Forum Discussion

ChuckHM's avatar
ChuckHM
Explorer
Feb 11, 2015

Diesel vs Propane Generator

We started at a dealer where everything had propane generators. We saw the same model at a second dealer who had stocked it with a diesel generator, which we didn't even know was an option.

Second dealer said you are much better running you generator on your diesel as it runs quieter, and save your propane for the other appliances that need propane. Cost of diesel option was about $4500.

Appreciate any experience you all have on this.
Class C
  • pugslyyy's avatar
    pugslyyy
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    Diesel is more expensive in the beginning but much cheaper to run long term. I like that my diesel genset runs of my 100 gallon main diesel tank and I save my 25 gallons of propane for heat and cooking - lasts a long time that way.
  • tpi's avatar
    tpi
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    I have gasoline fueled motorhome and generator. I'm glad the generator runs off the main fuel tank which is 55 gallon vs. the propane tank which is about 17 gallon. Far less concerns about run time. If this is a consideration for you, I'd want a diesel generator which runs off the motorhome's main fuel tank.
  • Lantley's avatar
    Lantley
    Nomad
    Feb 11, 2015
    While LP would not be a deal breaker. I would prefer diesel assuming the RV is diesel powered. Diesel is easier to find/fill, diesel is also more efficient.
    What is the cost difference between a diesel and L:P generator?
  • n7bsn's avatar
    n7bsn
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    Do be aware that diesel (or gas) generators have a "low fuel" sensor that keeps the generator from starting if the vehicle fuel is below ~1/4 tank.
  • bgum's avatar
    bgum
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    We had a propane and maintenance was low. It did burn through a lot of propane. For us we won't consider propane again. During a storm propane quickly becomes impossible to locate. Gas or diesel is a lot easier to locate.
  • azrving's avatar
    azrving
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    Diesel. Propane will use more fuel and it's a pain to chase propane. Diesel is on every corner. Diesel engine will last longer and I would think that it's quieter too, especially if the propane unit is air cooled. The diesel will have liquid cooling/water jacket for quieter operation.
  • K_Charles's avatar
    K_Charles
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    It's not the cost of the diesel unit but the difference in price between the two. You diesel tank is way bigger then the LP tank and easier to fill.
  • Skid_Row_Joe's avatar
    Skid_Row_Joe
    Explorer
    Feb 11, 2015
    ChuckHM wrote:
    We started at a dealer where everything had propane generators. We saw the same model at a second dealer who had stocked it with a diesel generator, which we didn't even know was an option.

    Second dealer said you are much better running you generator on your diesel as it runs quieter, and save your propane for the other appliances that need propane. Cost of diesel option was about $4500.

    Appreciate any experience you all have on this.

    If given the choice, go diesel generator every time.

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