How long does a generator last on a full tank?

12 Feb.,2024

 

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What are the Run-times of Diesel Generator Day Tanks?

When you are looking for a diesel generator, one of the most important factors you will consider is the run-time. How long can the generator run before needing to be refueled? What are the run times of diesel generator day tanks? In this article, we will explore that question and give you some tips on choosing the right generator for your needs.

What are Day Tanks?

A day tank is a type of fuel tank that is designed to provide power for a generator during daytime hours. These tanks are typically smaller than traditional fuel tanks, and they may only hold enough fuel to run the generator for a few hours.

What is Run-time?

The run-time of a diesel generator day tank is the amount of time that the tank can supply fuel to the generator before it needs to be refilled. The actual runtime will vary depending on several factors, including the size of the tank, the rate at which the generator consumes fuel, and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Generally speaking,  however, most day tanks will have a runtime of between eight and 12 hours.

  • Provides power for extended periods
  • Reduces the need for refueling or maintenance
  • Ideal for generators and other systems that need to run for long periods

Factors that affect run-times of Diesel Generator Day Tanks

This is a common question, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It all depends on several factors, including the size of your tank, the size of your generator, the load you are running, and even the weather conditions.

Tank Size:

The larger the tank, of course, the longer it will endure. But did you know that fuel expands and contracts due to temperature changes? As a result, your tank will contain less fuel in very cold weather than in warmer conditions.

If you have a standard sized diesel generator (between 25 and 500kW), here are some typical run times:

  • At a 50% load, a tank of gas will run between eight and 24 hours.
  • Expect between five and 12 hours of usage when the battery is at 75% power.
  • A single tank of fuel will last anywhere from two to six hours if your generator is operating at full capacity.

These are simply approximations. Keeping track of your usage over time is the only way to know for sure how long your generator will run on a tank of gas.

Generator Size:

A bigger generator consumes more fuel than a smaller one, all else being equal. However, keep in mind that a larger generator can also produce more power. So if you’re just running a little load (say, 1000 watts), a smaller generator that uses less fuel may be sufficient.

Load on the Generator:

The more work your generator is doing, the more fuel it consumes. If you’re only utilizing a fraction of your generator’s potential output, it will use fuel much quicker than if you were running near its full capacity.

Ambient Temperature:

Ambient temperature is one of those key factors. Most diesel engines are rated at 104°F (40°C). But, as you know, the temperature doesn’t always cooperate and can soar well above that in the summer months.

The fuel consumption rate of the generators:

The fuel consumption rate of the generator set is the last factor that affects the run-time of a diesel generator day tank. This is because the fuel consumption rate is directly related to how much power the generator set is outputting. If the generator set is outputting a lot of power, it will consume fuel at a higher rate and the day tank will need to be refilled more often.

Quick Overview on the Run-times of Diesel Generator Day Tanks

  • A standard day tank holds between 250 and 300 gallons of fuel. This is enough to run most generators for 24 hours at full load.
  • If you have a larger generator, you may need a bigger day tank. Some generators require up to 1000 gallons of fuel to run for 24 hours.
  • If you’re running your generator at partial load, you’ll be able to extend its run-time. For example, a 250-gallon tank will last for 48 hours at half load.

But what if you’re not running at full load? What if your generator is only partial loads throughout the day?

The answer to that question is a bit more complicated. When a generator is operating at less than full load, it’s using less fuel. But it’s also using that fuel less efficiently. So while you might be able to run your generator for longer on a tank of fuel when it’s operating at partial loads, you’ll still want to keep an eye on your fuel levels. It’s generally recommended that you refuel your generator day tank when it reaches about half full. This will help ensure that you have enough fuel to run your generator for the entirety of the day, regardless of how much or how little it’s used.

The Use of Monitoring System

One way to monitor the run-times of diesel generator day tanks is through the use of a monitoring system. This type of system can provide real-time data on the status of each tank, as well as historical data that can be used to trend tank performance over time.

In Conclusion

The size of the diesel generator day tank is the most important factor that determines its run-time. The larger the tank, the longer it will be able to supply fuel to the generator set. Other factors such as the number of generators being supplied by the tank, the load on the generators, and the fuel consumption rate of the generator set also affect the run-time of a diesel generator day tank.

