Natural Gas Generators
Undestanding Natural Gas Generators
natural gas generators
Natural Gas is used by more than half of all households in the USA, meaning that gas systems are in fact the most common type of stand-by generator used for home use, known also as natural gas generators.
Natural Gas is a fossil fuel consisting primarily of methane and is found in large pockets underneath the ground. Unlike oil, these reserves are found in North America, meaning not only are we using our own resources, but we’re cutting costs because these resources don’t need to be utilized abroad and imported.
This gas is pressurized in several stages before it reaches your home, beginning at it’s initial underground storage stage. From here it’s sent through the interstate pipelines at pressures of between 200 and 1500 pounds per square inch (PSI), before being reduced further at the gate stations in order to be funneled through to distribution systems called ‘Mains’. This ultimately means you have gas available on ‘tap’ – and these taps in your home are called ‘services’. Old service systems deliver natural gas to your home at roughly 0.2-0.3 PSI, and although new systems can range from 2-50 PSI, a gas meter is included which regulates and reduces the incoming pressure to 0.2-0.25 PSI.
Natural Gas Generators For Home Use
With natural gas so readily available in the home, it’s preferable to run a natural gas generator generator off of it, rather than buying extra (and usually more expensive) fuel. Additionally, the generator is directly connected to the gas-pipe, meaning you won’t have to store any fuel, saving you space and time too. These generators also run for longer as they have enough fuel to keep them going. You are not constrained in the amount of time that they will run for so you will not be worrying about losing power before your mains come back on.
It’s true that Natural Gas Generators are convenient and cheap, but they’re also ideal to rely on for your electricity needs because they can generate electricity for as long as the fuel is available – and with natural gas, that’s a virtually never-ending energy source for your home, often preventing an emergency.
Some of the main suppliers and providers of Natural Gas Generators in the States are Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, and Cummins Onan. Generac-created models are also sold under brand names Guardian and Carrier, and it is the Generac Guardian range that has the broadest line of automatic systems. Although you can buy online to save money, please bear in mind you will need to hire a professional installer, whereas if you buy direct this installer will be provided for you. Always make sure to compare prices, as there are always sales going on. Another good tip is to try and read reviews that have been written by previous users.
Although manufacturing manuals usually come with very detailed installation and operation instructions, it’s highly recommended to do a little research yourself so you know certain basics. For example, ALL generators MUST be operated outdoors, and the installation and location must be decided and performed by qualified professionals.
Natural Gas Home Generators And Safety
Natural Gas, although safe when used properly, is extremely flammable and as such is extremely dangerous if not treated with respect and installed correctly. Cutting corners here may cost you and your family your lives, so please adhere to the rules.
Also, bear in mind that the exhaust must be located well away from doors and windows, as the emissions here can also endanger your health.
Although the professional will likely ensure these details, you can further ensure your safety by double-checking these details. For instance, the pipe size, construction and layout must all comply with NFPA 54, and at least one manual shutoff valve must be installed in the Natural Gas supply line. This particular connection should be made by a licensed plumber, and he should use AGA approved pipes and proper pipe sealant or joint compound.
After all appliances have been professionally installed, all installed Natural Gas piping must be purged and tested for leaks proper to initial use. Although you will likely be informed, also ensure that you continually verify that the gas pressure never never drops below the minimum, which is normally 0.18 PSI.
If you suspect malfunction or gas leaks then call the emergency services immediately and vacate the property. Bear in mind that Natural Gas usually collects in high areas as it is lighter than air, and ensure the flexible fuel line connected to the generator is never bent in any way (it can only withstand a maximum 10 degree bend before you’ll experience extreme problems).
Lastly, fully functioning, perfectly installed Natural Gas Generators for home use really are a great idea, so don’t be disconcerted, simply bear in mind that you’re working with gas-related products and that any spark, no matter how tiny, could potentially cause an explosion. As mentioned earlier, seeking professional help and guidance, and ensuring these professionals are adhering to all regulations may be the difference between high performing Natural Gas Generators, and tragedy.
Where To Buy Natural Gas Generators For Home?
These types of generator are widely available and there is a huge selection to choose from. So once you have decided that a natural gas generator is the best type for you and your home then the next thing you need to do before you take your wallet out and go shopping is decide on the size of generator that you require.
This is simple so don’t over complicate things. Decide first on what appliance you vitally need during a mains power outage. Then add to that list appliances that you would like but are not essential. Always allow for an overhead because remember that when you start up and appliance it surges. This means that most appliances need more energy and power to get started than they actually need to keep them running, so you will need to allow a start up surge for each appliance.
Then always allow a little bit more for growth. You do not want to have to change out your generator and get a new one in the short term. Your generator should really be a long term investment, this way it will have more of a chance to pay for itself, and if you treat your generator well, then it should last many years.
Then start searching online for natural gas generators and manufacturers and get some prices. This is a very competitive marketso you should be able to get some good deals. Remember if budget is tight then check out used generators there are some good buys to be had in this market if you choose wisely, you could get yourself a bargain. Most used generators from a realiable supplier will come with a warranty, so be sure to check that yours does.
