It is more than a regulator. It is a *safety valve* that is held open by the slight vacuum being pulled by the carburetor while the engine is running. The pressure differential is why the diaphragm is so large. But you are absolutely correct, the device is needed - even for connection to a 20-pound propane tank!
Thank you for the explanation. I was wondering how a regulator would solve the problem. All a regulator would do is reduce the pressure. It would not stop the flow. So, how does this type of regulator control the flow of gas based on the load on the generator?
The vacuum of the engine will open the diaphragm as needed. The load control block up top will control the mixture which you need to pre adjust. Once set then good to go.
So my generator that is manufactured to be dual fuel isn't safe? And if it is can that same hose with attached regulator be also used on the natural gas line. I don't see the difference between a natural gas supply and a propane supply. My generator doesn't leak propane when it's not running. Thanks
If you want a propane or dual fuel generator, get that kind of generator. All generators have a governor to maintain frequency in response to load, the fuel supply should never be throttled to the engine.
That's the problem with this make-shift setup. The governor varies the throttle valve in the carburetor, but the fuel flow remains constant. If it throttles back, the engine runs extremely rich. If the engine is loaded, it opens, and can run too lean. The gas MUST be throttled proportionately to the air, to maintain proper fuel/air mixture. (Why you need the right regulator)
I have seen this all over recently with the power outages and lack of supplies for people to run their generators. This should be shared widely. I appreciate you sharing this video
I will definitely share and tell them. I used to be a fire brigadier at an oil refinery, specifically a gas plant with 300psi natural gas and 400 psi propane lines. A vapor cloud is bad news and can create a vapor explosion from a simple spark from an non intrinsically safe device.
I believe the proper conversion kit comes with a negative pressure regulator : Vacuum has to be present in intake manifold for gas to flow. And someone also mentioned an electric cut-off solenoid for fail-safe redundancy. It would be simple if you have a quick connect for your barbecue, but if your power has failed you might want to use your barbecue if your electric oven has no juice.
Holy smokes! Good thing you posted this. Most people have no idea what you're doing or how dangerous it is. You probably saved some lives..thanks for posting this video
Man - I didn't have the mental capacity to even realize I could use my propane generator with natural gas. Thanks for the video. I'll go ahead and binge watch the rest of your videos now. Appreciate it!
The internal regulator some are talking about here is not a regulator at all. It's a load block, and that's how you adjust the mixture difference between NG and propane, plus fine tuning for load variations and sometimes BTU availability of the fuel itself. (will vary by region) It's got a set screw and a lock nut... and once set you leave it alone. Regulators all have a diaphragm inside and most UL approved gaseous sets also have a gas solenoid as an extra safety feature. Matter of fact, I believe UL approval requires both the solenoid and a demand regulator. If you are not set up properly and have an issue your insurance company might have a field day!
You are correct, a load block it’s for adjusting and this century unit is a all in one. A shut off, a regulator that’s manually adjusted with the adjustment nut so you can run NG or LPG. Then from there it depends what you are trying to run will determine other things like line size and more.
VERY, VERY good advice! You are totally correct. On a positive note, all of these dual fuel Genmax gens are really neat. They seem to be very innovative and ahead of the market with their dual fuel, 120/240 on larger units, and other great features. They have totally filled a gap in the market that nobody else has. I’m wondering what else they have planned for future units.
They are definitely filling gaps for sure. And being a new company customer service takes a while to get going. But they do better then most off brands at the moment. If not Honda or Yamaha then champion then Genmax. And stay tuned for updates on new models..😀😉
I have as well but that goes for every manufacturer. Also owner has to be considered. So after a while I have to toss some reviews and see which are legit from several different resources of reviews. I hope they continue to bring different models and make sure quality goes up. Or they will dissolve slowly.
This would be highly illegal in the UK. Nobody is allowed to do any work on or make any modifications to a gas service unless they are trained and registered 'Gas-safe' engineers
Yeah well this is America we have some more freedom for a lot of reasons. Many people have their own tanks on their land and no one else owns or controls it.
@@vincentrobinette1507 also note that energy density is as follows: Diesel > gasoline > propane > methane (natural gas) Using natural gas in your dual fuel generator will work, if properly set up, but will de-rate the generator’s capacity even lower than propane.
@@vincentrobinette1507 Yes, and those aren't inexpensive in my experience. Plus the time spent ordering the jets from the manufacturer and installing them once they arrive. I planned ahead and have the jets for both fuels, glad i have them.
Unrelated story time: My friend is a fire Chief who told me once of a large fire that they put out in a shed. They found out afterwards that a huge (250-500lbs???) filled propane tank was in the shack and was just about to blow up when they started spraying it with warer point blank. The owner didn't tell them that tank was in there!They got lucky!
@@JackThelRipper lol bliung off gas during a fire through the "relief valve would have been bad followed by big boom! Look it up it's really neat stuff!
I was a firefighter for years, you'll know it if a propane tank is about to rupture. The safety blow off valve will look like a huge blow torch blowing a stream of fire 15 to 30 feet long. They don't blow up, they split from the internal gas pressure due to the heat.
@@American-Motors-Corporation not necessarily. Depends on how hot the fire got the tank. They don't blow up, they rupture from the liquid turning into a vapor inside the tank creating extreme pressure. The relief valve will handle most house fire temperatures without letting the tank rupture.
@@Bryan-Hensley lol right, fire in building all around the tank, then being ejected from tank via the "relief valve" is the gas, you at the very least have a huge blow torch. Yes ot most likely would explode!
A lot of people are doing this. And guess why it works... when the generator turns off, the entire house loses power. That's a better warning than any regulator will ever give you.
Thanks for the link to the gas detector. Just used the link and got mine for $17. Nice find. I've been working around propane lately for work so this is a nice, simple tool to have on board. Thanks again. And REALLY? People do this NG hack? Scary!
Dude great buy on the pen!! I thought $23 ish was the cheapest but who knows lol. And yes there are a couple TH-cam video showing how to do just that. And have even had people comment which I delete those.
When I first saw this I thought it was a good idea for a backup generator. The explanation is to the point and clear. Nice to have a 3-minute video to show exactly what people do, why not to do it, how it goes wrong, and how (comparatively) cheap it is to fix with a regulator. Very well done! About the only thing I might add (maybe a part 2 vid) show the right way with the regulator. I wouldn't have thought a regulator would prevent leaks, but I'm guessing it has some kind of auto shutoff somehow?
That regular is sometimes called a "demand regulator" and it outputs gas based on engine vacuum. So if the engine stops, it produces no vacuum, and the regulator stops the flow. 👍
Yes that is the correct way and making sure your feed from the gas is legal. I have installed a few kits not. Gas generators turning them to tri fuel units
Kudos to you for this video. I know these well-made videos take a LOT of time, you sacrificed your time and maybe saved a whole lot of lives for this, thank you!
My mind is literally blown right now In a current estimated week long power outage in Oklahoma. I was evening of having a gas line installed in my backyard but had no idea this was even a thing!! New sub here!!
You could potentially get a solenoid valve and a power supply plugged into the generator if you start it off another fuel such that when the power stops the gas is disconnected. I have done that in addition to connecting it properly.
Do not use propane on natural gas or vise versa. The proper orifices along with the proper regulator is a must. Both need to be utilized with the correct water column pressure designed for the appliance, whatever that appliance is. Go by manufacturer specs. Living for a new day.
