Most generators today are powered by one kind of fuel while (double fuel generators) some allow you to switch from two to three fuel sources (gasoline and natural gas). In this post, look at how a double fuel generator differs from a portable gasoline generator and an oil-powered generator, to help you decide which will be the best option for your particular needs when you require a reliable power backup. Also check out some of the advantages of the triple fuel option if that’s also something that interests you. With that done, here’s how these generators work…
As mentioned above, most gas dual fuel generators use a steady amount of propane gas in starting the engine. The propane storage tank (like that in your typical barbecue grill) holds enough supply for the engine to function normally for a number of hours while you’re away from home. Once the engine has started running though, you will start draining the tanks and have sufficient gas to go forward with your camping or tailgating adventures. Some of these units come with three tanks, while others are larger…up, to nine tanks in some models.
A tri fuel generator is one of the more popular choices for households with more than one household member who needs power. In these setups, the primary source of power is a propane gas tank which can then be connected to the motor. The third tank is typically used as an alternate power source in case the primary power source fails. You should make sure though that your system is compatible with your propane gas cylinder…it won’t do you any good otherwise.
Now, let’s take a look at some more setups. In one of the more popular examples of a dual-fuel generator set up…the single fuel generator. These generators are similar to the dual fuel ones except they use a single cylinder propane cylinder rather than three. These are good types of generators if you’re only going to be gone from home for a short amount of time – generally less than an hour. If you are going to be gone from home for an extended period of time, you might want to consider a different generator type.
However, a dual-fuel generator with a single cylinder propane gas cylinder won’t always be enough to provide power for your camping or tailgating trips. If you will be away from home for any amount of time, you may need to use a generator that can sustain the required power output for those few hours. The problem with a one-cubic-foot propane cylinder in a one-fuel system…is that it only produces enough propane gas for a brief period of time. That’s why these generators are often paired with a two-cylinder gasoline cylinder that has a higher enough fuel capacity to power your camping gear for a longer period of time.
The final type of generator that is frequently paired with dual fuel generators is an electric start. Electric starting units use an electrical start to power up your generator. This type of unit is also commonly paired with a diesel engine to increase the overall size of the generator. Usually, an electric start requires you to hook it up to your home’s electrical system. However, you can also find systems that simply require a battery for an electric start.
In addition to being able to power up your vehicle, many companies use these onsite generators for tasks like lifting and moving heavy objects around work sites. If you’re working in an area that requires a lot of movement around an industrial scale, you can expect these onsite generators to power large tools. Even if you just need something to light your work site, you can find something suitable – including a propane or gasoline powered dual fuel generator. Some consumers choose these products because they don’t have to deal with the hassle of hooking up large cords to all of the equipment.
Just like most other dual fuel generators, the best ones come with a wheel kit. These are special propane tanks that fit directly onto the wheel hubs of most vehicles. With this type of product, you can move around with confidence. A wheel kit also allows you to store more propane than normal since you won’t have to constantly refill it. Many consumers choose to purchase wheel kits when they know that they will be using these generators on a regular basis.