In upstate New York, where severe storms frequently knock out power, Home Power Systems helps homeowners in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse stay prepared with professionally installed standby generators. From ice storms and lake-effect snow to high winds and aging utility infrastructure, extended outages are a reality for many households.

But how much fuel do these systems actually use? And what factors affect generator fuel efficiency? If you rely on a home standby generator or are thinking of installing one, it’s important to understand both the type of gas your system uses and how fuel consumption may vary depending on your location and setup.

Types of Gas Used in Home Standby Generators

Home standby generators typically run on one of two fuel types: natural gas or propane. Each fuel source offers distinct advantages depending on location and availability.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is a continuous fuel supply delivered directly to your home via utility lines. It’s a reliable and low-maintenance option, particularly in urban and suburban areas like Buffalo and Syracuse, where natural gas infrastructure is widely available. With no need to store fuel on your property, natural gas systems are easy to maintain and keep running during long outages.

Propane

Also referred to as LP or liquid propane, this fuel is a good choice for homes in rural areas, such as parts of Syracuse and the Southern Tier, where natural gas lines may not be available. Propane is stored in a tank on-site, offering long-term stability and energy density. However, homeowners need to monitor propane levels and schedule refills, especially during extended outages.

How Much Gas Does a Generator Use?

The amount of gas a standby generator uses depends on factors like system size, electrical load, run time, and fuel type. On average, a typical 20-kilowatt standby generator running at half-load will use:

• About 2 to 3 gallons of propane per hour
• About 180 to 220 cubic feet of natural gas per hour

That means during a 24-hour outage, homeowners can expect to use approximately:

• 48 to 72 gallons of propane
• 4,300 to 5,300 cubic feet of natural gas

Of course, real-world usage will vary. The actual fuel demand is influenced by how many appliances you’re powering, how efficiently your home is insulated, and how often the generator runs at full capacity.

Estimating Costs for Upstate NY Homeowners

Fuel costs vary throughout New York. Here’s a general breakdown based on regional considerations.

Syracuse

• Many rural homes rely on propane due to limited gas lines
• Propane prices average $3 to $4 per gallon
• Estimated daily cost: $150 to $290 depending on usage and tank size

Rochester

• Widespread natural gas access keeps costs lower
• Natural gas averages around $1.50 per therm (100 cubic feet)
• Estimated daily cost: $65 to $90

Buffalo

• Dense urban areas with established gas infrastructure
• Competitive gas pricing and consistent availability
• Estimated daily cost: $60 to $85 depending on system size and weather conditions

Additional Tips for Managing Generator Costs

• Reduce energy load. Only power essential appliances during an outage.
• Smart home monitoring. Use tools like SPAN to track and control energy use in real-time.
• Schedule an assessment. Let professionals evaluate your system and recommend energy-saving options.

Generator Fuel Efficiency Factors

Several variables affect how efficiently your generator uses fuel. Understanding these factors can help you plan and operate your system more cost-effectively.

• Fuel type. Propane and natural gas burn differently. Propane has higher energy density but must be stored and managed.
• Generator size. Larger systems consume more fuel but may be needed for whole-home backup.
• Electrical load. Running only necessary appliances keeps consumption lower.
• Environment. Cold weather and elevation can influence burn rate and engine performance.
• Maintenance. Clean filters, regular oil changes, and system inspections help maintain peak efficiency.
• Generator age. Older models tend to be less efficient. Newer systems include improved fuel-saving technologies.

Why Choose Home Power Systems as Your Fuel-Efficiency Partner?

Home Power Systems provides only the best in class when it comes to standby generator systems. We offer a full line of Generac and Kohler generators, backed by our commitment to safe, efficient installations.

Our team has completed more than 6,000 expert installations across Western and Central New York. We also offer:

• 24/7 emergency generator repair
• Preventative maintenance programs
• Installation of SPAN smart panels for smarter energy control
• Long-term service and support from a locally trusted team

Whether you need help selecting the right generator or want to get the most from your existing system, our professionals are ready to help you make informed, energy-efficient decisions.

Understanding how much gas a home standby generator uses helps you plan for outages and manage your household energy wisely. Fuel consumption depends on your system size, fuel type, and usage patterns. It also varies by region across New York.

At Home Power Systems, we’re proud to serve Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse with trusted generator installation and maintenance. From helping you choose the right fuel source to improving efficiency with the latest smart technologies; we’re your standby power partner every step of the way.

Call or schedule a home power solutions assessment today.