Table of Contents
- View The Best Dual Fuel Generators Below
- 1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 2. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 3. Firman H03652 Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 4. Champion Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
- 5. Sportsman GEN4000DF Dual Fuel Powered Portable Generator
- 6. Duromax XP5500EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 7. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 8. Champion Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator
- 9. Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
- 10. Pulsar Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Dual Fuel Generators Buyer’s Guide
Dual fuel generators can be incredibly useful if you need some quick, easy-to-produce power, but there are many different products available for your consideration – which of them would be the best one for you to purchase for your own needs?
To try to help you answer this question, we have come up with a list of 10 of the best dual fuel generator products we could find on Amazon, along with a buyer’s guide to help you decide and to answer some questions that you may have.
We hope you find this guide useful and that it will help you with a dual fuel generator purchase.
What is a Dual Fuel Generator?
Dual fuel generators are much what you might expect – they are generators that produce electricity by using two different fuels. Most often, these fuels are gasoline and propane, but occasionally you might find one or two that utilize diesel or natural gas. Any of these four fuels can be used in a dual fuel generator.
The main selling point of dual fuel generators is convenience, and also portability. Portable generators are always useful because you can use them in many different places, rather than just having it in a set location. This is not a trait unique to dual fuel generators, though – many different generators have them.
Convenience, however, is. In particular, gas (gasoline) and propane are particularly easy to access, and in most parts of the world, diesel and natural gas shouldn’t be too difficult for you to get your hands on either. This means that it should be reasonably rare for you to encounter a situation where you can’t get anything to power your generator.
This gives dual fuel generators a slight edge in the market. We will look into more points to consider later on in the buyer’s guide.
Why Do I Need a Dual Fuel Generator?
A dual fuel generator can be useful for any number of things. Some might choose to use them to power electrical tools when working onsite and far away from any mains circuits. They are also used for camping trips and kept as emergency back-up power generators. If the power goes out in your area, it will be very easy to simply switch on the generator and get your house back up and running instead of having to wait for the grid to get fixed.
If you fall into any of these categories spoken about in the previous paragraph, you may find a dual fuel generator very useful.
View The Best Dual Fuel Generators Below
1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This is certainly the best dual fuel portable generator, producing up to 12,500 peak Watts and 9,500 running Watts. It operates on gasoline or propane. This heavy-duty generator has been made from a durable cast iron sleeve, with a capacity of 6.6 gallons in the tank. Running for up to 17.5 hours, this keeps you highly powered throughout usage and has an automatic low oil shutdown, built-in fuel gauge, and GFCI outlets.
This engine can be started using a push-button feature, making it easy to use, but it also has a remote smart key fob, meaning the engine can be started from a distance. With an intuitive control panel, the portable generator can power a variety of major appliances, from air conditioners and refrigerators, as well as lights or entertainment centers.
The VFT Data Centre shows frequency, volt output, and lifetime hours, helping you keep up to date with accurate information and whether any maintenance is required. With an included set of heavy-duty, never-flat wheels, handle, and lift bracket, the generator is conveniently portable. This product also comes with Lifetime Technical Support.
Pros:
+ 12,500 Watts (peak); 9,500 Watts (running)
+ 17.5 hours of running time
+ Push-button start and remote start key fob
+ Can power a variety of appliances
+ Low oil shut-off and fuel gauge
Why We Like It – We particularly liked this product because of the VFT Data Center, which helps you to keep up to date with relevant information about the generator, also helping you keep on top of any maintenance requirements.
2. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This 12,000-watt dual fuel portable generator is of premium quality. With the nickname ‘Beast,’ this provides the power you would usually find in home-units, but in a portable form. This generator is ideal for powering home appliances, especially through things like a storm or power outage. Coming with a product manual, oil funnel, spark plug wrench, toolset, DC cables, and wheel kit, this product is easy to use and transport.
It runs on either gasoline or propane, giving you flexibility on the choice of fuel, although the latter is more highly recommended. The DuroMax XP12000EH has an easy to use keyed electric start, with optional recoil start also available. Powered by a 457cc 18HP OHV engine, it feeds the fully loaded power panel, which is comprised of two 120V/20AMP outlets, one 120V/30AMP twist-lock outlet, a 120/240V 30AMP outlet, and a 50-AMP heavy-duty outlet, meaning you can power even the most demanding of needs.
It also features a voltmeter, idle control, circuit breakers, and a low oil indicator. The DuroMax also comes with a unique MX2 switch, which doubles your 120-volt power for heavier loads. Allowing for easy and quiet operation, this unit has a heavy-duty all-metal frame with motor mounts that are fully isolated, and a large noise-reducing muffler with a spark arrestor that is in-built. This generator also has a 30-day replacement warranty and a full one-year parts warranty.
