Propane vs Gas Generator: Which is Better for Your RV?

When you're traveling in your RV, having the right power setup is crucial for comfort and convenience—especially if you need air conditioning, heating, or other appliances. A key decision you'll face is whether to opt for a propane or gas generator. The choice of fuel can affect costs, runtime, maintenance, and even the environment. Let's explore the main differences to help you choose the best option for your RV adventures.

Key Differences Between Propane and Gas Generators

Both propane and gas generators have their benefits and drawbacks for RVs. Here’s a quick comparison to help you weigh your options:

If you’re mostly boondocking or doing long-term, off-grid travel, propane might offer longer reliability. If you’re a weekend camper or seasonal traveler, gas could be more convenient and affordable.

Pros and Cons of Propane Generators

Propane generators offer several benefits for RV users, but they also come with trade-offs worth considering before you choose a setup.

Advantages of Propane for RV Use

Many RVers turn to propane for its clean energy and long shelf life. Here’s why:

• Cleaner-burning, more eco-friendly
  
  
• Longer shelf life
  
  
• Lower maintenance requirements
  
  
• Quieter operation (especially helpful at campgrounds).

Downsides of Propane Generators

Still, propane has a few drawbacks that might impact your decision:

• Lower energy output per gallon than gas
  
  
• Harder to start in extreme cold
  
  
• Fewer refueling options on the road
  
  
• Tanks take up more storage space.
  
  

Are propane generators better than gas? It depends. If you value cleaner emissions and quieter operation, propane might be the way to go—especially if you have space to store extra tanks and don’t mind a few extra steps at refill time.

Is It Cheaper to Run a Generator on Propane or Gas?

Typically, gas is more economical to operate per kilowatt-hour since it contains more energy per gallon. However, propane might be more cost-effective over time due to reduced maintenance expenses and a longer lifespan for the engine. If you use a generator often (for air conditioning or other appliances), those long-term savings could be more significant than just the fuel costs.

Propane Generator vs Gas Generator: Your Questions Answered

Still unsure which generator type is right for your RV? These frequently asked questions can help you decide based on your travel needs and lifestyle.

How Long Will a 20lb Propane Tank Run a Generator?

A 20lb propane tank will typically run a 2,200W generator for 25-30 hours at 25% load. Keep in mind that propane tanks are never 100% full when you buy them. Exact runtime depends on other factors such as your generator's age, how well it’s maintained, whether you’re at sea-level or in the mountains, and if there were any performance modifications made. Here’s a quick reference:

Which Generator Fuel is Best for Emergency Use?

Propane is best for long-term emergency storage—it doesn't degrade like gas and can sit safely for years. However, gas is easier to find in a pinch, especially if you're traveling through cities or small towns. For full-time RVers, the best approach might be a hybrid strategy: keep a propane tank for backup and carry gas cans for quick refills.

What About Tri-Fuel Generators?

If you’re torn between propane and gas, consider a tri-fuel generator. These models are designed to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas—giving you maximum flexibility on the road. For RVers who want to prepare for any scenario, tri-fuel generators combine the wide availability of gas with the clean burn and shelf-stability of propane.

Already have a gasoline or propane generator? You don’t have to buy a new unit—a tri-fuel conversion kit can upgrade many standard generators to accept all three fuel types. You can purchase tri-fuel conversion kits online. Just be sure to confirm compatibility with your specific generator model.

Gas or Propane: Choosing the Right Generator for Your RV

Both gas generators and propane generators have real benefits, and the right choice depends on your camping style. Here’s a quick recap:

• Choose propane if you prioritize cleaner energy, longer shelf life, and less noise
  
  
• Choose gas if you want easy refueling, better cold weather performance, and a lower fuel cost per kWh.

Make Your RV More Efficient With a Soft Starter

Regardless of which generator you choose, you can boost your RV’s energy efficiency with an RV air conditioner soft starter. It reduces your air conditioner’s startup power demand by up to 70%, so you can run your A/C on smaller propane or gas generators without overloading your system or tripping breakers. This simple upgrade makes it easier to stay cool on the road—especially helpful if you're RVing with pets during warmer months. 

If you're not sure how much power you need, check out our article on what size generator you need to run an RV air conditioner for more guidance on finding the right setup for your rig.

Suggested next reading:

• How Many Amps Does an RV AC Draw?
• Can You Run AC with Solar Power in an RV?

This article is for informational purposes only; Micro-Air does not make recommendations or provide support outside of Micro-Air products.