A whole house generator is a backup power source that will help keep your home functioning in the event of a power outage. These devices are connected to your electrical system and can power everything from a furnace to lights, water pump, and even the TV.
They are typically powered by natural gas or propane. Before purchasing a generator, it is important to determine which fuel type will work best for your home and needs.
Natural Gas
A whole house generator runs off of a natural gas line that is piped to the property. These lines are typically underground, so they’re wind and storm-proof and are easier to access in the event of an outage.
When a power outage occurs, the natural gas generator switches on automatically. A separate device, called an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), isolates your home from the local power grid once the generator reaches full speed.
Generally speaking, a natural gas generator will run for longer than a portable generator in exercise mode. This is because of the fact that it’s more efficient than a portable generator and is less likely to generate carbon monoxide.
The size of the generator is also a factor, as it needs to be large enough to provide the amount of energy you need. This is based on the total number of watts needed to power all your appliances and other essential items.
Liquid Propane
If you live in a neighborhood with no access to a natural gas line, you can run your whole house generator on liquid propane. This fuel type has a low energy density, making it cost-effective and efficient for powering a whole house.
A liquid propane (LP) tank can hold as much as 92,000 gallons of fuel. If the propane in your tank is kept at the right temperature, it can last for years.
LP tanks are typically placed above ground, but it can be more cost-effective to have them buried if your property is well suited for that. However, burying a propane tank will require excavation and a professional landscaper to replace the grass.
Liquid propane also has an infinite shelf life and can be easily stored, making it an ideal fuel option for powering your home during a disaster. Propane is also less harmful to the environment than gasoline and diesel.
Diesel
When shopping for a generator, you’ll want to make sure that it will work well in your home. This means that it will provide power in the event of an outage, but also that it won’t cause any damage to your electrical system.
A whole house diesel generator is a great choice for this, as they are more fuel efficient than gas-powered ones. This means that you can get a lot of use out of the fuel that you buy for your generator.
The generator will also have a number of components that help it run smoothly and efficiently. These include a base, canopy, sound attenuation, control systems and other important components.
Other Fuels
One of the most important decisions you will make with a new generator is what fuel to use. Gasoline, natural gas, liquid propane, and diesel fuel all offer varying benefits.
The best choice for you will depend on your home’s electricity needs, where you live, and what kind of budget you have to work with. You’ll also want to consider what you can afford to spend on maintenance and repair expenses if your generator doesn’t start up when you need it to.
Gasoline is a popular choice because it’s widely available and reasonably priced. However, it’s not very safe to store or use in large quantities. Plus, it can go stale and gum up your carburetor.