Anyone who has ever experienced a power cut will appreciate the value of a secondary power source. A backup generator is ideal as a temporary solution for homeowners who lose power due to bad weather and an excellent option for preppers who want to be ready for all eventualities. It is also a great power source for regular use, whether for camping vacations or off-grid and tiny house living arrangements.
Propane is slightly less efficient than gasoline but is easy to store and has a long life. This makes it ideal for long-term home storage and a great alternative to gas or diesel ad a generator fuel. In this article, we will look in detail at some of the best propane generators on the market and discuss the pros and cons of propane as a fuel.
Propane Generator Comparison Table
Product | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Westinghouse WGen3600DF Propane Generator | Compact and portable RV ready TT-30R 120V 30A outlet Duel fuel for flexibility Simple to assemble out of the box Easy to operate push button power 3-year warranty | Not the quietest! Extra cleaning/maintenance needed if gas is used. |
Westinghouse WGen7500DF Propane Generator | High power capacity Propane or gas duel fuel Remote key fob for convenience Easy to assemble out of the box Frame and wheels for manoeuvring | Heavy Quite noisy No easy way to drain the gas tank |
Duromax XP4850EH Propane Generator | Duel fuel supply Reasonably quiet Solid frame and wheels Portable | Limited plug options Location of oil drain plug |
Champion 3800 watt Propane Generator | Quick and simple to assemble Easy to manoeuvre Good choice of outlets RV friendly 3-year warranty Reasonably quite while running | Quite heavy to lift Some assembly required |
Champion 3400-Watt Propane Generator | Great value Quiet operation 120V 30A RV outlet Solid handles for lifting Pull out handle for rolling Selection of outlets | Wheels are a little too small Difficult to manoeuvre |
Sportsman GEN4000LP Propane Generator | Single fuel design Light weight (88 pounds) Rugged metal frame Low oil shut off Low price | No alternative fuel option Noisier than expected Delicate choke lever |
Briggs & Stratton 40325 Propane Generator | High power output for home use Automatic start Sleek design | Relatively high price |
7 Propane Generator Reviews
1. Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel (Gas and Propane) Electric Start Portable
The first generator on our list is a simple-to-use unit from Westinghouse. It is a dual fuel model which means it can be used with gas or propane, ideal for those occasions when you run out of fuel. If you’ve miscalculated your propane supply while camping then gas is a handy back-up as it can be obtained quickly and easily from most gas stations. It’s also a useful feature if you find yourself needing fuel at temperatures where propane becomes less effective (below 20 degrees Fahrenheit).
The generator itself is relatively compact, at approximately 23” x 23” x 21”. This makes it good for both camping and home workshops where it can be stored easily and neatly when not in use. A TT-30R 120V 30A outlet means that no adaptors are required for use with an RV. It also has a 5-20R 120V duplex outlet and a L5-30 30 amp outlet.
At 109 pounds in weight, the generator is quite portable. The solid frame which comes with it has handles at each end and detachable wheels for easy manoeuvring. They do need to be attached to the frame on arrival but it’s quite a simple job with the right tools. Everything you need to set it up is in the box. The assembly really is minimal and very easy. Once the generator is set up you just need to add oil and fuel and it’s good to go.
In the box:
- WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator
- Oil
- Funnel
- Toolkit
- User’s manual
- Frame and wheels
When running on propane the generator is capable of up to 4180 peak watts and 3240 running watts (with gas it is a slightly higher 3600/4650 watts). This should be plenty to keep the basics running in an emergency power outage and more than enough for use when camping. The runtime at 25% load is up to 18 hours.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- RV ready TT-30R 120V 30A outlet
- Duel fuel for flexibility
- Simple to assemble out of the box
- Easy to operate push button power
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Not the quietest!
- Extra cleaning/maintenance needed if gas is used.
The Westinghouse WGen3600DF is a great choice for camping or short-term emergency use at home. It is easy to store and relatively inexpensive and overall it’s an excellent option for the size. However, it might not be powerful enough for some situations. If you are looking for a long-term generation or a way to power a home then you might need something bigger.
2. Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Another generator from Westinghouse, the WGen7500DF is larger and more powerful than the WGen3600DF. Like the smaller unit, it is a dual fuel generator with the option to use either gasoline or propane. The longevity of stored propane combined with the easy availability of gasoline means that running out of fuel is never a worry. You can change the fuel source with a switch, even while the unit is in operation.
