Propane generator is a generator that uses propane as the source of fuel. Some come preinstalled; i.e. out of the box you can connect your propane gas directly. Others, you can purchase a conversion kit.
Generac 6000 LP3250 generator is one of them. You can also convert your existing generator that runs on gasoline to use propane gas.
For portability and easy movement, some Generac propane generators come with a tank holder. Which makes it ideal for recreational use and also outdoor grills.
What Is Propane
Propane (C4H10) is a hydrocarbon and also a byproduct of the refinement of crude oil. Propane turns into a liquid at -46°F (-43°C). Under pressure, it will stay a liquid even at much higher temperatures. It turns back into a gas once the pressure is released and the temperature is above -44°F (-42°C).
The boiling point is -44° Celsius. This makes it ideal to transport them in tanks under pressure as liquid. It is very safe and environmentally friendly.
Benefits Of A Propane Powered Generator
What makes propane powered an ideal solution for backup generators? Just continue reading to find out for yourself.
Longer Engine Life
Propane burns cleaner than gasoline and as a result leaves no carbon deposit in the engine or on the spark plug. This extends the life of the engine.
With research it has been identified that majority of engine wear takes place when the engine is first started. Propane enters the engine as vapor allowing the engine to be started at idle. This prevents excessive wear at initial startup of the generator. The result; your engine’s life is extended.
No Gumming Up Of The Fuel System
Propane is considered an alternate fuel and as such it doesn’t go stale. Unlike gasoline that goes bad after a certain period (approximately 12 months) even with additives, propane is always ready when needed.
Obtainable During Power Outages
Propane is a dependable energy source. In natural disasters like ice storms, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes etc. propane is always available. People are always caught in long queues in times like this to buy gasoline. Most gas stations are left without power. Gasoline is sometimes rationed with even the authorities calling in the military to maintain law and order.
With propane as fuel source there is no way you will go through all these frustrations. Propane too can be stored practically for any number of years with the quality still maintained. It is transported in cylinders with the small ones being very portable.
Propane vaporizes below – 40 ° Fahrenheit it always enters the engine as vapor. This eliminates the problem encountered during starting in cold weather.
More Emission Compliant
Propane is not toxic or damaging and will not harm the environment if it is released into the atmosphere, which is why it is not labeled as greenhouse gas. Propane is classified as alternative fuel due to its clean burning characteristics. Harmful emissions and toxins are always at a minimal level when burnt.
Risk Involved In Using A Propane Generator
Propane actually is heavier than air and will tend to fall to the ground, collect, and pose a greater risk if concentrated enough and ignited.
However, there is only a small chance for any leak and tank explosion.
Charts showing propane consumption and the size cylinder required to run a certain horsepower generator
These are some basic factors about propane generators.
- It requires 2 horsepower to produce 1000 watts of energy per hour.
- Under load, each horsepower consumes 10,000 BTU per hour.
- Propane contains 92,000 BTU per gallon.
- Propane weighs 4.2 pounds per gallon.
- Cylinders are rated by their weight capacity of propane.
Cylinder Capacities in Gallons and BTU’s
| Size | Gallon Capacity | Total BTU Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 20# | 4.8 | 441,600 |
| 30# | 7.1 | 653,200 |
| 40# | 9.5 | 874,000 |
| 60# | 14.3 | 1,315,600 |
| 100# | 23.8 | 2,189,600 |
| 200# | 47.2 | 4,342,400 |
| 420# | 99.1 | 9,117,200 |
| Size | Gallon Capacity | Total BTU Capacity |
BTU Consumption Chart Based On Generator/Engine Size And Load
| Generator Wattage | Engine Horsepower | Full Load | 75% Load | 50% Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,850 | 3.5 | 35,000 | 26,250 | 17,500 |
| 4,000 | 8 | 80,000 | 60,000 | 40,000 |
| 5,000 | 10 | 100,000 | 75,000 | 50,000 |
| 7,500 | 15.5 | 155,000 | 116,250 | 77,500 |
| 8,000 | 16 | 160,000 | 120,000 | 80,000 |
| 10,000 | 20 | 200,000 | 150,000 | 100,000 |
| 12,000 | 24 | 240,000 | 180,000 | 120,000 |
| Generator Wattage | Engine Horsepower | Full Load | 75% Load | 50% Load |
