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FREE CALCULATOR

Generator fuel runtime calculator

Estimate how many continuous operating hours your stored gasoline or propane can provide at a known burn rate.

Fuel type

Estimated continuous runtime

10.0 hours5 gallons at 0.5 per hour. Real consumption changes with electrical load, temperature, altitude, fuel condition, and generator efficiency.
BUILD THE FUEL PLAN

Compare generator fuel and upkeep gear

Use the exact burn rate at your intended load before purchasing more fuel or equipment.

Read the buying guideCheck related gear on Amazon ↗Affiliate link. Store fuel according to local rules and manufacturer instructions.

Use the generator’s real burn rate

Find the manufacturer’s runtime at a stated load and divide the listed fuel quantity by those hours. That gives a planning burn rate for the same load. Your actual rate will change as the electrical load changes.

Example: If a generator runs 10 hours on 5 gallons at 50% load, the planning rate is 0.5 gallon per hour. Twenty gallons would provide about 40 hours at that same load—not necessarily 40 hours at full output.

Fuel storage is part of the calculation

Follow local fire rules and manufacturer guidance. Rotate stabilized gasoline, inspect approved propane cylinders, and test the generator on every fuel you expect to use. Never refuel a hot or running generator.