A propane generator can provide enough energy to maintain the lights on at your campsite, keep food fresh in the fridge, and even power an ice chest or a portable cooler. Propane generators are also an affordable way to bring power to remote areas, including many of those found in backpacks. In order to find out more about these portable power systems, it’s worth understanding more about how they work. There is much that propane generators can offer you as a motor home.
First of all, what type of fuel does your generator use? Your propane generator will most likely be powered by one of three different types of natural gas: natural gas, propane, and natural gas plus propane. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, natural gas is the cheapest but it has to be liquefied before it can be used, while propane is the cleanest fuel but it needs to be stored in a storage tank very well before it is usable. Both types have their pros and cons, and you should consider which of these is most appropriate for you and your needs before you decide.
It’s important that propane generators are powered by an energy source that is both reliable and long-lasting. Unfortunately, although oil-based gas generators are much cleaner and more efficient than their gas-powered counterparts, they are not as common. If you live in an area where you get a good amount of gas but expect to run out soon after using it, then an oil-based system would be your best bet. However, if you live in an area that does not get a good amount of natural gas, then propane generators are your best solution.
The efficiency of a propane generator is determined by how many gallons of fuel are burned per hour. This number is determined by a formula known as BTUs, or British Thermal Units. The BTUs are a measure of energy per pound of fuel, so one gallon of fuel will correspond to one BTU. This means that the larger your fuel tank, the more powerful your generator will be at running watts. If you want to power your entire home, you will need a much larger tank size. If you only want to provide enough energy to run one appliance, then a smaller size would be sufficient.
Another factor in determining the efficiency of a propane generator is noise level. Noise is largely dependent on the manufacturer, but many generators come with low decibel levels to help reduce this type of sound. There are some models of generators that can run quietly at about 100 watts or less.
Another thing to consider is that there are differences between gasoline and propane as an energy source. While both have the same chemical makeup, there are differences in how the fuels are obtained and released. With gasoline, petroleum is burned within an oxygen rich combustion chamber. Propane is derived from petroleum, which already has the chemical composition of an energy source.
Most manufacturers do not recommend using diesel generators with any type of wood burning stove. Wood has a higher density, and much of the heat is lost through the exhaust. On the other hand, propane fuel is very dense and produces exhaust that is nearly perfect. The high density of the fuel allows it to emit high amounts of heat through combustion, which results in much greater energy output than does diesel fuel.
A final consideration for a propane generator is shelf life. Some manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty on their products, while others offer a full five year warranty. While the longer shelf life of a propane generator is certainly an advantage, it is also important to note that propane is highly flammable. Careful testing should always be done before any purchase, and it is always best to consult a professional before installing any type of generator.