Diesel vs Propane Generator: What Are the Differences?

Power outages aren’t uncommon occurrences and can happen at random times for several reasons. Bad weather, public accidents, and equipment failure are only a few of the causes of a power outage.

Just in the past year, Texas has become the state with the most power outages.

With electricity being implemented into almost every aspect of our lives and businesses, we know that every minute wasted is money lost.

To prevent that we make use of industrial-grade generators to keep the business running. All you have to do now is decide which generator would suit your business more.

It’s the diesel vs propane generator and this article will expand on the differences between the two and in the process, help you make a decision.

Diesel vs Propane Generator

Both generators have their pros and cons and a diesel and propane generator would work great in an environment that’s prone to power outages. It’s up to you to decide which generator to pick between diesel vs propane generators.

What is a Diesel Generator?

Making use of diesel as fuel, a diesel generator has a small engine in them that resembles that of a car motor. As fuel is fed into the generator, the generator’s components work in tandem to generate electricity.

These generators are great for emergencies and are surprisingly low maintenance.

The headings below act as a diesel generator guide that will help inform you about the pros and cons of a diesel generator.

Expenses

Depending on where you live, the costs of diesel by the gallon will differ. In the United States, however, the cost of diesel per gallon is $4.59, making it almost twice the price of propane gas.

When it comes to buying a diesel generator, it’s reasonable to say that the prices are affordable. Whatever your budget is, there’s a diesel model out there for you.

Fuel Efficiency

It is important to note that while diesel fuel costs run higher than that of propane gas, the cost to run a diesel generator is lower than a propane generator.

One gallon of diesel can produce the same amount of power as three gallons of propane. In the long run, spending five dollars on diesel will save you about $2.50 more than propane.

Fuel Shelf Life

Diesel fuel in general can become contaminated easily and begins to degrade after about a month in storage. When stored carefully, it can last from 6 to 12 months.

Environmental Impact

When using a diesel generator, know that it will be contributing to air pollution due to the toxic gas emissions being released into the air.

Diesel generators tend to contribute to noise pollution as they are known for the disturbances caused by their noise and vibration.

Longevity and Maintenance

A diesel generator tends to have a longer lifespan. It’s also a low-maintenance machine that is easy to repair. Finding parts and accessories for your diesel generator is simple as you can find them almost anywhere.

Regular checkups on the generator’s parts may be needed to detect early issues and when it comes to safety, those working with this generator must wear protective clothing.

Size

Industrial diesel generators tend to be large in general. However, one upside is that because they come with an embedded tank, they’re great for areas with limited space.

What is a Propane Generator?

Propane is one of the most common types of fuel used in households and even in businesses. By connecting it to an external tank containing its fuel, you can generate electricity without having to stabilize it periodically as one does with gasoline.

It’s a great generator to have in the long run rather than for emergencies and it’s considered to be environmentally friendly.

Below are some pros and cons that you can view as a propane generator guide to make a decision on which generator is best for your business.

Expenses

Propane gas costs run cheaper than diesel fuel at only $2.33 per gallon. That’s almost 50% cheaper.

When planning to buy a propane generator, the machines are more expensive than diesel-powered generators.

Fuel Efficiency

In a business setting, with larger machines, and more electricity needing to be generated, you might have issues with how propane fuel costs pile up.

Fuel Shelf Life

One of the best things about propane gas is that they have a shelf life that lasts for years. To be specific, propane gas has the potential to last for about 20-30 years thus giving it a longer shelf life than diesel.

It does add to their efficiency as propane gas would eliminate the need to go out and buy fuel. You can just keep a few gallons in stock.

Environmental Impact

Compared to diesel generators, a propane generator generates low emissions. It’s technically considered to be clean energy.

The fumes are colorless and odorless, which would benefit those who have sensitive noses.

Longevity and Maintenance

Propane generators tend to have a shorter life expectancy. As the world advanced with diesel generators, propane generators seem to be a little low-technology in comparison.

Taking care of a propane generator can get difficult, especially when parts aren’t as easy to come by.

As for safety, propane generators tend to have a more complex system that compared to diesel generators. Should something go wrong, it could be difficult to detect and in due time, become dangerous.

Size

Unlike the diesel generator, a propane generator doesn’t come with an embedded tank due to the fuel being a gas.

In addition to its larger general size, a propane generator would need to connect to an external tank which isn’t good for areas with limited space.

The Verdict

Which generator will you choose in a diesel vs propane generator situation?

If your business has space and if your business aims to implement greener energy use, then making use of a propane generator would be the best option.

Otherwise, if you’re looking for something that will last for a long time, and help you cut costs with repair, maintenance, and fuel use, then the diesel generator is perfect for your business.

Interested in obtaining your very own generator? Don’t hesitate to contact us!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a diesel generator?

Diesel generator uses diesel as fuel to generate power. It has a small engine with several components that work in tandem to generate electricity. Diesel generators are quite reliable, robust, high on performance, low on maintenance, cost-effective and can be used in a variety of applications. Diesel generators are especially preferred in industrial and commercial applications for the kind of power they are capable of producing apart from being efficient even in harsh weather conditions.

What is a propane generator?

Propane generators are mechanical devices that use propane gas to convert mechanical energy into electricity. Since propane is a more environmentally friendly fuel, propane generators are good for in the long run rather than using them during emergencies. However, these generators are not very long-lasting as diesel generators.

Which is better – a diesel generator or a propane generator?

It all depends on what your requirements are. If you are looking for a high-power, robust, all-weather performer, then a diesel generator is the right choice. If you need to run your generator for smaller machines and you are looking for an environmentally friendly option, then propane is the option. Diesel generators for the variety of models, brands, and power options they provide enjoy an upper hand, especially in industrial and commercial usage.

How can Swift Equipment help in choosing the right generator?

We are an experienced team of experts that works with your requirements to help you find the right solution. Our expert team members provide all kinds of support so that you can buy the right equipment, whether new or used. So, if you are confused between a diesel and a propane generator, let us help you with it.