How does cold weather impact home standby generator fuel systems?

Cold weather, especially extreme cold, can affect the performance of natural gas and liquid propane (LP) fuel systems. Both systems may require special attention in regions where severe winter weather is uncommon because the local fuel infrastructure may not be designed for unexpected extreme conditions. Regular maintenance and winter preparation help support safe and reliable generator operation during cold weather.

For more information about winter safety and how cold weather may affect generator operation, see:

• What should I do to prepare my home standby generator if I know a snowstorm is coming?

Environment

This article applies to home standby generators with liquid propane (LP) or natural gas fuel systems, particularly in regions where extreme winter weather is uncommon.

LP systems (propane)

Propane is stored as a liquid under pressure in a tank. Before the generator can use the propane as fuel, it must vaporize and expand. As temperatures fall, pressure inside the tank decreases. If the available pressure becomes too low, the propane may not vaporize effectively enough to meet the generator’s fuel demand.

Note: There is no single temperature at which every propane system will be affected. Cold weather performance depends on the fuel’s chemical makeup and the requirements of the fuel system. Generac cannot provide a universal temperature threshold or additive percentage because fuel composition varies by supplier. Contact the propane supplier for information about the delivered fuel, its additives, and its cold weather capabilities. A complete loss of vaporization generally requires extremely severe cold, but reduced tank pressure may affect generator performance before vaporization stops completely.

Precautions to take

• Clear snow and ice from propane tanks, regulators, vents, piping, and valves to allow sunlight to reach and warm the system
• Remove snow and ice from appliance vents, flues, and chimneys to support proper gas venting
• Reduce the home’s thermostat setting, when practical, to lower demand on the propane system and allow pressure in the tank to build
• Never use open flames or electrical heating devices near propane tanks. Never attempt to heat a propane tank artificially to correct a pressure issue.

Natural gas systems

Natural gas generally performs well in low temperatures. However, water in the gas stream may freeze and affect fuel delivery. Natural gas suppliers use methods such as moisture removal to help prevent freezing. In regions that rarely experience severe winter weather, the infrastructure may not be designed to handle extreme conditions. This may affect natural gas production, delivery, or system performance.