If you are considering buying a generator, you may have many questions, depending on what you plan to use it for, including how long a generator will run on propane.
Arguably, obtaining all the basic information about your generator is essential to ensure that you make the most out of it. Read on for more details.
How Long Will a Generator Run on Propane?
A propane generator run time chart can help you determine how long your generator is likely to run, depending on the quantity of propane in the tank. This information can help you determine whether the generator fits your needs.
How Long Will a Generator Run on Propane vs Gas?
On average, generators will use about 2-3 pounds of propane per hour, meaning that a generator can operate for 5-6 hours on 20 pounds of propane. But this depends on the other devices you want to run. The heavier the load, the shorter the running time.
On the other hand, a standard generator will consume approximately 0.75 gallons (2.8 liters) of gas per hour, requiring more fuel to keep the generator running compared to propane.
Does a Generator Run Longer on Gas or Propane?
Propane is usually a preferred fuel type for power generators because it’s cheap and widely available. Generally, propane is a slow-burning fuel because it has a lower burning index (BTU).
This property makes it more efficient compared to other fuel types. Additionally, since it can run longer than other fuel types, most generator users prefer it over other fuels.
So, a generator will run longer on propane than on gas.
If you fill the same amount of propane and gas into two different generators, the generator with propane gas will last three times longer than the gas-powered generator. Of course, this is on the condition that the generator’s size and load are the same.
Using one gallon of propane and gas in two generators will result in the propane-powered generator running for 32 hours, while the gas-powered generator will operate for 10 hours or less.
These numbers suggest that propane is a more suitable option than natural gas. Why? Because it’s cheaper and it keeps the generator running for hours.
Propane Generator Run Time Calculator
Generators are usually used as a backup power supply. Knowing the amount of time the generator will run ensures you’re covered during power outages.
A propane generator run time calculator gives you accurate details about your generator’s running time. Enter your tank size and your generator’s wattage, and the calculator will do the math for you.
With the help of this handy run time calculator, you can determine the generator’s running time even before you buy it.
How Long Can a Generator Run Nonstop?
It depends! Several factors will determine how long a generator can run nonstop. For starters, if a generator is in mint condition, it should run for as long as it has enough fuel supply.
The running time is proportional to the amount of gas or propane you feed it.
The proper generator setup can give you up to 150-200 running hours. After running your generator continuously for an extended period, it’s strongly recommended to perform a few maintenance checks before using it again.
How Long Will a 10,000-Watt Generator Run on Propane?
A 10,000-watt generator can be a suitable choice for a backup power source in your home. When running on 20-pound propane, the generator should last approximately 4 to 6 hours.
A greater propane supply will enable the generator to run for more extended periods. The amount of load will affect the running time. In some cases, the condition of the generator will also affect the rate of fuel consumption.
How Long Will a 12,000-Watt Generator Run on Propane?
On average, a 12,000-watt generator running on 100 gallons of propane will run for 36 hours. Of course, the more propane you have in your tank, the longer the generator will run.
Some people choose to install bigger tanks on their generators to maximize the running time. Luckily, propane doesn’t go bad.
How Long Will a Generator Run on a 20-LB Tank of Propane?
20lb tank capacity of propane is widely available. Often, this tank is used with portable home generators that have a capacity of 1 to 3 kW.
Your generator should run for up to 5 hours with a 20lb tank of propane. Nonetheless, this is subject to change depending on the load size and the generator’s size.
How Long Will a Generator Run On 5 Gallons of Gas?
The load size of the generator will impact how long it can run on gas. Nonetheless, the generator should operate for about 8 hours on 5 gallons of gas. The make of the generator could also be a distinguishing factor since some can run longer than others.
How Long Will a Dual-Fuel Generator Run on Propane?
A dual-fuel generator with propane as its intended fuel will continue to run until the propane supply is depleted.
In this case, if you have a 20lb propane tank, the generator should run for approximately 5 hours. Of course, a larger tank size with enough propane supply will provide more running hours.
How Long Will a Propane Generator Run on a 20-LB Tank?
A 20-pound propane tank should be sufficient to keep a propane generator running for approximately 5 hours. The size of the generator and the amount of load will impact the generator’s running time.
How Long Will a Generator Run on a 100-LB Propane Tank?
On average, a 100lb propane tank should keep the generator running for approximately 24 hours. However, this depends on the size of the generator. A smaller generator may last longer due to its lower propane consumption.
Depending on your usage, it’s essential to know whether you should buy a smaller-watt or a bigger-watt generator.
