propane auto changeover with generator

[John Frum]

Has anyone figured out how to do a propane auto changeover for a generator?

 

[John Frum]

I found this https://www.etrailer.com/question-337583.html

 

[TheEquineFencer]

Keep in mind, you loose about 20% of the generator output because of power loss from the BTU losses using LPG or NG.

 

[mapguy525]

Propane conversion sources:
http://www.propane-generators.com/basic_info.php
https://centuryfuelproducts.com/generators/conversion-kits

 

[John Frum]

Just in case its not clear by auto-changeover I mean automatically switch from one tank to the other for extended operation.

 

[mapguy525]

Just in case its not clear by auto-changeover I mean automatically switch from one tank to the other for extended operation.

Gotcha - wasn't sure. In any case the generator needs the right adaption parts to run on propane -if not manufactured for vapor based fuel. Make sure you properly size the regulator for BTU's of installed equipment.
Check Marshall Brass for that type of device.
https://www.marshallexcelsior.com/2-stage-excela-flo-auto-change-over-regulator-14-inv-x-38-fpt
Whole page of them on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/propane-auto-changeover-regulator/s?k=propane+auto+changeover+regulator

 

[John Frum]

Gotcha - wasn't sure. In any case the generator needs the right adaption parts to run on propane -if not manufactured for vapor based fuel. Make sure you properly size the regulator for BTU's of installed equipment.
Check Marshall Brass for that type of device.
https://www.marshallexcelsior.com/2-stage-excela-flo-auto-change-over-regulator-14-inv-x-38-fpt
Whole page of them on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/propane-auto-changeover-regulator/s?k=propane+auto+changeover+regulator

Have you seen or can you source a single stage changover?
So that I could use the existing 2nd stage?

 

[mapguy525]

Have not looked for that combination.

This website has lots of options in one place. I have not purchased from them.
https://propanewarehouse.com/product-category/propane-regulators/automatic-regulators/

 

[TheEquineFencer]

Just in case its not clear by auto-changeover I mean automatically switch from one tank to the other for extended operation.

Gotcha. Why not just tie all the cylinders together and let it run? I l know, I'm the same way, I'd rather have it so I could change cylinders out and stay running. The one mapguy525 linked looks like what you need.

 

[John Frum]

I've been thinking that having 2 small inverter generators might also be a better plan.
Can sync them for more power or run one while maintaining the other.

 

[Prefersdirt]

Engineer775 on youtube did a video where the house backup was 2 or 3 honda generators, all propane setup. They could tie in 1, 2, or all 3 gennys at a single time.

I like propane as it stays good forever. Could you just put a 2K tank out there for the genny?

 

[Savern]

I have just ordered the Champion 2000 Dual fuel model. I think they are reliable enough for my use. They also have the parallel kit.

https://www.costco.ca/generators.html

 

[John Frum]

I have just ordered the Champion 2000 Dual fuel model. I think they are reliable enough for my use. They also have the parallel kit.

https://www.costco.ca/generators.html

The inverter generator or the big constant rpm one?
Those constant rpm ones are loud and don't make the cleanest power.
Just a friendly heads up.

 

[John Frum]

Could you just put a 2K tank out there for the genny?

I want the solution to fit in the bed of a pickup.
Oh and every piece should be lug-able by one guy who is getting isn't as young as he used to be.

 

[Savern]

The inverter model.

https://www.costco.ca/champion-2000-watt-dual-fuel-portable-inverter-generator.product.100587614.html

 

[theoldwizard1]

I want the solution to fit in the bed of a pickup.
Oh and every piece should be lug-able by one guy who is getting isn't as young as he used to be.

Stick with "inverter" generators. Lots of brands to choose from. Many people love Honda but I think they are overpriced.

The biggest generator you will find that is ACTUALLY "lugable" is the Westinghouse iGen 2500. It is a few pounds heavier than other 2000w-2200W generators, but still can be "one handed". No factory LP hook up.

2 generators is a great idea if your pocketbook can handle it.

 

[John Frum]

The biggest generator you will find that is ACTUALLY "lugable" is the Westinghouse iGen 2500.

I have the iGen 2200.