Dealing with Low Natural Gas Pressure on Your Generac Home Standby Generator
If you own a Generac Home Standby Generator, you already know how vital it is for keeping your home powered during an outage. However, one common issue that can affect its performance is low natural gas pressure. Insufficient gas pressure can cause your generator to run inefficiently or fail to start altogether. Let’s explore how to identify and address this issue, and whether switching to propane might be the right solution for you.
Signs of Low Natural Gas Pressure
A generator requires a consistent supply of natural gas at the proper pressure to operate. If your generator is experiencing low gas pressure, you might notice:
Difficulty starting the generator.
Fluctuations in performance or inconsistent power output.
Error codes or warnings on the generator’s control panel, such as “low fuel” or “engine under-speed.”
Common Causes of Low Natural Gas Pressure
Low gas pressure can stem from several factors, including:
Issues with the Utility Provider: A drop in the supply pressure from your natural gas provider, often due to high demand in your area.
Undersized Piping: Pipes that are too narrow to handle the volume of gas needed by the generator.
Obstructions or Leaks: Blockages, damaged pipes, or leaks in the natural gas line.
Distance from the Gas Meter: The farther your generator is from the gas meter, the more pressure it loses along the way.
Steps to Address Low Gas Pressure
If you suspect low gas pressure is affecting your Generac generator, here’s how to address the issue:
Contact Your Utility Provider: Start by consulting your natural gas provider to ensure there are no supply issues in your area.
Inspect the Gas Line: Have a licensed technician inspect the gas line for leaks, obstructions, or damage that could be restricting gas flow.
Upgrade Your Piping: If your gas pipes are undersized, upgrading to larger-diameter pipes may help restore proper pressure.
Install a Gas Booster: A gas booster can increase pressure to the generator, ensuring consistent performance even during peak demand.
Perform Routine Maintenance: Ensure your generator’s regulator and other components are in good working order. Regular maintenance can often resolve minor issues before they escalate.
Converting Your Generator to Propane
If natural gas pressure issues persist or if natural gas service is unavailable in your area, you might consider converting your generator to propane. Propane offers several advantages:
Reliable Supply: Propane is stored on-site, so it’s unaffected by utility disruptions.
Higher Energy Density: Propane often delivers a more consistent energy output compared to natural gas.
To convert your generator to propane:
Consult a Professional: A licensed technician can guide you through the process and ensure the conversion is performed safely and according to Generac’s specifications.
Install a Propane Tank: Choose a tank size that fits your home’s energy needs and arrange for regular refills.
Adjust the Regulator and Fuel System: The generator’s fuel system will need to be recalibrated for propane. This step should always be done by a certified professional.
Trust Boudreaux’s Electrical Services for Expert Assistance
At Boudreaux’s Electrical Services, we specialize in maintaining and repairing Generac Home Standby Generators. Our licensed technicians can diagnose and resolve low gas pressure issues or help you transition to propane seamlessly. With our expertise, you can rest easy knowing your generator will be ready when you need it most.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our generator services. Your home’s power is our priority!
