When it comes to engines, there’s always the debate whether diesel or petrol power generators are superior. But this doesn’t only relate to car engines, it’s a debate that extends to homes, businesses, farms and worksites all across Australia. It’s a well known fact that diesel generators are the most fuel and cost-efficient type you can buy, but petrol generators are slowly closing that gap and are becoming increasingly more popular. Here’s a comparison of the two types of generators so that if you are looking to buy one, you’ll know what to expect from both types.
Petrol Generators
First and foremost, petrol is cheaper than diesel, and there are far more models of petrol generators. This is simply because petrol generators have been around for many more years than diesel generators. However, you’ll still find a large selection of diesel generators that vary in budget and application nowadays, including generators for residential and commercial backup, solar setup backup, trade and construction applications, and more.
So while diesel generators are praised for their fuel efficiency, you can find petrol models that have built-in economy features and modes that close the gap. That being said, when looking for any type of generator buy one that’s fuel-efficient, as it’s a common feature nowadays and it won’t break your bank in the short and long run.
Diesel Generators
Diesel was considered dirty and smelly truck fuel for many years, but we’re far past that point and nowadays diesel gives petrol a run for its money. As aforementioned, diesel engines are very efficient, and that’s a result of the motor’s higher compression.
Additionally, diesel engines typically last much longer, which gives them incredible value in the long term. Many businesses opt for diesel engines for this reason alone. The main reason why diesel engines last longer is because they don’t need to work as hard to produce the same power output as petrol engines, which puts the engine under less stress. Additionally, diesel is self-lubricating which makes the fuel delivery system last considerably longer than the fuel delivery system of petrol engines. But even though diesel generators typically last longer, they’re costlier to repair if they break down.
However, diesel engines emit more CO2 and noxious gases per litre than petrol engines. But that’s balanced out in the long term as diesel engines also use less fuel than petrol engines. In other words, depending on how long you plan on using the generator buy the type that’s going to expose you to less CO2 and noxious gases.