Yep, one of the first things they tell you when becoming a plumber in Germany, they usually even tell it to those without a gas certificate, just in case.
My Cummins 12kw auto switching system has a leaky gas solenoid. Aside from a impressive backfire on startup it has never been a problem. It's on the list of things to fix.
I don't know anyone that does what you specify in this video. No NG or tri-fuel conversion kit companies recommend this either. But it's good you posted this for people who might.
It is a HUGE code violation for a customer to connect to the test port of the outlet tee. The customer connections must only be connected to the back side of that tee, such as replacing that bronze 90 by the wall with a tee.
Mine is already replaced with the original plug after making a couple videos that day. Mainly to show people this bad diy that is going around. I would have gone on the back side but I would have had to reconfigure the whole thing. Verses the 45 second switch.
@@greggpurviance7252 Thats how the power and water company work as well as the Telephone company. Its called a Dmarcation point. They bring their svc to a point and after that is the plumber or electrician problem
As a distribution side Natural gas worker the best way to test for natural gas leaks not only the monitor/sensit but some good old fashioned soapy water in a spray bottle will find any leak
Thanks! I would have installed a regulator anyway, to adjust and set flow for correct 3600 rpm and an accurate 120 VAC at 60 Hz precisely or very close, but now I know why it is necessary.
These are probably the same people that think they have it "all figured out" and use a generator to back-feed into an outlet to power a house. Using a double male cord.
Maybe a silly question, but if I have a generator with natural gas as an available fuel source out of box, is this sort of leakage something I need to be concerned about? Understand the need to check for leakage with connections, but should the generator regulator stop the flow of fuel in the event of an unplanned shutdown? Or would someone need to close the flow to the regulator to prevent escape of the gas at the generator side of the connection? Thank you!
If your gen is equipped already then no need to worry. The regulator will automatically stop flow. Even the after market kits the flow is stopped. But its still a good idea to shut off main source once you are done for long durations.
@@johnnysweekends Thanks bud! My big concern here was just rushing out to stop the outflow of gas if the thing died in the middle of the night or something. I very much appreciate the reply!
The only thing you need to do is put a conversion kit on it which has a different size jet. Nothing wrong with it at all, if you do it as above and ditch the ball valve as a regulator. Its obviously not "approved" but it works.
I don't mind a ball valve as a cut-off so the generator can be disconnected from the hose, but, it should be capped when not in use. It just takes a neighborhood kid to come and turn the valve on, releasing natural gas into the air. What ever you do, it needs to be tamper-resistant, when not in use.
Almost thought this was going be about people using this on the inlet feed ( bootleg). Been in a house once where someone did that to run their gas pipe to pipe no meter, only gas appliance still working after that was their Dearborn heater, pressure tore the other controls up. Pretty sure something like that would destroy one of those generators straight piped. Excellent video.
If not enough gas it couldn’t definitely be to lean and slowly burn the engine down. To much will cause a rich condition and probably shut it off then letting the gas continue to flow since people don’t want to pay for the correct set up
It still has lubricating properties just not nearly as much as gasoline. So you tend to run a higher mixture. But a NG engine tends to get less service life then LPG or regular gas
The other day while driving from our home in Minnesota to Illinois, my wife and I were discussing generators for the house. I had an idea to connect our small generator to natural gas and use a small transfer switch to move the furnace circuit to the generator. Electrically this is pretty easy for me (I do controls for a living). I had not thought through the gas circuit and how to keep it safe. Well a couple of days later, lo and behold, what comes up in my feed but this video. Google is always listening to everything we are saying. Now, about this video; A regulator will make the operation of the generator stable under variable load. But how will the regulator shut off the gas supply if the generator fails?
The regulator just puts out correct pressure but a regulator with stop pin and load adjustment does it all. When vacuum is stopped diaphragm closes and pin closes off from pipe pressure. When gen fires vacuum opens up or pulls open diaphragm and allows gas to flow and the load or demand regulator controls amount of flow per what the gen needs based on rpm. The correct components will let you switch any gas gen or even some dual fuel models which I will have a video out in a few days on that.
@@johnnysweekends I want to convert my 8000 watt Generac gas generator to propane. Do you know the best place to get a conversion kit? Would I need to go directly to Generac?
There are a couple places like US Carburetor is one you can see if they have a kit or check eBay with you generatorname. Several kits fit different models
Put in a 120v solenoid value. Manually hold it open to start the generator and when it is running it will work like a start stop circuit. Generator fails, solenoid closes.
I recently learned about natural gas generators (previously only knew about gasoline powered). I saw a video where a guy had his generator taped into his natural gas via the quick connect for his gas grill. I am not planning to DIY anything ... plan to hire professionals. But I like to understand the process I am getting into. Is what you are showing the same as a quick connect? Is the quick connect not the correct way to hook up a natural gas generator to the natural gas? I want to make sure I'm asking for the right things to be installed. Thank you!
You can plumb into the main line after the meter or the spigot that comes out for say a bbq. And yes a quick connect is just fine if you want or a valve that screws on and more. The professional you hire should have all the right stuff and depending on the gen you get you may have a quick connect hose with is nice for when you are done you disconnect and go
Please If you see people doing this have them stop. The life you save could be your own…👍🏼 A proper Kit can make this possible to run NG with your gas generator. This will include a regulator and proper demand/load regulator as well. Never Run a straight hose!! HAVE A QUESTION AND NEED A FAST RESPONSE…asqme.com/@johnnysweekends If you feel that I helped you maybe consider buying me a drink 👍🏼🙌🏼👊🏼😀 www.buymeacoffee.com/johnny5120J TOPTES GAS Detector Pen: www.amazon.com/dp/B0B62LBZPC?
That regulator you show in the video must be magic lol. most regulators I ever seen only regulate the flow , they do not stop the flow completely no matter what. So even with a regulator when the motor would stop the flow would still continue.
Yes a correct regulator like the one shown has a stop in it. Pressure closes it and vacuum from the engine opens it. Then the load block up top acts as a fuel screw.
@@matthewgibbs6886 before doing that could you please advise them that what they are doing will void their house insurance if they have any insurance at all.
Multiple selfish reasons not to be that guy: 1.For safety, gas company might cut your gas service temporarily if there's leaked gas around and they find out. 2. You pay money for the gas you leak out into the air, and it does nothing for you 3. it sucks to get hurt or killed by natural gas or the fire it could cause
Additionally, around here at least if the gas company sees you doing this, they WILL shut off your service and refuse to start it back up again until the entire thing is properly inspected. They will probably also fine you pretty heavily.
Already swapped back…👍🏼 only needed for two vids. My NG outlet is plumbed on the opposite side of the house. For a bbq or whatever. And a reconfiguration for something I don’t use is not worth it.
Question: A added regulator does not have an automatic shutoff if your generator cuts off. I hear that some have a shutoff solenoid. I’m assuming electric. My question is, if this is a hand cranked generator with no battery, what opens the cutoff solenoid initially to feed it gas to start?
The gen it self is used for demonstration of a bad idea going around. This unit comes with proper load regulator and pressure regulator. The kits you buy also have a proper shut off built into them. That’s why a proper kit is needed and not someone throwing in a straight hose into there air box.
