T-Rex Generators features propane and natural gas stationary generators from names like Generac, Winco, and Winpower. Gaseous standby units are a great choice for occasional backup (if your application will require prime power, we urge you to consider a diesel).
Sometimes overlooked factors to consider when selecting a large propane or natural gas standby generator are its dimensions, and, even more, its operating rpm. For urban or suburban applications, a generator that runs at 1800 rpm can be less invasive than a 3600 rpm unit. In selecting a propane natural gas standby for a home or business, you have a choice of cooling methods and of fuel source. Air-cooled units, for instance, can be simpler to maintain than liquid-cooled counterparts. They are also more compact than any liquid-cooled generator of the same kilowatt rating. This can be helpful in residential applications. On the other hand, air-cooled models are limited in size. Twenty kilowatts is about the highest kW rating you will find in an air-cooled machine. Like air-cooled portables, these generators invariably operate at a lofty 3600 rpm. A slower-running machine not only creates less noise, it can benefit from an increased operating life by virtue of reduced wear and tear on its engine.
Both propane and natural gas enjoy many benefits over standard gasoline as a fuel for backup purposes. Either will leave a tinier environmental footprint than gasoline or diesel. Propane resists becoming stale, therefore doesn't demand the frequent replacement or replenishment that gasoline (or diesel) will. Both Propane and natural gas engines harbor a greater life expectancy than their gasoline counterparts. When it comes to storing fuel, propane is slightly safer to keep in large quantities than gasoline (though not as safe as is diesel). The primary advantage of natural gas over any other backup fuel is that it won't require storage. The existing NG feed of an application provides an omnipresent fuel source that can be readily accessed whenever utility power fails.
Air-Cooled Generators - Best for Residential Applications
Here are a handful of factors to consider when evaluating an air-cooled generator for your application:
- Smaller and lighter than liquid-cooled model with equivalent kW
- Usually configurable on the ground with no technician to use NG or LPG fuel - significantly increases versatility
- Maximum size of about 20 kW
- Lower purchase price and simpler maintenance than liquid-cooled unit of same size
- Invariably operate at 3600 rpm
- Can often be obtained as generator/transfer switch package for easier implementation
Liquid-Cooled Generators - Best for Commercial/Large-Residential Use
Here are a few common reasons for selecting liquid-cooled generator over an air-cooled machine:
- Available in sizes to service much larger application
- Often operate at 1800 rpm for reduced noise
- Their automotive-style motors offer longer life than the one or two-cylinder engines found in air-cooled generators
- Normally will harbor more sophisticated controls with better monitoring functions
- Pretty much essential for any business or application with heavy freezer/refrigeration units to back up
Natural Gas Generators - Excellent for Application With NG Feed
Consider a natural-gas burning unit if:
- Application has safe and reliable NG source for backup
- Storing fuel for power failures is a hassle you would prefer to eliminate
Propane Generators - Ideal If Longterm Fuel Storage Required
A propane-burning standby may be right for you if:
- Natural gas isn't an option
- Best fuel-storage characteristics of any emergency fuel are particularly important
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