What You’ll Learn
What should I know about getting a propane tank for my whole-home generator?
You’ll want to figure out what size and type of tank you need, how much propane your generator will consume, what factors affect your generator’s propane consumption, and how your electrician and propane provider will collaborate.
In this blog:
This blog was updated January 2026.
You’ve purchased a new whole-home generator to say goodbye to power outages.
But where do you go from there when it comes to fuel?
We’re here to help.
Things to Consider
When installing a propane tank for your whole-home generator, be mindful of these things:
- Whether you want an above-ground or underground propane tank
- What size propane tank you’ll need
- Permits and regulations on propane tanks in your area
- How your electrician and propane provider will collaborate
- Why you’re choosing propane to fuel your whole-home generator
- How your generator consumes propane
- What factors affect your generator’s propane consumption
Above vs. Underground Tanks
Above-Ground Tanks
Ease of Installation: Above-ground tanks require minimal excavation and groundwork, reducing the initial setup time and expense.
Accessibility: These tanks are readily accessible for inspection, maintenance, and refilling, especially near your generator.
Aesthetic Considerations: However, they are visible on your property and impact your landscape’s visual appeal. Additionally, they require more surface space.
Underground Tanks
Aesthetic Appeal: Underground tanks offer a more visually pleasing solution, as they are concealed from view.
Space Efficiency: Unlike above-ground tanks, underground tanks don’t occupy surface space. They are also protected from external elements, ensuring their longevity and safety.
Installation Complexity: On the downside, installing underground tanks is more expensive and time-consuming. Excavation, special permits, and careful placement are necessary to ensure proper installation. Furthermore, they aren’t easily accessible from your generator.
The choice between above-ground and underground tanks depends on various factors, including your budget, local regulations, aesthetics, and willingness to invest in a more seamless appearance.
What Size Propane Tank You Need
The appropriate tank size ensures your generator has an adequate propane supply during power outages.
The right size balances maintaining power for an extended period and avoiding the unnecessary expenses of constant propane refills.
Proper sizing is essential for establishing a dependable connection, allowing your generator to meet your energy needs effectively during power interruptions.
Permits and Regulations on Propane Tanks in Your Area
Before installing your propane tank, research and comply with local regulations, zoning laws, and permitting requirements.
These regulations vary from one area to another, and non-compliance leads to legal issues or safety concerns.
Regulations cover tank size limitations, placement distance from structures, and safety measures.
How Your Electrician and Propane Provider Will Collaborate
You want to have your propane tank installed before your generator so that it can immediately be hooked up to its fuel source.
Once your propane tank is in place and hooked up to your generator, coordination with a licensed electrician is necessary to complete the installation of your generator. The following aspects should be carefully considered:
Your propane provider should collaborate closely with your electrician to ensure the generator’s fuel requirements are met. They will assist in determining the ideal sizing of the propane supply to align with the generator’s energy demands during power outages.
The Benefits of Using Propane
Propane is known for its efficiency and reliability.
It burns cleanly and doesn’t degrade over time, making it an excellent choice for generator fuel.
Propane generators are dependable and require less maintenance compared to some other options.
Fuel Monitoring
Some propane tanks have built-in fuel monitoring systems that notify your propane provider when it’s time for a refill. These systems monitor the amount of fuel left in your tank.
Factors That Affect Your Generator’s Propane Consumption
The rate at which your generator consumes propane depends on several factors, including its size and the electrical load it’s supporting.
Respected generator manufacturers like Generac engineer their systems to be highly fuel-efficient.
Your generator only consumes propane when running and automatically shuts down when grid power is restored.
This not only conserves propane but also prolongs the lifespan of your generator.
Regular Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance and inspection minimize fuel consumption and extend the lifespan of your equipment, ensuring it’s always ready when needed.
This includes not only the generator itself but also the propane system.
Frequency and Length of Power Outages
The longer and more frequently power outages occur, the more your generator will operate, leading to increased propane consumption.
And you don’t want to be out of power during a power outage.
The automatic shut-off feature of generators is a key factor in propane conservation. When grid power is restored, the generator senses it and shuts down automatically. This not only saves propane but also contributes to the system’s overall efficiency.
Kauffman Gas Will Power Your Preparedness
A whole home generator is a game-changer for your home, offering a reliable power source during outages.
Keep it fueled and ready to go with Kauffman Gas.
Preparedness is key, and our expertise ensures that your generator will perform when needed most.
We are here to guide you every step of the way.
Become a Kauffman Gas customer today and get your new tank installed for just $499!
FAQs
What’s the difference between an above-ground and an underground propane tank?
An above-ground tank is easier to install and access, but it’s visible.
An underground tank is hidden and doesn’t take up yard space, but installing it is more involved and costly.
How do I know what size propane tank I need?
You need a tank that holds enough fuel to get through an outage without constant refills.
Your propane provider can help figure out the right size based on how much fuel your specific generator will use.
Do I need a permit to install a propane tank?
Yes, you’ll need to check local rules and get the proper permits first.
These regulations cover where the tank can be placed and how far it needs to be from your house or property line.
Does my propane tank system need maintenance?
Yes, regular maintenance for both your generator and the propane system helps it run efficiently, use less fuel, and last longer.
It’s key to making sure you’re always prepared.