A Brief Guide to Propane Generators
When you want to create energy for a home or other type of structure, you have to invest in what is known as a "generator". This is a mechanical device that is designed to create anywhere from 1500 watts of electricity up to a staggering 15000 watts. Not all generators are alike, however, and you have to first understand the amount of power needed in order to choose properly between a gas, diesel, or propane generator.
Understanding Fuel Requirements
Yes, you can use the same gas that you put into a car to power a generator, as well as diesel fuels too, but you can also opt for propane powered versions. Why should there be the need for generators of such varying kinds? It all boils down to portability.
A lot of people are not just using generators for emergency purposes. Some are using generators out in the field to power everything from equipment to camp sites. The gas and diesel powered models are the ones most commonly found as portable styles, and the propane generators are often put to use for homes because they can be permanently fixed in place.
Is that an inconvenience? Not really because it means that the propane generator needs nothing more than the occasional delivery of propane in order to remain operational. Gas and diesel units require their owners to purchase, store, and pour the potentially harmful fuels into the tanks, which a lot of people would prefer not to do.
Additionally, many opt for propane generators because of their superior output.
The Power
As we already said - generators are machines that create electrical power, but not all of them can create the same amounts. The common limits for gas generators are around 8500 watts of power. The propane generator, on the other hand, can often deliver more than 15000 watts, meaning that they can actually run the entire home - central air conditioning and all!
For example, the largest gas generator can usually be considered little more than a "survival" machine that can keep a few appliances and lights running - and with a lot of noise! The stationary propane generator, on the other hand, often begins at around 15000 watts, and can supply all of the home's needs for nearly indefinite periods of time (as long as propane delivery is available).
Because a stationary propane generator is also installed in a single position near a home or property, it means that the device is hardwired directly into the home's electrical system. This can mean that it automatically turns on when power is lost and intuitively shuts down when power is restored. There are no extension cords required and no "babysitting" for most propane generators either.
The Pros and Cons Considered
Is this indicating that a propane generator is the only viable option for homes and businesses? Not at all! Many people are still opting for gas and diesel equipment because of the low purchase prices, and because of the portability.
Those who opt for the propane generators, however, tend to do so because they really are one of the most convenient options. They can usually operate for roughly eight to fifteen days when fully stocked with fuel. They often have smart features that shut them down if there is a problem with fuel delivery or if there is a systemic issue.
Where many kinds of generators fail, however, is in their power management. Though this tends to be related mostly to gas and diesel equipment, there are instances when a propane generator may not meet the wattage claims made by a manufacturer or may even cause problems in the appliances that it powers during operation due to uneven electrical generation. Fortunately, those smart features mentioned above are often available for home and property owners to use in order help with any problems created by the use of their system.
Choosing the Generator
When you are sure that a propane generator is the appropriate choice for a property or home, try to keep in mind that the cost may seem high, but could still be quite a bargain. For example, though many stationary models have higher purchase prices and the need for professional installation, they do generate enough power to operate the home without any noticeable difference. They can keep things up and running for more than a week without refueling, and can be considered the most "hands off" in terms of ease of use and reliability.