A comparison of gasoline-powered and propane generators

That depends on what appliances you need to power during an outage.

First, list all the appliances you need to power and note their wattage. For example, if your A/C unit requires 2,250 watts, your fridge needs 750 watts, and your sump pump uses 2,000 watts, the total wattage is 5,000 watts. Convert this to kilowatts by dividing by 1,000, resulting in 5kW.

Choose a generator that can produce at least this amount of power continuously. For half-load efficiency, a 10kW generator will cover your 5kW needs. Always consider future appliance additions, and contact PepUp to talk through your needs and propane supply calculations.

Yes, generators do require maintenance to ensure they operate effectively and reliably when you need them most. Regular maintenance* can prolong the life of your generator and prevent costly repairs. Here’s a breakdown of what generator maintenance typically involves:

1. Regular Inspection. Conduct routine inspections to check for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires, loose connections, or leaks.
2. Oil Change. Generators need their oil changed periodically, typically after a set number of operating hours, as specified in the manufacturer’s manual. The oil keeps the engine lubricated and running smoothly.
3. Filter Replacement. Oil, air, and fuel filters should be replaced regularly. Dirty or clogged filters can reduce efficiency and lead to engine damage.
4. Battery Maintenance. If your generator has a battery, it’s important to ensure it is fully charged and in good condition. Clean terminals and test the battery to prevent any start-up issues.
5. Coolant Check. For liquid-cooled generators, inspect coolant levels and top off as necessary. Also, check for proper radiator functioning and any coolant leaks.
6. Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement. Spark plugs should be inspected and replaced as needed to ensure reliable engine ignition.
7. Check Fuel System. Inspect fuel lines, hoses, and clamps for cracks or damage. Also, regularly check the fuel level and quality, especially if the generator is infrequently used.
8. Exercise Your Generator. Run your generator periodically, even if you don’t need it. This helps ensure all components remain in good working order and that the generator is ready to go in an emergency.
9. Software and System Updates. For newer models with electronic components, check for any available software or firmware updates from the manufacturer.
10. Professional Servicing. Schedule professional servicing at least once a year. A technician can perform comprehensive diagnostic tests and ensure all components are functioning optimally.

*Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific maintenance guidelines, and consider keeping a log of maintenance activities for better tracking and accountability.

Half-load efficiency refers to the performance of a generator when it operates at 50% of its maximum capacity. It is a measure of how efficiently a generator uses fuel to produce electricity at this reduced load level. Running a generator at half load is often more efficient than at full load, as it can consume less fuel per unit of power generated.

This efficiency can vary depending on the generator’s design and technology. Knowing the half-load efficiency helps in planning fuel consumption and cost, ensuring you have adequate resources for power needs during outages or planned use.

The amount of propane a home backup generator uses depends on the generator’s power rating, the load it’s supplying, and its design efficiency. A common example is a 10kW generator running at half load, which typically consumes about 1 gallon of propane per hour.

If you have a different generator size or load, your fuel consumption may vary. For precise calculations, refer to your generator’s specification sheet or consult the manufacturer’s guidelines. Understanding these specifics helps in planning fuel storage for anticipated power outages.

To calculate a generator’s propane consumption per hour, you can use the following formula:

Propane Consumption (gal/hr) = Load (kW)/Generator Efficiency (kW/gal)

Here’s how to use this formula:

1. Load (kW): Determine the total power demand in kilowatts (kW) that the generator needs to supply. This is the sum of the wattage of all appliances and devices you’ll be powering, converted to kilowatts (1,000 watts = 1 kW).
2. Generator Efficiency (kW/gallon): This is the fuel efficiency at which your generator converts propane to electricity. You can find this information in the generator’s user manual or specification sheet, usually given as the amount of power (in kW) the generator produces per gallon of propane at a specific load.

By plugging in these values, you’ll get an estimate of how much propane your generator will use per hour. Keep in mind that efficiency can vary based on how the generator is loaded (e.g., half load versus full load). Always refer to your generator’s detailed specifications for more accurate calculations.

The best location for a home standby generator is on a level surface, at least 5 feet from your home’s doors, windows, and vents, ensuring proper ventilation and safety. It should be easily accessible for maintenance and near the propane supply line for convenience and reduced installation cost.

Always comply with local codes and manufacturer guidelines. We recommend having your generator professionally installed to ensure the safety of your family, neighbors, and electrical transmission line workers.

A standby generator transfer switch is a critical component that transfers the electrical load from the utility power source to the backup generator during a power outage. It disconnects the home from the utility line to prevent backfeeding.

Backfeeding occurs when electricity flows from a generator or an alternative power source back into the utility power lines. This can happen if a generator is connected directly to a home’s wiring without a proper transfer switch. Backfeeding is hazardous because it can energize power lines, posing a risk to utility workers trying to restore power and potentially damaging electrical equipment.

To prevent backfeeding, it’s essential to use a transfer switch when connecting a generator to a home’s electrical system. Once grid power is restored, the switch safely reverts the load back to the utility source. This ensures a seamless and safe transition of power, protecting appliances and ensuring continuous electricity.

That depends on what size generator you choose, what appliances it will power during an outage, and how long of an outage you want to be prepared for.

Generally, power outages can last from a few hours to several days. Minor outages might be resolved within 1-2 hours, whereas severe storms sometimes lead to outages lasting several days or even weeks in extreme cases. Most people prepare for power outages lasting 72 hours (three days) as a standard benchmark. This allows them to be ready for common short-term disruptions while providing a buffer for longer outages.

Talk to your PepUp technician or an Energy Specialist if you’ll be adding a home backup generator to your propane supply line. We’ll help you determine if your tank is the right size to power your propane generator for 3 days, taking into consideration all of your home’s propane needs and your delivery schedule.