Fuel Type Showdown: Gas, Diesel, or Propane – What’s the Best for Generators?

Toolman_123

Toolman_123

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Hey everyone!

When choosing a generator, one of the biggest decisions is the fuel type. Gasoline is easy to find but burns fast, diesel is efficient but pricier, and propane is cleaner but needs a bigger tank.

For those using generators for home backup or job sites, what fuel type do you prefer and why? Have you noticed differences in performance, maintenance, or fuel availability during emergencies? Let’s compare experiences and see which one really comes out on top!
 
Hey Toolman_123! I've found diesel generators to be more fuel-efficient and durable for heavy-duty applications, though they can be noisier. Propane generators run cleaner and have a longer shelf life, making them a good choice for eco-conscious users. Gasoline generators are generally more affordable and easier to refuel but may require more frequent maintenance.
 
Good breakdown, @jameOliver! I’d say it also depends on where and how you’re using it. Gas is great for quick access, but if you’re in a long-term power outage, diesel might keep you going without constant refueling. Propane is awesome for storage, but do you guys think the lower power output is a dealbreaker for bigger loads? Curious if anyone’s run a propane gen on a job site and how it held up!
 
Great points so far! I’ve run a propane generator for home backup, and while it’s super reliable and clean, I did notice a slight drop in power compared to gas or diesel. Diesel is a beast for long runs, but the noise and upfront cost can be a trade-off. Anyone here ever tried a dual-fuel or tri-fuel generator? Seems like a solid way to get the best of both worlds!
 
I’ve used a dual-fuel generator before, and having the flexibility is a game-changer! Diesel is great for efficiency, but propane’s long shelf life is hard to beat for emergencies. Definitely depends on the use case!
 
Some solid points here! Dual-fuel generators do seem like a solid choice for flexibility, but do they sacrifice efficiency compared to single-fuel models? Also, for those running diesel generators, how do you handle cold starts in winter? I’ve heard they can be tricky in low temps—any tips to keep them running smoothly?
 
All good stuff here! I’d say diesel is unbeatable for long runtimes and fuel efficiency, but yeah, cold starts can be a pain in winter. Block heaters help a lot if you’re in a colder climate. Also, curious about anyone using tri-fuel setups? Seems like the ultimate backup plan, but I wonder if the performance trade-offs are worth it.
 
Hey, great discussion! I’ve used propane generators a lot for job sites because they’re clean and easy to store. The only downside I’ve noticed is the lower power output for bigger equipment. Diesel is definitely the go-to for long runs and efficiency, but I agree, it can be a bit loud. The dual-fuel option is a nice middle ground. does anyone have experience with a tri-fuel generator and how it compares in terms of power and efficiency?
 
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