BACKUP POWER: PROPANE GENERATORS
Explore the advantages of propane-powered generators for home backup power.
Compare with gasoline & diesel options & learn about our $49.99/month propane Standby package.
Unlike portable generators, which require frequent refueling and have limited capacity, propane generators are built to provide steady power to support essential parts of your household. With propane, critical appliances stay operational, and your home remains comfortable when it matters most.
Have a propane generator or considering getting one?
The Superior Standby package may be the perfect partner for your home’s back-up generator.
FUEL YOUR PROPANE GENERATOR FOR AS LOW AS $49.99/MONTH^
WHY USE A PROPANE-POWERED GENERATOR?
KEEP EVERYTHING RUNNING
A propane-powered generator helps keep your essential appliances and systems operating smoothly. From refrigerators and freezers that preserve food to medical devices that support your family’s health, these backup generators provide reliable power when you need it most.
HEATING AND HOME RESILIENCY
A propane-powered generator also plays a critical role in your home’s heating system. Whether your home is heated with propane, electric baseboards, a natural gas furnace, or a heat pump, a propane generator can provide the necessary power to keep your heating systems operational.
VERSATILITY
Propane generators provide reliable power for a variety of home appliances and systems. In addition to backup power, propane is a versatile fuel that can be used for heating, cooking, and powering electronic devices and more, making it an ideal and versatile fuel for home energy solutions.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
During power failures, storms or other unforeseen events, having a standby generator can make a world of difference. Propane backup generators are incredibly reliable and can provide immediate backup power, helping to keep your home safe and functional during and after emergencies.
LESS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Propane generators are a more environmentally conscious option compared to gasoline or diesel generators. Propane burns cleaner, emitting fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases. Additionally, unlike diesel, propane does not degrade over time, allowing for long-term storage without compromising quality—so your generator is prepared whenever you need it.
PROPANE GENERATOR CAPACITIES AND ELECTRICAL CONFIGURATIONS
Propane generators are available in a wide range of capacities and electrical setups to suit various residential needs. They typically range from 5 kW to 175 kW, offering flexible options whether you need to power essential appliances or your entire home. These generators can be configured for different electrical installations, including 120-volt single-phase and 240-volt three-phase systems, ensuring compatibility with your home's existing electrical infrastructure.
RELIABLE POWER FOR ALL HOME APPLICATIONS
Whether you choose a standby or portable propane generator, you can help prevent interruptions to your home's electrical systems. Propane generators provide steady power for operating electrical installations, ventilation systems, lighting, and other equipment that requires electricity, helping to keep your home functional and comfortable during power outages or emergencies.
WHY POWER YOUR GENERATOR WITH PROPANE?
✓ LONGER LASTING AND MORE RELIABLE
Propane is a stable fuel that doesn’t degrade over time, unlike diesel, which has a limited shelf life. This means you can store propane for extended periods without worrying about it not performing when you need it. With its long-term reliability, a propane-powered generator will be ready to operate whenever you need it, providing peace of mind and consistent performance with minimal maintenance.
✓ LOW EMISSION FUEL
Propane generates fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to gasoline and diesel. This makes propane generators not only a practical choice for your household but also a more environmentally responsible one. By choosing propane, you contribute to a lower carbon footprint and a healthier environment.
✓ MORE VERSATILE
Beyond powering your standby generator, propane can be used for heating, cooking, and running other essential household appliances. This multi-functionality makes propane an all-in-one solution for your home’s energy needs, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency across multiple applications.
✓ MORE READILY AVAILABLE
Propane is more accessible than ever, thanks to Superior Propane's extensive infrastructure that transports fuel across Canada. Our delivery network—consisting of rail, trucks, and barges—helps ensure propane reaches communities virtually anywhere in the country. With large storage capacities at multiple supply points, we strive to provide a reliable fuel source when you need it most. Unlike other fuels that may become scarce during emergencies, propane remains a dependable and accessible option. Learn more about Superior Propane’s Security of Supply here.
✓ MORE ECONOMICAL
Propane is generally more cost-effective than gasoline and diesel per kilowatt-hour, making it a smart choice for long-term power generation. Additionally, propane engines typically require less maintenance, helping to reduce overall maintenance costs. Choosing a propane generator gives you reliable power with fewer operational expenses and more predictable fuel costs.
