Whether you're experiencing a power outage or are off the grid, one thing remains the same: the need for reliable power. Generators are often the solution, with gas and diesel being the two most popular types.
At first glance, both types of generators may seem very similar, and both work by converting hydrocarbons into electricity. This allows you to keep things like the sump pump running, freezer cold, and will even help run power tools. But you'll notice differences between gas and diesel generators when you take a closer look.
Making the right choice for you ensures you get your money’s worth while also boosting productivity as well as safety. In this post, we take a dive into the pros and cons of each and also delve into the world of newer contenders such as portable power stations, to help you make the right choice for your needs.
Diesel vs. Gas Generators: Which Should You Choose?
All generators, regardless of how they are powered, are designed to solve the same problem. That is, to convert mechanical energy into electricity. However, it’s the method by which they achieve this goal that is different.
Diesel Generators
The diesel generators work by compressing oxygen-rich air and then injecting diesel into the combustion chamber. This is called compression ignition, as once the air is compressed inside the chamber, its temperatures rise significantly.
Since diesel generators rely mostly on heat generated from the pressure and not spark plugs, they have a more robust build and are more fuel efficient. They are built to last and can continue running for long hours without overheating, which makes them a great choice for long-term use. This makes them the better choice when running heavy-duty machinery and for long-term applications.
Diesel generators are the go-to option for industrial settings and construction sites, or even off-grid locations where there is a need for constant power.
Another great benefit of diesel generators is their fuel efficiency, especially when compared to gasoline generators. The density of the diesel fuel is higher than gasoline, which means that the generator can extract more power from a specific amount of diesel.
On the flip side, old model diesel generators are louder and heavier. These generators are also more expensive to acquire compared to their gas-powered counterparts. On top of that, they also give off larger amounts of emissions. Note, however, that modern technology has greatly improved the environmental impact of diesel generators.
Gas Generators
On the other hand, gas generators, as the name suggests, are powered using gasoline. Unlike the diesel generators, these use spark plugs to send a spark into the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber to create the combustion. The simple design of the gas generators makes them easier to maintain and more affordable, which makes them popular in residential settings.
Since gasoline is easy to acquire and store in small quantities, it makes gasoline generators ideal for small homes as well as for camping situations or running power tools for those cool DIY projects. Being usually small and compact makes them portable compared to diesel generators.
Having said that, though, gas generators are less efficient, especially when running heavy loads, and also don’t tend to be as robust as diesel generators. Furthermore, they are prone to carbon buildup, which means more frequent maintenance.
In short, diesel generators are great for long-term use and heavy loads, while gas generators are ideal for home use and are more convenient for short-term energy requirements.
Diesel vs Gas Generators Comparison
So, which one should you go for, diesel or gas generators? Well, it comes down to analyzing performance, which includes efficiency, noise, maintenance, and cost. Let’s take a look at each of these.
Efficiency
Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient. They have a higher power output per gallon of fuel compared to the gas generators, especially under heavy loads. Such efficiency means fewer refueling trips, which also translates to lower fuel costs. As a result, diesel generators are the go-to choice when looking for extended use.
On the other hand, gas generators will burn more fuel per power output, resulting in more frequent refilling. It makes gas generators costlier to run, especially during high-capacity operation.
Noise
Another factor to consider when choosing between a diesel and a gas generator is the noise. Despite what many people think, advancements in tech have resulted in modern diesel generators being typically quieter than their gas counterparts, owing to better insulation and soundproofing.
The gas generators, even with the more compact and smaller ones, will typically be louder, which can make them less ideal for residential settings.
Modern diesel generators have made huge leaps in sound insulation and have a quieter operation compared to those earlier models. That said, they are still significantly louder when compared to portable power stations.
And just to put things into perspective:
Diesel generators: 70-100+ dB (similar to a lawnmower)
Portable Power Stations: 20-50 dB (similar to a library)
If noise is a big concern for you, then the portable power station is the way to go.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, diesel generators typically have a more robust build, which makes them more durable than gas generators. This ultimately means less maintenance over the life of the generator. However, they have more parts, making them more expensive to maintain when something goes wrong. Gas generators have a much simpler design, which makes them simpler to maintain.
Cost
When considering the costs of acquiring a generator, you also need to consider whether you plan on using the generator for short-term or long-term use. Gas generators are less costly and are ideal for short-term use.
That said, the high costs of fuel and regular maintenance would make the gas generator expensive to run.
Diesel generators will be costlier than the gas ones, but will often prove to be more economical for long-term use.
The right choice in this instance will come down to how intensely you plan on using the generator and how often.
Reliability and Climate Effects
One important factor that plays a huge role in the reliability and efficiency of generators is the climate. It can be harder to turn on gas generators when the temperatures are cold due to slow vaporization.
Diesel generators are thought of as the better alternative in cold areas. However, they may still need glow plugs to achieve a smooth start.
Fuel Availability and Storage
One of the advantages of a gas generator is that gasoline is easy to obtain and is also highly flammable. However, the downside is that it can degrade in 3-6 months when not properly stored and stabilized.
This makes gasoline less ideal for long-term storage and use. On the other hand, you can store diesel for well over 12 months and even much longer when you add additives. The downside is that diesel can form algae, especially if you live in more humid conditions. This can be overcome by treating the diesel with biocides.
Solar Power Alternatives
When it comes to power backup solutions, gas and diesel generators may be at the forefront of the list of the most popular methods used. However, advances in technology and battery systems have brought in a third player- solar power generators.