Great info! As America's power grid becomes more unstable due to solar and wind, folks need to know that there are still options to run off of natural gas.
The power grid is not becoming unstable because solar and wind, get a clue, most outages are caused by down transmission lines and transformer failures.
What is the risk if it was leaking? It's outside. How would the gas reach a critical concentration? I've seen old gas lanterns that have been leaking for years with no issues in the middle of a busy nieguborhood.
No because you would be using the proper equipment that is supplied with the generator, not just a bare hose that goes in a air box and is sucked in by vacuum
@@johnnysweekends If the generator comes with the proper equipment, then cant you use the proper equipment with the natural gas hose.? I dont see the difference between the natural gas hose, and a propane can with a hose. I have a 7500 dual fuel generator, and I find this very interesting. Thanks
Hi Johnny, thanks for all the info. You bring good insight in your videos. I may be shopping for a dual fuel or propane portable generator. Our off grid camp has a Harbor Freight knockoff, Yamaha, and ALP. The knockoff and Yamaha have after market regulator conversions to propane. They have seen better days. The Yamaha dealer won't touch the conversion and only agree to set it back to gas. Currently, we setup a new ALP propane unit which is low wattage. What's your view of GENMAX and Champion dual fuel ? Looking at something under 3K watt. I'm also considering taking the ALP and buying another with parallel kit. I have plenty of Bluetti and LifePO so this addition is more contingency and for recharging. Thanks again.
I like the littler alps but just low output and at max they are running at max so I dont know how long they can sustain that. But super fuel efficient. The genmax is a good option or even the pulsar 4000 DF would be a good one to look at with its competitive price i linked it…check it out
Also propane and natural gas regulators regulate at different pressures. Installer must make sure the regulator is set to correct setting for either fuel. Orifice sizes are different for propane and natural gas.
It's called electric gas valve that cuts the gas flow when generator stops. It can be supplied by the generator outlet voltage circuit. A bypass can be applied just for starting with a spring valve for safety reasons.
My tri-fuel conversion from US Carburetor came with a big regulator like the one you show so I think I am good. To run it I end up with two regulators, one on the tank like a bbq would have, and then the big one which I assume is low pressure and regulates the fuel to match demand on the generator itself. If I were to hook it to my natural gas, I don't need the tank regulator obviously but would still have the big one on the generator. With this system I don't need to adjust the fuel to match the load it runs wide open and the regulator maintains the correct fuel/air ratio. The fuel also gets inserted into the throttle body, not the air box. There is an insert between the carburetor and the intake which provides the correct Venturi effect.
Correct you have done it right and have the correct kit. I have installed a couple kits now. Well 3. But yes no regulator as that kit acts as the regulator and demand or load regulator. And that kit was originally from US carb…👍🏼
I have the regulator off the propane tanks and then a separate regulator on the generator that regulates the flow in and shuts down the flow in the event the engine stops. That's what you need both of those
He is correct. My company makes these regulators for $6.37 a piece, but you can pick one up for only $89.99 Pretty cheap to be safe I say. Pick them up at any big box home building/repair store near you. Thanks for making this video as its very important that people be safe with this type of setup.
Also, it is illegal by code to tap the gas meter on that tee, city inspectors if around will have a cow tapping the plug tee. Great tip and appreciated the video for being safe!!
Mine is already switched back with the plug as it’s a 1 min swap. Now after the meter at the T you are supposed to tap in from the back side of the T, which would require a whole redo of that side. I was only making 3 quick videos and I was done. If I need to use NG I can swap back there for emergency or plug into my NG bbq line but that’s around the other wall. Remember there are homeless people dumping crap in the river and chemicals and more. Me being on one side of the T or the other in a emergency for power, well let’s say I’m sure some understanding could be had. But check your local codes for proper hook up 👍🏼
I like that detector. Am shopping out an inverter generator that is dual fuel.. gasoline/propane. The tri-fuel generators don't have the capacity I'd like. So, thanks for this video and the links.
A guy up the street from was doing this. One night sounded like a bomb going off. He lost his garage, 2 cars, a truck, and part of his roof. He was lucky.
Where are you getting your regulator at? I'm having trouble finding a Garrison or Century Natural gas demand regulator.
ปีที่แล้ว +1
Thing is that generators with a factory fitting for pressurized gaseous fuels should have the regulator built-in and take the whole 4-6bar lpg vapour. Any other improvisation is dangerous but it could save lives equally to taking them.
I am looking at a whole home generator solution. I have received several quotes and they vary from $1K to $8K for the same install. My question is, several have said they will 'tap' into my currently gas line that is capped off under my house at the clothes dryer while others have said it will need to be a dedicated line from the meter. Can either be done? Thank you for your channel and your videos, just ran across this today and have already watched several of your videos... Thanks a ton! Kent
Propane and natural gas. Each fuel requires a different size orifice to work correctly for the carburetor. Same goes for duel fuel heaters and hot water heaters, stoves as well.
The idea was there a long time ago. But you still have to consider the gas pressure. A minor mistake is dangerous with a gas leak. One more thing. The gas is dry. Lubrication must be ensured in the engine during the combustion process. Otherwise, from the dry gas engine, the compression rings in the block will quickly be damaged and the rolling part bearings will be deformed at a higher temperature. Gasoline or Diesel is a bit more gentle on engines than solvent gases.
What are you talking about? That's only true in a 2 stroke gas engine. All lube is internal on 4 strokes. about half of the forklifts of the world run on LP and there isn't any added lube in those. If anything an LP engine should last longer since there is no risk of cylinder wash from the fuel.
A ball valve regulator. What could go wrong, lol. Remember it's only an explosive fuel that will only lift houses of their basements. Tip = Soapy water dribbled over connections will determine leaks by visible bubbles, for leak check.
I've converted dozens gas logs, fireplace and bbqs between the 2 fuels. There always was an orfice change and an air shutter adjustment. Also a pilot orfice if one exists. If they run lp on ng the btus where higher because of the greater pressure and there would be excessive sooting becuase the air shutter isnt fully opened. Ive never seen but would imagine running ng on an lp appliance would be less power and a lean mixture which might make it run hotter. Check your spark plug after a good run might tell you something. Good luck.
I've never used a dual fuel portable generator. Are you telling me that they don't have any kind of shut off built in to stop the fuel flow when the generator shuts off? Or is the pressure too high without a regulator and it is able to overcome the safety valve? I've installed several whole home generacs and they have proper shutoffs built in and have gas pressure on them 24/7
@JOHNNY'S WEEKENDS no way you could get the air/fuel ratio right with the load change either. It will eventually result in damage to the generator itself or connected devices from the surges
You can get a dual fuel carburetor for these dirt cheap so if you plan on doing it a lot it doesn't worth the hassle and not the danger, as the engine will work as it should. This works just fine if you are in a real emergency and have it outdoors but you can't regulate the fuel in real time so varrying the load can lead to release unburnt gas and if it backfires it can cause an explosion, the problem is that when you do this it needs supervising and people are turning on things and like to forget about them, just like if a plain and safe propane heater is left out of sight if for whatever reason it loses the flame and has propane filling the room it can lead to an explosion.