The generator produces up to 8550 peak watts and 6750 running watts when it is run on propane (on gas it rises to 9500/7500 watts). It is easily the most powerful portable option on our list and an ideal solution for homeowners who like to keep several things running, even in an emergency power situation. It has two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 5-20R 120V outlets for household use and a L14-30 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet for transfer switch hook-ups.
In the box:
- Remote Start Key Fob
- Oil
- Funnel
- Tool Kit
- User’s Manual
A handy remote key fob means that the generator can also be started from a distance of up to 108 yards. Alternatively, you can use the simple START/STOP button on the control panel.
At 194 pounds, this unit is heavier than most of the portable generators we have looked at. However, the steel frame and wheels make it relatively easy to handle and the added power it produces is worth the inconvenience of the weight. It measures just over 27” x 26” x 26” so is small enough to store away when not in use. The frame feels solid enough to stand up to a lot of use and the wheels help with moving it around.
Like all gas-powered generators, this one will need regular maintenance and cleaning and you should never store gasoline in it for more than a few months as it can begin to degrade. The advantage of the propane attachment is that you can keep the long-lasting fuel on hand, adding gas only if you need extra power or a temporary top-up.
Pros
- High power capacity
- Propane or gas duel fuel
- Remote key fob for convenience
- Easy to assemble out of the box
- Frame and wheels for manoeuvring
Cons
- Heavy
- Quite noisy
- No easy way to drain the gas tank
This is not the quietest propane generator in the market but is reasonable enough if you keep a sensible distance. If your needs are power intensive but you want the flexibility of a portable generator unit then this is the one to go for. You should not have to choose between running essentials like refrigerators and heaters, and putting on the lights, kettle or TV in a power outage.
3. Duromax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator
Here we have another duel fuel portable generator which is capable of running on propane or gas, offering the best of both worlds in a neat and durable frame. You can switch between the two with the flick of a switch. Easily accessible, gas is a fantastic backup option for times when your propane supply is low.
At 69 decibels, the noise level from this generator is reasonably quiet when compared to other similar models and the 7 horsepower engine delivers up to 4400 peak watts and 3500 running, making it ideal for RV use.
The generator comes ready to run out of the box; you only need to add the oil, gas and/or propane to begin using it. The electric start is powered with a key, making it simple to power-up or switch off the engine. An easy to assemble frame with handles at either end and two wheels need to be attached for easy handling. The tyres are solid fill and hold the frame well off the ground so it can be moved confidently over rough terrain with no fear of damage. The whole set up looks rugged and solid; it is clear that this machine is built to last.
It will run for up to 20 hours on propane (or 8 on gas) so is a good choice for RVs or camping. However, it is worth noting that it does have fewer plug options that some other generators. It comes with two 120-Volt, 20 Amp, 3 prong outlets which are suitable for standard household plugs. If you want it to power an RV you will need to purchase an adaptor.
An early warning light lets you know when the oil needs topping up and an emergency shut-off kicks in if the supply becomes too low to prevent damage to the engine. The location of the oil drain plug over part of the frame is a little inconvenient. It is not easy to access and draining the tank can be messy if you do not take care with it. This is a minor niggle in the scheme of things but did make a simple job unnecessarily fiddly.
Pros
- Duel fuel supply
- Reasonably quiet
- Solid frame and wheels
- Portable
Cons
- Limited plug options
- Location of oil drain plug
The Duromax XP4850EH is a fantastic little portable hybrid generator; one of the best out there for the price. Ideal for emergencies, it can easily power a refrigerator, lights and other household necessities.
4. Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
The Champion 3800 watt generator can be started with the push of a button, with the added the option of a pull cord starter in case of a flat battery. The dual fuel engine has a 3.4 gallon gas tank and the package includes a propane hose to link up to a propane tank. You can switch between the two using a dial on the front control panel. A full tank of gas will allow for up to 9 hours running on a 50% load and 20 lb. propane tank will run to 10.5 hours.
The Champion 3800 has one 120V 30A RV outlet, one 120V 30A locking outlet, and two regular 120V 20A household outlets. It’s a good all-rounder for home or workshop use or camping. With an output of 4760 starting watts and 3800 watts, while running, it is powerful enough to run basic home equipment such as fridges, freezers, televisions, and lamps so it is an excellent back-up in an emergency power situation.
It weighs close to 120 pounds so is heavier than some models and might prove difficult to lift for some people. However, the fitted frame and solid fill wheels allow it to be easily moved around, even on grass or rough surfaces. The frame and wheels do need to be assembled and attached on arrival but this is a quick and simple task that should take no longer than 15 minutes.
