Best Dual Fuel Generator

If you want to get power off the grid, a quality dual fuel generator is one of the best solutions. Being able to run off of either propane or gasoline, dual fuel generators offer great reliability as well as versatility.

You can use a dual fuel generator to power almost everything, from appliances in your RV to heavy-duty power tools on your work site. And, when calamities strike, a dual fuel generator can prove to be a lifesaver.

But, finding the best dual fuel generator can be tricky. There is a wide variety of options on the market. Some units are designed to be adaptable to any situation while others are highly specialized.

To help you find the best solution for your needs, here are the top picks for the best dual fuel generator.

Our Top Pick: Westinghouse WGen7500DF

Features

• EPA, CSA, and CARB compliant
• 7,500W/9,5000W on gasoline
• 6,750W/8,550W on propane
• Up to 16 h of runtime at 25% load
• Push button and remote start

Dual Fuel Generator Reviews

Pulsar Products PG10000B16 Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (propane): 7,000W
• Starting (propane): 9,000W
• Running (gasoline): 8,000W
• Starting (gasoline): 10,000W
• Noise level: N/A
• Runtime at 50% load: 12 h

Boasting a 15 HP engine, this Pulsar Products unit is an extremely powerful dual fuel generator. Whether you want to power your work site or your home, you can rest assured that it will keep tools and appliances running smoothly.

It can switch between gasoline and propane effortlessly and without power drops, thanks to its one-of-a-kind Switch & Go capability. The power drop-off between the two fuel sources is minimal.

To prevent ignition failures, its easy-to-use push electric push start comes with a recoil backup. Capable of delivering 12 hours of runtime at 50% power, this Pulsar Products unit is without a doubt one of the longest-running and best dual fuel generators in its category.

Pros

• Switch & Go capability
• Extremely powerful
• Impressive runtime
• Electric push start
• Digital power meter display

Cons

• Heavy

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Champion 100263 3400-Watt Portable Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (propane): 2,790W
• Starting (propane): 3,060W
• Running (gasoline): 3,100W
• Starting (gasoline): 3,400W
• Noise level: 59 dB
• Runtime at 25% load: 14.5 h

Since it’s an inverter generator, this Champion unit is not as powerful as most other dual fuel generators, but it offers exceptional performance. It won’t power your entire house, but it is one of the best units for RVs and campsites. It comes with all the perks inverter generator mechanics can offer.

It offers almost the same amount of power when using propane as it does when using gas. So, rather than choosing the type of fuel based on performance, you can choose it based on convenience. Considering that the prices of gas and propane fluctuate all the time, this is quite a nice perk.

On top of being significantly lighter and more compact than the average dual fuel converter, it comes with a pair of wheels and a convenient handle. The unit is fairly easy to haul around.

Rated at 59 dB, it produces much less noise than its competitors. Its only limitation is the fact that it includes just two standard 120V 20A outlets. But, you can solve this issue by getting a power strip. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best portable dual fuel generators on the market, as well as one of the quietest dual fuel generators.

Pros

• Performs roughly equally on propane and gasoline
• Great value for money
• Quiet
• Portable
• Compact

Cons

• Only 2 120V 20A outlets

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Champion 100297 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (propane): 7,250W
• Starting (propane): 9,035W
• Running (gasoline): 8,000W
• Starting (gasoline): 10,000W
• Noise level: 74 dB
• Runtime at 25% load: 8 h

Whether we are talking about running or starting wattage, it’s safe to say that this is one massively powerful generator. Champion have really outdone themselves with their 100297 dual fuel unit.

The generator performs well on propane, but it’s significantly more efficient on gasoline. If you prefer gasoline, this may be the best dual fuel generator for your needs. It’s also one of the best solutions for work sites or events where you want to power a lot of high-wattage equipment for shorter periods of time.

You can easily monitor fuel levels and power output, thanks to its unique Intelligauge display. Keeping track of the unit’s performance is very easy.

Pros

• Numerous outlets, including 240V
• Extremely powerful
• Intelligence display
• Built-in surge protection
• Great for events and work sites

Cons

• Noisy

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Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (propane): 6,750W
• Starting (propane): 8550W
• Running (gasoline): 7,500W
• Starting (gasoline): 9,000W
• Noise level: 74 dB
• Runtime at 25% load: 16 h

This dual fuel generator from Westinghouse is the all-time favorite of many users and with good reason. The Westinghouse WGen7500DF can deliver 7,500 watts of continuous power on gasoline. Whether you’re using propane or gasoline, it can deliver 8 hours of runtime at 50% load.