Interesting, never seen anything like this before. Never really considered running a generator off of natural gas because I live in Southern California and the event that's most likely to lead to an extended power outage is an earthquake, which will of course also interrupt the natural gas supply. In our last major earthquake (1994 "Northridge" earthquake) we lost both power and gas but we got our power back a full day before the gas was working again.
It’s a bad idea people are doing from another video. But yes using NG for generators is just another source of fuel. Sure here in CA we have several disasters, fires, earthquakes and sure even floods and a tornado that’s small once in a while. It’s just another piece that’s available. 1994 was crazy, same with the Bay Area quake in 1989. We are due…..🫣
When the plumber installed my gas line for generator. He said it's overkill but the city does require it. So I said explain the it's purpose than I was like wow . Installed NOW. Your video just explain why and people should listen.
Gas fitter here, the natural gas leak while very unsafe probably isn’t your biggest safety concern but running a propane generator on natural gas is likeley to cause the generator to malfunction and possibly catch fire, NG is 1000BTU/sqft and propane is 2500btu, so the generator is likeley in a run lean condition. If you changed the pressure and orafice in the propane generator to accommodate the natural gas and hooked it up with a bbq box and approved line it should be the same as the propane tank but thats going to cost you more than just running it off a big propane tank.
The load regulator serves that purpose for adjusting the flow. When properly adjusted it should run as normal. You always set rich then lean off a little till it runs correct.
Hello. I’ve never been sure what all a “regulator” does. At prior place, had propane furnace, heater in garage and a fireplace, basically there were regulators everywhere. I surmise those regulated the gas pressure to a rather constant level as time and gas level in tank and temperatures vary. So, if one is installed on a generator and generator stops, the regulator ALSO automatically shuts off gas flow ?? If you wish to give tutorial on regulators, I’d certainly enjoy learning more on that topic. Will budget in a DC inverter sometime before much longer, just for the necessary few things as emergency backup. Maybe I’ll just stick with propane and try to find bigger than 15 lb tanks. 20 maybe is around somewhere. We are not RV-ers to know more on propane tank sizes, refilling, etc. I do know where to just swap out the gas grill sized tanks, as is common. Realistically right here, the amount of time power is off is very little, swapping out 15 lb sized tanks for a day or two while off isn’t a terribly big hassle. 8+ hours power off is pretty rare. Just several 15 lb tanks should handle 99% of the time needed. But car gas, nope, no more, did that 20 years country life. Hassle. It’s kind of fun hearing a generator hum away when needed, tho, and enjoy the few things on truly necessary. I also will prioritize an enclosed unit for quiet as it runs in backyard. Not only for the one neighbor, but no sense advertising further away for a potential thief to get an idea of easy pickings.
Hello I have a question. Hooking up NG to generator, I'm in a process of running the pipe outside. Should I end it with a ball valve or gate valve, or it doesn't really matter
That tee you are tying into is not there for a consumer hookup. It is there so the utility company can change the meter without the customer being home. A new tee needs to be installed downstream, or ask utility company to install one for you.
I have never seen or heard of anyone doing this, worst yet you probably gave people some ideas lol Still enjoy your videos!
Maybe but hopefully not. You can’t stop stupid. But there are videos showing how to do this thinking it’s a good idea.
Overeducated idiots are everywhere unfortunately.
They are among us…😂
@@johnnysweekends so much more so than 10 years ago
You’re welcome 👍🏼😀
It is more than a regulator.
It is a *safety valve* that is held open by the slight vacuum being pulled by the carburetor while the engine is running.
The pressure differential is why the diaphragm is so large.
But you are absolutely correct, the device is needed - even for connection to a 20-pound propane tank!
Yup by the correct stuff. 👍🏼
Thank you for the explanation. I was wondering how a regulator would solve the problem. All a regulator would do is reduce the pressure. It would not stop the flow. So, how does this type of regulator control the flow of gas based on the load on the generator?
The vacuum of the engine will open the diaphragm as needed. The load control block up top will control the mixture which you need to pre adjust. Once set then good to go.
So my generator that is manufactured to be dual fuel isn't safe? And if it is can that same hose with attached regulator be also used on the natural gas line. I don't see the difference between a natural gas supply and a propane supply. My generator doesn't leak propane when it's not running.
Thanks
Your unit is fine and has a shut off built with in the unit.
I have a video coming out soon showing what is and isn’t compatible for Ng
If you want a propane or dual fuel generator, get that kind of generator. All generators have a governor to maintain frequency in response to load, the fuel supply should never be throttled to the engine.
That's the problem with this make-shift setup. The governor varies the throttle valve in the carburetor, but the fuel flow remains constant. If it throttles back, the engine runs extremely rich. If the engine is loaded, it opens, and can run too lean. The gas MUST be throttled proportionately to the air, to maintain proper fuel/air mixture. (Why you need the right regulator)
I have seen this all over recently with the power outages and lack of supplies for people to run their generators. This should be shared widely. I appreciate you sharing this video
Thank you. Tell people to buy a appropriate setup. I’ll have a video out soon showing what could work with a existing dual fuel unit. Probably sunday
I will definitely share and tell them. I used to be a fire brigadier at an oil refinery, specifically a gas plant with 300psi natural gas and 400 psi propane lines. A vapor cloud is bad news and can create a vapor explosion from a simple spark from an non intrinsically safe device.
I believe the proper conversion kit comes with a negative pressure regulator : Vacuum has to be present in intake manifold for gas to flow. And someone also mentioned an electric cut-off solenoid for fail-safe redundancy. It would be simple if you have a quick connect for your barbecue, but if your power has failed you might want to use your barbecue if your electric oven has no juice.
@@dunckeroo1987 a propane conversation kit is simply just a change of the orifice size
Holy smokes! Good thing you posted this. Most people have no idea what you're doing or how dangerous it is. You probably saved some lives..thanks for posting this video
Man - I didn't have the mental capacity to even realize I could use my propane generator with natural gas. Thanks for the video. I'll go ahead and binge watch the rest of your videos now. Appreciate it!
Lol no problem. Let me know if you have questions 😁👍🏼
Same here😂
You can't ..... at least it wont run properly. Natural Gas burns different than propane. This is why they make TRI-FUEL generators.
The internal regulator some are talking about here is not a regulator at all. It's a load block, and that's how you adjust the mixture difference between NG and propane, plus fine tuning for load variations and sometimes BTU availability of the fuel itself. (will vary by region) It's got a set screw and a lock nut... and once set you leave it alone. Regulators all have a diaphragm inside and most UL approved gaseous sets also have a gas solenoid as an extra safety feature. Matter of fact, I believe UL approval requires both the solenoid and a demand regulator. If you are not set up properly and have an issue your insurance company might have a field day!
You are correct, a load block it’s for adjusting and this century unit is a all in one. A shut off, a regulator that’s manually adjusted with the adjustment nut so you can run NG or LPG.
Then from there it depends what you are trying to run will determine other things like line size and more.
VERY, VERY good advice! You are totally correct. On a positive note, all of these dual fuel Genmax gens are really neat. They seem to be very innovative and ahead of the market with their dual fuel, 120/240 on larger units, and other great features. They have totally filled a gap in the market that nobody else has. I’m wondering what else they have planned for future units.
I've read some bad reviews regarding the construction quality of Genmax gens. I hope they're wrong because this particular model is very interesting!
They are definitely filling gaps for sure. And being a new company customer service takes a while to get going.