The instructions and manual that come with it are very clear and easy to follow, even for someone with no experience of using a generator. Oil changes are easy and the low oil shut off feature means that you will not damage the unit if you forget to fill it up. This generator comes with a three-year warranty for your peace of mind and a couple of extra features which make using it just that little bit easier. The Volt Guard surge protector protects appliances from surges and Cold Start technology help to provide a smooth start even in very cold weather.
Pros
- Quick and simple to assemble
- Easy to manoeuvre
- Good choice of outlets
- RV friendly
- 3-year warranty
- Reasonably quite while running
Cons
- Quite heavy to lift
- Some assembly required
Champion is a respected brand when it comes to generators and it is easy to see why. There is nothing outstandingly good or bad about this machine; it just works consistently reliably and as intended. If you want a good solid generator which will take heavy use and just keep on keeping on then you could do a lot worse than this one.
5. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator | Propane inverter generator
The most impressive thing about this generator is its ultra-quiet operation. At just 59 dBA, it is the quietest generator on our list by a long way, making it the best option for anyone who doesn’t want to sound of their generator to affect everyday life. It is perfect for camping in a tent or RV without disturbing your neighbors
The wheels are useful for moving the generator around when it is too heavy to lift (at close to 100 pounds, lifting it is manageable but not easy). However, the size and position of these makes them unsuited to rolling across soft grassy or gravel surfaces. This can make life on a campsite or outdoors difficult as you need to keep to flat surfaces. The low position of the frame makes it tricky to drag across uneven ground without damaging the outside and gravel tends to stick in the wheels and around the chassis. It is best suited to hard surfaces where possible.
A separate fold out handle can be used to manoeuvre the generator when using the wheels. There are also two strong handles on top which can be used to lift the unit – these are reinforced with metal bars to take the weight so do not try to lift with the rolling handle. Unlike other models which need a little assembly on arrival, the Champion 3400 watt generator comes with wheels and handles already attached out of the box so it really is ready to go.
This propane inverter generator has the convenience of dual fuel with a decent running time; it will operate for over 7 hours on a full tank of gas or 14 hours with a 20lb propane tank. There is also a good selection of outlets: a 120V 30A RV outlet; two regular 120V 20A household outlets; a 12V DC outlet and a USB adapter. The unit is also ready to connect with another Champion inverter if extra power is needed, giving you the option of a small emergency power supply or an increased output of 5500–6200 watts (parallel cables need to be bought separately). This is a really useful feature s it means you can get more power without having to replace your existing generator and it gives you various options for different situations.
Pros
- Great value
- Quiet operation
- 120V 30A RV outlet
- Solid handles for lifting
- Pull out handle for rolling
- Selection of outlets
Cons
- Wheels are a little too small
- Difficult to manoeuvre
Of all the generators on this list, this small black box with its bright yellow control panel has to be the most user-friendly. Varied outlet sockets mean that no adaptors are necessary and it comes ready to use straight out of the box. Smart, compact and powerful, this propane inverter generator is a really useful piece of kit.
6. Sportsman GEN4000LP Propane Powered Portable Generator
The propane only generator is one of the few we recommend which runs exclusively on propane and does not have an option to switch the fuel source to gas. The machine is simpler than a duel fuel generator and therefore easier to clean and maintain. As propane is the fuel of choice for preppers and anyone who wants to store their own supply in case of emergencies, a simple single fuel generator is enough for most. There is also no need to worry about gasoline dripping, leaking or degrading in storage.
With 3250 running watts and up to 4000 surge watts, this little tank is easily large enough to power basic household or camping and RV essentials. There are three outlets (two 120V AC and one 12V DC) which are enough for basic household use. It’s a good mid-sized generator which will be more than enough for emergency power in poor weather. It runs for up to 10 hours on a 50% load on a 20lb tank of propane.
Due to having no gas tank, this little generator is the most compact on our list. The small size (23” x 17” x 17.5”) and relatively light weight (just 88 pounds) make it extremely portable and very easy to store when not in use, even if your space is limited. It does not come with wheels so some users may struggle to move it easily if they are not accustomed to the weight. Solid bars at each end act as handles and the rugged tubular frame keeps the body of the generator off the ground.
The frame comes attached to the generator so there is no assembly required, apart from linking up the fuel tank with the short propane hose. For the (low) price, this is a very nice bit of kit so if you are shopping with a budget it is well worth a look. There are some small niggles – the propane hose is rather short and the handle on the starter feels rather flimsy – but overall this is a great value little generator.
