Is a propane or gas generator cheaper to run?
Gasoline usually wins slightly on cost-per-kWh; propane wins on storage and cleanliness. Here's the tradeoff.
Running cost
Per unit of energy delivered, gasoline is often a little cheaper than propane at typical prices, and a generator makes a few percent more power on gas. But the margin swings with local fuel prices, so check both.
The other factors
Propane stores indefinitely — no stabilizer, no going stale — which matters enormously for backup power you might not use for a year. It also burns cleaner. Gasoline is more available day-to-day but degrades in months. Dual-fuel units let you choose per outage.
Common questions
Is a propane or gas generator cheaper to run?
Gasoline usually delivers slightly more power per dollar at the pump, but propane stores indefinitely and burns cleaner. Per kWh delivered, gasoline is often a bit cheaper, but the gap depends heavily on local fuel prices.
Does propane produce less power than gas?
Slightly — a generator typically produces a few percent less power on propane than on gasoline, but gains shelf life and cleaner running in exchange.