LPG Powered Generator?

pabloesguapo

Wondering your thoughts on a good, hopefully inexpensive, LP powered backup generator for an off grid solar system. I looked at the sticky topics here, but holy *%$@+, I just want to know what time it is. I'm having a hard time wading thru all the talk about how the watch was made.

I've seen Generac (a 6kw) and Kohler at Home Depot. Wondering if they're good for occasional backup use in AZ, or are there better ones out there? If so, where?

Vic

Re: LPG Powered Generator?

Hi pablo ..

Well, like many things, it all depends.

OK, so HD sells back-up generators that are ready to run on LP, or can easily be converter to LP use?

The largest issue for this class of generators comes from some manufacturers not honoring Warranties when they are used on off-grid systems. Battery charging CAN be a long slog for these units, especially the smaller ones (like you are considering).

All of these value-priced generators use air-cooled engines, and the design expectation is that peak loads, generally, do not occur for hour after hour. This long run time on these units that are designed (in a very competitive market) to meet price points -- almost every corner known to humans, has been cut to meet that price.

Be certain to look, carefully at the Warranty for the exact unit that you are considering. Some of them say that they are to be installed in locations that are served by RELIABLE Grid Power, and none of the inexpensive units are rated for Prime Power.

My opinions, Good Luck, Vic

NorthGuy

Re: LPG Powered Generator?

I had to make a similar choice two years ago, except I needed a Natural Gas generator.

The choices were very limited. Basically, I had

- Generac 10kW, two cylinder Generac motor, air cooled for $3K
- Kohler 13kW, four cylinder GM motor, liquid cooled for $12K

As you can see, the difference in price was huge! If Kohler was $6-8K, I would go with Kohler. Most people advised that Kohler would live longer stating numbers like 20,000 hours without problems. If that was true, paying $12K for Kohler would make sense. But I thought 20,000 hours, at 50 miles/hour, it is 1 million miles. You don't see GM cars going 1 million miles without problems. 3,000 hours by Generac seemed more reasonable (although probably overhiped too). So, I went with Generac. Can't tell you the results. I'm only at 80 hours at the moment.

They don't give the warranty for off-grid applications, so I don't have any warranty. If something breaks I'm on my own.