Pros
- Single fuel design
- Light weight (88 pounds)
- Rugged metal frame
- Low oil shut off
- Low price
Cons
- No alternative fuel option
- Noisier than expected
- Delicate choke lever
The single fuel design of the Sportsman GEN4000LP means that the whole thing is simple; it needs less maintenance than a gas powered unit and there is also less that can go wrong with it. If you are certain that you are looking for a propane generator and know that you will keep enough fuel on hand then this generator is the clear choice.
7. Briggs & Stratton 40325 10,000 Watt Natural Gas/Liquid Propane Powered Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
Briggs & Stratton have produced this hefty automatic generator to provide a reliable back-up for your home electrics. It starts automatically when your home loses power, giving you peace of mind when the worst happens. With 10,000 watts of power, this unit is capable of powering most of the electrical items in an average home without interruption. If you live in an area where storms are frequent and power outages happen on a regular basis then this unit is definitely worth considering. Once installed, it kicks in when needed so that you and your family can carry on as normal, even in the worst of the winter weather.
This machine is not suitable for users who need a portable engine to use in different situations. It requires a little more setting up than others but once it is in place you can pretty much forget it is there; apart from regular maintenance it needs nothing more from you. If you don’t mind spending a little more for a low hassle solution, then a home standby generator is the answer. It means that family life can carry on as normal and without interruption when the power goes out, with no extra hassle for you.
In the box:
- Battery charger
- Mounting pad
- Pre-filled with synthetic oil
The unit is by far the largest and heaviest on this list at a whopping 520 pounds. It is also the biggest, measuring approximately 35” x 39” x 39”, and the loudest at 74 dbA. Unlike the other units we have looked at, it is not designed to be portable but to sit close to the outside of your home as a permanent solution to weather related power loss. Powerful enough to manage two 3-Ton AC units with the addition of a Briggs & Stratton transfer switch, the unit is also safe for use with computers and other sensitive electronics.
Pros
- High power output for home use
- Automatic start
- Sleek design
Cons
- Relatively high price
Briggs and Stratton have been producing engines for over 100 years and their generators are engineered to commercial specifications, with a smaller and sleeker design for home use. The compact steel casing is both sturdy and streamlined; it blends in neatly next to an air conditioning or other unit near the side of a house.
Propane Generator Buying Guide
Buying a generator is a significant investment. The right machine will last you for many years so you will want to make sure you choose one which fits your needs perfectly. Whether you are already shopping for a propane generator or just starting to consider the options, it is worth getting acquainted with a few facts before making any big decisions. Here we outline the basics of buying a propane generator and take a close look at some of the most important things to check out before you make your purchase.
What is a Propane Generator?
In simple terms, a basic home generator works by burning fuel to produce electricity, which is then used to power RV, home or commercial utilities. Most home generators are powered by gasoline, diesel or propane. Each fuel has its own advantages and disadvantages of price, efficiency, and utility.
Modern propane generators are very simple to use: most have a simple pipe attachment which can be linked to a propane canister and a basic ON/OFF switch to power them. The propane can be bought and stored separately or left attached to the unit for ease of use. Many of the best propane generators also offer the option of gas; several of the units we have listed above are duel fuel – with an option to switch between the different fuel sources as required.
Most small portable propane generators are used to power RVs or campers, or to provide temporary power in construction sites, commercial premises, or any other off-grid location. They can also act as an emergency back-up during a power cut. Slightly larger models are fixed permanently to homes where they automatically take over in the event of a power outage. These are known as standby generators.
The pros and cons of Propane Generators
Long Shelf Life
One of the main advantages of propane over other fuels is the time it can be safely stored for long periods of time. Even with the addition of a stabilizer, gasoline needs to be regularly checked and replaced. On the other hand, propane can be stored indefinitely without any worry that it will ‘go bad’. This is especially useful if you keep a generator as an emergency power source in the case of bad weather or power cuts. For preppers, planning for longer-term emergency situations where gas and diesel might be hard to come by, propane is the obvious choice.
Ease of Use
Propane is usually delivered and stored in tanks which are then attached to the generator and swapped out when empty. Large or small tanks can be linked to the generator with a pipe. Unlike gas, you do not have to pour it into your storage container and again into the tank. This means less chance of leaks and spills and a cleaner experience overall.
Clean Burning
Propane burns more cleanly than gas. This means that there is less environmental damage from using it than gas or diesel. It also produces significantly less carbon monoxide when burned, making it a lot less damaging to animals, plants and people in the vicinity. It should, however, always be used outside as is can still be harmful in an enclosed space.
