Natural Gas or Propane: Which is the Right Generator for You?

When a crisis strikes, a power generator can be a lifesaver. Homeowners have abundant access to electricity in the majority of cases. Heat, refrigeration, and lighting are all powered by electricity. 

A backup generator can be a lifesaver if your power goes out for a long time. A generator is even more critical if you live off the grid. 

Which generator is best for you: natural gas or propane? There's no need to worry. We have you covered. Keep reading, and we'll walk you through everything.

Propane Generators

In most propane generators, propane is burned to produce electricity, which is then converted into electrical energy. Gases and petroleum refineries have propane, a byproduct. Many different appliances can be powered by propane generators, both portable and stationary. 

Propane has several benefits, including clean burning and a relatively long shelf life. It is possible for a propane tank capable of holding up to 100 pounds to last for 12 years after its manufacture date. 

If an emergency occurs, propane gas will not be affected. The propane supply should last much longer than gas stations in the area, even if the gas stations stop running. 

In addition, propane does not deteriorate like diesel or gasoline. Using this method, you can store large propane quantities without spoiling. 

Carbon monoxide levels produced by propane are low, which is good since high levels can cause suffocation. Plants and humans are significantly less likely to be affected by these low levels. 

A gas cylinder or a safe tank is usually used to store propane. When filling up, there is no risk of spilling or wasting.

Moreover, propane has much lower flammability than gasoline. However, it should not be stored indoors.

In comparison to gasoline generators, propane generators are more expensive. Their heat output is also significantly lower than that of gas-powered generators. The size of these generators is also usually larger. 

Natural Gas Generators

Propane is naturally heavier than natural gas. As a result, if natural gas escapes and is released into the atmosphere, it will dissipate more quickly than propane. On the other hand, natural gas evaporates much faster than propane, making it a somewhat safer option.

As with propane, natural gas burns cleanly and has fewer environmental effects than diesel or gasoline. In addition to portable generators, there are also larger, stationary generators available. As with propane, this fuel can be stored similarly.

The differences between them can be seen up close.

 Natural Gas vs. Propane: Natural gas and propane share a lot of similarities; still, they differ in many ways. 

The first thing we need to do is check their BTUs. A British Thermal Unit or BTU measures energy output. 

Propane contains more than twice as much energy as natural gas. Propane is equivalent to 2,500 BTUs per cubic foot. Natural gas comes in at just over 1,000 BTUs per cubic foot.

Compared to natural gas, propane is significantly more efficient.

Environmental Differences

Comparing their environmental effects is also essential. There are two types of fossil fuels: natural gas and propane. Propane, however, is also a hydrocarbon.

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed entirely of carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms.

The natural environment is also relatively untouched by propane toxicity. In comparison with diesel and gasoline, natural gas produces fewer harmful emissions.

Using system retrofitters, you can use propane fuel even with non-propane machines. It will also take propane 500 degrees Celsius to ignite.

The quantity of natural gas burned per hour is greater than that of propane, but the amount of BTUs it produces is less.

You can compare these two fuels' prices because of information like this. The more energy-efficient one may be, doesn't mean you'll save money.

Unlike propane and natural gas generators, diesel generators are usually twice as expensive but run half as long and cost half as much to operate. With a low 1800 rpm, diesel generators can run for tens of thousands of hours.

Take a look at the features of MasterAire's diesel generators and natural gas or propane generators before deciding which generator is suitable for your needs.

50 kW Prime Power Master Diesel Generator (120/240V Single Phase 60Hz)

Generator sets from MasterAire are fully integrated power generation systems, providing optimum performance, dependability, and versatility. A Master Certified Diesel Engine powers a CSA Approved Stamford Alternator with a SmartGen Control Panel. 

This product includes the following features:

• Control your WiFi remotely with a technologically advanced device
• A CSA-approved brushless alternator from Stamford
• A heater is built into the engine to prevent cold starts and extend engine life.
• Weatherproof Canopy/Enclosure that is soundproof and soundproof
• Regulator of electronic speed
• Base Fuel Tank

Prime Power

Electricity must be supplied continuously (at variable loads) to meet this rating. There are no limits on the number of hours that can be operated annually, and 10% overload power can be provided for 1 hour every 12.

Standby Power

It is designed to provide continuous power (at variable loads) in the event of a utility power failure. Overloads are not allowed.

Features:

In addition to tests of 50% load, 75% load, 100% load, and 110% load, all control and safety shut-down functions are verified and tested.

• 12V DC start motor
• Lead-acid starting batteries with 12V high performance
• Flexible exhaust hose and industrial silencer included

In addition, MasterAire offers a 1-year/1000-hour warranty and free parts and service advice!

10 kW Natural Gas/Propane Generator (120/240V Single Phase 60Hz)

Natural gas comes cheaper than propane. If you're deciding on which kind of generator to buy, you should do the math that way. However, when you purchase Natural Gas/Propane Generator from MasterAire, you can use natural gas (LG) and propane (LPG). And this features Electric Start, Rotary Oil Filter & Low Oil Pressure Shutdown besides:

• Volume (cc): 688
• Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
• Ignition System: Transistor Non-Contact Ignition
• Starting Motor: 12V, 0.8kW
• Bore & Stroke (mm x mm): V2 - 78 x 72
• Aspiration Type: Natural Aspiration
• Oil Capacity (L): 1.4
• Charging Method: 12V/3A Charging Coil
• Recommended Battery Start Current (CCA): 18Ah - 45Ah
• Cooling System: Liquid Cooled

What is right for you?

When considering what you intend to power with the generator, what your energy needs are, and how much you expect to pay, you should consider all of these factors.

Are you still unable to decide? No worries! Contact us today and see how we can help you!