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Now that you’ve decided you want to explore power generation solutions for your home or business, it’s time to learn more about generator types in general. Understanding the differences between fuel and phase types in commercial and residential generators can be confusing and overwhelming.
Most generators for residential and commercial spaces use propane, natural gas, or diesel for fuel. There are advantages and disadvantages to each fuel type. Cooper Electrical Services’s team of generator professionals will help you determine which is best for your home, business, or RV. Read our generator FAQ below to learn more about the different fuel types and the benefits of remote monitoring.
Provides Clean, Quiet Power Generation
Commercial and residential propane generators are popular in the Myrtle Beach area where propane is a popular fuel for homes and businesses. Propane generators result in relatively quiet engines and are more emission-compliant than other fuel types.
Advantages:
- Long service life
- Delivered to many homes and businesses
- Quieter engine noise levels
- More emission-compliant
- Easily stored in both large tanks or in smaller 5-10 gallon cylinders
- Obtainable during power outages
Disadvantages:
- Pressurized cylinder of flammable gas may be dangerous
- Unattractive larger tanks outside home or business
- Fuel plumbing may cost more initially
- Somewhat expensive fuel
- Shorter shelf life compared to diesel
Provides Clean, Quiet Power Generation
Commercial and residential natural gas generators, like propane generators, are also common in many residential and commercial areas. Natural gas is more emission-compliant than diesel and results in a relatively quiet engine level during power generation.
Advantages:
- Considerably efficient
- Less expensive than other non-renewable fuel types
- More available during power outage
- Quieter engine noise level
- More emission compliant
Disadvantages:
- Lower power output
- Fuel system plumbing costs
- More expensive to operate compared to diesels
Inexpensive, Reliable Power Generation
Diesel is a traditional fuel type for generators that is well-tested and available in many areas. Diesel generators are generally more affordable than propane or natural gas, and while they are EPA-certified, they do not burn as clean. Diesel generators may also be louder than propane or natural gas.
Advantages:
- Least flammable fuel type
- Less expensive to operate
- Equipment is cheaper than other fuel type generators
- Long-term cost is less
Disadvantages:
- Diesel has shorter shelf life
- Fuel may not be available during power outages
- Engine noise is higher
Convenience and Security
Remote monitoring lets user check in on the health of their commercial generator anywhere, anytime. From either a designated remote monitoring device or through an app on a smartphone or laptop, Cooper Electrical Services customers gain 24/7 access to the state of their power generation systems. Features include real-time alerts and notifications as well as time-stamped diagnostic data.
Remote Monitoring Key Benefits
- 24/7 access from device, smartphone or web-based application
- Alerts when maintenance is required
- Notification when battery charge is low
Control and Monitor Remotely
Remotely control your generator’s functions and receive time-stamped updates with Cooper Electrical Services’s line of advanced remote monitors. Monitors feature easy-to-use LCD displays that provide walk-through instructions for making system adjustments, conducting remote testing, and setting reminder notifications. Remote control monitors are AC powered with battery backup and include hardware for wall mounting.
Remote Control and Monitoring Advantages
- Time and date stamped log of generator functions
- Generator system notifications and warnings
- Updates for voltage and frequency changes
- Analytics for engine RPMs, voltage, and battery health