Imagine never having to worry about fuel shortages again when it comes to running your generator. Dual-fuel options run on multiple types of fuel, allowing flexibility when it comes to using your generator –especially in an emergency.

Whether you need backup for your home or business, you’ll want to keep your system running at peak performance. It is important to understand what generator maintenance should be regularly performed on your generator so that you can keep it in top shape for years to come.

What is a Dual-Fuel Hybrid Generator? 

A dual-fuel hybrid generator, or just dual-fuel generator, can run on two types of fuel, usually gasoline and propane. Because of their versatility, dual-fuel generators allow you to choose what fuel type works best for you based on cost, preference, or availability. Due to these generators’ unique systems, you can perform certain maintenance and service on your dual-fuel hybrid generator to ensure that it works smoothly. 

How Do Dual-Fuel Generators Work?

Dual-fuel hybrid generators work because of their adaptable combustion engine that can handle and operate on two different fuel types. A fuel switch allows you to change between gasoline and propane, depending on what you’ve got.

For some models, you may be able to switch the fuel type being used while running. However, others may require that you completely stop the generator’s engine before switching. Consult your generator’s owner manual if you are unsure which type of dual-fuel generator you have or your Generac diagnostic manual if there are issues in switching your fuel type.

Dual-Fuel Hybrid Generator Fuel Types

• Gasoline
• Propane
• Natural Gas

While it is most common that dual-fuel generators run on gasoline and propane, they may also be able to run on natural gas with some modifications, depending on the model. There are advantages and disadvantages when it comes to burning gasoline and propane, especially considering the service needed for the dual-fuel hybrid generator. 

Gasoline Maintenance and Benefits in a Dual-Fuel Generator

Gasoline requires different generator maintenance in your system than propane. Gasoline can leave carbon deposits in your engine and exhaust, meaning you might need to clean and service your dual-fuel hybrid generator more often. 

Gasoline also has a lower shelf life than propane, so you may need to consider dual-fuel hybrid generator service more often than with a propane option. Gasoline can only be stored for a few months at a time but can be stabilized with a fuel stabilizer. 

Overall, gasoline is typically a more powerful fuel source, regardless of its need for more generator maintenance than propane. With gasoline, your generator run time may last longer, and you may be able to get up to 20% more power from your generator.

Propane Maintenance and Benefits in a Dual-Fuel Hybrid Generator

Propane gas requires less service in your dual-fuel hybrid generator and can be more cost-efficient. Propane is typically cheaper than gasoline and has a longer shelf life, so you won’t have to perform regular maintenance on the generator fuel as often. Propane fuel also won’t degrade over time and can last up to 30 years without the need for stabilizers.

Propane is also a cleaner burning fuel, meaning it won’t gunk up your fuel lines and other parts in the system. You will not have to service your dual-fuel hybrid generator after running it often with propane. Propane also has lower emissions and works better in the winter than gasoline.

Dual-Fuel Hybrid Generator Maintenance Tips

Along with regular generator maintenance, other steps should be taken to ensure that your dual-fuel hybrid generator is in good working condition:

• Prevent contamination
• Inspect air filters
• Inspect coolant system
• Run your generator regularly

Preventing Contamination in Your Dual-Fuel Generator

If the fuel of your generator gets contaminated, the overall effectiveness and efficiency of your system can decrease. To prevent this, it is essential to avoid any water intrusion that may accumulate in your generator fuel tank. Regularly inspect the fuel tanks and service your dual-fuel hybrid generator by draining water from the tanks as needed.

You should also inspect and regularly change your generator’s fuel filter. The fuel filter of your generator is responsible for removing imperfections in the fuel and preventing them from entering the engine and causing damage. Like many other important generator filters, the fuel filter requires regular generator maintenance so that the engine remains protected. 

If you suspect that your fuel has been contaminated, shut down the fuel supply to your generator so that no further damage occurs. This can be a switch on your generator or a remote kill switch.  

Inspecting your Generator’s Air Filters and Coolant System

Burning fuel can overheat your generator and cause it to fail, so an important part of generator maintenance is to regularly inspect your Generac air filters and cooling systems to ensure that your engine is properly ventilated so it stays cool. 

If your air filter gets clogged, heat can build up inside your engine. For this reason, servicing your dual-fuel hybrid generator’s air filter and cleaning or replacing it is crucial for a smooth operating system. 

The same can be said for the coolant system in your generator; it might need generator maintenance, like cleaning the cooling system and checking the coolant level. This way, your generator will not overheat.

How to Exercise Your Dual-Fuel Generator

Generators need a little warm-up every once in a while to test their load and prevent fuel from building up in the lines. Often, the most important generator maintenance is something seemingly small, like running your generator. No extreme dual-fuel hybrid generator service has to be performed to ensure that your generator can run when necessary.

Your generator might have an exercise mode, where it can run the generator without powering any appliances. If not, manually exercise your generator at least once a month.

Dual-fuel hybrid generators offer a blend of versatility, reliability, and efficiency, making them a great option for a plethora of power needs. Whether you use gasoline or propane, you should perform the necessary service on your dual-fuel hybrid generator so that it remains dependable for years to come.