Can A Propane Generator Run On Natural Gas?
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Natural gas is more available and safer than propane. As a result, the demand for natural gas as fuel is increasing rapidly.
So can a propane generator run on natural gas? Let’s drive into the article to know the answer and which gas is best.
Can A Propane Generator Run On Natural Gas?
Yes, a propane generator can run on natural gas if you convert it from propane to natural gas.
But you need to sacrifice the below things while converting a propane generator into natural gas:
- 10% output power reduction
- Loose effectiveness if you keep the machine idle for a long time
- Starting would be a bit difficult
Which Fuel Is Best For Your Generator?
It is important to learn about both propane and natural gas to decide which one is best. So Let’s know details about different fuels.
Propane
Propane is a liquefied petroleum gas(LPG) which used in propane generators. It is a processed fuel that is a mixture of natural gas and petroleum refining.
If you buy a propane generator you will get an extra propane tank to connect with the generator through a pipe. The running capacity of your generator will depend on the tank size.
When the tank is empty you need to disconnect the line and take it to any LPG station to refill it. Propane Generator also provides a conversion kit to convert a propane generator to a gas generator.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is directly supplied gas from the line. The gas generator is powered by natural gas. Gas is more available than propane and ensures a flawless power supply.
Gas generators come in different sizes and you can choose the size according to your needs. Unlike propane here you have no risk of a power outage due to an empty tank.
Now the question is which fuel generator is best for you. Actually, the best option depends on your requirements.
Suppose you need to use the generator rarely in a year the best option is a propane generator. But if you use the generator regularly then Natural gas generator is the best. Because natural gas loses its effectiveness if you remain the generator idles for a long time.
We list out the below factors that you should consider to decide which fuel is ideal according to your need.
Availability
Edge: Natural Gas
Natural gas is a more common resource of fuel that is available in your home or nearest area.
But you need to refill the propane tank from a particular LPG station. That is quite away from home.
So if you give priority to availability then go for natural gas generator. Most of the house has a natural gas line that makes it more accessible than propane gas.
Using Frequency
Edge: Both
If you keep the generator idle for a long time then the effectiveness of natural gas will reduce. As a result, you will fail difficulty starting a generator after a long gap.
But if you have a direct natural gas line you can turn it on whenever you need to start the generator.
On the other hand, propane gas won’t lose its quality or effectiveness when you keep the machine idle for long periods. So propane generator has no issues if you use it or keep it idle.
Both natural gas and propane generator is fine in terms of using frequency. But if you use the cylinder as a resource of natural gas and keep the generator idle for long periods it can hamper the performance.
Starting
Edge: Propane
If you are Newbie you must need a generator that offers a smooth starting. But maximum gasoline or diesel-powered generator becomes choked. And, it creates issues while starting if you keep it idle for long periods. Also, you need to put a lot of effort to start a natural gas generator in snowy weather.
On the contrary propane, a gas generator can smoothly start in any weather or condition. If you keep it idle for over months it has no issues while starting.
So if you are living in a cold country or need to use a generator hardly then a propane generator is the best. There is no better option than propane in cold conditions.
Noise
Edge: Propane
Generator noise is the fundamental point when choosing a generator. Some region has strict law about generator noise. You can’t use a louder generator in some regions.
Besides, a loud generator is also harmful to humans or wildlife. Yes, the entire generator is noisy as they use an engine.
But Natural gas generator is noisier than propane. So if you want a quiet generator then propane is the best pick.
Energy-efficient
Edge: Propane
Propane delivers more BTUs and burns less volume fuel than natural gas. So propane is more energy-efficient than natural gas. That makes it a popular alternative to natural gas.
However, it does not mean propane reduces your fuel cost. It is not too cheaper as natural gas.
Location
Edge: Both
The purpose and location also play a vital role to choose the right fuel generator. Usually, maximum house owners use a natural gas generator as the gas supply is always available.
Also, hospitals, offices, schools, and many public institutions choose gas generators for the same reasons.
Actually, the institutions that won’t want to face power outages due to an empty tank prefer gas fuel.
But if you use a generator rarely for parties, camping or hunting then a propane generator is best. It is more portable and cost-effective than a gas generator. You can easily refill the tank and carry it with you.
So you can see depending on the above factors the fuel choice is vary. Compare your demand with the fuel features to choose the right one for you.
If you already have a propane generator and want to switch to natural gas don’t worry. You have the freedom to convert your propane generator into a gas generator.
But if you don’t have any technical knowledge takes help from an expert to do the conversion.
Final Words
Both propane and natural gas are effective and mostly used fuel to power up generators. Hopefully, you get the answer on can a propane generator run on natural gas.
Natural gas is the readiest and most accessible resource that you can use in a propane generator after doing some modifications.
Natural gas is popular for its availability and consistent backup. On the other hand, propane is more energy-efficient and ensures hassle-free starting.
Keeps the above factors in mind while choosing between propane and natural gas. It will help to take the right choice for your particular requirements.