But they do better then most off brands at the moment. If not Honda or Yamaha then champion then Genmax.
And stay tuned for updates on new models..😀😉
I have as well but that goes for every manufacturer. Also owner has to be considered. So after a while I have to toss some reviews and see which are legit from several different resources of reviews.
I hope they continue to bring different models and make sure quality goes up.
Or they will dissolve slowly.
Exactly, just do it right. 👍🏼
Genmax is just a brand, they don't make them.
This would be highly illegal in the UK. Nobody is allowed to do any work on or make any modifications to a gas service unless they are trained and registered 'Gas-safe' engineers
Yea all countries are different.
Yeah well this is America we have some more freedom for a lot of reasons. Many people have their own tanks on their land and no one else owns or controls it.
@@daveonezero6258 But I'm sure it's taxed one way or another
lol
You still wanna use the proper equipment though…👍🏼
Its a good video, other than making it sound like propane and natural gas are interchangeable.
They are, with the right metering jets for the fuel you're using.
@@vincentrobinette1507 also note that energy density is as follows:
Diesel > gasoline > propane > methane (natural gas)
Using natural gas in your dual fuel generator will work, if properly set up, but will de-rate the generator’s capacity even lower than propane.
But it’s so much more readily available that it makes sense to use.
@@vincentrobinette1507 Yes, and those aren't inexpensive in my experience. Plus the time spent ordering the jets from the manufacturer and installing them once they arrive. I planned ahead and have the jets for both fuels, glad i have them.
Unrelated story time: My friend is a fire Chief who told me once of a large fire that they put out in a shed. They found out afterwards that a huge (250-500lbs???) filled propane tank was in the shack and was just about to blow up when they started spraying it with warer point blank. The owner didn't tell them that tank was in there!They got lucky!
Those tanks won’t normally blow, they will BLEVE from a valve, look it up neat stuff…
@@JackThelRipper lol bliung off gas during a fire through the "relief valve would have been bad followed by big boom!
Look it up it's really neat stuff!
I was a firefighter for years, you'll know it if a propane tank is about to rupture. The safety blow off valve will look like a huge blow torch blowing a stream of fire 15 to 30 feet long. They don't blow up, they split from the internal gas pressure due to the heat.
@@American-Motors-Corporation not necessarily. Depends on how hot the fire got the tank. They don't blow up, they rupture from the liquid turning into a vapor inside the tank creating extreme pressure. The relief valve will handle most house fire temperatures without letting the tank rupture.
@@Bryan-Hensley lol right, fire in building all around the tank, then being ejected from tank via the "relief valve" is the gas, you at the very least have a huge blow torch.
Yes ot most likely would explode!
Great video. I never knew anyone was doing this and NOT using a regulator. Wow! Thanks for sharing.
Yup, you can find the those videos on this same platform. 🤦🏼♂️
A lot of people are doing this. And guess why it works... when the generator turns off, the entire house loses power. That's a better warning than any regulator will ever give you.
Thanks for the link to the gas detector. Just used the link and got mine for $17. Nice find. I've been working around propane lately for work so this is a nice, simple tool to have on board. Thanks again. And REALLY? People do this NG hack? Scary!
Dude great buy on the pen!! I thought $23 ish was the cheapest but who knows lol.
And yes there are a couple TH-cam video showing how to do just that. And have even had people comment which I delete those.
If you cant smell propane or NG you have a bigger problem ....
When I first saw this I thought it was a good idea for a backup generator. The explanation is to the point and clear. Nice to have a 3-minute video to show exactly what people do, why not to do it, how it goes wrong, and how (comparatively) cheap it is to fix with a regulator. Very well done! About the only thing I might add (maybe a part 2 vid) show the right way with the regulator. I wouldn't have thought a regulator would prevent leaks, but I'm guessing it has some kind of auto shutoff somehow?
I should probably do another… showing what’s needed
That regular is sometimes called a "demand regulator" and it outputs gas based on engine vacuum. So if the engine stops, it produces no vacuum, and the regulator stops the flow. 👍
Correct..!👍🏼😀
Wow ! I know some people are clueless, but this is crazy on another level. 😮
It is, yet people still do it. Stupid!
@@johnnysweekends mhm. There should ever be a valve even on the output of the meter...
You need a proportional demand regulator. The ones used for propane powered forklifts are nice and come with several safety features too.
Yesss!! Correct, verses other videos showing a straight hose! 🙄
I prefer to put my quick connection before the meter.
Yess! 😂
Thank you for teaching people how to fix it correctly and not blow my home up with my nabors. God bless
Thats not going to happen.
This is brilliant! Usually gas works during outages since it’s underground the pipes. Never knew such a generator existed.
This is what not to do..!!! Please don’t!
@@johnnysweekends I mean I didn't know Natural Gas generators exist. Do it properly with that $100 regulator piece and it is a good idea right?
Yes that is the correct way and making sure your feed from the gas is legal.
I have installed a few kits not. Gas generators turning them to tri fuel units
Kudos to you for this video. I know these well-made videos take a LOT of time, you sacrificed your time and maybe saved a whole lot of lives for this, thank you!
Thank you, it’s just to make people aware of a couple bad videos 😀👍🏼
Thanks for the great idea! I’m gonna be the guy who does the $3 dollar install with used fittings out of the miscellaneous fittings bucket in my shop
Lol gezzz I hope not. You would be as bad as the video I found this from lol
This is a great idea. Hooking up my generator now. Forget gasoline and diesel.
My mind is literally blown right now
In a current estimated week long power outage in Oklahoma. I was evening of having a gas line installed in my backyard but had no idea this was even a thing!!
New sub here!!
Oh yea, even worse a TH-camr promoting it. Just stick a open line in your generator and hope for the best 🙄
You could potentially get a solenoid valve and a power supply plugged into the generator if you start it off another fuel such that when the power stops the gas is disconnected. I have done that in addition to connecting it properly.
Do not use propane on natural gas or vise versa. The proper orifices along with the proper regulator is a must. Both need to be utilized with the correct water column pressure designed for the appliance, whatever that appliance is. Go by manufacturer specs. Living for a new day.
Yep, one of the first things they tell you when becoming a plumber in Germany, they usually even tell it to those without a gas certificate, just in case.
Thank you, first video I actually watched that is undoing this internet hack that is dangerous.
You’re welcome and yes the other couple vid’s should be taken down.
👍🏼
And while you’re at it, please do not backfeed your dryer outlet from your generator 😊
Yes, please stop that as well. 🤔😁👍🏼
thank you so much ive been doing that for years and never new it was doing that ur truly a hero
You could add a 12v valve so when gen shuts off the valve shuts too....
My Cummins 12kw auto switching system has a leaky gas solenoid. Aside from a impressive backfire on startup it has never been a problem. It's on the list of things to fix.
I don't know anyone that does what you specify in this video. No NG or tri-fuel conversion kit companies recommend this either. But it's good you posted this for people who might.
Well there are a couple TH-cam videos going around showing people exactly this. Hence why I made the video…! Very dangerous
Don't be that guy! Great info.
It is a HUGE code violation for a customer to connect to the test port of the outlet tee. The customer connections must only be connected to the back side of that tee, such as replacing that bronze 90 by the wall with a tee.
