This will depend largely on what fuels you can have delivered to your location. Here are some important, brief definitions:
Gas Gensets
Our Gas Gensets run on petroleum vapor products. Gasoline is not an option. Gas options are natural Gas, propane, and biogas.
Diesel Gensets
Our Diesel Gensets require #2 diesel fuel or a blend of biodiesel up to 20% (B20) from a high quality provider of fuel that meets all applicable quality standards. Click here for more information on biodiesel standards.
Gas gensets in the typical home power range (8-25kW) are powered by automotive-based engines which have been converted to run on gaseous fuels. These units are relatively simple for a homeowner to maintain and the initial cost is usually a bit lower. The fuel also either requires no storage (natural gas) or easy long-term storage (propane).
Diesel gensets in this power range are more heavy-duty than their gas counterparts. Basic maintenance is still within the capabilities of a mechanically-inclined homeowner, but they are more complicated and parts are more expensive.
A new unit comes with full warranty and dealer support providing the most reliable operation. Quality used units are available, but keep in mind warranties will be limited and repair parts get harder to source over time. Most quality used units will cost 60-80% of new.
Purchasing a new unit assures you the latest technology and lowest emissions as well as certified Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) compliance. Older units likely will not meet current standards. This does not mean you cannot run them, but your local environmental authority having jurisdiction may limit your run hours per year, require you to add some sort of costly aftertreatment, or even disallow the units use at some point in the future. Emissions compliance is the #1 challenge facing engine manufacturers in the 21st century. Be sure you know the laws in your area and comply with them. Compliance is strictly the owners responsibility.
