Generators are extremely handy, especially in the event of a power outage. There are various types of generators available on the market. A common question from users is, “can a dual-fuel generator run on natural gas?”.
Yes, you can use a dual-fuel generator with natural gas if you wish to do so. But you might need to alter the generator before you can do so. In most cases, by installing a natural gas conversion kit, you can run your dual-fuel generator with natural gas.
This article will thoroughly guide you on the characteristics and internal functions of a dual-fuel generator.
How Do Dual Fuel Generators Work?
A dual-fuel generator is designed to run on two different types of fuels, either mixed or separately. They can also store two different types of fuel or even use two different types of fuel without any problems.
Dual fuel generators use two distinct types of fuel at the same time. Depending on the engine and the conditions, these fuels can be blended in various proportions or utilized alone.
Because diesel has a lower ignition temperature than natural gas, a dual-fuel generator will almost always have to start on diesel alone.
Can I run my generator on natural gas? Depends. What type of generator do you have? You might have a propane-powered generator.
But can a propane-powered generator run on natural gas? Yes, it can. However, you would require a conversion kit for your specific generator model to make it happen.
Dual fuel generators are simple to maintain, run, and maintain. Additionally, they are particularly cost-effective because of the low rate of fuel consumption.
These engines are recommended for people who desire to increase their electricity output without increasing their costs too much.
Can A Dual Fuel Generator Run On Natural Gas?
Some dual-fuel generators can accept natural gas as fuel right out of the box. But some might need additional modifications. Such as the installation of a natural gas conversion kit.
A natural gas conversion kit will cost somewhere around $125 to $150. The installation is simple. However, if you are not comfortable with such tasks, feel free to consult a professional.
The kit includes an adaptor that allows you to run both natural gas and gasoline at the same time.
Because most households have low-pressure natural gas for their heaters, ovens, stoves, or grills, you can now use the same fuel for your generators.
But it will depend and vary based on the brand and model of your generator. Can Champion dual fuel generator run on natural gas? No, not without the conversion kit.
How about a DuroMax? Can a DuroMax dual-fuel generator run on natural gas? Sadly, modification is needed in this case as well.
What Are the Benefits of a Dual Fuel Generator?
Some dual-fuel generators can accept both gasoline and diesel. This makes them extremely flexible and cost-effective for people in remote areas. They also provide other benefits as well.
Benefits of Dual Fuel Generator:
Versatility of Fuels: Dual fuel generators can use sewage gas, natural gas, diesel, LP vapor, diesel, and liquid propane to fuel themselves and generate electricity. Which makes them extremely versatile and flexible for use.
Automatic Fuel Switching: These generators can switch fuel automatically if one type of fuel runs out. This ensures that your household gets a non-stop electricity supply from your generator without any sort of interruptions.
Eco-Friendly: It is less harmful to the environment than other types of setups. Because natural gas is cleaner than diesel, combining the two produces fewer emissions than diesel generators. Less carbon is released into the atmosphere as a result of the combination of fuels.
Cost-Effective: These engines are simple to operate, maintain, and run. Additionally, they are particularly cost-effective because of the low rate of fuel consumption. These are machines that can run on very low fuel levels, making them a cost-effective solution to run and operate.
High Reliability: Dual fuel generators are known to be highly reliable, as they have the power to automatically switch fuels to ensure a continuous power supply.
Durability: The dual fuel generators are made in a very sturdy fashion keeping in mind all of the conditions they will face. Due to their sturdy and durable nature, they have extremely high longevity, which also makes them more popular among users.
What Should I Consider Before Buying a Dual-Fuel Generator?
Although a dual-fuel generator sounds very promising, not all dual-fuel generators are the same. And hence, there are a few factors to consider before opting to buy a dual-fuel generator.
Let’s take a quick look at some of these factors.
Power Output
The maximum output of the most potent generators is 12,500 watts, whereas the maximum output of smaller models is somewhere around 5,000 watts.
These generators can surely help in an emergency and power your most important electronics, even if they can’t realistically power every item in your house for the foreseeable future.
So, power output is one crucial factor to keep in mind before choosing a generator. However, plugging it into a wall outlet may be a bad idea.
Fuel Capacity
When your electrical system fails, dual fuel generators employ two forms of backup energy as emergency replacement sources, often gasoline and propane.
You need a generator with enough fuel capacity to serve all of your needs.
Engine Efficiency
Typically, the engine of a dual-fuel generator is significantly more efficient than the generators we would have been using 10 years ago.
Because dual fuel types may convert between gasoline, diesel, and/or propane, they are often more efficient than older generators.
Thus, it is best to go with the generator with the most efficient engine.
Noise Levels
The decibel level of some of the smaller generators is in the mid-40s, or around the same as typical household background noise.
The quietest top-rated big generators typically have a maximum decibel level of 75, which is slightly louder than a vacuum cleaner.
If noise is a big issue for you, you should opt for the generator with the least noise generation.
Summary
Can a dual-fuel generator run on natural gas? The answer should be evident to you by now if you have read through the entire article properly. I hope that this article has given you the necessary information needed to make a decision.
Before opting to buy or install a generator, make sure to weigh out all of the pros and cons of each of your choice. That way you will not have to feel guilty afterward.
