How it works
Runtime is fuel capacity divided by consumption per hour: runtime hours = capacity ÷ consumption. Fuel per day is consumption multiplied by 24 hours: fuel per day = consumption × 24. For example, 5 gallons ÷ 0.5 gallons per hour = 10 hours, and 0.5 × 24 = 12 gallons per day if run continuously.
Frequently asked questions
Why does load matter so much?
A generator under a light load burns less fuel per hour than one under a heavy load. Use the consumption figure for the load you actually plan to run, not a single headline figure, if your manual gives load-based figures.
Does this account for refuelling stops?
No. Runtime here is continuous running on one tank. Plan refuelling, cool-down, and safe storage separately, and never refuel a hot generator.
What if I only run it part of the day?
Multiply the hourly consumption by the hours you actually run it, rather than 24, to get fuel for that shorter period.