The WGen7500DF will keep your house running during an outage and still have wattage left over. The unit comes with many handy features, including push-to-start electronic ignition. Starting it is as easy as firing up a car. If you have ever had to deal with starter cords, you will definitely appreciate this feature.

It also comes with an easy to read digital runtime meter that takes out all the guesswork out of gauging the fuel levels. The WGen7500DF comes with one L14-30 120/240V 30A, two duplex 120V 20A outlets, and two 5V USB ports. This dual fuel generator is as versatile as they get.

Pros

• Push-to-start ignition with remote start key fob
• Five power outlets
• 7,500 W continuous power
• 3-year warranty with free lifetime tech support
• 13 HP
• 8 hours of runtime at half load

Cons

• Noisy

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DuroMax XP4400EH

Features

• Running (gasoline): 3,500W
• Starting (gasoline): 4,400W
• Noise level: 69 dB
• Propane runtime at 50% load: 10 h
• Gasoline runtime at 50% load: 10 h

This DuroMax unit is a great option for those who don’t want to break the bank. The DuroMax XP4400EH is a moderately powerful dual fuel generator that doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, but it is still a quality, reliable solution for camping trips and parties.

It can deliver more than enough electricity to power an RV setup. You will be able to run it throughout most of the day as it can deliver 10 hours of runtime at half power.

However, for the amount of power it outputs, it is a bit heavy (132 lbs). But, considering the price, no one is complaining.

Pros

• 10 hours of runtime at 50% power
• Inexpensive
• Reliable
• Great solution for an RV Setup
• CARB approved

Cons

• Heavy for its size

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DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (gasoline): 9,500W
• Starting (gasoline): 12,400W
• Noise level: 72 dB
• Propane runtime at 50% load: 8 h
• Gasoline runtime at 50% load: 8 h

Boasting 12,000 watts of surge power, the DuroMax XP12000EH is one of the most powerful dual fuel generators. The manufacturer doesn’t advertise the surge and continuous wattage for propane, but the general consensus among users is that it can power a full household on this type of fuel without any issue.

If you want to operate motor-powered tools or appliances and power field lights at the same time, this DuroMax unit may be the best solution for you. Capable of powering an entire household’s worth of electronics, it’s one of the best dual fuel generators for emergency situations.

It offers 8 hours of continuous runtime at half load, both on gasoline and on propane. However, if you want to get more runtime, you can use it with a larger propane fuel tank.

Pros

• 13 HP
• 8-hour runtime at 50%
• Impressive surge and continuous power on gasoline
• Can be used with a larger propane fuel tank
• Can operate at 120V and 240V simultaneously

Cons

• Analog voltage display

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Firman H03651 Portable Dual Fuel Generator

Features

• Running (propane): 3,300W
• Starting (propane): 4,100W
• Running (gasoline): 3,650W
• Starting (gasoline): 4,550W
• Noise level: N/A
• Max runtime at 50% load: 14 h

The Firman may not be a famous brand in the world of dual fuel generators, but their H03651 model is definitely worth checking out. This is a reliable, moderately-powerful unit that is very easy to operate.

Considering its attractively low price point, you will definitely get more than you pay for if you go with this model. Its 4-stroke 7HP 208c engine and impressive overall dual fuel technology can generate more than enough running power for your campsite needs.

The Firman H03651 is both lightweight and sturdy. For easy transport, it comes with a pull handle and two large never-flat wheels. Despite being a relatively small unit, it can deliver an impressive 14 hours of runtime. It’s one of the best portable dual fuel generators on the market.

Read out Drill vs Impact Driver comparison as well.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Auto shutoff
• Automatic voltage regulator
• Great runtime
• Portable

Cons

• Only 2 120V outlets

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Sportsman GEN7500DF

Features

• Running (gasoline and propane): 6,000W
• Starting (gasoline and propane): 7,500W
• Noise level: 80 dB
• Propane runtime at 50% load: 5 h
• Gasoline runtime at 50% load: 9 h

The Sportsman GEN7500DF may not be the most powerful unit on the list, but it offers more than enough continuous and running wattage to power a home during a blackout. It’s one of the largest and best dual fuel generators Sportsman has to offer.

