How Long Will A 120 Gallon Propane Tank Run A Generator?

A propane generator is a great way to ensure that you have power during a power outage. However, one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long will a 120-gallon propane tank run a generator?”

Factors That Affect the Answer

Before we get into the answer to this question, it’s important to understand the factors that will affect how long a 120-gallon propane tank will run a generator. These factors include:

• The size of the generator
• The amount of power being used by the generator
• The temperature outside
• The propane pressure in the tank

Calculating Run Time

Assuming that you have a 120-gallon propane tank and a 20-kilowatt generator, you can calculate the run time by following these steps:

1. Find out the generator’s fuel consumption rate in gallons per hour. This information can typically be found in the owner’s manual or by checking the manufacturer’s website.
2. Divide the size of the propane tank by the generator’s fuel consumption rate. For example, if the fuel consumption rate is 1.5 gallons per hour and the propane tank is 120 gallons, the equation would be 120/1.5 = 80 hours.
3. Keep in mind that this calculation is based on the assumption that the generator is running at full load for the entire time. If the generator is not running at full load, the run time will be longer.

Additional Considerations

It’s important to remember that the above calculation is just an estimate. There are additional factors to consider that may affect the run time of your generator. As mentioned earlier, the temperature outside can play a role in how long your propane tank will last. In colder temperatures, propane loses pressure and the fuel consumption rate may increase. Additionally, running a generator at a higher elevation may also impact the run time.

Conclusion

So, how long will a 120-gallon propane tank run a generator? Ultimately, the answer will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the generator, the amount of power being used, the temperature outside, and the propane pressure in the tank. However, by using the formula provided above, you can get a general idea of how long your generator will run on a 120-gallon propane tank. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when relying on a propane generator for power during an outage.