Torn between whether to invest in a diesel or petrol generator? This is a decision that anyone wanting to invest in a generator is going to face. Both generators have plenty of benefits, but it’s all about weighing up which one is going to suit your needs best. So, which is better for your circumstances – a petrol or diesel generator?
Well, don’t worry because we’re here to help! In this article, we pin these two types of generators up against one another to help reveal which one will be your better option.
What is a Diesel Generator?
Diesel generators are a popular choice for large businesses. They come in a range of different sizes and are sought after because of their fuel efficiency. Diesel generators work by converting chemical energy into mechanical energy by burning diesel (combustion). As the diesel burns, it causes the generator's crank to rotate, creating electricity.
While diesel generators are a popular choice for businesses, you can also find them in other sizes too. For instance, you can get smaller, portable diesel generators that are lighter and easier to cart around with you from job to job. Then, there are the traditional standby generators which are usually too big to move around and stay in one designated spot.
What is a Petrol Generator?
Petrol generators are pretty common in smaller sizes, and they’re also usually a little quieter than diesel generators. Because they usually rev higher, they generally use more fuel than a diesel generator. Petrol is also used more than diesel in more cases, so you’ll find that smaller generators are usually designed to use petrol. This includes generators that are designed for home use or are portable. In regards to how they work, there isn’t much difference other than the fuel source.
Diesel vs. Petrol Generators
Now that we have a basic understanding of what petrol and diesel generators are let’s take a closer look at how they measure when pinned up against one another:
Diesel generators dominate in power and efficiency
When deciding between diesel and petrol generators, it's crucial to think about how you'll use them. Diesel generators are generally more powerful than petrol ones, offering a more consistent power output over extended periods.
For example, a 5kW portable diesel generator can deliver around 20% more power than a similar petrol model. This makes diesel generators perfect for emergencies or when continuous power is needed, such as during medical emergencies. However, diesel units tend to be heavier and require regular maintenance, which can be a drawback if you need something portable or easy to move. Diesel generators are well-suited for powering large machinery like cranes and excavators, while petrol generators are typically used for smaller equipment such as lights and pumps.
While they might be a bit noisier, they make up for it in fuel efficiency. Diesel is denser than petrol. Thus, it burns at a slower rate, giving you more power for longer periods of use.
Petrol Generators: Noise, Maintenance, and Cost
Petrol generators have the advantage of being quieter and easier to start, making them ideal for use in noise-sensitive areas. Unlike diesel generators, petrol models operate at a much lower noise level, which is a significant benefit in residential or quiet work environments.
However, petrol generators do require more maintenance, including regular oil changes and tune-ups, due to the higher operating pressures. They also burn through fuel faster because petrol is much thinner than diesel, so if you’re in an area where petrol prices are higher than diesel, you’ll likely spend more.
In contrast to this, though, petrol generators are generally cheaper to purchase and maintain. They don’t need special equipment for starting or operation, making them more user-friendly, especially in tight spaces where a diesel generator might be impractical.
The Verdict
In our eyes, diesel generators are generally better for extended use. Diesel generators are just built to last. That’s why they’re the go-to for powering large machines and equipment. Petrol generators still have their place, though, and they’ll serve you well. However, we’re on the diesel side. Here’s why:
Highly fuel-efficient
Fuel efficiency doesn’t just refer to how much fuel a generator burns through but how much power per unit it produces while it burns fuel. This is why businesses usually choose diesel generators. While they may be more expensive upfront, the overall costs to run them are cut by how fuel-efficient they are.
They’re more durable
As we said above, diesel generators are built to take a beating! They’re exceptionally durable. Their parts are made to handle heavy loads and they have a more robust construction that ensures they last longer.
They’re reliable
When you install a generator, you don’t want it to stop working every few days because it has an issue or needs maintenance. No, you want reliability. Why do you think most business owners go diesel? Diesel generators have proven themselves to be more reliable than petrol generators. With their superior builds, diesel generators typically have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, which promises you the reliability expected from a backup power source.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap things up, buying a diesel generator is clearly the best way to go, especially if you’re looking for reliability, power, and durability. However, if you need a backup power solution that is simple, convenient, and easy to cart around, then getting a petrol generator might suffice. Consider your budget too. Diesel generators are more expensive so you’d need to weigh up whether it’s worth the investment for you or not.