Backup Generators : Why Pick Natural Gas?
When considering a backup power solution for your business or facility, a backup generator is one of the more common solutions available. For businesses that want to have a permanent backup power solution on site also known as a standby generator can be a great solution to mitigate any losses or downtime that may arise due to unexpected power outages. Standby generators are stationary backup generators that are located either on-site outside of the facility or installed within a designated generator room within the building and can be used to keep critical systems and operations running smoothly.
While diesel generators are considered one of the most commonly used and relied upon backup generator due to their versatility and capability, natural gas generators are also a very popular choice among consumers when evaluating backup power solutions.
Overview of natural gas generators
Unlike diesel generators which have a wide range of versatility that can meet the needs of many different industries, including off-grid applications such as mining, new construction, logging, or drilling to name a few, a natural gas generator is a favored option when it comes to stationary generators thanks to their fuel supply, emissions, and noise production.
Advantages
Natural gas generators as the name states run off natural gas. This is usually achieved by installing the generator and connecting the generator the natural gas pipeline. If your facility is connected to the gas utility, then this generally enables the generator to run without worries about having to refuel the generator. This contrasts with a diesel generator which requires a steady supply of diesel fuel to keep the generator operational. Natural gas generators are also touted to produce “cleaner” emissions when compared to their diesel counterparts which allows for greater flexibility in terms of where they are installed and applications, they are used for such as backing up a hotel or apartment complex in a city. The reason for his is due to combustion process where a natural gas generator usually tends to burn up most of the fuel while running, which results in less particulates to be released into the atmosphere. Noise production is also a huge factor that ties in with the emissions. When dealing with a commercial or industrial grade generator, it must be noted that these pieces of heavy equipment produce a lot of noise when running. Natural gas generators tend to be a little quieter when compared to their diesel counterparts, it makes it a more ideal option for urban installations and locations where there is a greater population living closely together.
In some instances, there are some natural gas generators that can be outfitted with a propane conversion kit that enables the generator to run off propane that is delivered and stored in large propane tanks located on-site.
If you’re working on a project that is focused on Combined Heat and Power (CHP), then a natural gas generator would be the ideal solution for this application. CHP operations commonly implement a natural gas generator in order to achieve desired goals.
Disadvantages
While a natural gas generator may hold a benefit over diesel generators due to the availability of a constant fuel supply, this can also at times be considered a downfall. In the event of a natural disaster or man-made disaster, the natural gas supply may be one of the first utilities shut off in order to increase safety and prevent additional hazards from occurring such as gas explosions. In events like shortages or high demand, the natural gas supply could potentially be controlled in order to allocate distribution. Another item to note is that rising prices of natural gas can also negatively impact the benefit of relying on a natural gas generator, because the cost of fuel can become expensive due to potential fluctuating costs to operate the generator. Though this may be a considered a disadvantage, many modern natural gas generators are coming equipped with a fuel switch that enables natural gas generators to run off of propane. Many modern natural gas generators are coming equipped with these switches as a standard build. For older units, there may be conversion kits available that enable older natural gas generators to accept and run off propane in the event of an emergency where the natural gas utility is disconnected or shut off.
Natural gas generators also require more maintenance when compared to their diesel counterparts. This can result in increased service costs over a shorter period of time to ensure that the generator remains fully operational. One of the leading reasons for this is due to the spark ignitions that is part of all natural gas generators. It’s also important to factor in that increased maintenance also means increased downtime.
Climate can also affect natural gas generators and negatively impact their performance. When installing a natural gas generator for your business or facility, it’s important to consider the location before moving ahead with purchasing and installation. If your business is in an area that is regularly below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or located in areas with high altitude, these can be contributing factors that impact a natural gas generator’s ability to perform and operate as expected.
When dealing with a natural gas generator, it is also important to consider safety. Natural gas is highly flammable. It is important to include checks for hoses and gas lines that could wear down or crack over time. These cracks or general wear can allow gas to leak through and could potentially lead to poisoning. If there is gas leaking through these hoses or lines and the generator is located near anything that is flammable, causes friction, or spark-ignited, it could also lead to an explosion and/or fire.
Conclusion
Despite some disadvantages of natural gas generators, they are still considered a highly recommended backup power solution when compared to diesel generators. Many cases of natural gas generators failing often deal with neglect or misuse of the generator, meaning a natural gas generator can last you a long time if properly cared for and maintained. While both diesel and natural gas generators come with their own benefits and downsides, a natural gas generator may be a more appropriate choice when it comes to choosing a backup generator for your business or facility just as it’s favored by many! Be sure to assess the advantages and disadvantages of both diesel and natural gas generators before making your decision and as always, feel free to reach out to us with any questions or more information!
If you’re looking to find out more on natural gas generators or looking to purchase a generator for your business or facility, please reach out to us at Woodstock Power Company!
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