Throughout Alberta, both diesel and natural gas engines are among the most popular options for commercial, industrial, and residential use. But if you’ve recently switched over from one of these engines to the other, you may be wondering what changes to expect. Below, we’ll explore the top differences between diesel engines and natural gas engines, explore common repair pitfalls, and explore the number one misconception.
Read along with us at TRIC Power Products. We’re your reliable engine repair and installation experts, proudly serving business and homeowners across Northern Alberta. With almost 20 years of experience working with industrial engines, we have you covered.
How Diesel and Natural Gas Engines Work
Diesel and natural gas engines are both combustible engines that work by converting chemical energy to mechanical energy. Despite their end goals being the same, these two engines have distinct differences in both internal systems and components.
Natural gas engines run on natural gas fuel. This fuel is mixed with air before entering the combustion chamber, where it ignites with the spark plugs to generate a spark reaction. This spark generates mechanical energy and powers the engine. Diesel, on the other hand, uses diesel fuel. Instead of spark plugs, diesel engines rely on ignition combustion. This diesel fuel then reacts with hot air into mechanical energy.
Common Natural Gas Engine Repair Issues
While both need to be maintained regularly in order for peak performance and efficiency, the repair needs of diesel and natural gas engines differ significantly. Natural gas engines burn cleaner and will deal with fewer fuel-related issues. But they also often require more frequent component replacements. Spark plugs, in particular, typically need to be replaced at regular intervals.
Call in a professional technician if you notice:
Constant knocks or vibrations
Leakages from fuel or oil
Odd noises
Common Diesel Engine Repair Issues
Diesel engines, by contrast, are more susceptible to fuel contamination and buildup issues. Unlike natural gas engines, these engines are more vulnerable to high levels of soot, carbon deposits, and other contaminants. Due to these contamination issues, more and more businesses have been switching to natural gas engines.
Call in a professional technician if you notice:
Leakages from fuel or oil
An excess of smoke
Fuel-like odours or odd smells
The Biggest Natural Gas Engine Repair Myth
One of the most common misconceptions around natural gas engines is that dealing with the repairs is extremely costly. But the truth is, while you may need to repair certain components more frequently, the costs associated with the repairs and maintenance aren’t necessarily higher.
In many cases, the leading expense for natural gas engines is repairs that were delayed for too long. For example, missing or prolonging a spark plug replacement may save you a few hundred dollars in the short term. But a worn-out spark plug can’t properly ignite the fuel, leading to misfires. Engine misfires can be severe, especially if you rely on your natural gas engine for critical tasks. Eventually, these misfires can result in chronic overheating of engine cylinders and other components.
The final result? A broken-down engine that could need thousands of dollars in repairs.
Reliable, Swift Repairs for Sustainable Power
Diesel and natural gas engine repairs can be complex, but not when you partner with TRIC Power Products. We simplify your engine care with full-service installation, repairs, and preventive maintenance. Reach out to us or visit our Edmonton location today to learn more about our comprehensive engine services.