✓ SAFER TO STORE AND USE
Propane is a non-toxic, non-pooling fuel, making it safer to store and handle than gasoline or diesel. Its low flammability rating adds an extra layer of safety for homeowners. Additionally, propane generators can be configured to activate automatically during a power outage, helping to maintain power without requiring manual intervention.
FUEL YOUR PROPANE GENERATOR FOR AS LOW AS $49.99/MONTH^
PROPANE GENERATORS VS. OTHER FUEL TYPES
PROPANE GENERATORS VS. GASOLINE GENERATORS
While gasoline generators may have a slight advantage in initial cost and fuel availability, propane generators offer long-term savings, reduced maintenance, and environmental benefits—making them a practical choice for sustained use.
PROPANE GENERATORS VS. DIESEL GENERATORS
While diesel generators are fuel-efficient and durable for heavy-duty applications, their noise and soot buildup demand more frequent maintenance. For homeowners and businesses looking for a quieter, lower-maintenance power solution with environmental benefits, propane generators are a compelling option.
HOW PROPANE COMPLEMENTS OTHER HEATING FUELS AND SYSTEMS
Propane's versatility allows it to complement other fuel sources, offering seamless transitions, enhanced reliability, and a more environmentally-friendly approach to backup power for your home.
PLANNING FOR EMERGENCY POWER: INCORPORATING PROPANE GENERATORS INTO HOME PLANS
Protect your home from power outages by integrating a propane generator into your design. Whether you're building new or upgrading an existing home, a propane generator provides long-term reliability and helps ensure your essential appliances stay powered during emergencies.
FUTURE-PROOFING NEW HOMES
Retrofitting Existing Homes
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FAQs About Propane Powered Generators
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Can you run a Generac generator on propane?Yes, you can run a Generac generator on propane. Many of Generac’s standby generators are specifically designed to operate on propane and other fuels like natural gas.
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Is it cheaper to run a generator on propane or gasoline?While the upfront cost of gasoline may sometimes be lower, propane is often more cost-effective in the long run. Propane offers lower maintenance costs, a longer engine life due to cleaner combustion, and more stable pricing, making it a smarter choice for powering generators over time.
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Are propane generators efficient?
Propane generators are known for their efficiency, especially in colder climates like Canada’s. Propane burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, which helps reduce carbon buildup and wear on engine parts. This can lead to better engine performance and potentially lower maintenance needs over time. -
Are propane generators safe?Propane generators are considered very safe for home backup power. Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel than gasoline, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, propane dissipates quickly into the air if there is a leak, unlike gasoline, which can pool and pose a fire hazard.
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Are propane generators quiet?Propane generators are generally quieter than gasoline or diesel models, making them a popular choice for residential use. Because propane burns with fewer impurities, it may generate less noise during operation. This makes it a good option for homeowners looking for a quieter backup power solution.
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How do backup generators work?A backup generator connects to your home’s electrical system, typically through an automatic transfer switch. This switch monitors incoming utility power and, if it detects an outage or significant voltage drop, disconnects the home from the utility supply and starts the generator within seconds.
Once running, the generator supplies electricity to the home, either powering all circuits or a pre-selected set of essential ones, depending on its capacity and the setup of the transfer switch. The electricity flows into the home’s electrical panel to keep lights, heating or cooling systems, or other critical appliances operational.
When the utility power returns, the transfer switch reconnects the home to the utility line and shuts down the generator automatically. -
How long do backup generators last?Backup generators can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and the specific model. Regular maintenance, such as annual checkups and timely fuel delivery, can significantly extend the lifespan of your generator.
^Superior Standby is available to customers with a permanently installed propane standby generator for residential use as the main appliance in Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia or New Brunswick. Eligible customers must have Superior’s wireless tank sensor installed on the tank supplying the standby generator, must execute a general retail agreement (GRA), and must be set up on the Automatic Delivery plan. The monthly fee covers the tank rental and wireless tank sensor. The monthly fee does not include tank installation, propane delivery fees or generator equipment and is subject to applicable taxes, fees, costs, tariffs and surcharges. Subject to change. Additional terms and conditions apply.