Gas Generators: Everything You Need to Know

Sunday, February 6, 2022

Generators come in handy as a home backup power source, they are capable of powering your entire home, making them a dependable solution during an unexpected power outage. Generators supply reliable backup power during outages, ensuring your home remains functional when regular power fails. When you are in the market for them, you will find many different types to choose from. Amongst thecamping generators, High-capacity gas generators with a fuel tank are one of the most common types you’ll come across. If you are interested to know more about gas generators, we can help. Today, I will discuss all the basic things about a gas generator you should know. When selecting a generator, consider your specific power needs, fuel availability, and local installation requirements. A properly sized generator can keep your essential appliances running during emergencies while maintaining your home's comfort and safety.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

How Does a Gas Generator Work?

A gas generator is just like other power generators and utilizes the following parts to produce electricity –

• Combustion Engine: Using the carburetor, mixes a specific amount of air and gas and injects this mixture into the cylinders.
• Piston: Compresses the fuel inside the cylinders or combustion chamber.
• Spark Plus: Ignites the gas.
• Crank Shaft: Gets activated by the spark plug and spins the rotor.
• Rotor: Spins inside an electromagnetic field to produce electricity.
• Inverter: Inverter generators convert DC power to AC power through sophisticated electronics, providing clean power suitable for sensitive electronics.

The gas can be directly connected to a home’s gas supply. If your house does not have a connection, you can also use gas tanks, such as propane tanks.

Types of Gas Generators

Depending on the usage, gas generators come in all sizes and shapes. Here are the most common types –

Gas Powered Portable Generators

These are compact and, as you can guess, easily portable. Portable generators deliver power in remote locations and are ideal for camping and emergency scenarios where a primary power source is unavailable. Portable generators are great for when you do not want to undertake the costly process of installing a bigger one in your home. The best portable generators are generally dual-fuel, meaning they can run on both gas and liquid fuel. Many portable generators, particularly advanced inverter generator models, are designed to produce clean power output using an inverter. This feature is crucial for powering sensitive electronics, as traditional generators may produce voltage fluctuations. Additionally, finding a natural gas source ready for connection can be challenging, making liquid fuels like gasoline or propane more convenient options for many users.

Key Portable Generator Features:

• Portable and lightweight (typically 50-200 pounds)
• Durable all-weather construction
• User-friendly control panel
• Low noise operation (50-60 dB)
• Multiple outlet types

Since they are small, portable generators, especially a watt inverter generator, typically have limited wattage and may struggle to power multiple appliances simultaneously. Hence, they are more suitable for use in a pinch. If you live in an area that rarely gets power outages, then you may not need a dedicated home backup power supply. Portable generators are perfect in this case, as they are less expensive, offering a portable & quiet solution for camping & home. They are less expensive, often come with quick-release handles and heavy-duty wheels, and will be useful for the rare event when your power does run out. Pro Tip: Portable generators require careful circuit connection to prevent backfeeding. Always install a transfer switch or interlock device for safe operation.

Standby Gas Generators for the Entire Home

This is the equipment that commonly comes to mind when you think of a gas generator. It connects to a gas supply from the underground pipelines. As the name suggests, this is only a standby home backup power source meant to run when you have emergency power outages. These generators are powerful enough to support the entire home, ensuring that all essential systems remain operational during an outage. These machines feature automated start functionality when the power goes out, providing reliable power during a long-term outage without manual operation. As a home backup, these machines cannot run for a very long time. If you leave it on for extended periods of time, the generator may malfunction. To know how many days or hours it can be run safely, refer to the instruction manual of the manufacturer. Stick to the recommended run time. Standby generators, known for their robust build, can be found for both residential and commercial use.

Prime Gas Generators

These are the least common out of the three types. These generators are meant for use in places that have no power source available. Because they are made for such places, prime gas machines can run for long hours without any malfunction. This is the main thing that sets them apart from the standby ones. Apart from much longer runtimes, prime generators are also capable of taking a larger load. As a result, they can make a lot more electricity and power a lot more appliances. They run continuously without any issue. Typically, prime gas ones are used for commercial purposes only. It is not very cost efficient for residential use.

