The decision to purchase a generator generally depends on what you need it for. If you’re a business, then you’ll want the best and most reliable generator to keep your business operations running even when the power goes out. On the other hand, in a small household, you might need a smaller generator to handle running your everyday appliances like your refrigerator. Whether you’re in one boat or the other, you’ll be faced with one question that every generator buyer has to answer: do you get a petrol generator or a diesel generator?
Both generators have their benefits, so we need to look at their functions and consider your needs to assist you in selecting one.
Diesel generators
Diesel motors, in general, put out a lot more torque than petrol motors, so it’s no surprise that they’d be the go-to if you have higher power demands. But this isn’t their only benefit. On average, diesel burns a lot slower than petrol. Both diesel and petrol are a form of refined crude oil. However, petrol is a lot more refined, making it thinner in density than diesel. This is why it burns faster. Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages of a diesel generator
Advantages
- Because diesel burns at a slower rate than petrol while still producing similar or larger amounts of power, you’ll save on the volume-to-power output ratio with diesel. This means you’ll use less diesel to produce the same amount of power as a petrol generator would
- Diesel generators have fewer components, so they don’t need as much maintenance as a petrol generator would
- The way in which diesel generators are built makes them durable and provides them with a longer lifespan than other generators
- On average, diesel generators produce more power, making them the ideal generator option for industrial use
- While diesel is still a flammable substance, it is at least less flammable than petrol, which makes it safer to store
Disadvantages
- While this is dependent on the country you’re in, diesel prices can sometimes be quite high and more expensive than petrol
- Diesel generators are usually much heavier than petrol ones. They’re also much bigger and often need to have their own designated area when installed
- If you’re worried about noise, then a diesel generator isn’t going to be the ideal option for you. Diesel generators run at a higher noise level than petrol generators
- In regards to the fumes given off by generators, diesel genies release more harmful fumes into the air
Petrol generators
For many business owners, diesel generators are the go-to mainly because of their fuel efficiency in the long run. However, we shouldn’t overlook petrol generators simply because they use more fuel. They also have some advantages that could make them a better choice over a diesel generator. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of petrol generators:
Advantages
- In most places, petrol is more widely used than diesel, making it cheaper and more available
- In comparison to diesel generators, petrol genies are much quieter, making them ideal for small businesses, restaurants, and home use. You can also get relatively small petrol generators that are lighter and easier to carry
- The prices for petrol generators vary with their sizes, but in general, they’re cheaper than diesel generators
Disadvantages
- Unfortunately, petrol generators often require more upkeep and maintenance to keep them performing well. With a petrol generator, you’ll need to change the spark plugs regularly and perform other maintenance to keep it running
- Because of the need for regular maintenance, a petrol generator is likely to have a shorter lifespan than a diesel generator would. That said, consistent maintenance will improve this lifespan for the better
- As we said earlier, petrol burns around 50% faster than diesel. So, if you have a petrol generator, you’ll burn through fuel faster, which could become more expensive in the long run
What’s better?
So, what would be the best choice for you? Well, for businesses, we’d say that a diesel generator would be better. This is mainly because they offer better value for money in the long run because you’ll save on fuel. That said, the initial investment is more expensive for a diesel generator, so you have to offset this value with its long-term benefits. You can find deals on diesel generators at Renteca
Petrol generators are a convenient option if you’re needing a generator that only needs to run basic appliances around the house or when you’re on the go. You can get some pretty big petrol generators that’ll power your whole home, but remember that they do use more fuel on average.
Final Thoughts
For businesses or homes that have heavy load requirements, it’s clear that diesel generators are the way to go. From their maintenance to how fuel-efficient they are, you’re certainly getting more bang for your buck. That said, they are usually more expensive, whereas a smaller petrol generator might be more affordable, especially if you only need to run a few basic household appliances.
