Natural Gas Generator Cost Calculator

About Natural Gas Generator Costs

Natural gas generators are a popular choice for backup power due to their lower operating costs compared to diesel and gasoline generators. By using natural gas, you benefit from a clean and relatively inexpensive fuel source. However, it's important to understand how the cost of running your generator varies depending on the generator's efficiency, load, and the price of natural gas.

How the Cost is Calculated

To calculate the operating cost of a natural gas generator, we consider the following factors:

• Total Load: The total electrical demand in watts that you plan to power with your generator. This includes all appliances and devices running at the same time.
• Hours of Operation: The total number of hours per day or year that the generator will be running. This is important for determining the total fuel consumption over time.
• Fuel Cost: The price of natural gas, typically measured in therms. A therm is a unit of heat energy that is equivalent to 100,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of energy.
• Generator Efficiency: The efficiency of the generator determines how much fuel is needed to produce a specific amount of power. A more efficient generator will consume less fuel for the same amount of output.

By inputting these factors, you can calculate both the daily and annual operating costs for your natural gas generator, helping you make informed decisions about its use.

Cost Reduction Strategies

Here are a few strategies you can implement to reduce the operating costs of your natural gas generator:

• Load Management: Reduce the load on your generator by running only essential appliances and using energy-efficient devices.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your generator well-maintained to ensure it runs efficiently. This can prevent unnecessary fuel consumption and prolong the lifespan of the unit.
• Monitor Fuel Prices: Stay informed about natural gas prices, as they can fluctuate. Refueling your generator during low-cost periods can help reduce costs.

Common Applications for Natural Gas Generators

• Residential Backup Power: Homeowners use natural gas generators to ensure their homes have backup power during outages, especially in areas where power outages are frequent.
• Commercial Backup Power: Businesses rely on natural gas generators to provide consistent power for their operations during outages, reducing downtime and maintaining business continuity.
• Industrial Applications: Industrial operations often use natural gas generators to power heavy machinery and maintain operations when grid power is unavailable.