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Propane: When Natural Gas Isn’t Available for Your Whole-Home Backup Generator

Twin 125 Gallon Propane Tanks
  • April 10, 2024

For many homeowners, natural gas just isn’t an option.  It's not just in rural or off-grid areas, many homes in the Dallas / Ft. Worth communities were never plumbed for natural gas.  But that doesn’t mean you have to go without backup power for your home.  Plus, there are many benefits of propane backup generators.  Guardian Home Generators, we are experienced in designing and installing whole-home generator systems powered by propane—a clean, reliable fuel source that ensures you stay powered through any outage.

Unlike some other generators, our Generac standby generators come out of the box ready to run on natural gas or liquid propane to back up your home's power supply.  No propane conversion is necessary.  

If you’re wondering how propane works with a generator and what the installation process looks like, this guide breaks it all down.


How Propane Is Connected to a Whole Home Generator

1. Determine the Right Propane Tank Size

The first step is selecting the appropriate propane tank size based on your generator’s power output, your home’s energy needs, and how long you desire to keep your generator running during an all-too-common extended power outage.

The minimum tank size is 125 gallons.  The average home backup generator burns 2 - 4 gallons an hour so a single tank will generally provide just over one day of backup.  The most common setups are twin or triple tank configurations.

Our team will work with you to determine your needs and recommend the best size for your property and ensure it meets all local codes and safety standards.

2. Install the Propane Tank on Your Property

Once the tank size is selected, it’s installed above ground or underground, depending on your preference and available space. Tanks are placed at a safe distance from buildings and ignition sources, typically 10–15 feet away.

We’ll coordinate with a licensed propane provider to handle delivery, placement, and fill-up of the tank.

3. Run the Fuel Line to the Generator

A dedicated propane gas line is then installed to connect the tank to your generator. This involves:

  • Digging a trench (if needed) to bury the line
  • Running the line using approved flexible piping
  • Test to ensure proper fuel pressure
  • Connecting the line securely to the generator’s intake port

All fittings, valves, and piping are installed to code, and the system is tested for leaks and pressure stability.

4. Start-Up and Testing

Once connected, your propane-powered generator is tested to ensure it operates seamlessly with the fuel source. Our technicians simulate a power outage to verify automatic transfer switch activation and consistent fuel flow.

At Guardian Home Generators, we don’t consider the job complete until your system runs flawlessly.

5. Propane Refueling

After you are set-up and running, your generator will cycle weekly for 15 minutes to keep everything running in tip-top shape.  As mentioned above, a generator will burn about 2 - 4 gallons an hour.  About once per year you will want to have your tank(s) topped off. We recommend Northwest Propane for your delivery, they are experts in our area with impeccable service and knowledge.

 

Why Use Propane for Your Backup Generator?

Propane is a clean-burning, long-lasting, and easily stored fuel that works exceptionally well in areas where natural gas isn’t available. Benefits include:

  • Independence from utility lines
  • Reliable performance in extreme weather
  • Long shelf life with minimal degradation
  • Safe storage in certified tanks

Plus, propane is ideal for homes in Texas and other regions prone to grid outages or severe storms—where a reliable backup power system can be the difference between safety and costly damage.


Trust Guardian for Safe, Professional Installation

Unlike some competitors, Guardian Home Generators doesn’t cut corners or use cookie-cutter solutions. We assess each property individually, custom-design your propane fuel system, and install your generator with expert care. From permitting and inspections to fuel coordination and long-term maintenance—we handle it all.


Ready to Get Started?

If your home isn’t connected to natural gas, propane offers a dependable, flexible alternative. Let our team show you how easy and affordable it is to keep your home powered, no matter what.

Schedule a free consultation today and take the first step toward peace of mind.

 

Request a Quote Now

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