How to Choose a Gas Generator Size?

Gas generators, not to be confused with propane backup generators, come in several different sizes, for homes of all sizes. Larger, scalable generators are capable of powering the entire home, including larger appliances and all essential systems. To choose the size you should go for, you have to consider the wattage of the things you want the equipment to power. Naturally, bigger homes will have more lights, air conditioning, and other appliances compared to smaller homes. When choosing a gas generator, ensure it can handle the wattage of the appliances you would typically connect to your household outlets, such as refrigerators, lights, and other essential devices. And you will need generators with higher capacity for the former in order to cover the entire house. The common appliances and items generally connected to a generator are –

• Light bulbs
• Air conditioners
• Fans
• Televisions
• Power outlets (for chargers)
• Thermostat
• Coffee maker
• Personal computers
• Home security system
• Fridge and refrigerator
• Washing machine and dryer
• Electric oven and microwave
• Electric water heater
• Space heater

Finding the Capacity

Consider which appliances you want to connect, their output power, and how many of each. Then, do a rough calculation of the kilowatts needed to run all of these devices. You can find the required kilowatts of power for a certain item in its instruction manual. It's best to take the help of an electrician for this calculation. Remember, there are two wattages you need to consider – the running watts and the surge watts. The former is the amount of power needed to continue running an appliance. The latter is the amount of power an appliance draws when turned on. Some appliances require slightly more power when turning on. In this case, you should count its surge watts, not running watts. Another thing to consider is the number of circuits you want to be powered up ensuring compatibility with a 120-Volt /240-Volt 30A locking outlet. Usually, the manufacturer will specify how many circuits a certain model can power. If the one you are considering does not match your needs, look for other models within the brand. Once you know the total kilowatts needed to run all your required appliances, find the required amps by dividing the watts by volts. Get a generator that can produce a minimum of the located capacity. You can also go a little higher load for safety or if you want to add more appliances in the future.

Gas Generator Installation & Maintenance Requirements

To install a gas generator, first, you have to ensure a connection of the national gas pipeline to your home as well as an updated electrical circuit. It takes up to 6 hours to connect a generator to energy lines and transfer switches. But before that, a licensed electrician would have to connect the generator to your homes' electricity lines. Electrical tests to find any discrepancies also need to be conducted. All of this takes about 20 hours of work, depending on the house. On average, it costs about $4,500 to install a generator for a typical home. This, of course, varies depending on the actual amount of work needed for a specific house. The cost ranges from $400 to $10,000. After the installation, maintenance ensures efficient performance and extended life by regularly addressing wear and tear that affects power output. Expect to pay around $350 - $550 for each round of maintenance. This cost can be lowered by scheduling annual or semiannual maintenance.

Benefits of a Gas Generator

As you know, there are other types of generators available – namely diesel or liquid fuel-run generators, which produce more engine exhaust fumes, or solar power generators. What makes gas powered ones a better choice than them? A few pros of a gas generator are:

Accessibility

Power outages are often caused by natural disasters like tornadoes or hurricanes. In such situations, gas generators provide a significant advantage over gasoline-powered ones. Unlike gasoline, which can be difficult to obtain during emergencies, natural gas is delivered through underground pipelines that are resistant to storms and high winds. This ensures a reliable and continuous fuel source, offering prolonged power during critical events. Many gas generators come equipped with a built-in regulator, enhancing safety and efficiency. Additionally, many models come with user-friendly features, and a large gallon fuel tank provide extended run times, making them ideal for maintaining power throughout long-lasting outages. This combination of reliability, safety, and fuel capacity makes gas generators a dependable solution during natural disasters.

Easy Storage

If left intact, natural gas will remain usable indefinitely. On the contrary, liquid fuel such as diesel and oil may get spoiled over time. You can store diesel for a maximum of 2 years. Liquid fuel can develop sediments, grow fungus, and become gelled when stored for a long period. However, this only happens if you don't store it properly or for too long. So, you may prevent this with proper storage techniques. That being said, imagine running to your fuel supply only to find that the fuel is spoiled. Not a great news to discover when you're already in an emergency, right?