It generates the same amount of power on propane and gasoline. However, it delivers a much longer runtime when it is powered by gasoline. The only significant downside of this unit is the noise it makes.

The easy to read fuel gauge is a very nice touch. It also comes with an analog voltage meter that is quite easy to read. You can power it up without any effort, thanks to the convenient electric start.

Pros

• Includes a 12V DC outlet
• Recoil start and electric start
• Same continuous and running wattage on both fuel types
• Great for emergencies
• EPA approved

Cons

• Noisy

Sportsman GEN4000DF

Features

• Running (gasoline and propane): 3,500W
• Starting (gasoline and propane): 4,000W
• Noise level: 80 dB
• Propane runtime at 50% load: 12 h
• Gasoline runtime at 50% load: 10 h

The GEN4000DF is a smaller cousin of the previous model on the list. The two models share many design features.

Even though it has a smaller gas fuel tank, the unit can deliver up to 10 hours of runtime at 50% load. Moreover, it can deliver 12 hours of runtime on gas at half load. Quite impressive for such a compact dual fuel generator.

The unit offers plenty of power outlet options, including an RV outlet. However, the best thing about the GEN4000DF may be its price. It’s one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.

Pros

• 12V DC outlet for battery charging
• Impressive runtime on propane
• Very attractive price point
• Great solution for an RV setup
• Reliable

Cons

• No wheels despite 90-lbs weight

Ford FG7750PBE

Features

• Running (propane): 6,000W
• Starting (propane): 7,500W
• Running (gasoline): 6,250W
• Starting (gasoline): 7,750W
• Noise level: N/A
• Max runtime at 50% load: 10.5 h

As most people know, Ford is an American automotive giant with a reputation for manufacturing some of the best cars in the world. But what many people don’t know is that they also make very impressive dual fuel generators.

Ford’s engineers have taken their expertise and successfully applied it to the engine-generator market. This impressive unit comes with a convenient electric push start button. In case it fails, the generator also includes a recoil starter.

This dual fuel generator boasts one 120/240V AC twist-lock outlet, one 120V twist-lock outlet, and four 120V AC outlets. It’s as versatile as they get. The Ford FG7750PBE operates almost equally well on gasoline and on propane.

To protect your devices from surges and spines, the unit features an automotive voltage generator. It also comes with a useful digital display that lets you know how much runtime you have left.

Pros

• Includes wheels
• Automatic voltage regulator
• Impressive runtime
• Plenty of power outlet options
• Electric push start

Cons

• Heavy

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Dual Fuel Generator Buyers Guide

Along with personal considerations, there are a few objective factors you should pay attention to when picking the right generator for your household, worksite, or RV.

Power & Size

When checking out a dual fuel generator, the most important thing you need to pay attention to is the power of the unit. You need to consider both running power and surge power.

Running power is the power a generator produces over a continuous period of time. A high-powered generator that outputs 5,000 running watts will be able to power an average-sized house in case of a power outage.

But, the more powerful a generator is, the less portable it is. So, if you need a generator to power a campsite or an RV, a 2000W generator may be the best choice. The average dual fuel generator produces 3500 running watts.

Appliances and electrical devices require more power to start. So, when you turn on an appliance or electric devices, the generator produces surge power.

This is also known as starting watts or starting power. A generator can produce this type of power only for a few seconds.

If you want to power just a few electronics, 4,000 watts of surge power should be enough.

If you plan on using either propane or gasoline exclusively, you may only need to consider how much power the unit can generate on your preferred type of fuel.

Typically, the size of a power generator corresponds to its power output. The reason is simple—bigger engines generate more power. You’ll have to compromise on power if you want a more compact unit.

Use

Determining how much power you need isn’t always so straightforward. Of course, the bigger the generator, the better, but a bigger generator will also cause a bigger dent in your wallet. So, if you want to save some money, you’ll have to do a bit of math.

How much power you need depends on how you intend to use the generator and with what devices. If you want to get a generator for your household, consider what appliances and devices you will be using most during a power outage in your house.