Offering clean, quiet power, solar power generators have seen a rise in popularity as a great solution for camping, running power tools, and general home use. Let’s take a closer look at why you might want to consider solar power generators for your power backup.
Clean Energy
Solar power generators rely on battery systems, specifically lithium-ion batteries. They can be charged via the standard wall outlet, solar panels, or even through your vehicle’s charging ports. This allows power stations to offer clean energy and for users to reduce their carbon footprint.
Silent and Safe
One of the best things about solar generators is that they run silently. This is unlike the sometimes-loud diesel and gas generators since they don’t feature any motor or moving parts.
They also produce zero emissions, making them safe for indoor use. In comparison, gas and diesel-powered generators give off greenhouse gases and also pose the risk of fires.
Solar Compatible
The pairing of portable power stations with solar panels is where they truly excel, allowing the user to take advantage of renewable energy. As a result, they are a great choice for off-grid situations, allowing you to charge anything from phones and laptops to powering small appliances.
The table below shows a comparison of the various options:
| Feature | Gas Generators | Diesel Generators | Solar Generators |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel | Battery |
| Efficiency | Lower fuel efficiency | High fuel efficiency | Depends on battery usage and capacity |
| Noise Level (dB) | 65-85 | 70-100 | 20-50 |
| Startup in Cold Weather | Harder to start | More reliable with heaters | Not affected by temperature |
| Maintenance | Frequent | Less frequent | Minimal maintenance needed |
| Lifespan | Shorter lifespan | Long lasting | Depends on the battery life cycle |
| Upfront Cost | Lower cost | Higher | Medium to high |
| Long-term Cost | Higher due to maintenance | Lower | Low |
| Environmental Impact | High emissions | Moderate emissions | Zero emissions |
| Portability | Good | Bulky | Compact and portable |
Bluetti Elite 200 V2 Solar Generator
If you have higher energy demands and are looking for a robust solution to your power needs, then the BLUETTI Elite 200 V2 solar generator is worth considering. It features plenty of output charging ports and higher capacity solar compatibility, making this a great choice for long trips and off-grid setups.
For someone planning to go on a road trip, camping trip, or simply planning to move more towards clean energy, the Elite 200 V2 solar generator is the go-to solution.
Below is a table showing the average running time of various devices on the Elite 200 V2:
| Device | Average Running Wattage | BLUETTI Elite 200 V2 Runtime |
| Refrigerator | 150W | 9.91 Hours |
| Microwave | 1000W | 1.58 Hours |
| LED Lighting (5 Bulbs) | 50W | 26.43 Hours |
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 79.29 Hours |
| Laptop | 75W | 18.65 Hours |
| Small Portable Heater | 1500W | 1.05 Hours |
| TV 65 Inches LED | 100W | 14.41 Hours |
| CPAP Machine | 50W | 26.43 Hours |
| Smartphone (Charging) | 10W | 79.29 Hours |
BLUETTI Apex 300 Home Battery Backup
A good example of a portable power station is the BLUETTI Apex 300 Home Battery Backup, built for everything from medium to high energy demands. The Apex 300 can power everything from laptops and phones, routers, as well as LED lights, and even run kitchen appliances and power tools.
It all depends on how much you want to scale, thanks to its multiple battery module capability. Boasting quick charging, plenty of ports, as well as simple and intuitive controls, it is a great choice when looking to step off the grid and for something different from fossil fuel-powered generators.
Below is a table showing the average running time of various devices on the Apex 300:
| Device | Average Running Wattage | BLUETTI Apex 300 Runtime |
| Refrigerator | 150W | 13.90 Hours |
| Microwave | 1000W | 2.36 Hours |
| LED Lighting (5 Bulbs) | 50W | 33.77 Hours |
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 78.79 Hours |
| Laptop | 75W | 24.88 Hours |
| Small Portable Heater | 1500W | 1.57 Hours |
| TV 65 Inches LED | 100W | 19.69 Hours |
| CPAP Machine | 50W | 33.77 Hours |
| Smartphone (Charging) | 10W | 78.79 Hours |
Best Uses for Each Generator Type
Picking the best generator for you will often come down to how much you need to use it and where. Each type of generator, whether it's gas-powered, diesel, or a portable power station, has its pros and cons.
Diesel Generators
As we’ve mentioned before, the diesel generator is best suited for long-term use owing to its better fuel efficiency and sturdy design. This makes them a popular choice for industrial settings, remote off-grid situations, and commercial use. One of their main advantages is the ability to run for an extended duration without overheating.
Gas Generators
On the other hand, gas-powered generators are ideal for lower energy requirements and short-term use. You will often find these in residential settings as a backup power solution during times of outages or for home use to run power tools.
They have lower initial costs with the benefit of being more portable. That said, gas generators are less fuel efficient compared to diesel generators and tend to require more maintenance stops.
Solar Power Solutions
These offer a quieter and cleaner source of energy, making them environmentally friendly. They are a perfect solution for home needs and camping, as well as for someone who is looking for a reliable source of off-grid energy.
Since solar generators do not use fossil fuels, this means zero emissions. The fact that they have a silent operation with zero emissions makes them great for home and indoor use.
Conclusion
Your specific energy requirements will determine the type of generator that you need. Diesel generators, compared to gas generators, are energy efficient, with a sturdy build, and are great for long-term use. Gas generators are easy to maintain and ideal as a short-term power solution. Solar generators offer a clean energy solution, making them ideal for home use. In the end, by thinking about how much energy you need, how long you need it for, and how much it will affect the environment, you can easily choose the power solution that is right for you, whether it is a diesel generator, a gas generator, or a modern solar generator.
