Most of us in Nigeria are used to running our generators on petrol. But with the rising cost of fuel, it might be a good idea to consider converting your petrol generator to run on CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). It’s cheaper, better for the environment, and can save you money in the long run. Let me walk you through the process in simple terms so you can understand how it works.
Why Convert to CNG?
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about why converting your generator to CNG is a smart choice.
- Cost Savings: CNG is cheaper than petrol. By converting your generator to run on CNG, you’ll spend less money on fuel.
- Cleaner Energy: CNG produces less smoke and fewer harmful gases than petrol. This means your generator will create less pollution and won’t contribute as much to air pollution.
- Less Maintenance: Because CNG burns cleaner, it can keep your generator in better shape for longer. You’ll have fewer problems with clogging or dirty engine parts.
What Do You Need to Convert Your Petrol Generator to CNG?
To convert your petrol generator to CNG, you’ll need a CNG conversion kit. This kit will allow your generator to use CNG as fuel instead of petrol. You can buy these kits from some hardware shops or online.
The conversion kit usually comes with the following:
- A regulator to control the flow of CNG
- A mixer to blend the air and fuel properly
- Valves and pipes to connect the CNG tank to your generator
It’s important to buy a good quality kit to avoid any problems.
Steps to Convert Your Generator
- Get a CNG Kit: First, purchase a suitable CNG conversion kit for your generator model. Make sure the kit is compatible with your generator.
- Take Your Generator to a Professional: While some people may want to do the conversion themselves, it’s always safer to go to a trained technician who has experience converting generators to CNG. They will know how to install the kit correctly.
- Install the Kit: The technician will install the CNG conversion kit by fitting the regulator, mixer, and pipes to your generator. They’ll also connect the generator to a CNG tank, which will be placed nearby.
- Test the Generator: After the installation is done, the technician will test your generator to make sure it works smoothly with CNG. This step is important to ensure that everything is connected properly and that there are no leaks.
- Dual Fuel Option: In most cases, after converting your generator, it will be able to run on both petrol and CNG. This is a nice feature because you can switch between petrol and CNG, depending on what is available.
How Much Does It Cost to Convert?
The cost of converting your petrol generator to CNG will depend on the size of your generator and the type of kit you buy. You may also need to pay a technician for the installation. While the initial cost might be higher, you’ll save money in the long run because CNG is cheaper than petrol.
Where to Get CNG?
While CNG filling stations are not yet everywhere in Nigeria, more are being set up in different parts of the country. Before converting your generator, you should check if there’s a CNG station close to your area.
Conclusion
Converting your petrol generator to CNG is a smart way to save money and reduce pollution. While the conversion process requires a little investment, the long-term benefits make it worthwhile. With a professional’s help, your generator can soon be running on cleaner, cheaper fuel, making your life easier and your costs lower.
If you’re thinking about converting, now is a great time to start!