Mine is already replaced with the original plug after making a couple videos that day. Mainly to show people this bad diy that is going around.
I would have gone on the back side but I would have had to reconfigure the whole thing. Verses the 45 second switch.
If you did this in my state, your service would be "red-tagged" and the gas would be shut off.
My parents had the gas company put in a connector specifically for the generator.
@@ACommenterOnTH-cam they have a nice gas company. In Texas, anything past the meter is a plumber's responsibility
@@greggpurviance7252 Thats how the power and water company work as well as the Telephone company.
Its called a Dmarcation point.
They bring their svc to a point and after that is the plumber or electrician problem
As a distribution side Natural gas worker the best way to test for natural gas leaks not only the monitor/sensit but some good old fashioned soapy water in a spray bottle will find any leak
I always have a bottle hangin on the ready. Haven’t used it lately with the new pen. It’s cool!
Very important safety information Johnny, Thank You!🙂
Thanks! I would have installed a regulator anyway, to adjust and set flow for correct 3600 rpm and an accurate 120 VAC at 60 Hz precisely or very close, but now I know why it is necessary.
These are probably the same people that think they have it "all figured out" and use a generator to back-feed into an outlet to power a house. Using a double male cord.
Lol yup suicide cords are dangerous.
Maybe a silly question, but if I have a generator with natural gas as an available fuel source out of box, is this sort of leakage something I need to be concerned about?
Understand the need to check for leakage with connections, but should the generator regulator stop the flow of fuel in the event of an unplanned shutdown? Or would someone need to close the flow to the regulator to prevent escape of the gas at the generator side of the connection? Thank you!
If your gen is equipped already then no need to worry. The regulator will automatically stop flow. Even the after market kits the flow is stopped. But its still a good idea to shut off main source once you are done for long durations.
@@johnnysweekends Thanks bud! My big concern here was just rushing out to stop the outflow of gas if the thing died in the middle of the night or something. I very much appreciate the reply!
No problem. 👍🏼 It’s just the DIY guys who are taking a open tube and shoving it the air box is just promoting such a bad and dangerous idea.
Good video. I have always wonder that too that if the generator stalls then ghe gass just keeps flowing. Some people lack common sense.
Yup that’s why you need regulators.
The only thing you need to do is put a conversion kit on it which has a different size jet.
Nothing wrong with it at all, if you do it as above and ditch the ball valve as a regulator.
Its obviously not "approved" but it works.
I don't mind a ball valve as a cut-off so the generator can be disconnected from the hose, but, it should be capped when not in use. It just takes a neighborhood kid to come and turn the valve on, releasing natural gas into the air. What ever you do, it needs to be tamper-resistant, when not in use.
Thanks for the tutorial! Im absolutely not doing this next power outage!
Almost thought this was going be about people using this on the inlet feed ( bootleg). Been in a house once where someone did that to run their gas pipe to pipe no meter, only gas appliance still working after that was their Dearborn heater, pressure tore the other controls up. Pretty sure something like that would destroy one of those generators straight piped.
Excellent video.
If not enough gas it couldn’t definitely be to lean and slowly burn the engine down. To much will cause a rich condition and probably shut it off then letting the gas continue to flow since people don’t want to pay for the correct set up
Doesn’t it also destroy your engine by creating a lean mixture condition causing excessive heat?
It still has lubricating properties just not nearly as much as gasoline. So you tend to run a higher mixture. But a NG engine tends to get less service life then LPG or regular gas
The other day while driving from our home in Minnesota to Illinois, my wife and I were discussing generators for the house. I had an idea to connect our small generator to natural gas and use a small transfer switch to move the furnace circuit to the generator. Electrically this is pretty easy for me (I do controls for a living). I had not thought through the gas circuit and how to keep it safe. Well a couple of days later, lo and behold, what comes up in my feed but this video. Google is always listening to everything we are saying.
Now, about this video; A regulator will make the operation of the generator stable under variable load. But how will the regulator shut off the gas supply if the generator fails?
The regulator just puts out correct pressure but a regulator with stop pin and load adjustment does it all.
When vacuum is stopped diaphragm closes and pin closes off from pipe pressure. When gen fires vacuum opens up or pulls open diaphragm and allows gas to flow and the load or demand regulator controls amount of flow per what the gen needs based on rpm.
The correct components will let you switch any gas gen or even some dual fuel models which I will have a video out in a few days on that.
@@johnnysweekends
I want to convert my 8000 watt Generac gas generator to propane. Do you know the best place to get a conversion kit? Would I need to go directly to Generac?
@@Well_I_am_just_saying Motor Snorkel makes a generic kit for most generators
There are a couple places like US Carburetor is one you can see if they have a kit or check eBay with you generatorname. Several kits fit different models
Put in a 120v solenoid value. Manually hold it open to start the generator and when it is running it will work like a start stop circuit. Generator fails, solenoid closes.
Thank you! I don't have this type of genny, however I am sure this advice shall be useful later on.
“Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.” - George Carlin
I recently learned about natural gas generators (previously only knew about gasoline powered). I saw a video where a guy had his generator taped into his natural gas via the quick connect for his gas grill. I am not planning to DIY anything ... plan to hire professionals. But I like to understand the process I am getting into. Is what you are showing the same as a quick connect? Is the quick connect not the correct way to hook up a natural gas generator to the natural gas? I want to make sure I'm asking for the right things to be installed. Thank you!
You can plumb into the main line after the meter or the spigot that comes out for say a bbq. And yes a quick connect is just fine if you want or a valve that screws on and more. The professional you hire should have all the right stuff and depending on the gen you get you may have a quick connect hose with is nice for when you are done you disconnect and go
@@johnnysweekends Thank you!!
Please If you see people doing this have them stop. The life you save could be your own…👍🏼
A proper Kit can make this possible to run NG with your gas generator. This will include a regulator and proper demand/load regulator as well. Never Run a straight hose!!
HAVE A QUESTION AND NEED A FAST RESPONSE…asqme.com/@johnnysweekends
If you feel that I helped you maybe consider buying me a drink 👍🏼🙌🏼👊🏼😀
www.buymeacoffee.com/johnny5120J
TOPTES GAS Detector Pen: www.amazon.com/dp/B0B62LBZPC?
That regulator you show in the video must be magic lol. most regulators I ever seen only regulate the flow , they do not stop the flow completely no matter what. So even with a regulator when the motor would stop the flow would still continue.
Yes a correct regulator like the one shown has a stop in it. Pressure closes it and vacuum from the engine opens it.
Then the load block up top acts as a fuel screw.
@@johnnysweekends 👍🤟👌
if i see someone doing this im going to back away and go get marshmallows
@@matthewgibbs6886 before doing that could you please advise them that what they are doing will void their house insurance if they have any insurance at all.
So your generator doesn't have a pressure regulator? Was it made to work on NG?
Multiple selfish reasons not to be that guy:
1.For safety, gas company might cut your gas service temporarily if there's leaked gas around and they find out.
2. You pay money for the gas you leak out into the air, and it does nothing for you
3. it sucks to get hurt or killed by natural gas or the fire it could cause
Additionally, around here at least if the gas company sees you doing this, they WILL shut off your service and refuse to start it back up again until the entire thing is properly inspected. They will probably also fine you pretty heavily.
All depends on your municiple facilities policy. Hence have it inspected.
