Gasoline generators tend to be less expensive than other models, and most of the time fuel is readily available. However, gasoline generators need to be refueled regularly, no matter what the weather is like, and gasoline may be difficult to acquire in case of a power outage or natural disaster.
Gasoline is a more efficient fuel than propane or natural gas, but is less efficient than diesel, offering 125,000 BTUs per gallon (enough to heat an average sized room for 5 to 10 hours).
Advantage of Gasoline Generators:
Gasoline generators have the advantage of using a readily-available, relatively inexpensive source of fuel. However, that ready availability can backfire in an emergency since there will likely be a run on gasoline in those situations and you might find yourself without a source of fuel. Storing gas doesn’t work too well, since it has a shelf life of only 1 year. It’s also more flammable than the other types of generator fuels and is the least-suited for cold weather.
Gasoline Generator Fuel Consumption:
Gasoline is a common source of fuel and easiest to obtain, however, it is highly flammable and unsafe to store in large amounts. Gasoline prices are somewhat expensive and tend to be the least efficient way to run a generator; at least for long periods of time.
Most portable generators will run on gasoline out of convenience. A standard 5,000 watt generator will consume around 18 gallons of gasoline during a 1 day/24 hour period. This makes it very unrealistic and expensive for long term use. This is why more and more are turning to inverter generators. Most of these offer an eco or economy mode which varies throttle (and ultimately fuel consumption) based on load demands. These are the most efficient gasoline generators. Usually one tank a fuel, which may only be 1-2 gallons, will last 8-10 hours. Therefore, running two inverter generators, which are usually 2,000-4,000 watt power source together, are usually more efficient than running a larger 5,000+ watt open frame generator. Again, this come back to the presence of economy mode as well as the technology/process that produces energy.
We also offer Nitrogen and Diesel Generators.