If you need a reliable power source then a generator is exactly the solution you need. However, it needs fuel to generate energy and here is the question appears “What kind of fuel is better?”. Various models can use different types of fuel. Moreover, some models can use two types of fuel. That’s the case when the best dual fuel generator is what you need, but they are quite large, heavy, loud and expensive.
It is necessary to understand what is better – gasoline vs propane generator? It will help you find a solution that meets your requirements perfectly.
Gasoline
The models that use this fuel are very popular, so there are many of them. The price ranges from around $140 for a small model that can output 1200 W of power to $2000 for a model from a world-known brand that outputs 3000 W.
Gasoline has several advantages:
- The solutions that use this kind of fuel are usually small;
- It is widely available, so you can always find some in any town;
- This fuel is used by models which produce little noise;
- There are many models available which use this fuel, so you have many options.
However, it has some disadvantages:
- It may include ethanol that attracts water particles, plus it cannot be solved and it tends to separate. Therefore, such fuel has to be used within three months. You can prolong this period by storing it properly – containers have to be full. It is possible to find gasoline without ethanol – the shelf life of this fuel is from 2 to 3 years.
- Poor quality fuel may damage the engine. Engines have a special draining system so you can drain the fuel, but it is not a 100% solution – it is necessary to use it at least four times a year.
Propane
Different models are available – from small ones that cost you around $370 and provide you with the output power for 14 hours to large models that cost around $1100.
When it comes to propane versus gasoline generator, the former has such pros as:
- You can keep it for years without quality losing;
- You can get it almost everywhere and it comes in massive quantities – delivered by trucks;
- Usually, propane-fueled models use an additional fuel type.
Cons:
- It is harder to find than gasoline;
- They may be quite large.
What should you choose?
The gasoline and propane generator comparison show that the choosing process may be quite challenging for you since they have both pros and cons. However, here are some factors to consider before getting a model for you.
- If you are going to use it frequently then a gasoline-fueled model is for you.
- If you look for a power source when something extraordinary happens then gets a propane-fueled solution – you can store much fuel and it can be stored for years.