@@johnnysweekends Pulling out PG&E's plug from the test port and hooking up an illegal ball valve will get you shut off for sure.
Already swapped back…👍🏼 only needed for two vids.
My NG outlet is plumbed on the opposite side of the house. For a bbq or whatever. And a reconfiguration for something I don’t use is not worth it.
Question: A added regulator does not have an automatic shutoff if your generator cuts off. I hear that some have a shutoff solenoid. I’m assuming electric. My question is, if this is a hand cranked generator with no battery, what opens the cutoff solenoid initially to feed it gas to start?
The gen it self is used for demonstration of a bad idea going around. This unit comes with proper load regulator and pressure regulator. The kits you buy also have a proper shut off built into them. That’s why a proper kit is needed and not someone throwing in a straight hose into there air box.
This is why I plumbed mine in before the meter. Free gas!
😂👍🏼
Disregard the garden hose hooked to my neighbors meter 👍. I double clamped both ends.
@@dmax1234 🤣
😂
Great info! As America's power grid becomes more unstable due to solar and wind, folks need to know that there are still options to run off of natural gas.
The power grid is not becoming unstable because solar and wind, get a clue, most outages are caused by down transmission lines and transformer failures.
What is the risk if it was leaking? It's outside. How would the gas reach a critical concentration? I've seen old gas lanterns that have been leaking for years with no issues in the middle of a busy nieguborhood.
Thanks well presented and safety is most important
Whats different if it is hooked up to a propane tank? Wouldnt propane continue to flow?
No because you would be using the proper equipment that is supplied with the generator, not just a bare hose that goes in a air box and is sucked in by vacuum
@@johnnysweekends If the generator comes with the proper equipment, then cant you use the proper equipment with the natural gas hose.? I dont see the difference between the natural gas hose, and a propane can with a hose. I have a 7500 dual fuel generator, and I find this very interesting. Thanks
See if this answers anything
ADD Natural Gas to Dual Fuel Generator…
th-cam.com/video/9GMMBxrkGeo/w-d-xo.html
Hi Johnny, thanks for all the info. You bring good insight in your videos. I may be shopping for a dual fuel or propane portable generator. Our off grid camp has a Harbor Freight knockoff, Yamaha, and ALP. The knockoff and Yamaha have after market regulator conversions to propane. They have seen better days. The Yamaha dealer won't touch the conversion and only agree to set it back to gas. Currently, we setup a new ALP propane unit which is low wattage. What's your view of GENMAX and Champion dual fuel ? Looking at something under 3K watt. I'm also considering taking the ALP and buying another with parallel kit. I have plenty of Bluetti and LifePO so this addition is more contingency and for recharging. Thanks again.
Check out this one www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHXLT5D9/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_dl_94ZN26EWN2M9J1KQ2JPB?linkCode=ml2&tag=johnny5dahlbe-20
I like the littler alps but just low output and at max they are running at max so I dont know how long they can sustain that. But super fuel efficient. The genmax is a good option or even the pulsar 4000 DF would be a good one to look at with its competitive price i linked it…check it out
What a great suggestion from TH-cam's algorithm. Hopefully it promotes it two more people
Awesome glad you liked 😁👍🏼
Never seen anybody hooking up like that either. Nice gas test pin have one order. Thank you.
Yea I didn’t either till I saw a couple videos
Hello! May I ask where did you bought the generator? Or what is the name of it. Thanks!
It’s a Genmax generator here ya go amzn.to/3ZirfYa
That's why you buy the propane version and change out the orifice for natural gas and keep all the safety features
YIKES !
Also propane and natural gas regulators regulate at different pressures. Installer must make sure the regulator is set to correct setting for either fuel. Orifice sizes are different for propane and natural gas.
Nice tip on that Gas Pen... I've never seen one of those before, but it's in my Amazon cart now!
Thank you, It’s goes everywhere in the Rv! 😀👍🏼
It's called electric gas valve that cuts the gas flow when generator stops. It can be supplied by the generator outlet voltage circuit. A bypass can be applied just for starting with a spring valve for safety reasons.
They also have a positive stop type. Positive pressure closed it. And vacuum opens it. That’s the kit you see in the video. Easy
My tri-fuel conversion from US Carburetor came with a big regulator like the one you show so I think I am good. To run it I end up with two regulators, one on the tank like a bbq would have, and then the big one which I assume is low pressure and regulates the fuel to match demand on the generator itself. If I were to hook it to my natural gas, I don't need the tank regulator obviously but would still have the big one on the generator. With this system I don't need to adjust the fuel to match the load it runs wide open and the regulator maintains the correct fuel/air ratio. The fuel also gets inserted into the throttle body, not the air box. There is an insert between the carburetor and the intake which provides the correct Venturi effect.
Correct you have done it right and have the correct kit. I have installed a couple kits now. Well 3. But yes no regulator as that kit acts as the regulator and demand or load regulator. And that kit was originally from US carb…👍🏼
You need a regulator if incoming pressure is high pressure(2 psi) if not and at low pressure (.5ish psi) if the genny can be used on ng.
I have the regulator off the propane tanks and then a separate regulator on the generator that regulates the flow in and shuts down the flow in the event the engine stops.
That's what you need both of those
He is correct. My company makes these regulators for $6.37 a piece, but you can pick one up for only $89.99
Pretty cheap to be safe I say. Pick them up at any big box home building/repair store near you.
Thanks for making this video as its very important that people be safe with this type of setup.
Also, it is illegal by code to tap the gas meter on that tee, city inspectors if around will have a cow tapping the plug tee. Great tip and appreciated the video for being safe!!
Mine is already switched back with the plug as it’s a 1 min swap. Now after the meter at the T you are supposed to tap in from the back side of the T, which would require a whole redo of that side. I was only making 3 quick videos and I was done. If I need to use NG I can swap back there for emergency or plug into my NG bbq line but that’s around the other wall.
Remember there are homeless people dumping crap in the river and chemicals and more. Me being on one side of the T or the other in a emergency for power, well let’s say I’m sure some understanding could be had. But check your local codes for proper hook up 👍🏼
I like that detector. Am shopping out an inverter generator that is dual fuel.. gasoline/propane. The tri-fuel generators don't have the capacity I'd like. So, thanks for this video and the links.
I’ll be doing a video on this soon. It has gotten very popular and is consistently getting 4.3-4.6 stars..amzn.to/48DmOwx
A guy up the street from was doing this. One night sounded like a bomb going off. He lost his garage, 2 cars, a truck, and part of his roof. He was lucky.
And that’s why I’m here lol.
Do it right people!! 😂👍🏼
I really like the duel fuel generators. Gives you options. Options is what you need when things go to hell
Exactly, dual fuel always and if ya can tri fuel as well. But once dual fuel the conversion over is easy if you know what you are doing 👍🏼
Good safety video regardless of how it was set up. It gets folks to think before they do. Good job.
😀👍🏼
Where are you getting your regulator at? I'm having trouble finding a Garrison or Century Natural gas demand regulator.
Thing is that generators with a factory fitting for pressurized gaseous fuels should have the regulator built-in and take the whole 4-6bar lpg vapour.
Any other improvisation is dangerous but it could save lives equally to taking them.
Some have them built in and some have them on the external hose
Boy howdy! I love propane and propane accessories! 🤠👍. Good heads up!