What electronics do you need to use on the campsite? What power tools do you need to run on the worksite and for how long do you usually use them?

You should calculate the wattage requirements of all of the electronics you plan on running simultaneously. Check the manual of every device and appliance, the wattage specifications should be listed there, including surge watts.

If the running wattage of a device isn’t listed anywhere, you can calculate it by multiplying the voltage with the amperage. You are sure to find both the voltage and the amperage either in the manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Sum up the wattage of all the electronics on your list.

To avoid overloading the system, it’s best to get a generator that can produce at least 1,000 W more than the sum of the total running wattage of all the devices you plan to use at the same time.

To prevent malfunctions that could damage your devices and appliances, it’s best not to load more than 75% of the generator’s capacity.

Controls and Receptacles

When searching for the best dual fuel generator, most people overlook the control panel, even though it is one of the most important aspects of an engine generator.

Operating a dual fuel generator is far from rocket science, but, if its panel doesn’t offer clear instructions on how to start, use, and maintain the unit, it can be very confusing.

So, the rule of thumb is this—if a kinder gardener finds the controls to be too complicated, go with another model instead. The controls should be intuitive. To allow you to operate the unit effortlessly, the generator should have a fuel meter, oil and fuel gauge, and indicator lights.

All dual fuel generators come with 120V outlets as most household appliances run on 120V. However, it’s best to get a unit that comes with other, special outlets as well, especially if you plan to use it for work or recreational purposes.

For instance, if you want to use it for your RV or for camping, you will probably need 12V DC terminals for automotive batteries. And, you’ll likely need at least one 240V to be able to use the generator on the job site.

Noise Level

Every piece of equipment that is powered by an engine is noisy. If you are looking for a quiet way to get power off the grid, a fuel generator isn’t it. However, not all fuel generators produce the same level of noise.

Some are as noisy as jet engines, while others are no louder than vacuum cleaners. If you plan to get a dual fuel generator for your house, be sure to check your local noise regulations and ordinances. You can do that here.

Local Limitations

Make sure to check the regulations in your area before you invest in a generator that runs on fossil fuel. In some US states, you cannot operate a generator that doesn’t comply with state-set fossil fuel regulations.

For instance, in California, you cannot operate, buy, or sell generators that are not CARB compliant.

Moreover, some condos and HOAs have strict rules on the use of fossil fuel, so be sure to check the regulations in your neighborhood as well. Campsites and national parks usually have their own regulations regarding the use of engine-generators.

Runtime

If you want to get a generator for home use, it is best to get a unit that can deliver at least 8 hours of runtime at half power. If you are looking for a campsite generator that you’ll be using for a few short bursts of time, or if you are just looking for an RV unit, this isn’t a major consideration.

Portability

Almost every dual fuel generator is portable, at least to some degree. When it comes to mobility, weight is the most important factor in addition to size. If you plan on moving your dual generator often, get a unit that has wheels and soft grip handles. For easier storage, look for a portable dual fuel generator that has a drop-down handle.

Inverter vs. Conventional Generator

Both inverter and conventional units generate AC power—the same type of power you use in your house. However, there are some major differences in how inverter and conventional generators work.

Inverter generators are usually lighter, more compact, and less noisy than conventional units. So, an inverter generator may be the best option for a campsite or RV setup. Conventional generators have larger fuel reservoirs, so they can offer longer runtimes.

Conventional generators offer higher power outputs, but they are not as fuel-efficient as inverter generators. If you want to increase power output, you can run multiple inverter generators simultaneously. Conventional generators don’t work that way.

Propane vs. Gasoline

Each type of fuel has its advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline burns more efficiently than propane, especially in low temperatures.

Gasoline produces more energy than natural gas. It is also easier to find. However, it is far more expensive than propane. On top of being more affordable, propane has a longer shelf life than natural gas.

Keep in mind that these are all general properties of the two fuel types. Some units utilize gasoline more efficiently than propane and vise versa.

Takeaway

When it comes to versatility, ease-of-use, and overall performance, the Westinghouse WGen7500DF is the best dual fuel generator on the list.

It comes with plenty of cool extra features that allow for convenient use and you can count on it to keep your house electronics running smoothly during a blackout. With the WGen7500DF, you’ll definitely get more than your money’s worth.