Introduction
Not having a natural gas connection doesn’t mean you have to settle for limited backup power. There are safe, dependable alternatives like propane and diesel, though installation looks a bit different without a gas line. In this blog, Dion Generator Solutions reviews your options, what setup will work best for your home, and how to move forward the right way.
Highlights
Overview
Power outages can be unpredictable, and if you don’t have a natural gas hookup for a standby generator, you might feel like you’re out of options. However, knowing your alternatives can help you protect your home, comfort, and safety during an outage. This blog helps you understand which alternative fuel sources work best, what installation involves, and how to plan for long-term reliability without relying on natural gas.
Why Natural Gas Isn’t Always an Option
Many standby generators are designed to run on natural gas because it’s piped directly into the home, burns cleanly, and is low-maintenance. But that option isn’t always available.
This can happen for a few reasons, including:
- Remote or rural homes:
Many properties don’t have access to city gas lines.
- New construction:
A gas hookup may not be installed yet, especially in new developments.
- Cost or preference:
Some homeowners avoid natural gas due to cost concerns or a preference for off-grid solutions.
Fortunately, these situations don’t disqualify you from having a reliable standby power solution.
Fuel Alternatives to Natural Gas
Let’s take a look at the most common alternatives to natural gas when installing a standby generator:
Propane (LP Gas)
Propane is the most popular alternative fuel for standby generators. It’s clean-burning, stores well in tanks on your property, and is widely available, even in rural areas.
Why Propane Works Well
- It burns cleanly, reducing maintenance.
- Tanks can be buried or placed above ground.
- It’s available in large tank sizes for longer runtimes.
What To Keep in Mind
- It requires scheduled refilling.
- It can be costly in high-demand seasons.
If you’re already using propane for your stove or furnace, this is usually the best and most seamless backup power solution.
Diesel Fuel
Diesel standby generators are often used for commercial buildings and critical infrastructure but can also be installed for residential use.
Why Diesel Fuel Works Well
- It’s highly efficient with powerful output.
- Fuel is stable and easy to store.
- It’s an excellent option for high-power demand homes or businesses.
What To Keep in Mind
- It generates more emissions.
- It may be noisier than gas or propane models.
- Diesel prices can fluctuate.
You’ll also need a double-walled tank and strict adherence to fuel storage codes for residential applications.
Bi-Fuel and Tri-Fuel Options
Some modern generators can run on multiple fuels. A bi-fuel generator, for example, may start on diesel and switch to propane. These models offer greater adaptability and can be a great choice for homeowners who want redundancy.
While this is a viable option, keep in mind that multi-fuel systems tend to be more expensive and complex to install, but they offer added peace of mind during long outages.
Generator Installation Considerations Without Natural Gas
Installing a standby generator without a natural gas line changes a few key parts of the installation process.
Here’s what you need to plan for:
Fuel Tank Placement and Size
Without a gas line, your fuel will be stored in tanks on your property. Local codes typically dictate where and how these tanks can be placed.
- Propane tanks:
They can be placed above or below ground and must be located a certain distance from the house and property lines.
- Diesel tanks:
They must meet EPA and fire code requirements, including proper containment.
Make sure your tank is sized to run your generator for at least 24 to 72 hours continuously, especially if you live in an area prone to long outages.
Permits and Regulations
Any generator installation requires permits, but using alternative fuel sources adds a few more steps.
Expect to apply for:
- Electrical permits
- Mechanical permits
- Fuel storage or fire safety permits (depending on your jurisdiction)
A professional installer can walk you through this process and handle much of the paperwork on your behalf.
Ventilation and Exhaust
Standby generators, especially those that run on diesel or propane, must be installed with proper ventilation to avoid dangerous buildup of exhaust gases like carbon monoxide.
Your installer will:
- Position the generator in an open, well-ventilated area
- Install exhaust piping to direct fumes away from the home
- Follow the manufacturer's specs for clearance distances
Noise Control
Fuel type can affect the amount of noise your generator produces. Diesel units are typically louder than propane or natural gas ones.
You can minimize noise by:
- Choosing a model with a built-in sound enclosure
- Installing sound barriers or fencing
- Placing the unit away from bedroom windows and living spaces
Maintenance Differences With Alternative Fuels
As you might expect, the maintenance requirements also change when you opt for an alternative fuel generator.
Without a natural gas line, you’ll need to pay closer attention to:
- Fuel levels:
Monitor tank levels regularly and schedule refills proactively.
- Fuel freshness:
Diesel can degrade over time—add stabilizers or use treated fuel.
- Tank inspections:
Regular inspections help prevent leaks and ensure safety.
Professional maintenance once or twice a year is recommended for any standby generator, regardless of fuel type.
Choosing the Right Size Generator for Your Setup
Once you’ve determined the energy source and are ready to move forward with selecting a unit, choosing the correct generator size is just as important as picking the right fuel type. An undersized generator can overload and fail, while an oversized one wastes fuel and increases installation costs.
Factors like the number of circuits, the starting wattage of key appliances, and your HVAC system all play a role. Your installer will calculate your total power needs and suggest a generator that fits your backup goal, whether that’s essential circuits or full-home coverage.
Both propane and diesel generators can be sized to power an entire home, though you’ll naturally have to make sure you have more fuel on hand to do so.
5 Tips To Make Your Non-Gas Generator Setup a Success
Propane and diesel generators are both great options for powering your home in case of an outage. However, you should take some steps to ensure yours is functioning properly and will continue to do so.
1. Work With a Qualified Installer
Generators need to be installed by licensed electricians and technicians familiar with your local codes and utility requirements. A good installer will also assess your property and fuel delivery options, ensuring your system runs safely and efficiently from day one.
2. Plan for Refueling Logistics
In order for your generator to function, you’ll need to provide fuel. A natural gas line brings the fuel right to you, but with a propane or diesel generator, you’ll have to figure out how you’re going to get the fuel to your property. This might involve simply identifying a nearby supplier and picking it up yourself or scheduling deliveries.
3. Keep Backup Fuel On-Hand (Safely)
If you’re using diesel or propane, consider storing a secondary reserve (within code limits) for added security during supply chain disruptions or major storms. Just be sure storage containers are rated for safety and kept in well-ventilated, secure locations.
4. Invest in Monitoring Tools
Many modern standby generators come with Wi-Fi-enabled monitoring apps that show you fuel level, runtime, and system diagnostics. These tools give you real-time data and help you catch issues before they become major problems.
5. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Like any mechanical system, standby generators need periodic maintenance to perform at their best. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and professional inspections help extend the life of your investment and ensure it's ready when you need it most.
Non-Gas Powered Generators Are Great Alternatives
You don’t need to let the absence of a natural gas line stop you from enjoying the comfort and reliability of backup power. With propane, diesel, or multi-fuel systems, you still have dependable options for keeping the lights on during an outage.
Just remember:
- You’ll need to factor in storage, ventilation, and permitting requirements.
- Fuel delivery and maintenance need to be planned in advance.
- The right installer can make the process smooth, safe, and fully code-compliant.
With the right setup, you can count on your home staying powered no matter what’s going on with the grid.
Power Your Home With Help From Expert Generator Installers
If you’re exploring generator options without a natural gas line, our team here at Dion Generator Solutions can help guide you through every step, from selecting the right fuel type to installing a fully functional, code-compliant system. For over 20 years, we’ve been providing generator sales, installation, and maintenance alongside other electrical solutions in South Florida and the Florida Keys.
Contact us at (305) 450-8787 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your generator installation options.
