What is a portable propane generator?

A portable propane generator is a combination of an engine and an electric power generator hooked up together in a single shape. The machine provides electricity when your power goes out, or you don't have any power at all. With propane generators, you can run the engine with Propane, just like the other engines run with Propane or diesel. Apart from stationary ones, the best thing about portable generators is they have the mobility to take them anywhere you go.

How to choose a portable propane generator?

Choosing the right propane inverter generator for the needs you might have requires you to consider some features, such as:

1.    How much power do you need?

Generators come with two types of power, first is the max power and the rated power. Both of them are also known as the peak wattage and the continuous wattage. When you start off the generator, electric devices need more power to start compared to continue working. The generator produces higher power for the pic and delivers constant power to run and support the electric devices. For a better perspective, your fridge needs 700 watts of constant power and 2100 watts of peak power. Be sure to get adequate power on the generator by calculating the amount of wattage you need.

2.    Consider the power outlets

Having enough power for all your electronic devices won't come in use if you don't have the right power outlets in the generator. Depending on what country and state you're living in, the power outlet requirements will differ. Different types of electric devices need a different amount of power outlets as well. Generators with smaller inverters usually come with only 120V outlets, which aren't enough for bigger devices. Make sure you have a 240V outlet to be able to run almost any type of device. Be sure to have GFCI protection on the outlets and try to have a couple of USB ports for mobile devices as well.

3.    Consider the usage purpose

The purpose of getting the generator has a big role while you're choosing the generator. There could be two types of usage purposes, either constant usage or occasional usage. If you're going to use it almost every day and need a constant power source, look for a highly efficient commercial engine. Make sure the generator produces 240V power and has the proper outlets. You'll have to go above 4000 wattage generators to get that much power and outlets. If you're planning to set the generator on an RV or need it for camping, getting that much power isn't necessary. You should go for a smaller form factor generator for mobility instead.

4.    Consider having bi-fuel option

I understand you're looking for a propane generator, and that's a great decision to go with for sure. However, if you run out of Propane in the middle of nowhere but have access to another source, you can stay on. You can have a diesel option to keep it running and they are a good option if you're running the whole house as well. There are battery-powered generators available as well. You can draw power from solar panels to charge the generator with them.

5.    Consider the fuel tank size

The fuel tank size of your generator is an important thing to consider, especially if you're choosing a bi-fuel engine. The bigger a fuel tank you have with your generator, the longer you'll be able to run it without refueling. Most of the popular generators will give you 8-9 hours of continuous usage time if you're running it on a 50% load. If you're planning to use it more often and have less opportunity to refuel, go for a bigger tank. There are external plastic tanks available in the market that you can use externally. However, the size of the tank isn't a headache; you're using Propane anyways. You'll get a backup of the whole week until the propane supply is exhausted.

6.    The starting mechanism

You have to select the starting mechanism of the generator wisely as you have to use it for a long time. Most of the generators come with recoil cords that you have to pull to start off the engine. However, there are electric starters available in the market as well. If you're not okay with some extra bills, staying off the electric starters is a great decision. They come with a battery on the side, which mostly comes with lead-acid and some with lithium-ion. If you're not addicted to starting the engine electrically with a key, you should avoid the electric starters. They will give you some extra headache as you have to charge it from time to time.

7.    What is the noise level?

The noise level of the generator should be one of the most important considerable features. If you don't have any issues with huge sound issues, you may go for a generator without thinking about it. But, that's highly unlikely that you're okay with excessive noise. So, you have to make sure the generator makes as less noise as possible. When you're going through the features of the generator, have a look if it's a "Quiet class". The high-end generators with quite an operation mode may go as conversational noise level. If you're going camping or RV ranging with people, the low-noise consideration will please your neighbors.

8.    Transportation method

If you're getting a generator with 4000 watts or more, the generator will be massive to carry with your hand. You have to make sure that the generator has a proper transportation capability. Make sure the frame construction is rigid enough to survive in any situation. It should have sturdy handles and pneumatic or non-inflatable tires to move around. Be sure to check if the manufacturer is providing the maintenance and wheel kit with the generator as well. One more thing to consider is the stands for the generator, which help it stay off the ground and safe.

How to use a portable propane generator?

Using a portable propane generator has a fairly straightforward process from the starting to shut off. Here is how you use a propane generator with a propane tank:

• If it's a dual-fuel engine, be sure to set the fuel selector mechanism on Propane and turn the valve on for Propane.
• Attach the propane hose to the tank properly and open up the valve all the way to supply Propane to the engine.
• Move the choke to run position, turn the battery switch and the ignition switch on the On position and good to go.
• Now, you can either use the ignition switch or the recoil cord starter to ignite the engine and get going.
• To stop the engine, turn the fuel valve of the Propane or LPG on the off position, and the engine will automatically shut off.
• Now you can turn the propane tank valve off and remove the gas hose from the tank and the engine.

Final words

Using a portable propane generator comes with countless benefits and extra features. You'll have a longer backup than any other engine types and a cleaner operation mode than others. However, while using a propane generator, don't forget to get through the manuals and know the safety precautions.

Never put the tank on the exhaust side of the generator and put it on the recoil side for safety. Be sure there are no kinks or pinches on the pipe of the propane tank. Always keep the power switch and the battery switch turned off while you're not using the generator. Put your gas pipe on a dry and clean place where it won't get clogged with dust.