Propane vs Natural Gas Generators for Your Home
Generac generators run on either propane (LP) or natural gas. The right choice depends on fuel availability at your property, installation costs, and operating preferences. This guide helps East County homeowners choose the best fuel type.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Natural Gas | Propane |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Supply | Unlimited (piped) | Limited by tank size |
| Upfront Cost | Lower (no tank) | +$1,500–$3,000 (tank) |
| Operating Cost | ~$2-3/hour | ~$3-4/hour |
| Energy Content | Lower BTU per unit | Higher BTU |
| During PSPS | Runs indefinitely | Runs until tank depletes |
| Rural Availability | Limited | Available everywhere |
Natural Gas Generator Benefits
Unlimited Fuel Supply During PSPS
The biggest advantage of natural gas generators is unlimited runtime during PSPS events. SDG&E natural gas service continues operating during power shutoffs—only electrical power is de-energized. Your generator runs as long as needed without worrying about running out of fuel.
Lower Installation Cost
Natural gas generators don't require tank purchase or installation. If you already have gas service to your property, the installer simply runs a gas line from your existing meter to the generator location. This saves $1,500–$3,000 compared to propane installations.
Lower Operating Costs
Natural gas typically costs 20-30% less than propane per BTU in San Diego. During extended outages, this difference adds up. A 22 kW generator uses approximately $2-3/hour of natural gas versus $3-4/hour of propane.
Propane Generator Benefits
Available Anywhere
Propane tanks can be installed at any property, regardless of natural gas infrastructure. This makes propane the only option for many East County locations including Julian, Descanso, Pine Valley, Boulevard, and Campo.
Fuel Independence
Propane is stored on your property, not dependent on utility infrastructure. In rare situations where gas lines might be affected (earthquakes, damage), propane provides complete independence. You control your fuel supply.
Higher Energy Density
Propane has approximately 2.5x more BTUs per cubic foot than natural gas. This means generators produce slightly more power output on propane at peak loads, though modern Generac units are optimized for either fuel.
Natural Gas Availability in East County
SDG&E natural gas service varies by location in East County:
Natural Gas Available
Propane Only
- • Julian (all areas)
- • Descanso (all areas)
- • Pine Valley (all areas)
- • Boulevard (all areas)
- • Campo (all areas)
- • Rural properties in all areas
Propane Tank Sizing for PSPS Protection
For properties using propane, tank sizing determines how long your generator runs during extended PSPS events:
| Tank Size | 22 kW Generator Runtime | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| 250 gallon | 40-60 hours at 50% load | Short outages (1-2 days) |
| 500 gallon | 80-120 hours at 50% load | Extended PSPS (3-5 days) |
| 1,000 gallon | 160-240 hours at 50% load | Maximum protection |
We recommend a minimum 500-gallon tank for properties in high-PSPS areas like Julian, Descanso, and Pine Valley. This provides adequate runtime for the longest expected shutoffs with buffer for seasonal heating needs.
Cost Comparison
Installation Cost Difference
Natural Gas
- • Generator unit: $5,000–$8,000
- • Gas line extension: $500–$1,500
- • Installation labor: $2,000–$3,500
- • Total: $8,000–$13,000
Propane
- • Generator unit: $5,000–$8,000
- • Propane tank (500 gal): $1,500–$2,500
- • Installation labor: $2,500–$4,000
- • Total: $9,500–$15,000
Dual-Fuel Generators
Generac offers dual-fuel generators that run on either natural gas or propane. This provides flexibility if you have natural gas but want propane backup capability, or plan to switch fuel sources in the future. Dual-fuel units cost slightly more but offer maximum flexibility.
Get Fuel Type Recommendations
Our free on-site assessment evaluates fuel availability at your specific property and recommends the best option. We'll check natural gas service availability, optimal propane tank placement, and provide complete installed pricing for both options.