Propane generators

Why propane is common here

Natural gas mains do not reach many rural roads. Propane fills that gap. It stores well for long periods, which suits a generator that may sit for months between outages. Many generator models are also rated slightly higher on propane than on natural gas; Generac's 24kW unit, for example, is rated 24 kW on propane and 22.5 kW on natural gas.

Sizing the tank

Tank size decides how long you can run before a refill. A large generator under heavy load uses fuel quickly, so a small tank can run dry in the middle of a long outage, when delivery trucks may also be delayed by storm damage. Ask for a runtime estimate at typical load for each tank size before you choose. If you already have propane for heat or cooking, ask whether one larger tank can serve everything.

• Generator size and expected load
• How many days of runtime you want
• Other propane appliances in the house
• Access for the delivery truck and hose reach
• Required distances from the house, property lines and ignition sources

Above ground or buried

Above-ground tanks cost less to install and are easy to inspect. Underground tanks are out of sight, which many homeowners prefer, but they need excavation. In Pound Ridge, rock can make that excavation harder. Fixr notes that excavation costs vary with how rocky and hard to reach the site is. The installer and propane company will look at both options.

Owning or leasing

Some propane companies lease tanks and require you to buy fuel from them. Others let you own the tank and choose your supplier. Ask about the terms, delivery schedule and whether automatic delivery is available, so the tank is full before storm season.

Safety

Propane tanks, regulators and lines must be installed by licensed professionals and inspected. Never try to connect or move a tank yourself. If you smell gas (propane has an added odor like rotten eggs), leave the area right away, avoid using switches or phones near the leak, and call 911 or your propane company from a safe distance.

Questions homeowners ask