Pros:
+ 12,000 Watts
+ 457 cc 18 HP OHV engine is ideal for powering home appliances
+ Comes with a kit
+ Can be used with either gasoline or propane
+ Unique MX2 switch
+ (Optional) recoil start available
Why We Like It – The MX2 switch on the DuroMax XP12000EH means that you can easily double your amperage for heavier loads, meaning it can easily be used for a variety of products. Getting a model with a recoil start would also be beneficial.
3. Firman H03652 Dual Fuel Portable Generator
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With a generator featuring 4550 starting Watts and 3650 running Watts, power is supplied by the Max Pro Series 208cc Firman engine. With a Whisper Series muffler, the H03652 runs quietly, easily meeting the standards set by National Parks Service. The generator also has a USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestor.
Giving you a longer run time, this generator has one of the largest fuel tanks in the industry, meaning you have less need for refueling as often, with an in-built tank gauge for added convenience, making it of great value. Running on either gasoline or propane, it’s very flexible to your needs and also comes with an extended hose, which is five feet long. With a voltage regulator, this generator guarantees a clean and efficient power outage from the Power Stream alternator.
The long-lasting, compact tubular roll cage frame design means it lasts for years, and with a 4-in-1 data minder, it’s easy to measure Volts, Hertz, Hours, and low oil with the indicator. The dual fuel generator comes with oil, funnel, owner’s manual, spark plug wrench, and two extra wrenches to help you remove the protective shipping brackets. It also has eight never-flat wheels and a U-shaped paddle handle for a comfortable grip.
Pros:
+ 4,550 Watts (starting); 3,650 Watts (running)
+ Meets standards of National Parks Service and USDA Forest Service
+ Comes with an extended five-foot hose
+ Voltage regulator
Why We Like It – We liked this generator because it has a Whisper Series muffler, which makes the product meet the standards of National Parks Service and also has a USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestor.
4. Champion Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
This 3400-watt portable inverter generator combines versatility and convenience. The dual fuel generator has a practical electric start, which includes a battery, but also can quickly start in cold weather due to the Cold Start Technology. This generator has a low-oil shut-off sensor, giving it added safety. This product runs smoothly on either gasoline or propane, and you can easily choose which fuel you want to use with the simple flip of a switch.
When running on gasoline, the 192cc Champion engine gives you 3400 starting Watts and 3100 running Watts, running for 7.5 hours at a 25% load. However, when running on the second fuel, it produces 3060 starting Watts and 2790 running Watts, giving you a run time of 14.5 hours at 25% load. This dual fuel generator has an option for Economy Mode, reducing the electrical load, lengthening the engine life, providing quieter operations, and better fuel economy.
With a hose and a built-in regulator, this generator includes a 120V 30A RV, two 120V 20A household outlets, and a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter. With never-flat tires, built-in handles, and an easily stored foldaway handle, this generator is easy to move. It also comes with a three-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.
Pros:
+ Runs on either gasoline or propane (3,400/3,100 Watts (gasoline) – 3,060/2,790 Watts)
+ Cold Start Technology
+ Economy Mode
+ Hose
Why We Like It – With Economy Mode, the generator can be used for longer periods, providing quieter operation, and gives better fuel economy.
5. Sportsman GEN4000DF Dual Fuel Powered Portable Generator
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This 4000-watt dual fuel generator has the strength and versatility to handle a range of tasks, from keeping essential appliances working during power outages to running an RV on the road. Running on either gasoline or propane, this generator is flexible. You can choose which fuel to run it on, depending on what suits you best at the time.
This generator gives you the durable, clean-burning benefit of propane gas, as well as the regular and easy to find benefits of unleaded gasoline. This powerful generator has 4000 peak Watts and 3500 rated Watts, meaning it can handle the requirements of most contractors and homeowners.
It’s also equipped with four 120 volt outlets, a 12 volt DC outlet for battery charging, and a single 120 volt RV outlet, meaning this generator can handle a variety of tasks. With a load of 50%, the dual fuel generator has a running time of up to 10 hours on 2.6 gallons of gasoline, and also comes with a five-foot propane hose for added convenience. With a remarkably low noise level, the quiet 7HP engine runs at less than 69 dB and is affordable and flexible, making it ideal for anyone.
Pros:
+ Runs on either gasoline or propane
+ Remarkably low noise level
+ Comes with a five-foot hose
Why We Like It – This generator is very quiet, particularly in comparison with other generators of a similar size, with the large 7HP engine running at less than 69 dB.
6. Duromax XP5500EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This dual fuel generator is quite possibly the most powerful and unique generator of its class. The generator can be powered with either gasoline or propane, which can be paired with an available 5000 peak Watts, meaning this generator can handle most tasks. This generator has easy and dependable starting with an E-Z recoil pull-start or keyed electric start.
