Generator Fuel Consumption Calculator
Enter your generator's rated wattage, load percentage, fuel type, and run hours to estimate fuel use per hour and total running cost.
Use the Generator Fuel Consumption Calculator
Generator Settings
Check your generator label or manual. Enter kVA × 800 if rated in kVA.
Results
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Effective load | — |
| Power draw | — |
| Fuel type | — |
| Base rate (full load) | — |
| Adjusted rate | — |
| Run time | — |
| Cost per hour | — |
Estimates use representative full-load planning factors: gasoline 0.13 gal/kWh, diesel 0.10 gal/kWh, propane 0.17 gal/kWh. Actual usage varies by generator model, altitude, and ambient temperature. Use as a planning guide.
Summary
This calculator estimates how much fuel a generator burns per hour and the total cost to run it for a given number of hours. Enter the generator's rated wattage, how heavily it is loaded, the fuel type, your local fuel price, and the planned run time. Results update instantly as you adjust any input — no account or signup required.
How it works
- Enter your generator's rated wattage (found on the label or manual).
- Set the load percentage — how hard the generator is actually working (50–75% is typical for continuous use).
- Select your fuel type: gasoline, diesel, or propane.
- Enter your local fuel price per gallon (or liter if you switch units).
- Enter how many hours you plan to run the generator.
- Read the estimated fuel consumption per hour and total cost.
Use cases
- Budget fuel for a camping trip or outdoor event with a portable generator.
- Estimate running costs during a power outage before buying a standby generator.
- Compare gasoline vs diesel vs propane running costs for the same generator size.
- Plan fuel reserves for a job site generator running multiple shifts.
- Calculate monthly operating costs for a backup generator on a business property.
- Determine how long a full fuel tank will last at a given load.