Diesel or Gas? Choosing the Right Backup Generator for Illinois Weather

If you live in Illinois, you already know how unpredictable the weather can be. One minute it’s sunny—next, there’s a blizzard, a thunderstorm, or a tornado warning. These conditions often bring power outages that can last for hours or even days.

Whether you're a homeowner keeping the lights (and heat) on, or a business trying to avoid costly downtime, having a backup generator isn’t just nice to have anymore—it’s a must.

So, should you go with a diesel or gas generator? Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you decide.

WHY BACKUP GENERATORS MATTER IN ILLINOIS

Power outages here aren’t rare. Ice storms can bring down lines, heavy winds knock out transformers, and flooding can disrupt entire neighborhoods. That’s why more Illinois homes, farms, and businesses are turning to generators as a reliable backup solution.

DIESEL VS. GAS GENERATORS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

1. Fuel Availability

Gas Generators

These are great if you're in a city or suburb where natural gas is already piped in. They connect directly to your gas line, so there's no need to refuel manually.

Diesel Generators

Diesel fuel can be stored on-site, making these ideal for remote areas or places where gas lines aren’t available or reliable—like farms or construction sites.

Best fit:

Urban homes: Gas
Rural/off-grid: Diesel

2. Power and Performance

Diesel

These machines are built to handle serious workloads and run for long stretches. They’re perfect for industrial sites or commercial buildings where uptime is critical.

Gas

Usually quieter and more eco-friendly, gas generators work well for smaller homes or shops with moderate power needs.

Best fit:

Heavy-duty use: Diesel
Light-to-moderate: Gas

3. Maintenance and Longevity

Diesel generators tend to last longer and don’t need as much upkeep—especially when used regularly.

Gas generators, on the other hand, need more frequent maintenance, especially if they sit unused for long periods.

Best fit:

Long-term, lower maintenance: Diesel

4. Costs and Efficiency

Gas units usually cost less upfront but may end up being more expensive over time due to higher fuel use and servicing needs.

Diesel units are more fuel-efficient, making them a better long-term investment for large operations or regular use.

Best fit:

Occasional use: Gas
Frequent use with better efficiency: Diesel

QUICK REFERENCE: WHAT WORKS BEST WHERE

To sum it up: If you’re in a city or suburban area with easy access to natural gas, a gas generator is a convenient, quieter choice for moderate backup needs. If you’re running a farm, a commercial building, or a place that demands a lot of power over long outages, a diesel generator is the more robust, reliable option.

Thinking about installing a generator in Illinois? Contact your local pros to get a custom recommendation tailored to your power needs, location, and budget.