subject: Diesel Generators Pros And Cons [print this page] One of the biggest problems when deciding to buy a generator is what type to get. Gas, natural gas, and diesel generators all of their own pros and cons and this article will highlight those of the diesel generators. Diesel generators are a great choice for businesses that need an electrical supply over long periods of time, but there are traits that can be a turn off for some.
Diesel generators have a much longer life when compared to gas generators and there is also a smaller upkeep cost associated with them. Diesel generators utilize fuel much more effectively than a gas generator which means there is more bang for the buck. Diesel, as a fuel, also stores better than gasoline and is less flammable; making it safer to store. Diesel engines rely on pressure for combustion, meaning that they do not require spark plugs or carburetors that a gas engine would require. This saves the owner from replacing spark plugs or rebuilding carburetors in their diesel generators which not only saves money, but also increases the life of the generator.
Diesel generators are very loud which makes them unsatisfactory for home or private use. Their exhaust can also be much more noticeable than a gas generator due to the fact that diesel is less refined than gasoline. Diesel generators also need an extended warm up and cool down time, due to the high pressure in a diesel engine. However, if being used for long periods of time, the diesel generator is very efficient and can provide a lot of electricity. This combination of factors make gasoline or natural gas generators more friendly for home use or for projects that require lower power outputs. These types of generators have higher rotations per minute (RPMs) and can get running to their full capacity faster than a diesel generator.
The initial cost of a diesel generators is usually higher than that of a gas generator of the same rating. This can be offset by the lower maintenance cost, but the fact that gas is currently much cheaper than diesel can also be a big turn off for many people. In turn, the high cost of diesel is also offset by the efficiency of the generator when compared to that of gas.
As with anything there are tradeoffs and benefits. Diesel generators are work horses that will provide years of service while outputting tons of kilowatts. Their efficiency cannot be ignored, but their loud noise and pungent fumes make the areas they can be used limited.