Propane Bobby…😂
I am looking at a whole home generator solution. I have received several quotes and they vary from $1K to $8K for the same install. My question is, several have said they will 'tap' into my currently gas line that is capped off under my house at the clothes dryer while others have said it will need to be a dedicated line from the meter. Can either be done? Thank you for your channel and your videos, just ran across this today and have already watched several of your videos... Thanks a ton! Kent
I would check with local gas company. Seems it varies. That would be the best way to get a direct answer
Hope everyone watches this. People do stupid things and hurt themselves and others. Good video.
Propane and natural gas. Each fuel requires a different size orifice to work correctly for the carburetor. Same goes for duel fuel heaters and hot water heaters, stoves as well.
There are replacement carburetors with the regulator for most gas engines
The idea was there a long time ago. But you still have to consider the gas pressure. A minor mistake is dangerous with a gas leak. One more thing. The gas is dry. Lubrication must be ensured in the engine during the combustion process. Otherwise, from the dry gas engine, the compression rings in the block will quickly be damaged and the rolling part bearings will be deformed at a higher temperature. Gasoline or Diesel is a bit more gentle on engines than solvent gases.
What are you talking about? That's only true in a 2 stroke gas engine. All lube is internal on 4 strokes. about half of the forklifts of the world run on LP and there isn't any added lube in those. If anything an LP engine should last longer since there is no risk of cylinder wash from the fuel.
A ball valve regulator. What could go wrong, lol. Remember it's only an explosive fuel that will only lift houses of their basements. Tip = Soapy water dribbled over connections will determine leaks by visible bubbles, for leak check.
Who would you get the properly hook this type of thing up safely. Not sure who does this type of work.
I've converted dozens gas logs, fireplace and bbqs between the 2 fuels. There always was an orfice change and an air shutter adjustment. Also a pilot orfice if one exists. If they run lp on ng the btus where higher because of the greater pressure and there would be excessive sooting becuase the air shutter isnt fully opened. Ive never seen but would imagine running ng on an lp appliance would be less power and a lean mixture which might make it run hotter. Check your spark plug after a good run might tell you something. Good luck.
Spent around 8k with installation for a 16kw generac. Best investment ever 👌.
On demand unit is nice..👍🏼
I've never used a dual fuel portable generator. Are you telling me that they don't have any kind of shut off built in to stop the fuel flow when the generator shuts off? Or is the pressure too high without a regulator and it is able to overcome the safety valve? I've installed several whole home generacs and they have proper shutoffs built in and have gas pressure on them 24/7
No the generators are fine. It’s the people doing bad practices of using a portable gas using a sticking a tube in the air box and letting it rip
@JOHNNY'S WEEKENDS no way you could get the air/fuel ratio right with the load change either. It will eventually result in damage to the generator itself or connected devices from the surges
The have units and kits that work just fine to make a gas unit compatible to run LPG and NG. They work great with 1000s of hours of run time..👍🏼😀
What is the name & model of tool you are using to test for leaks ?
This gas detector pen…amzn.to/3XEbeOH
Affiliate link
You can get a dual fuel carburetor for these dirt cheap so if you plan on doing it a lot it doesn't worth the hassle and not the danger, as the engine will work as it should. This works just fine if you are in a real emergency and have it outdoors but you can't regulate the fuel in real time so varrying the load can lead to release unburnt gas and if it backfires it can cause an explosion, the problem is that when you do this it needs supervising and people are turning on things and like to forget about them, just like if a plain and safe propane heater is left out of sight if for whatever reason it loses the flame and has propane filling the room it can lead to an explosion.
Would you please explain how the regulator works, that might help people understand. Thanks 🙏
It’s not really just a regulator that set a correct pressure but also a on demand or load regulator that also has a shut off built in.
Interesting, never seen anything like this before.
Never really considered running a generator off of natural gas because I live in Southern California and the event that's most likely to lead to an extended power outage is an earthquake, which will of course also interrupt the natural gas supply. In our last major earthquake (1994 "Northridge" earthquake) we lost both power and gas but we got our power back a full day before the gas was working again.
It’s a bad idea people are doing from another video. But yes using NG for generators is just another source of fuel. Sure here in CA we have several disasters, fires, earthquakes and sure even floods and a tornado that’s small once in a while. It’s just another piece that’s available. 1994 was crazy, same with the Bay Area quake in 1989. We are due…..🫣
When the plumber installed my gas line for generator. He said it's overkill but the city does require it. So I said explain the it's purpose than I was like wow . Installed NOW. Your video just explain why and people should listen.
Proper equipment should be used and not the , it will be fine method.
Thank for showing me how to do this 🙏🏼
This is not the proper way to do this.you need a proper kit for your unit
Gas fitter here, the natural gas leak while very unsafe probably isn’t your biggest safety concern but running a propane generator on natural gas is likeley to cause the generator to malfunction and possibly catch fire, NG is 1000BTU/sqft and propane is 2500btu, so the generator is likeley in a run lean condition.
If you changed the pressure and orafice in the propane generator to accommodate the natural gas and hooked it up with a bbq box and approved line it should be the same as the propane tank but thats going to cost you more than just running it off a big propane tank.
The load regulator serves that purpose for adjusting the flow. When properly adjusted it should run as normal. You always set rich then lean off a little till it runs correct.
Hello. I’ve never been sure what all a “regulator” does. At prior place, had propane furnace, heater in garage and a fireplace, basically there were regulators everywhere. I surmise those regulated the gas pressure to a rather constant level as time and gas level in tank and temperatures vary. So, if one is installed on a generator and generator stops, the regulator ALSO automatically shuts off gas flow ?? If you wish to give tutorial on regulators, I’d certainly enjoy learning more on that topic. Will budget in a DC inverter sometime before much longer, just for the necessary few things as emergency backup. Maybe I’ll just stick with propane and try to find bigger than 15 lb tanks. 20 maybe is around somewhere. We are not RV-ers to know more on propane tank sizes, refilling, etc. I do know where to just swap out the gas grill sized tanks, as is common. Realistically right here, the amount of time power is off is very little, swapping out 15 lb sized tanks for a day or two while off isn’t a terribly big hassle. 8+ hours power off is pretty rare. Just several 15 lb tanks should handle 99% of the time needed. But car gas, nope, no more, did that 20 years country life. Hassle. It’s kind of fun hearing a generator hum away when needed, tho, and enjoy the few things on truly necessary. I also will prioritize an enclosed unit for quiet as it runs in backyard. Not only for the one neighbor, but no sense advertising further away for a potential thief to get an idea of easy pickings.
I could go over some basics on regulators and dual fuel generators soon.
👍🏼
I had no clue people are doing this, this is so insane
Hello I have a question. Hooking up NG to generator, I'm in a process of running the pipe outside. Should I end it with a ball valve or gate valve, or it doesn't really matter
Ball valves for LpG and NG ..👍🏼
@JOHNNY'S WEEKENDS thank you very much!
That tee you are tying into is not there for a consumer hookup. It is there so the utility company can change the meter without the customer being home. A new tee needs to be installed downstream, or ask utility company to install one for you.
Mine is for demonstration only. Switches in about 45 seconds
It's also a small amount of pressure in that ng line...7 to 14w.c. aka 1/4 to 1/8th psi