Portable Diesel Generator Recommendations?

[cold1313]

I'm considering adding a diesel generator to my backup options. I keep a supply of diesel on hand.

My concern is if there are any issues with these and how well they might work in cold temperatures?

I currently have a propane, portable generator that I run off of BBQ tanks. It is okay but I wish it had an electric start and I cannot tell the fuel level.

My primary goal for my next generator would be for use in the winter, so I can supply heat in the home. I would like to get something with electric start, just in case the wife needs to start it.

(Not looking for a standby unit like Generac - can't justify the $8k+ price tag for the entire project)

 

[Industrial Toys]

I have a YANMAR portable air cooled single cylinder. It is 3.7 K which I have put into my 200 amp whole house transfer switch and it worked great, with load observation/management of course. They do make larger versions. They are a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.



It is a terribly noisy beast, but I know it will always start even when very cold. It has a decompression lever. I consider it my "Portable Generator" but two guys struggle to lift it.

 

[Rebeldad1]

I think the OP needs a much larger generator.
he says "my next generator would be for use in the winter, so I can supply heat in the home"
I'm no expert but guessing a 10K or more to be efficient

 

[4570Man]

I don’t foresee buying a liquid cooled electric start diesel generator of adequate size and doing a decent job wiring it for much if any less than the $8k for the standby unit. If I was buying a diesel generator I’d want a good one that’s quite and built with durability in mind vs a cheaper air cooled noisy one.

 

[cold1313]

I think the OP needs a much larger generator.
he says "my next generator would be for use in the winter, so I can supply heat in the home"
I'm no expert but guessing a 10K or more to be efficient

My propane unit is 5500 watts and it handles the furnace just fine. I can power the fridge as well. Being in the country, I just want it reliable for if we have the power go out and need the heat on. Wiring is already in place.

 

[dalola]

I think the OP needs a much larger generator.
he says "my next generator would be for use in the winter, so I can supply heat in the home"
I'm no expert but guessing a 10K or more to be efficient

Most forced air furnaces (assuming this is what the OP has..) are fairly low in their power consumption....no where near 10KW. I use a Honda EU2000 for home backup, it runs my furnace and much more with ease.

OP, they are not diesel, but the inverter style portable Honda's are handy for lots of jobs, including home backup. As long as you are willing to control your manual switches, they will run the basics very well....furnace, fridge, TV, lights, etc.. Just something to consider.

 

[Industrial Toys]

Power went out on the weekend for a few hours and I used my main 7.5KW 1800 rpm Liquid cooled Diesel. Used a bit of electric heat, but had a fire going already. So life went on EXACTLY as usual. BUT, you won't get that for 8K!

Oh yeah, that Yanmar is a 3600 rpm screamer! Terrible to do tht to a diesel.

 

[Richard]

Backup heat: What about a ventless fireplace? Uses propane...you already have it.

We've got a ventless on each floor of the house. (I also live in the country and the power goes off on its own whim)

In general, if I use the fireplace in the basement, it will work its way up to the rest of the house so that's the one that usually gets used in winter (unless we have company over and have one going for "atmosphere")

Then, you can maybe get by with smaller generator to power lights and to warm your taco's.

 

[Industrial Toys]

This question comes up all the time and it's hard to answer without knowing a persons lifestyle and expectations or what they value. Some people want a 6000 square foot house and a generator that they don't even have to think about. Others live in a modest house and enjoy running cords and feel proud to look after themselves.

 

[downslope]

My propane unit is 5500 watts and it handles the furnace just fine. I can power the fridge as well. Being in the country, I just want it reliable for if we have the power go out and need the heat on. Wiring is already in place.

Why the interest with diesel? Diesel and winter don't often get along. You seem to be satisfied with propane, why not just buy another propane unit with electric start, add a few more propane tanks, keep the old one for backup and be done with it?

e.g., or larger:

A-iPower SUA6000ED - 5500 Watt Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator CARB