Remote Fill Systems is the premier source for remote fill tanks and systems for generator fueling. We are committed to providing knowledgeable and experienced support to our customers from design and application through startup and commissioning. Our team has many years of experience with fuel oil as well as long experience in industrial process control and mechanical HVAC and piping systems. We have developed innovative and cost-effective products in response to customer needs, such as:

Pumped Remote Fill: The pumped remote fill is unique in its small 2 x 2 x 2 size. Small but powerful, the pumped remote fill is for applications that exceed 4 stories, which is the practical pressure limit for a diesel fuel delivery truck. The pumped remote fill unit is pre-assembled and factory tested. It is paired with a matching control panel with status indicating lights and a motor starter. The unit may be ordered for flush or surface mount.

How Long Can a Generator Run Continuously?

Bad weather, human error, and equipment failure can knock out your home or work site’s electricity without warning, which may last up to several days. Fortunately, a fully-loaded portable power generator can help to keep you out of the dark.

When you expect an extended power outage, you might be wondering, "How long can a generator run?”

While the answer depends on several factors, such as the model of the generator, its fuel source, and the size of your home, some high-quality generators can run continuously for weeks. However, others may only run for a few hours.

In this article, we’ll explore all there is to know about generator runtime to help you prepare for possible outages before they happen.

Factors That Affect a Generator’s Runtime

Electricity is a mainstay of our day-to-day lives, and a power outage can be a major disruption. So, with that being said, how long does a generator last?  

To answer that, let’s consider three critical factors:

  • Fuel source

  • Generator model

  • Size of your home

Each factor will affect how long your generator will run. As such, when shopping for a generator for your home or work site, it’s important to consider the wattage you’ll need to provide you, your family, or your colleagues with an effective amount of energy.

To that end, you’ll first want to consider the fuel source.

#1 Fuel Source

Fuel keeps your generator running, and it can greatly affect your generator’s performance. For example, a portable generator can last longer on propane than gasoline.

To that end, here are the four main types of fuel sources and how they affect a backup generator’s runtime:

  • Diesel

    – A common type for standby generators, this is the most cost-effective option. But it’s typically used for big jobs over extended periods of time.

  • Gasoline

    – This fuel type is easy to get and is ideal for portable standby generators. But it’s highly flammable when stored or used improperly. Plus, it has a short shelf life and generally has a runtime of 6 to 16 hours, depending on the generator’s tank size and energy consumption.

  • Propane

    – With a runtime between 150 to 200 hours, this clean-burning fuel source has a limitless shelf life and is safer than gasoline.

  • Natural gas

    – Another cost-effective option, this fuel type doesn’t need constant refueling. It’s also environmentally friendly. But, this option may not be the best for areas prone to earthquakes. That being said, natural gas generators can run for up to 500 hours.

If you’re looking to constantly run your generator for a long period of time, propane and natural gas fuel sources are the most effective. In addition to a generator’s fuel source, however, you’ll also want to consider the model of the generator and its compatibility with your home or workplace.

#2 Generator Model

The model of your generator will affect its power efficiency and should be chosen carefully based on what you’ll be using it for. For example, you may need a low-power generator to supply your home during a 2-hour power outage and a high-power RV generator if you plan to embark on long, off-the-grid camping trips in your RV.

To that end, there are three types of home backup generators typically available to those looking for power sources when off the power grid:

  • Whole house or “home standby” generators

    – Can power your home appliances, keep the lights on, charge your devices, and more during a power outage.

  • Portable generators

    – Easy to carry around when you’re camping or working with small tools on a construction site.
  • Inverter generators

    – Work to meet your specific electrical needs, especially when traveling in an RV or boat. Inverter generators commonly use propane, while gasoline works well with portable generators.

#3 Home Size

A home generator converts mechanical energy into enough electricity to meet your power needs. But, how much electricity will you need?

If you’re planning to power multiple appliances, your generator may run for fewer hours than if you were only using it to charge a few devices. As such, when determining how long your generator will run, consider the following:

  • The appliances and technology you want to be able to use

  • The amount of time you use those appliances per day

  • The wattage that each of those appliances would need

Also, consider that a bigger house will require more watts of electricity, which may drain your generator more quickly than if you lived in a smaller house.

Prepare for Power Outages with DuroMax Power Equipment

Bad weather, natural disasters, and power outages are outside our control. But how we choose to handle those situations is. As such, it’s critical that you plan ahead to gauge how long your generator will last during an extended power outage.

For a reliable generator that provides long-lasting backup power in every situation, look to DuroMax Power Equipment. Our generators, which range from 2,300 to 15,000 watts, are portable and feature large fuel tanks and fully-loaded power panels to get you through the night.

You can also check out our power guide to find the perfect power generator to match your energy needs. Find long-lasting generator power with Duromax.

How long does a generator last on a full tank?

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