How Long Will a 40-LB Propane Tank Run a Generator?
A 40 lb (5 gallons) tank capacity should keep the generator running for about 8 hours. Typically, you will find smaller generators, ranging from 6 to 8 kW, that use a 40 lb tank size.
However, the size of the generator can impact propane consumption. Additionally, if the load size is larger, the generator may not run for the specified 8 hours.
How Long Will a Generator Run on a 120-Gallon Propane Tank?
A well-maintained generator will continue running for as long as possible until its fuel supply is depleted. A 120-gallon tank generator is an ideal choice for home usage. This generator can cover power outages for one or two days.
The size of the generator will affect the running time. Assuming that there is an average of 50% load, the following estimates should help you:
- 22kW generator with a 120-gallon propane tank should run for 48 hours.
- 20kW generator should run for about 50 hours.
- 16kW generator should provide sufficient backup for approximately 59 hours.
- 7.5kW generator should run for about 138 hours.
Therefore, the size of the generator significantly affects the running times, depending on the tank’s capacity.
How Long Can a Generator Run on a 250-Gallon Propane Tank?
Using a generator run time calculator, you can accurately determine how long a generator can last with a 250-gallon propane tank.
On average, a propane-powered generator will consume approximately 2-3 gallons of propane per hour, which means the generator can run for 125 hours, or roughly five days. But this depends on the generator’s size and load. The generator should last longer if it powers a few things around your home or business.
Can You Run a Propane Generator 24 Hours a Day?
While you can run a propane generator continuously for 24 hours, consider several factors here.
For instance, the generator size and the brand will determine whether you can run it for a full day. If you have access to a sufficient propane fuel supply for your generator, you can run it for 24 hours or longer.
However, doing this leads to heat buildup, which can damage your generator over time. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your generator in good condition, mainly if you operate it for extended periods.
Running a Generator FAQ
Is It Cheaper To Run a Generator on Propane or Gas?
You may wonder whether you should run your generator on propane or gas. Which is the best option, and more importantly, which option is the most cost-effective?
With current propane and gas prices, propane is often cheaper than gasoline, making it more affordable to run a generator on propane, especially if you plan to keep the generator on for 24 hours or more.
You can save a lot by opting for propane generators. Therefore, if you are operating on a tight budget, using a propane generator is a viable option in the long run.
The only disadvantage you might find with propane tanks is that they are costly at gas stations. Another issue is their life expectancy.
They may not last as long as gasoline and diesel engines. These are crucial factors to consider when making your decision.
What Size Propane Tank Is Needed for a Whole House Generator?
Most homeowners opt for varying tank sizes for their generators, and it’s common to find people with tanks ranging in size from 100 to 500 gallons. You should consider several factors to choose the best tank size that meets your power needs.
A whole-house generator should have a 100 or 500-gallon tank size. A 100-gallon tank size should provide sufficient power backup for up to 2 days. On the other hand, a 500-gallon tank can last between 7 and 10 days. Other vital factors to bear in mind when choosing the right tank size include:
- Your budget
- Manufacturer’s design
- The durability of propane gas
- Size of your home
- Energy requirements in your home
- Length and regularity of power outages
- Generator’s size and load
These factors should help you settle on the best tank size to supply your home with power, or as long as you need
Is It Okay To Let the Generator Run Out of Gas?
Okay, not okay to let a generator run out of gas, as you risk damaging the appliances that use its power. Moreover, you can also damage the generator.
To ensure your generator always has enough gas, consider keeping an extra supply on hand. Approximately 2 gallons can keep you powered for several hours before you need to refuel.
Before you power on the generator, it’s always advisable to check the amount of fuel it has. If there is less gas in the generator, you should fill it up ASAP.
On the other hand, if the generator has sufficient fuel, set a reminder to top it up after a specific period. This is a safety measure to prevent you from getting disoriented while performing critical tasks around your home.
How Long Can You Run a Generator Without Turning It Off?
There are instances where you might experience prolonged power shortages, and it’s worth knowing whether your generator can run optimally until power is restored.
While you can run a generator for hours without needing to turn it off, the running time varies depending on the generator’s brand and the type of fuel used.
You will have a time limit for gas-powered generators to keep the generator running. It’s crucial to know that you should never refuel a gas-powered generator when it’s on.
That said, you will have to turn off the generator to refuel it. Most gas-powered generators could run for up to 24 hours or more, depending on the make, size, and load.
Conversely, a propane-powered generator can run longer without needing to be turned off. For example, a generator with an unlimited refueling system will stay for up to 200 hours.
