Regarding portable for emergency backup during power outages, in order to run small appliances and charge frig/freezers…
What are the benefits of Propane vs Gas?
Is one quieter than the other?
Is propane easier to start?
Thanks
Regarding portable for emergency backup during power outages, in order to run small appliances and charge frig/freezers…
What are the benefits of Propane vs Gas?
Is one quieter than the other?
Is propane easier to start?
Thanks
For this case, a portable gas generator is the best choice. The major draw backs are the fuel storage in a quantity to last you the duration of the outage and need to store the portable generator. 5 KW is about minimum for what you want. Maybe $100-$200/ KW.
A propane unit must be 25% larger than a gas unit to supply the same amount of power because of the efficiency of the units. Also the propane must be piped in to the unit and this entails a permanent pad mount generator. The other draw back to propane for this use is you are relying on the propane supply that may be disrupted if the power outage is widespread and the propane supplier does not have operational pumps.
Noise is about the same, as is the starting. Check the batteries on a twice monthly basis and start the generator at that time and run for 30 minutes to maintain reliability. Also use a buss transfer switch or extension cords. Do not wire in ti the grid without the buss transfer switch.
go with gas its cheaper, both are noisey,
propane runs quieter more $
both start easy,
your choice whats more available gas or propane ?
do you know what size you need ? to run small apliances and fridges it will take at least a 6000 watt gen or more
a portable gasoline generator is probably going to be your best bet I am guessing. The problem with gasoline generators is that the fuel is usually left in them and tends to go bad if it is not used in a timely manner. As far as noise it varies by model and make. The decibel level from the exhaust may be available from the manufacture if it is a major concern. As a general rule, propane is a little more efficient and starts easier, but not near as many models available for portable use. You may want to look into diesel models if you decide to use a permanent mounted generator.