Low Maintenance
Unlike gas, propane does not result in a build-up of carbon deposits in the generator itself. This results in less maintenance and a cleaner system which in turn could mean a longer lifespan than that of a similar gas generator. Of course, propane generators still need to be checked regularly and taken care of but, if cared for properly, they will be easier to use and less likely to degrade than similar gas powered units.
The cons of Propane Generators
Propane has several benefits as a fuel when compared to gasoline or diesel and many consider it preferable for a variety of reasons including ease of use, storage time, and environmental impact. However, it is not perfect. It is a less efficient fuel than gas and, depending on prices in your area, might also work out more expensive. If you only use your generator for emergencies then the difference is negligible but if you plan on regular or long term use then price could be a factor. For many people the convenience of propane and the smaller maintenance required by a propane generator more than makes up for any extra cost.
One of the other drawbacks of propane is that it will not work effectively as a fuel as temperatures drop below around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This will only affect those living in the coldest parts of the country or in the depths of winter but it is worth being aware of as it can render propane virtually useless as a fuel source.
Despite the ease of using it, propane is a very flammable substance in a highly pressured container and always should be handled with care. It is a great choice of fuel for a generator but basic safety precautions should be taken and any handling instructions on the fuel or generator should be read and followed carefully.
Buying a Propane Generator: What to Look For
Convinced by the convenience of propane? Great! You’re ready to start shopping for your ideal generator.
If you are certain that a propane generator is the way to go, half the work is done. But there are still several factors to consider if you want to make the best decision. No two generators are exactly the same so the model of generator you choose should be the one that is suited to your own personal needs.
Start by defining exactly what you want from a generator.
Emergency Backup
If you live in an area where power outages are common, whether because of bad weather or other factors, then having your own source of extra power I wise. An emergency generator should be reliable, easy to use and small enough to store away. It is likely to be run irregularly and for short periods of time and will probably be used for powering essential items.
It is worth noting that AC and heating units are quite power-intensive and larger units might require 3-4000 watts to run. If you plan to power your whole home from you emergency generator then need a higher power output than if you are content to run a few basic essentials for a short time.
Off Grid Living / Prepping
If you expect to need your generator to be the main or only source of power you have access to for relatively long periods of time then your buying decision will look quite different.
Depending on your household utilities, you might need a very powerful unit. On the other hand, simple living often comes with lower energy needs so take the time to calculate what energy output you require and you can be sure that you won’t be running short.
One of the other things you will need from a generator is longevity – a solid, low maintenance unit which is capable of running for long periods of time. Check reviews of the unit online and try to shop from reliable manufacturers with a decent warranty and good after-sales service.
Camping / Secondary Power Source
Many people own generators for camping or as a secondary power source for workshops. A small, portable model will be best suited if you expect to move and transport it regularly. Power will be less important as it is likely that you will only need to run a few essentials off it so smaller units really come into their own here.
Once you have an idea of what you will use your new generator for, you are in a better place to begin selecting one. Before you begin shopping, however, you need to make sure you understand what you are looking for. The list of the specification can be overwhelming and incomprehensible if you’ve never bought a generator before so taking the time to consider the specs before you begin can make buying a whole lot easier.
Here are the main things you need to look out for:
Power Output
The power output is perhaps the most important thing you need to know about any generator you are considering. The power (or wattage) of the generator will define how many and what sort of items it will run.
There are two power numbers on each generator. The peak wattage defines the top level it can produce in a short burst, for powering up an item. The running wattage is the power it can run at for long periods. Many of the gas and propane generators have two peak and two running numbers; the lower pair will apply if you plan to use propane as it tends to be less efficient than gas.
The easiest way to figure out the power rating you need is to make a list of the items you would like to run and add up their wattage requirements. For example, a refrigerator requires around 700-1000 watts to run; a portable space heater around 1300-1800; and central air conditioning anywhere between 1500–5000 watts. Add them all up, check any extra power needed for start-up, and make sure the generator you choose is capable of powering everything you need.
Size and Weight
The size and shape of the generator will be partly dependent on its power output and its function. If you need a lot of power or require a large tank for gasoline then you will have to resign yourself to a bulky model.
