesel engines produce more carbon dioxide than gasoline. Diesel fuel is generally more expensive than propane, impacting fuel storage costs. The higher energy density of diesel fuel, however, results in longer runtimes for the same fuel tank size. For example, if you have a 50-gallon tank on your standby generator, a diesel generator will have longer run times for your electricity needs. Many construction sites make use of this power solution because they require longer run times and can also be used for other equipment like mini excavators and track loaders.
A 2017 report from the International Council of Clean Transportation compared a Volkswagen Golf diesel to a similar gas model, highlighting diesel’s higher CO2 output. FasterTruck reports the average U.S. diesel price is $4.59 per gallon.
Propane Generators
Propane generators provide a balance between reliability, cost, and environmental impact. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that propane produces fewer greenhouse gases than gasoline. Consider this fuel for clean-burning power generation.
Propane stores indefinitely, unlike gasoline. It’s also typically cheaper than diesel. While propane standby generators may have a higher fuel cost per hour for smaller propane tanks, they tend to have lower operating costs. Plus, LP gas helps lubricate the engine, which can contribute to a longer generator life.
A 6kW Generac propane generator might consume 1.5 to 2 gallons per hour. The price is around $2.33 per gallon, less than diesel. However, propane has a lower energy density than gas or diesel. Remember that a diesel model can sometimes offer more longevity.
Sizing Your Gas, Diesel, or Propane Generator
Choosing the right generator size depends on your household power requirements. A larger kW propane generator, or any type for that matter, is needed to support higher power needs.
Understanding Wattage Needs
Determine your wattage needs by adding up the wattage of devices you’ll use during an outage. Essential appliances, like refrigerators, require less power than HVAC systems.
Prioritize essential items for an accurate estimate. Consider potential voltage spikes from larger appliances or well pumps. This helps determine the starting watts required. Keep this in mind, as sometimes people just look at the running watts.
Calculating Starting and Running Watts
Generators have two wattage ratings: starting watts (or surge watts) and running watts (or rated watts). Running watts are what the generator produces continuously. This will help with fuel energy if you know how much time you need power and at what usage level.
Starting watts are a higher, short-burst output for appliances like refrigerators when their motors start. Match these to appliance ratings to avoid overload and potential damage. A Kill A Watt monitor can help you measure appliance wattage. This will inform what size your onboard propane generator or standby unit is for your individual use. A 20 kW propane generator will be a larger and higher starting and running watt machine, requiring maintenance as needed, and will determine how often and how much your tank refills will need to be to offer continuous, reliable electricity, rather than needing another form of power generation.
Gas Diesel or Propane Generators: Maintenance and Safety
Proper maintenance and safety procedures are critical for any generator type, regardless of whether it’s an 8 kW or 12 kW Generac unit.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Generators require regular maintenance, like oil changes, spark plug checks, and cleaning. Neglecting these tasks can lead to starting issues and shortened life spans.
This ensures reliable performance during outages. A well-maintained generator, whether it runs on diesel fuel, propane gas, or natural gas, will provide dependable power for years.
Safety First
Generators produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous, odorless gas. Never run them indoors or in enclosed spaces. Exhaust fluid can cause poisoning.
Place generators away from windows and doors. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Proper ventilation and following all safety precautions from the manufacturer are always critical when using power equipment, such as standby generators.
Making the Right Choice For Gas Diesel or Propane Generators
This table summarizes the key aspects of each generator type. Carefully weigh these pros and cons when selecting the right fuel source.
| Fuel Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Gas | Easy to find fuel, Lower upfront cost | Regular maintenance, Fuel storage issues, Noisy |
| Diesel | Very efficient, Long lifespan, Best for constant use, High energy density, fewer moving parts | Expensive, Higher emissions, Loud, requires external storage |
| Propane | Clean burning, Stores well, Relatively quiet, Helps lubricate moving parts, reliable power source for home and industrial sites. | Lower power output, Requires an external tank (sometimes), Fuel consumption is higher for output, shorter life, and less efficient power generation. |
Conclusion
Choosing between gas, diesel, or propane generators involves balancing several factors. Consider fuel costs, storage, maintenance requirements, emissions, and how each fuel aligns with your power needs.
Prioritize safety by ensuring proper ventilation and following manufacturer guidelines. Regular maintenance is essential for all generator types to ensure reliable power during an outage.
Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.