When it comes to alternative power sources a generator works best at giving you the power source you need to run critical equipment and appliances. But you should be careful what type of fuel your generator runs on as there are several options but not all of them are ideal depending on your situation. What types of fuel for generators works best will depend on your emergency needs.
A generator provides a backup power source when there is an interruption in the power supply due to emergencies or natural disasters. The type of fueling you choose can be critical in ensuring that you have enough power to run those appliances and equipment that you need. When choosing a fueling type make sure that it is readily available and that you can store enough of it on site to continue operating until things get back to normal.
Gasoline, propane, diesel and natural gas are the most common types for generators to run on. Gasoline is readily available and often the least expensive of the fueling categories. However, in an acute emergency this type is often the hardest to get and maintain due to the general need for it. It is also very difficult to store gasoline as it only has a shelf life of one year and is highly flammable.
Propane is another source that is easily available and burns clean. This product can be stored in tanks on the premise but you should check to see how available this source is in an emergency from suppliers in your area. Often, propane and this type of generator are not meant to run entire households or businesses as the power supplied is not very high.
Diesel is the most effective in running a generator and also the most cost-effective as this type is a little cheaper. The amount of power it supplies can run an entire home or business making it the ideal source. This type has a shelf life of about a year and a half to two years and can readily be stored on site and is not as flammable as gasoline and works better in colder climates.
Natural gas is another source for generators that works best to supply power to entire homes and businesses. However, it is not the most cost-effective and the generator must be hooked into the natural gas line and power grid of the location you are in. This type is readily available and does not need to be stored on site in containers.
There is another type called dual fuel that provides natural gas and diesel power to generators that use these types of product. These generators are ideal for when you need a backup to your main source and it can easily be switched from one source to the other.
When choosing a generator and the type of fuel to run it, take into consideration what fuel types work best in emergency situations. If you choose a fuel source that is readily available and easy to get without risking running out of the source, that would be the ideal fuel to use.
