Many home standby generators can run on either natural gas or propane, and some are designed to run on both. Whether a specific generator can use one, the other, or both depends on the model. Understanding these fuel options helps you choose a generator that matches the fuel available at your home and gives you the flexibility you want.

Here is what to know about generators running on natural gas and propane.

Configured for either fuel

Many home standby generators are designed to run on either natural gas or propane, with the fuel selected during installation. When your generator is installed, it is set up for the fuel you have, whether that is a natural gas line from the utility or a propane tank. Some models can also be converted from one fuel to the other later, which adds flexibility if your fuel situation changes.

So even a generator that runs on one fuel at a time may be capable of running on either, depending on how it is set up.

Dual-fuel models

Some generators, particularly certain portable units, are dual-fuel, meaning they can run on both natural gas and propane and switch between them. Larger dual-fuel or bi-fuel standby systems also exist. These offer the flexibility of using whichever fuel is available or most convenient. Whether a generator can actively run on both fuels, rather than being configured for one, depends on the specific model.

Why fuel type matters

The fuel a generator uses affects your setup and its operation:

• Natural gas connects to your utility gas line, providing an essentially continuous supply, so the generator does not run out of fuel under normal conditions.
• Propane uses a tank on your property, which provides fuel until the tank is empty and needs refilling.

Because natural gas offers a continuous supply, it is a common choice for homes that have a gas line, while propane is used where natural gas is not available.

Choosing the right fuel setup

When planning a generator, the fuel decision usually comes down to what is available at your home:

• If you have natural gas service, connecting to it is convenient and provides continuous fuel.
• If you do not have natural gas, propane with a tank is the alternative.
• If you want future flexibility, ask about models that can be configured for or converted between the two fuels.

An installer helps you match the generator and fuel setup to your home.

Many home standby generators can run on either natural gas or propane, configured at installation and sometimes convertible between the two, while some models, especially portables, can run on both fuels. Natural gas offers a continuous utility supply, while propane uses a tank. The right choice depends on the fuel available at your home and the flexibility you want, which a professional installer can help you sort out.

Stella Electric installs natural gas and propane standby generators for homeowners across the Baltimore area and throughout Maryland, with flat-rate pricing and no overtime charges. We will match the generator and fuel to your home. Financing is available on qualifying projects.