FireCapt: Generator Propane Tank Size
#1
09-30-12, 12:01 PM
FireCapt: Generator Propane Tank Size
I'm wondering about the size of the container indicated by the home standby generator I'm interested in. The instructions dictate that it can be run off a 20 lb propane cylinder.
Anyone know if that matters? I have dual 250 gal propane cylinders and want to run the B&S PowerNow 7KW off them....will this work?
I presume the gas conversion from liquid to gas would be greater in the larger cylinder than the small one so this should not be a problem but now I'm second guessing myself. Any input?
Anyone know if that matters? I have dual 250 gal propane cylinders and want to run the B&S PowerNow 7KW off them....will this work?
I presume the gas conversion from liquid to gas would be greater in the larger cylinder than the small one so this should not be a problem but now I'm second guessing myself. Any input?
#2
09-30-12, 12:10 PM
Welcome to the forums! I don't think the volume in the 20# can will vaporize properly, nor will it give any longevity as to run time.
As you can see from mine, I use a 100# tank, and have a cradle I had my guys build that fits in the back of my truck, so when it needs filling, I just tip it up and take it to the gas place. Gravity helps when putting it back in place.
As you can see from mine, I use a 100# tank, and have a cradle I had my guys build that fits in the back of my truck, so when it needs filling, I just tip it up and take it to the gas place. Gravity helps when putting it back in place.
#3
09-30-12, 01:04 PM
A 20# tank has just under 5 gallons of propane in it.
On a small generator it will vaporize just fine. You might get have a day or run time out of it. They do make two to one kits that let you connect two tanks together, and I would recommend that if you are using a 20 or 30# tank.
All that said, if you have a 250g (200g usable) tank available, just use that.
On a small generator it will vaporize just fine. You might get have a day or run time out of it. They do make two to one kits that let you connect two tanks together, and I would recommend that if you are using a 20 or 30# tank.
All that said, if you have a 250g (200g usable) tank available, just use that.
#4
09-30-12, 08:18 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
Remember that the fuel consumption is determined by the load on the generator. Some gas generators will say so many hours of run time at 50% load.
#5
10-01-12, 09:48 AM
Member
Your generator uses right at 1 gal/hr @ 50% load. So, I would definitely use the bigger tanks.
With those smaller tanks I wouldn't want to worry about getting gas twice a day if you have an extended outage.
With those smaller tanks I wouldn't want to worry about getting gas twice a day if you have an extended outage.
