Generators-Best Fuel to use

Depends on the size. Diesel and propane are cheaper

RL

The best generator is one that you,or someone can care for and service.The propane units are a little easier to care for because the fuel is cleaner, but costs more to run. Diesel is cheaper to operate per KW.In some areas the power goes out for only a few hours,other more remote places it can be days.After a major storm you could be weeks before you have power.What do you want to run when your power goes out? If you only need your water pump ,a few lights and your refrigerator you could use a smaller unit.If you want AC,TV and lots of lights you need to size it up.You also need to look how the unit will be started.Pull cord, auto start, remote start the list goes on. Find a local company who will help you make many of these decisions.Use a licensed electrician to make all hookups.If you don't have a disconnect to the WAPA lines your home made power will feed back into the pole line and is a danger to the service people who work for WAPA.This is much like buying a car.How will you use it,how much power do you need,who will take care if it when you bring it home.

Dear Doug, My investigation leads me to about a 13-15kw unit. If I ship it down in my container that will save alot of money correct???. The installation I would get done on site by local electricians. Any Idea on cost. I can do the regular service on this type of unit but not the repair.

Gary,

Check out Kohler. They have a prepackaged 12kw unit that is self contained and runs on propane. It's actually fairly quiet at 65 db @ 20'. It has capability to do air conditioning starts. It has a 100 amp continuous rating which is adequate for normal household loads.

In addition to being well built and having a great engine (Kohler) it's relatively cheap for what you get ~ $3,800. It can easily be rigged for auto start when WAPA goes down. This is NOT a Home Depot cheapy type unit.

Ken

Diesel is more likely to be readily available on STX even following hurricanes. There is always Jet Fuel available and with a little oil additive you have diesel. Diesel engines tend to run a long time with minimal maintenance.

I also think diesel is the way to go.Plan where your generator will be placed on your property.You have some noise with any unit,but diesels make the most noise.access in the dark or bad weather are good to plan for.Also keep the unit protected from the weather and any body who would like to help themselves to a nice generator.Learn to change the oil and air filters your self .Keep bugs,rats frogs and lizards out of the unit.Rats chew wires,frogs short out electrical.Also most units need good air flow to run as cool as possible.Lots of things to think about, but good planning will pay off for years to come.If your not handy find a repair person who will help you keep your power plan ready to go when you need it, not after the power goes out.