Environment Friendly

Compared to fossil fuels such as diesel, natural gases burn cleaner. In fact, natural gas is the cleanest burning when it comes to fossil fuels, making them more eco-friendly. So, a gas generator will have a lesser negative impact on the climate overall. The emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur, and nitrogen are noticeably less from a gas generator. This is an important consideration, as the world's environment needs as much help as it can get. Gas is also more cost-effective and more efficient compared to fossil fuels. In summary, you will be helping both your wallet and the earth in one go.

Convenience and Accessibility

With liquid fuel powered ones, checking the remaining fuel level is important. If you forget to keep track, you will run out of fuel and not have power during crucial times. Constantly checking and filling the fuel is an easily forgettable and boring task. Most generators connect directly to the gas line of your home and often include a built-in regulator. This drops the possibility of the fuel running out, as the pipe will continue supplying more as needed. So, you don't have to constantly check for fuel level and fill it up. During disasters such as floods and storms, it is often not possible to refill liquid fuel in the machines, but gas generators can provide reliable power when connected to underground pipelines. This makes fuel stocking and regular purchases redundant. That's one less chore for you! Additionally, you will not have to buy parts related to liquid fuel such as fuel gauge.

Easy to Get Permits for

Generators, especially for commercial use, often come with extra features to meet strict standards set by local environmental protection authorities. As the emissions from gas powered ones are lower, they are easy to get permits for. Non-emergency generators are held to even stricter standards, which many diesel or oil equipment fail to meet. Due to cleaner burning and fewer emissions, gas generators are easy to get permitted for non-emergency use as well. Obtaining permission becomes a smoother process, meaning no more lengthy paperwork and running around to find compliant equipment!

Odorless & Quieter

Have you ever been around a diesel or gasoline run generator? If yes, you can recall the pungent smell gasoline engines emit when running. The sound they produce is pretty high, too. A gas generator engine does not produce such odors, as natural gas is generally odorless and operates with lower noise levels. By comparison, it runs quieter than other types of generators.

Perfect for Any Condition

Diesel or gasoline generators often struggle if left in a wet or cold environment. So, they may malfunction in case of heavy rainfalls or storms. This issue does not exist for gas generators. They will run in any condition.

Cost Efficient

By volume, diesel costs 10 times as much as gas. To make the same amount of electricity for your electronic devices, the amount of required gas costs almost half than that of diesel. So, you will be paying much less for the fuel if you get a gas generator.

Cons of a Gas Generator

As great as gas generators are, they do have a few caveats that can make you rethink your choice. Here are the biggest cons of a gas generator –

Higher Buying Cost

In general, a gas generator's price is about 10 – 20 percent costlier compared to a liquid-fuel alternative but it remains the ultimate power solution for long-term use. However, the fuel cost is lower in comparison. So, over time, the gas generator will save you enough money to justify the extra cost.

Higher Installation & Maintenance Cost

As you have already gotten an idea of the initial costs of installing a gas generator, it needs no saying that the cost is quite high. While maintenance is required, some models are designed to be low-maintenance and include key safety features for smooth operation. In comparison, the engines of liquid fuel run generators are sturdier and more reliable. They also need less frequent maintenance. Because gas generators have spark plugs, the maintenance cost is often higher. The engines have a shorter life span in comparison, too.

Dangerous

Gas is much more flammable than liquid fuels, especially in internal combustion engines. And since the generator contains spark plugs, the chances of accidental fires are higher in gas generators. By contrast, diesel is the least flammable fuel available for a generator.

Less Output

If you use the same amount of gas and diesel to run generators, the latter will produce more electricity. Natural gas generators are less efficient in terms of the volume of fuel used.

