How Does a Propane Generator Work & Whether You Should Buy One or Not Do you own a propane generator or are you planning to buy one? In either case, you should know how a propane generator works. Even if you don’t have one, knowing the process will help you decide whether you should get one or not.
A propane generator is a mechanical device that uses propane to produce electricity. During power outages, you can use the generator to ensure an uninterrupted flow of electricity in your home or office. Read this full article to know how a propane generator works and if you should buy one or not.
Contents
- How Does a Propane Generator Work?
- What is Propane?
- How do Propane Generators Work?
- Should You Get a Propane Generator?
- Advantages of a Propane Generator
- Disadvantages of a Propane Generator
- How Long will a Generator run on a 20LB Tank of Propane?
- Do Propane Generators Produce CO2?
- Is a Propane Generator Quieter than Gas?
- Is it Cheaper to run a Generator on Propane or Natural Gas?
- Conclusion: How Does a Propane Generator Work?
How Does a Propane Generator Work?
Power outages are a common issue in many regions. Sometimes it even takes days to return. The solution in such a situation is a generator. You’ll find different types of generators in the market. Some use gasoline to produce electricity, while few use propane.
What is Propane?
To understand how propane generators work, first get to know what propane is.
Propane is a flammable and hydrocarbon liquid petroleum gas. It is often called LPG. Propane doesn’t have any color or odor and it’s stored in a liquid form. It’s the alternative and byproduct of natural gas.
How do Propane Generators Work?
Propane generators have been very popular recently. The following is the explanation of the working process of a propane generator:
Inside a propane generator, there’s a mixture of ammonia and water. When you turn on the generator, it burns the propane to produce heat and energy. This heat then raises the temperature of the mixture. When the temperature reaches the burning point, it produces ammonia gas.
The gas then flows through the generator and produces electricity. The good thing about ammonia gas is that it doesn’t have any odor. With enough propane, the generator can back you up with electricity for a few hours. That’s all about the working process of a propane generator. It’s quite simple and offers a lot of benefits. The majority of the generators sold today are propane generators. But are they worth your money? You’ll find out shortly.
Should You Get a Propane Generator?
Above, we’ve explained how a propane generator works. Now the question is whether you should purchase one or not. Below we’ll tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of a propane generator. It will help you to make a decision.
Advantages of a Propane Generator
- Propane produces clean energy. This means it will result in less pollution than gasoline and diesel. So, if you’re concerned about the environment around you, a propane generator is what you want to use.
- Propane tanks are huge and usually can store up to 1,000 liters. So, once you fill the tank, you can go for a long time with it.
- Besides, propane is readily available everywhere. All you need is a tank and a way to fill it.
- A propane generator is also more convenient to use.
Disadvantages of a Propane Generator
- Propane generators usually produce less power than gasoline. Though propane is less expensive, you can not enjoy the advantage as it is less efficient.
- Besides, the availability of propane gas isn’t that great. However, due to the increased demand, it’s becoming widely available. Still, it’s best to check the availability of propane gas in your area before you buy the generator.
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These were some of the pros and cons of a propane generator. When it comes to a lot of advantages, it also has some drawbacks. Now, it’s up to you whether you want to install a propane generator in your home or not.
Frequently Answered Questions
How Long will a Generator run on a 20LB Tank of Propane?
Usually, propane generators use two to three pounds of propane every hour. That means the generator will run for approximately 5 hours on a 20lb tank of propane. However, it depends on how much electricity you’re using. The higher the load is, the less the runtime is.
Do Propane Generators Produce CO2?
The straightforward answer is yes; propane generators emit carbon dioxide. However, the amount is quite small compared to gasoline. To be specific, it’s less than half of what gasoline produces.
Is a Propane Generator Quieter than Gas?
It depends on several factors such as size, capacity, model, efficiency, and a few other things. When we compare it with the one powered by gas, propane generators are quieter in most cases.
Is it Cheaper to run a Generator on Propane or Natural Gas?
Usually, propane generators are less expensive to install and maintain. Propane is also less costly than gas. However, propane is less efficient. As a result, the cost of running a generator with either of these is almost equal.
Conclusion: How Does a Propane Generator Work?
I hope you’ve understood how a propane generator work. We also explained the advantages and disadvantages of using a propane generator. It should be helpful for you if you’re not sure about which generator you should purchase. If you ask for our recommendation, we would suggest you go for it. Propane is less toxic, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. So, are you getting one? Let us know.