What Kind Of Gas Do You Put In A Generator

The Great Generator Gas Debate: It's Not As Complicated As You Think!

Okay, folks, let's talk generators. Specifically, the stuff that makes them vroom. We all know what a generator does, right? Powers your stuff when the power company decides to take a vacation. But what fuels these mechanical saviors? It’s a question that sparks more debate than pineapple on pizza. (My unpopular opinion: pineapple belongs everywhere.)

The answer, officially, is usually gasoline. Plain ol' regular unleaded. Seems simple enough, right? But then the questions start swirling.

Should you use premium? Stabilizer? Should you be sacrificing a goat to the generator gods for optimal performance? (Please don't sacrifice goats. Just...don't.)

Honestly, I think people overthink this. It's like worrying about which brand of bottled water is best. They’re all… wet. And they all quench your thirst.

For most of us, the gas we use in our cars will work just fine in our generators. Now, before the self-proclaimed engine whisperers come for me, hear me out.

Let's consider the average person. They’re not running a generator 24/7. They’re pulling it out of storage maybe once or twice a year during a power outage. We're talking about keeping the fridge cold and maybe running the TV so you don't miss your favorite reality show. (Don't judge. We all have our vices.)

Is that scenario really worth the extra expense and hassle of hunting down the perfect fuel? I say nay! (That's right, I said nay. Deal with it.)

Of course, read your generator's manual. I'm not advocating for reckless abandon here. If it says "MUST USE 93 OCTANE WITH ADDED UNICORN TEARS," then, alright, maybe listen. But generally, regular unleaded is your friend.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: fuel stabilizer. This is where things get a little more nuanced. Gasoline doesn't exactly age gracefully. It can get gummy and gross, which can clog up your generator's innards. Think of it like that leftover container of chili in the back of your fridge. Eventually, you're gonna have to toss it.

So, if your generator is going to be sitting idle for a while (like, most of the year for most of us), a little fuel stabilizer is a good idea. It's cheap insurance against future headaches. Just pour it in, run the generator for a few minutes to circulate it, and call it a day.

But again, let's be real. I've definitely forgotten to add stabilizer more times than I care to admit. And guess what? The generator still started. (Please don't tell my generator. I don't want to hurt its feelings.)

Here's my unpopular opinion, get ready for it: Sometimes, a little neglect is okay. Generators are tougher than we give them credit for. They’re like that old, reliable friend who always shows up, even if you haven't called them in months.

And another thing. Propane generators? Fine if you have a readily available propane source and the generator is set up for it. But hauling around propane tanks feels a little… apocalyptic. I prefer the convenience of gasoline, even if it's not the absolute optimal choice.

So, the next time you’re staring at the gas pump, wondering if you need to splurge on premium for your generator, remember this: Keep it simple. Regular unleaded, a little stabilizer if you're feeling responsible, and a prayer to the power gods. That's all you really need.

And for the love of all that is holy, don't sacrifice any goats.

Because let’s face it, the real tragedy is missing the latest episode of The Real Housewives of Wherever due to a power outage.

Don’t @ me.

Disclaimer: I am not a certified generator expert. I'm just a person with a generator and an opinion. Always consult your generator's manual and a qualified professional for specific advice.