DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY: The Benefits of Propane vs. Gasoline

UPDATED: MARCH 2024

During powerful storms, you can expect plenty of power outages, some lasting several days. Investing in a backup generator is a must when working on your disaster prep checklist. 

A generator can power your entire home, keep the food in your refrigerator fresh, charge your mobile devices so you can stay connected and up-to-date on the news, and offer your family a sense of comfort during a time of catastrophe.

Before you purchase a generator, it’s important to do your research. It's not as simple as buying the biggest and most expensive generator you can find. There are several factors you need to consider: What generator size would best suit your home’s square footage? Should you get a propane generator or a gas generator?What appliances and machines will you be running with your generator? How much power does your home actually consume? 

It’s also important to look into the generator’s features. You want something that’s up-to-date when it comes to safety and technology. 

THE DUROMAX WAY 

We understand that having dependable power whenever and wherever you need it provides comfort, safety, and peace of mind. This is especially important when you live in a place that’s prone to power outages — whether it’s from hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, or wildfires. During a time of disaster, it’s crucial to have something you can rely on for continuous power.

DuroMax offers an array of portable generators that are perfect for home backup. Our vision is focused on the quality, reliability, and durability of our products, combined with outstanding customer service. 

Here at DuroMax, we’re all about coming up with the latest innovations for our products.

 

DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY

Instead of having to choose between a gasoline generator and a propane generator, our full line of Dual Fuel generators feature our innovative Dual Fuel technology. This gives you the freedom of operating your generator on either gasoline or liquid propane. 

Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing your fuel type. Here are some of the benefits of using liquid propane over traditional gasoline:

  • COST EFFECTIVE:  The cost of propane is about 12% cheaper per BTU compared to gasoline. (National cost average March 2024) Gasoline prices fluctuate widely due to changes in crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and seasonal demand changes. Propane prices also vary, but generally do not experience the same level of volatility as gasoline.

  • LONGER SHELF LIFE: Unlike gasoline, propane fuel is more stable and won’t degrade over time. While gasoline can only be stored for a few months at a time, propane can last for up to 30 years. Because propane’s longevity, you won’t need to add expensive stabilizers to keep it from going bad. 

  • READILY AVAILABLE: If you’re using gasoline to fuel your generator, you’ll most likely refill your tanks at a gas station. This becomes a problem during a power outage, when there’s no electricity at the gas station. Fortunately, propane gas is available in home centers, supermarkets, outdoor stores, BBQ stores… and gas stations. Just make sure to bring cash!

  • CLEAN-BURNING FUEL: If you're concerned about carbon monoxide fumes or pollution, stick with propane.  Propane is cleaner since it produces half the amount of carbon monoxide as gasoline.

  • LESS MAINTENANCE: Gasoline leaves carbon deposits in your engine and exhaust, which means you’ll need to clean them more often. Gasoline also leaves residue in fuel lines and other system parts which requires more maintenance. Propane does not have these problems.

  • NO SPILLS: A propane tank comes with safety valves, which means they’re less likely to spill or leak compared to gasoline. The valves on a propane tank also trap fumes, so you won’t have to deal with as much evaporation. Gasoline leaking or evaporating isn’t only wasteful… It’s also highly toxic!

  • WORKS WELL DURING THE WINTER: Gasoline becomes more viscous in the cold, which makes them harder to use during the winter months. Propane doesn’t have temperature-related issues, so it’s perfect for those who live in places with very cold winters. You should still know how to winterize your generator, but propane is a better option for winter terrains.

Make sure to check out our Dual Fuel line of generators, especially our premium HX Series, which features our CO Alert Technology.