Differences Between Propane and Natural Gas Generators

Generators are useful in many ways, but the common consumer may not know what to buy. Let’s go over the differences between propane and natural gas generators to get an idea of what to look for when purchasing one.

What’s the Difference Between Propane and Natural Gas Generators?

Propane is a liquified gas that has transitioned from natural gas to propane using a petroleum refining process. When using propane, you don’t connect it to a line in your house like natural gas. It relies on a separate fuel tank, just as you would hook up propane underneath a grill.

Natural gas, on the other hand, uses a connection in your home or a gas tank. Their power does vary, as it’s widespread. However you use natural gas, its size and power ratings vary for energy requirements.

How Do You Choose a Fuel for Your Generator?

Now that you know a thing or two about natural gas and propane, how exactly do you choose? You want to consider accessibility, noise, and maintenance.

Consider What’s Available Now

Find out what’s available near you and if you need to travel further for the other source. You’re more likely to find natural gas because it’s readily available in your home. All you need is to run a line through your house. Propane isn’t as available because you need to find a gas station to refill your tanks. So, you may want to go with natural gas.

Can You Handle Noise?

Noise might be a dealbreaker. If you can’t handle noise, forget about using natural gas for your generator because the motor is pretty loud. This can happen because of poor maintenance or the fuel type. Carbon buildup from the engine can also cause a loud noise.

Propane doesn’t generate much noise because it has a muffler that minimizes noise pollution. For this reason, we’ll give a point to propane generators.

Maintaining Propane and Natural Gas Generators

Maintenance is important. You don’t need to be a professional to maintain your generator; follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and you’ll be golden. Both generators need a little maintenance, but propane generators require more, such as changing the oil and checking the fuel levels.

Natural gas is a little less high maintenance than propane. Natural gas generators need their oil changed, but otherwise, you just need to check valves, spark plugs, and the fuel hose. Natural gas generators get this point.

Which One Should You Choose?

The gas generator you pick is up to you. Propane is better for energy usage. On the other hand, natural gas is more widely available. If you have to pick, we think propane is the best choice.

At Our Generators, we enjoy talking about the differences between propane and natural gas generators. Reach out for more information on the generators we have for sale and questions you might have.