Home Generators: Gas vs. Natural Gas Options
Power outages happen. Whether from storms, grid failures, or equipment problems, losing electricity is more than inconvenient—it can be dangerous. Understanding your generator options helps you choose the right backup power solution.
Generator Types for Homes
Portable Generators
What they are: Wheeled units that run on gasoline, stored until needed.
Power output: 3,000-12,000+ watts
Advantages: - Lower purchase cost - Can be used for camping, job sites - No permanent installation - Easy to maintain
Disadvantages: - Manual startup and connection - Must store and manage fuel - Cannot run during carbon monoxide concerns (inside garage) - Limited runtime on one tank - May not power whole house
Best for: Occasional outages, essential circuit backup, budget-conscious homeowners.
Inverter Generators
What they are: Portable generators with cleaner power output, suitable for sensitive electronics.
Power output: 1,000-7,000+ watts
Advantages: - Clean sine wave power (safe for electronics) - Quieter operation - More fuel efficient - Compact size
Disadvantages: - Higher cost than conventional portables - Less power per dollar - Still require manual operation
Best for: RVing, camping, or supplemental home power for electronics.
Standby Generators
What they are: Permanently installed units that start automatically during outages.
Power output: 7,500-50,000+ watts (whole-house capable)
Advantages: - Automatic operation (no manual startup) - Powers entire home seamlessly - Runs on natural gas or propane (no fuel storage) - Longer runtime (unlimited with natural gas) - Higher resale value for home
Disadvantages: - Higher purchase and installation cost - Requires professional installation - Needs periodic maintenance - Permanent outdoor installation
Best for: Frequent outages, medical equipment needs, home office dependency, comfort priority.
Fuel Comparisons
Gasoline
Pros: - Readily available - Works with portable generators - High energy density
Cons: - Must be stored safely (fire hazard) - Goes stale in 3-6 months - Not practical for long outages - Fuel station may be closed during outages
Natural Gas
Pros: - Unlimited supply (if line intact) - No fuel storage or handling - Cleaner burning - Always "fresh"—doesn't degrade
Cons: - Requires existing natural gas service - Gas line installation adds cost - Lower energy density than gasoline - Gas service may be disrupted (rare)
Propane (LP)
Pros: - Longer shelf life than gasoline - Available for homes without natural gas - Stored onsite in tanks - Works with standby or dual-fuel generators
Cons: - Tank must be filled (planning required) - Finite supply during outage - Takes up yard space - Higher fuel cost than natural gas
Sizing Your Generator
What You Need to Power
| Item | Approximate Watts |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 600-800 (running), 2000 (starting) |
| Sump pump | 800-1500 |
| Furnace blower | 500-2000 |
| Well pump | 1000-4000 |
| Window AC | 1000-1500 |
| Central AC | 3000-5000 |
| Lights (LED) | 10-20 each |
| Phone/laptop charging | 50-100 |
Key consideration: Motor loads (pumps, AC) need extra power for startup.
Generator Sizing
| Scenario | Minimum Generator Size |
|---|---|
| Essentials only (fridge, lights, phone) | 3,000-5,000W |
| Essentials + sump pump + furnace | 5,000-7,500W |
| Most circuits except AC/range | 10,000-15,000W |
| Whole house including AC | 20,000-30,000W+ |
Electrical Requirements
For Portable Generators
Inlet box installation: - Outdoor power inlet near generator location - Connects to transfer switch inside - Allows safe, code-compliant connection
Transfer switch: - Prevents backfeeding power to utility lines (dangerous) - May be manual or automatic - Selects which circuits receive generator power
Never: Run generator power through extension cords plugged into outlets (fire hazard, backfeed hazard).
For Standby Generators
Automatic transfer switch (ATS): - Detects power loss - Signals generator to start - Transfers home to generator power - Returns to utility when power restores
Electrical connections: - Dedicated circuit for generator controls - Connection to transfer switch - May require panel upgrade for larger units
Natural gas connection: - Dedicated gas line sized for generator - Shutoff valve at generator - Performed by licensed gas fitter
Installation Considerations
Placement Requirements
Standby generators need: - Clearance from windows and doors (exhaust concerns) - Distance from property lines (code varies) - Level concrete pad or mounting surface - Access for maintenance - Protection from flooding
Code requirements: Setbacks from openings typically 5+ feet; check local codes.
Permit Requirements
Usually required for: - Standby generator installation - Transfer switch installation - Gas line work - Electrical panel modifications
Maintenance Needs
Portable Generators
- Change oil after first 20-30 hours, then every 100 hours
- Check air filter regularly
- Run monthly for 15-30 minutes
- Use fresh fuel or fuel stabilizer
- Store properly when not in use
Standby Generators
- Weekly automatic test runs
- Annual professional inspection
- Oil and filter changes per schedule
- Battery replacement every 2-4 years
- Air filter and spark plug service
Costs
| Generator Type | Equipment Cost | Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Portable (5-7kW) | $800-$2,000 | $300-$800 (inlet + switch) |
| Inverter (3-5kW) | $1,000-$3,000 | $300-$800 (inlet + switch) |
| Standby (10-15kW) | $3,000-$6,000 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Standby (20-30kW) | $5,000-$12,000 | $3,000-$7,000 |
Note: Gas line installation adds $500-$2,000+ if needed.
Making Your Decision
Consider: - How often do you lose power? - How long do outages typically last? - What must stay powered (medical, sump pump, comfort)? - Is natural gas available? - What's your budget for purchase and installation? - Do you want automation or manual operation?
Contact us for generator installation or transfer switch services.