Using Gas to Run Your Generator: Safe or Not?

In Nigeria, the removal of fuel subsidies has made it challenging for average citizens to afford fuel for their generators. As a result, many people have been considering converting their generators to run on LPG (cooking gas), which is more economical in such circumstances.

If you are one of those individuals pondering this conversion, this post provides insights into the safety of using LPG on generators, conversion procedures, and links to online stores for purchasing conversion kits.

Is It Safe to Convert Generators to Run on LPG?

After conducting thorough research, it has been confirmed that converting your generator to run on LPG and CNG is entirely safe. Direct communication with a Firman Plaza engineer in Lagos yielded this affirmation, as reaching out to Sumec Firman in China proved unsuccessful.

If it is safe to use gas for cooking by attaching a nozzle directly to the top of a cylinder, it is safe to use the same gas to power a generator where the combustion process occurs inside a cylinder, isolated from the gas cylinder.

Benefits of Using Gas on Your Generator

Using LPG as fuel for generators offers cost-reduction, increased efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits.

LPG has high thermal efficiency, providing longer output duration and lower energy costs compared to petrol. It also extends the generator’s working life and avoids issues like sediment deposits or difficulty starting up during periods of inactivity.

LPG-fueled generators are environmentally responsible, reducing carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions by over 90% and 70% respectively compared to petrol generators.

Additionally, gas combustion produces less noise, resulting in quieter operation.

Safety Precautions

While using CNG or LPG to run a generator can be safe, it is essential to observe certain safety precautions, just as you would with a generator using PMS (Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol).

1. The installation of the conversion kit should be performed by a qualified professional who has experience with such conversions. They can ensure that the kit is properly installed, all connections are secure, and safety measures are followed. Improper installation can lead to gas leaks or other hazardous situations.
2. Ensure that the generator is placed in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, to allow the safe dispersion of any exhaust gases.
3. Store the LPG in appropriate cylinders designed for LPG storage. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for handling and storage to prevent leaks or other safety hazards.
4. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the safe operation of any generator, including those using alternative fuels. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and guidelines to keep the generator in good working condition. This includes checking for leaks, inspecting the gas system, and ensuring all safety features are functional.

Conversion Kits

LPG Carburetor:

When converting a generator to run on LPG, one of the major components required is an LPG carburetor, which replaces the existing petrol carburetor. The LPG carburetor is specifically designed to work with LPG as the fuel source. It is engineered to provide the appropriate fuel-air mixture for combustion when running on LPG. The LPG carburetor can be obtained from trusted online resources that sell generator conversion parts.

Buy LPG Carburetor

Use the links below to check out the LPG carburetor available on JUMIA and buy from there.

Shipped from Nigeria
Japanese LPG/CNG Generator Dual Carburetor – Models: Gx160 and Gx160/200 – ₦ 27,000
BUY NOW

Shipped from Nigeria
Japanese Lpg/CNG Big Dual Generator Carburettor – Model: GX390 – ₦ 40,000
BUY NOW

Shipped from Nigeria
Liquefied Gas Or Cooking Gas Carburetor LPG/CNG/Gasoline – Models: 168F and 170F – ₦ 45,000
BUY NOW

Shipped from abroad
Generator Dual Carburetor LPG NG Conversion Kit For 2.8KW GX200 170F Manual Chokes For GX160 2KW 168F – ₦ 24,090
BUY NOW

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT OTHER AVAILABLE OPTION

Gas Cylinder and Hose

In addition to the LPG carburetor, you will need a gas cylinder and hose for the LPG fuel supply. The gas cylinder acts as the storage container for the LPG, while the hose connects the cylinder to the generator’s fuel system. It is important to select a gas cylinder and hose that are compatible with LPG and meet safety standards. Consider consulting a professional or referring to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations on the appropriate gas cylinder and hose for your generator.