Natural Gas Generator vs Diesel Generator: Which One is Better for Your Business?

Ensuring that your operations run smoothly, especially in times of power outages, is critical to sustaining productivity. This is where having a backup power generator is essential for keeping your business up and running. However, selecting the right generator can be challenging. Among the most commonly used generators are natural gas generators and diesel generators. Let’s discuss the two and help you decide which option might be better for your business.

What’s the Difference?

While the fuel source is different, these two generator types each offer their unique benefits that can support prime or standby operations. Ultimately, both are reliable sources of energy production in any environment. Let’s look at some of the main differences between the two.

• Operating Costs

  Natural gas generators have a more cost-effective fuel source than diesel generators. With average Natural gas prices being considerably lower than the equivalent diesel. This could lead to spending less money on operating costs.

• Environmental Impact

  Natural gas is more environmentally friendly compared to diesel. Natural gas generators emit 45% fewer carbon emissions, with near zero NOx emissions.

• Maintenance

  In terms of maintenance, both diesel and natural gas generators require routine maintenance based on the manufacturer's guidelines. Regular maintenance is critical to keep the generator running at peak performance. Natural gas generators require slightly less maintenance since you don’t have to treat the generator fuel like you need to for diesel.

• Durability

  The average Life-to-Overhaul for both Diesel and Natural Gas generators is around 20,000 hours. Through routine parts replacements, preventative maintenance, and scheduled testing, the engines can well exceed the average life expectancy.

• Block Loading

  Block loading refers to the capability of a generator to handle large electrical load transient. Diesel generators are better at block loading because they can handle transients without being bogged down, causing unwanted drops in frequency and/or voltage. Natural Gas generators have a slower response time when big loads are cycled on and off.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Choosing between natural gas generators and diesel generators depends on your business's needs and preferences. Natural gas generators can be more cost-effective with a fuel supply as long as the pipelines aren’t shut down. Diesel generators are durable and reliable with easier block load capability. Depending on available resources, and desired usage, either option is an excellent investment for production security.

At Industrial Energy Applications (IEA), we are here to make sure your business can always keep its lights on. Whether that be a diesel or a natural gas generator, our standby power generators are monitored in real-time, 24/7 for optimal performance and peace of mind during a disruption. Discover what we can do for your energy needs with IEA, today.