Gas Generator Safety Tips

Maintaining safety when using a gas generator is very important. If used improperly, generators can pose serious health risks. The most common and deadly risk of a generator is the emission of Carbon monoxide (CO). It is an odorless and tasteless gas, which makes it hard to detect. Inhaling even a small amount can harm humans and animals. Carbon monoxide blocks the body from absorbing oxygen. If you inhale this gas for too long, you may even get Carbon monoxide poisoning, which leads to irrecoverable brain damage and death. To prevent this and all other generator hazards, follow the tips –

Operate Outdoors or in a Well Ventilated Area

You should never run a generator inside enclosed spaces such as your garage, home, or basement. Keep it outdoors, at least 15-20 feet away from your home. Make sure it is not close to any window, vents, or doors, as carbon monoxide can get in through those. Modern gas generators include advanced safety features like:

• Carbon monoxide detection and auto-shutdown
• Low-oil automatic shutoff
• Circuit overload protection
• Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets

Always verify these safety features are functioning during maintenance. This especially applies to portable generators. Just because they are smaller, it does not mean portable generators are any less harmful. If you must keep it inside, make sure measures have been taken to keep the room well-ventilated. Just keeping the door or window open will not prevent CO buildup.

Keep It Dry

Although gas generators can easily withstand rain, it is a good idea to keep the device dry to avoid electrocution. You can use tents or covers to keep it dry.

Install a CO Detector

All homes that use a generator should have CO alarms in central locations throughout the house. These alarms, along with a carbon monoxide sensor, will quickly inform you if any CO is detected, and some generators come with a carbon monoxide shutdown feature for added safety.

Use the Outlets Properly

Plug your appliances directly into the generator using heavy-duty extension cords or household outlets. Make sure the extension cords are graded for outdoor use. The extension cord will carry the electricity to your devices, so it is important to find a good match. Never attempt back feeding, which means connecting the generator to a wall outlet. Similarly, do not plug a generator line into the central electrical panel.

Avoid Overloading

Ensure the generator is running before you plug anything into it, and check the current load to avoid overloading the system.Power lights and other appliances one at a time, instead of all at once. Make sure not to keep too many things turned on at once, as it may overload the generator. Always get a generator with a slightly higher load than you need, as the capacity slowly lessens over time.

Do Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is a must to ensure the generator is in the best shape, optimizing engine life and engine performance. You can schedule annual maintenance through the network of service centers, which will ensure you don't forget it. The maintenance people should check the engine and all parts of the generator to ensure everything is well. Any loose or damaged connections should also be checked. Run the generator for 15-20 minutes every week. If you notice any issue, no matter how insignificant, contact a professional as soon as you can. Essential Maintenance Schedule:
Monthly:

• Test start and run for 30 minutes
• Check oil level and condition
• Inspect air filter

Quarterly:

• Clean/replace air filter
• Check spark plug condition
• Test safety systems

Annually:

• Change oil and filter
• Replace spark plugs
• Professional inspection of fuel system
• Test transfer switch operation

Ground the Generator

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proper guidelines for generator grounding requirements that must be met. It will not only keep you safe but also ensure you don't get penalized for not following safety procedures. When grounded properly, the risks of electric shocks greatly decrease.

Get a Dual Fuel Portable Generator

If you are buying a portable generator, make sure it is a dual fuel type. As stated before, finding a gas line ready to be plugged in a portable generator is hard to come by. With a dual fuel generator, you can stay prepared.

Performance Attributes of Modern Gas Generators

Fuel Efficiency:

• Smart throttle technology adjusts engine speed to load
• Eco-mode reduces fuel consumption by up to 40%
• Fuel consumption monitoring systems

Environmental Impact:

• 50% lower carbon emissions compared to diesel
• Meets EPA Phase III emissions standards
• Low noise pollution (50-70 dB range)

Power Capacity:

• Scalable output from 2,000W to 50,000W
• Parallel capability for expanded power
• Smart load management

Final Words

So, how do you know if gas generators are a good fit for you? Generally, these power sources are perfect for all home backup applications for long periods. But they are not the best choice for earthquake-prone areas. This is because earthquakes can damage underground gas pipelines, rendering the generator unusable. I hope this article has been helpful to you. Until the next time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What size gas generator do I need to power my entire home?

How long can a gas generator run continuously?

Are gas generators safe for indoor use?