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Electricity is as crucial as breathing. Modern tech times require electrical power to perform several functions. However, there are occasions of power outages which really make everyone feel frustrated. Good thing bright minds have invented and introduced the use of generators.
Generators are devices engineered to produce temporary electrical power. But have you ever wondered how these generators are able to work? It’s simply because they are being filled with different kinds of fuel. Among the fuels that can make a generator run are propane and gas. Read on to find out the advantages and disadvantages of a propane vs gas-fueled generator.
What is a Propane-Fueled Generator?
As its name implies, a propane-fueled generator is simply a generator fueled with propane. When we hear the word propane, we usually think of the barbecue grill. True enough, propane is used in fueling outdoor grills. However, propane has extensive uses. It can be used to fuel a generator, hot air balloons, heating homes and even powering up certain vehicles.
Propane comes with the molecular formula of C3H8. Propane belongs to the group of liquefied petroleum gases. Though it naturally comes as a form of gas, propane can be liquefied. Propane is the by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. This odorless propane and non-toxic fuel is mixed with an identifying odor so one will know if leaks occur.
Advantages of a Propane-Fueled Generator
When comparing a propane vs gas-fueled generator, propane has a lot more advantages. If you plan to fuel your generator with propane, expect the fuel to have a longer usage than the gas type. Storing propane will only require minimum effort on your part and you can store it in large tanks or small gallon containers. Unlike other fueled-generators, you don’t have to worry about any unwanted leaks when you fuel your generator with propane.
Also, a propane-fueled generator only creates a moderate engine noise. Since it is more emission compliant, there is a cleaner burning of propane fuel. The best part is that propane-fueled generators are health-friendly to you and to the environment.
Disadvantages of a Propane-Fueled Generator
Even though there are many advantages there are also disadvantages of propane-fueled generators. Since propane seems a lot more health-friendly, it is truly an expensive fuel. Prices vary in your local stores. Usually, propane-fueled generators have large tanks as storage containers so they will take a lot of space within your home.
Aside from that, a generator designed for propane fuel has a somewhat complicated system. You might have difficulty operating it. Nevertheless, you can always check the manual or ask for help.
What Applications are Best Suited for A Propane-Fueled Generator?
The applications of a propane-fueled generator as said earlier have extensive uses. There are a lot of applications that allow your generator to perform enhanced functions but for the most part the basic applications it comes with are fine. If you ran out of electricity and need to cook, you can rely on your generator to start producing temporary electricity.
Aside from that, you can also use it to heat up your home. Most often, there are power outages when a hurricane or storm is present in the area. A propane-fueled generator can help you stay warm when such natural disaster occurs.
What is a Gas-Fueled Generator?
A gas-fueled generator is a kind of generator which uses gas as fuel. For anyone who’s not so concerned about the types of fuel, all fuels are called gas. However, there are certain differences when it comes to each type of gas.
The gas in the generator refers to gasoline. People in the UK refer to gasoline as petrol. Gas or petrol is a transparent form of fuel which is also a petroleum-derived liquid. Due to the search for better fuels, gas is usually mixed up with other forms of fuel such as ethanol. Gas is a volatile fuel. If we are to compare gas with other fuels such as diesel and kerosene, gas is more volatile because of its chemical composition.
Advantages of a Gas-Fueled Generator
When it comes to comparing the advantages of a propane vs gas-fueled generator, the gas-fueled one is undoubtedly much easier to obtain since it is the most common form of fuel. For the most part gas will be available anywhere you go unlike propane.
Manufacturers are increasing their generator products fueled with gas which comes into more portable and smaller units. In the case of propane-fueled generators their tanks are a lot bigger.
Disadvantages of a Gas-Fueled Generator
Among the disadvantages of a gas-fueled generator one is that it is highly flammable. Homes and offices are more prone to fire accidents if they use this type of generator because it is fueled with gas. Storing it in excessive quantities is definitely hazardous.
If we are again to compare a propane vs gas-fueled generator, gas-fueled types use up the gas extremely fast. Since gas is the most common type of fuel the manufacturers make sure that you need to keep refilling it constantly. This is one of the main reasons the lines at gas stations get ridiculous during power outages.
What Applications are Best Suited for A Gas-Fueled Generator?
As long as you can power up your generator, either propane or gas can meet your temporary electrical needs. If we will look at the applications of a propane vs gas-fueled generator, it is very noticeable that the propane-fueled generator is by far the better choice.
If you want to stay warm during winter or stormy days, you can rely on your gas-fueled generator during unexpected power outages. You can also use your gas-fueled generator to provide the electric power needed when cooking with an electric stove (most households have it).
To sum it up, generators can be very handy in times of emergency, especially during power outages that last a long time. In the end, you simply have to make the decision that works best for you when it comes to choosing between gas and propane. Be wise enough to know each fuel’s advantages and disadvantages as presented above. It’s always best to decide on how much you want to spend and check the health and safety aspects of the generators you are looking to purchase.
If you want to be prepared for emergencies then you’d better pick up the best and most suitable generator for your home or office. And always remember, proper storage of hazardous chemicals like gas and propane should always be a priority to avoid any accidents.
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