A standby generator to power your house is likely to be designed to hook up to your electric system and will remain permanently in one spot so weight is not an issue. For camping, workshops, or occasional emergency use, it makes sense to have something more portable. Many small generators come with handles or a frame to make carrying them easy and larger ones will also have wheels so that you can move them around without lifting. If you anticipate moving your generator into and out of storage (or your motorhome or truck) then checking the size, weight and features is definitely worthwhile.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy things. When used in an emergency or for a short time then the sound can be overlooked but a loud generator running for longer periods, at night, or on a quiet campsite can soon become very annoying. The good news is that propane generators often run more quietly than gas or diesel generators, so if you are shopping for a propane powered model you are already one step ahead.
Only you can decide if the noise of a generator is important to you. If you are using it to power tools or equipment in a busy workshop or construction area then it is likely that other factors will be more important. However, if you have to live with it day to day then (for the sake of your own stress levels) it is worth taking the time to check the noise level.
Sound is generally measure in decibels and the quietest propane generators on the market will have decibel levels of around 50-65dBA. This is similar to an air conditioning system, or a little higher than a standard refrigerator. Most will be a little louder than this so if quite running is a priority then you might find that you need to shop around.
Cost
No matter what other factors you consider important, it is likely that price will have some bearing on your choice of generator. This will be largely dependent on size and power but can also vary depending on the brand.
As with most things, cheap is not always better. Some brands have earned a well-deserved reputation for solid and well-made engines and generators and excellent customer support and service.
Fuel Type
We are only looking at propane generators here so the fuel type has already been decided. However, several of the models we looked are actually duel fuel and will run with propane or gas. There are pros and cons to choosing this type of unit.
Duel Fuel Gas/Propane Generators (Pros and Cons)
- Pros
A choice of fuels means that you have option when one type is unavailable for some reason. As discussed earlier, propane becomes less effective at cold temperatures. If you expect to use the generator in very cold winter weather then having gas as a back-up option is sensible. It also gives you leeway if you unexpectedly run out of propane on a camping trip or somewhere where picking up more is not an option. Gas is a lot more easily available than propane; you can fill a container at almost any gas station and quickly top up your fuel tank.
- Cons
A duel fuel generator is a more complicated piece of kit that a single fuel unit and will definitely need more maintenance and attention. Unhooking a propane tank from a pipe is the work of seconds but gasoline needs to be used up or removed from the tank before the unit is stored for long periods as it will degrade over time.
How to Maintain Your Propane Generator
So you’ve made your decision and your new generator is on its way. Most generators are fairly simple to use, even if you have never seen one before, and propane generators will need less maintenance than gas powered units. But there are a still few things you need to take care of if you want your investment to pay of off the long term. Here are our top tips for long term generator care and maintenance.
Read the Manual
It’s tempting to skip this step, especially when most generators are pretty much set up and ready to use on arrival. But if you want to get the best from your purchase then it really is important to get to grips with the manual before you start using it. Getting to know your machine is the best way to make sure you know what sort of maintenance it needs and how often it needs it.
Check your Fuel Level
Propane is easy to store and has a long shelf-life so there is no reason to run your supply too low, especially if you only use your generator in an emergency. But bad weather can cause difficulties with deliveries so you might find yourself without fuel just at the time you need it most. Keep an eye on your fuel level and always remember to top up when you get a chance after using it.
Service Regularly
Oil, spark plugs, and filters will all need changing periodically so plan a ‘full service’ for your generator at least twice a year. The user manual will have full instructions on what to do and when to do it.
Check for Damage
If your generator sees a lot of use then it is likely to begin to show a little damage over time. When you service the unit take some time to check it over carefully. Look for rusty bolts, loose screws, worn or cracked parts or broken casing and repair or replace where necessary. Remove any debris and wipe down the outside of the frame so you can get a clear look at it.
Clear Out the Gas Tank
Many of the best propane generators are duel fuel units, with the ability to run off gas if required. This is a great option in an emergency situation when your propane runs out. If you do find yourself using gas you will need to make sure you clear out the tank if you are not planning to use the generator for several months as gasoline begins to degrade in storage.
If Unsure, Ask an Expert!
If your generator has any faults or breakages which you are unsure about or don’t know how to deal with, contact an expert for advice. Many manufacturers offer a warranty or an advice line to help you resolve any issues. It’s always best to be safe so run anything you are worried about past an expert before trying to fix it yourself.
Propane is ideal for preppers as it can be stored almost indefinitely. Generators powered by propane also run more cleanly and therefore need lower maintenance. For these reasons, it is preferable to gas for longer term use. But all generators need some care and attention; do this properly from day one and you will have a generator you know you can rely on when you need it.