Diesel generators vs petrol generators

Learn about the differences in performance, efficiency & suitability of diesel and petrol generators for various applications. Read this blog post to find out.

July 26, 2022
BY BISON

Individuals worldwide depend on electricity for their daily activities. Essential establishments like businesses, residences, and medical centers require electricity to function properly. They can help ensure a continuous power supply to critical facilities. Most generators run on diesel generators or petrol generators.

In this post on diesel generators vs petrol generators, let’s see the difference between these two types of generators and which is better for different needs.

Let’s get started!!!

What is the difference between a diesel generator and a petrol generator?

Before purchasing a generator, people often ask what the difference between a diesel generator and a petrol generator is before purchasing a generator. BISON, as a professional generator manufacturer, will tell you the difference between them.

The pressure objects in the cylinder are different: Petrol generators compress a mixture of petrol and air during the compression stroke. In contrast, diesel generators compress air during the compression stroke phase.
Different ignition methods: Petrol generators rely on spark plugs. At the same time, diesel generators rely on atomized diesel to inject high-pressure gas for spontaneous combustion.
The mixture of fuel and air is different: A petrol engine combines fuel and air in the carburetor and intake pipe. While in a diesel engine, the diesel mixing with air takes place after the diesel is injected into the cylinder.
Different scope of use: Petrol generators are generally used for domestic use. While diesel generator sets are widely used, such as various construction units, various large buildings, field operations, etc.
Noise levels are different: Overall, petrol generators are less loud than diesel generators.
Ignition and fuel systems are different: A diesel generator is a compression ignition internal combustion engine that uses a fuel injection pump and multiple injectors. In contrast, petrol generators have a carburetor, a distributor, and some spark plugs.

Diesel generators vs petrol generators: Comparison

The generator you require is primarily determined by the purpose for which you need it to produce electricity.

A generator suitable for heavy commercial use and capable of functioning under heavy loads for prolonged durations is necessary if your generator has higher power demands, such as those needed by industrial companies, construction sites, large events, or for powering agricultural equipment.

If a generator is required for low-load applications like recreational vehicles, home appliances, and smaller loads, you’ll need a generator for infrequent or temporary use.

Diesel generators

Diesel generators are better suited for larger power needs with high demand for generator usage.

For instance, there can be very high demands placed on generators at an outdoor project site to power vehicles and tools and run equipment, in which case a portable diesel generator is likely to be the first choice.

On average, diesel generators burn 50 per cent less than petrol engines making diesel engines more fuel efficient over time.

Advantages of diesel generators

Requires less maintenance: Diesel engines have fewer components and simpler fuel delivery systems, so while they still require regular generator maintenance, overall, they require less maintenance.
Fuel efficient: They run longer and cost less to run than petrol generators.
Longer life: Diesel generators have an average lifespan of three times longer than petrol generators.
Greater power output: Diesel generators can generate more power and handle larger loads than petrol generators, making them the more obvious choice for most industrial companies.
Safer to store: Although it is still flammable because diesel fuel is not as flammable as petrol, it makes it safer to store and run diesel generators.

Disadvantages of diesel generators

The cost of diesel: Diesel is more expensive than petrol in most countries.
Noise: Diesel generators are noisier than petrol generators when running.
Harmful carbon dioxide fumes: Diesel generators produce more harmful fumes. They need to operate in a well-ventilated area.
They are generally bigger and heavier: Although portable diesel generators are available, their bulkiness is due to the size of the fuel tank.

Petrol generators

Petrol generators have various advantages and disadvantages that lead people to choose petrol over diesel generators. Tet’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of petrol generators.

Advantages of petrol generators

1) Cheaper to operate: Petrol costs less than diesel in most countries, so filling up the tank with petrol will be less expensive.

2) They’re quieter: In general, petrol generators run quieter than diesel generators, making them more suitable for home use. In comparison, portable petrol generators are better for activities like camping.

3) Cheaper-to-buy: Petrol generators tend to be in a lower price range than diesel generators.

4) Reduced noise pollution: Petrol generators produce less harmful carbon dioxide gas than diesel generators. Although you still need to take care to run them in a well-ventilated area.

Disadvantages of petrol generators

1) Requires more frequent maintenance: Petrol generators require extra maintenance, such as changing spark plugs, because they employ a spark ignition system.

2) Shorter service life: Petrol generators tend to last less than diesel generators, but regular maintenance will help extend their lifespan.

3) Flammability risk: Because petrol is more flammable, you must make sure you take steps, such as emptying the tank of all petrol, before putting the generator in storage.

4) Less fuel efficient: Petrol generators are less fuel efficient than diesel generators, which means you’ll burn more fuel.

Final thoughts

Although they run noisier, we tend to prefer diesel generators because of their efficiency and ability to generate a lot of electricity.

If you’re looking to power a large commercial use or even a house, diesel generators will cost less to run in the long run.

A portable petrol generator will do just fine if you want to power smaller loads and appliances for things like camping.

If you would like to discuss which generator is best for you, please contact BISON, and our team will be happy to assist you.

BISON are also one of the leading suppliers of generators, so be sure to check out our range of generators on our website.

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