Suitable for professional usage in places such as construction sites, the generator is also suitable for domestic uses such as camping. It has high enough power to run a TV, refrigerator, and lights. This generator is designed and thoroughly tested, giving you the highest quality product. All DuroMax units have a one-year factory warranty and can be serviced at any of the approved service centers nationwide.
Pros:
+ 5,000 Watts (peak)
+ One of the most powerful and unique generator
+ Two startup options
+ Powerful
Why We Like It – This dual fuel generator has different ways of starting up; an E-Z recoil pull-start and a keyed electric start, meaning if one way is easier for the user, then they can use that.
7. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Running on either gasoline or propane, this generator can give you emergency electricity at home or just provide a way to charge cell phones when camping. When running on propane, the generator is provided with a 4350 surge and 3800 running Watts. However, gasoline gives up to a 4750 surge and 3800 running Watts.
The control panel has two 120V GFCI outlets, a NEMA 30A twist lock, a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, and a voltage selector that can switch between 120V and 240V, depending on the task. With a wheel and handle, this generator is easy to move. The 47-inch hose means you can connect it immediately to tanks.
This dual fuel electric start generator has a 224 cc engine and is compliant with CARB & EPAIII, making it the perfect emergency backup. Simply plug your transfer switch into the NEMA 30 A twist lock. The large gas tank fills up to four gallons, giving you a run time of 11 hours on half load. Durable and compactable, the generator comes backed by a nationwide network of skilled service technicians, and a customer support phone line.
Pros:
+ Runs on gasoline or propane (4,750/3,800 Watts – 4,350/3,800 Watts)
+ Large control panel
+ Electric start
+ Gas tank with a four-gallon capacity
Why We Like It – With a large control panel, this generator can be used for a range of appliances, and with a voltage selector, you can change the power depending on the task.
8. Champion Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator
This 3800-watt dual fuel portable generator has an electric start and operates off both propane and gasoline, with a hose included. While running on gasoline, the generator produces 4750 starting Watts and 2800 running Watts, whereas on the former it produces 4275 starting Watts and 3420 running Watts. With an electric start-up button, the generator is easy to start, and has an internal battery charger, charging as the generator runs.
Ideal for RVs, the generator is cost-effective, suitable for a range of uses and comes travel-ready with a standard 30A RV outlet, giving enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU air conditioner. With propane having a long shelf-life, the generator can quickly be operated in an emergency. It has a run time of 10.5 hours on a 20lb tank at 50% loaf and up to nine hours on a full tank of gasoline.
This dual fuel generator has an inbuilt surge protector, protecting appliances from voltage spikes above a safe threshold, and also has Cold Start technology, meaning the generator can easily be started in cold weather. With a folding handle, the durable generator has a steel frame and also has never-flat tires that help you easily maneuver it.
This dual fuel generator has a fuel selector switch, making it safe to switch to either fuel source, and also comes with 120V 30A RV, 120V 30A locking and two 120V 20A household outlets. The generator also has an Intelligauge (volts, Hz, hours) and means you can easily monitor power output and maintenance levels. With a reliable 224cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine, the generator has a 3.4-gallon fuel tank, 0.6 qt oil capacity and an automatic low oil shut-off sensor. Coming with a three-year warranty, this excellent generator is dependable, reliable, and durable.
Pros:
+ Runs on both fuels (4,750/2,800 Watts – 4,275/3,420 Watts)
+ Electric start
+ Inbuilt surge protector
+ Three-year warranty
Why We Like It – With a surge protector, the generator is safe to use on most appliances as it protects said appliance from any surges that may cause damage.
9. Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
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This dual fuel generator is a top-quality portable power solution. Coming with TT-30R RV ready outlet, tow 20A household outlets, and built-in USB ports, this generator is perfect for a range of activities or as an emergency back up source. With a variable engine speed, you get maximum fuel efficiency as the power generator will only produce the power you need at a given time, running on a 3.4-gallon gas tank for up to 18 hours.
Versatile and convenient, the dual fuel generator runs on either gasoline or propane. It has a push-button electric start and wireless remote start, and a key fob working from up to 109 yards away, providing easy ignition. The dual fuel generator also has an LED Data Centre with an automatic rotating digital display that keeps you up to date with information.
Ideal for running sensitive electronics such as LCD or plasma televisions, tablets, or other mobile devices that need a smooth, stable power supply. This model is effortlessly portable – more than traditional generators – and features a lightweight, compact design with wheels and an extendable handle. Ensured by a three-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage, this generator has nationwide customer service and support network.
Pros:
+ Variable engine speed
+ 3.4-gallon gas tank
+ Key fob
+ Three-year service coverage
Why We Like It – The variable engine speed means that fuel can be used efficiently and so the generator is more cost-effective.
10. Pulsar Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This dual fuel generator is a portable 224cc, 4-stroke, OHV air-cooled engine with a durable powder-coated steel frame. With Switch and Go technology, you can easily switch between the use of LPG and gasoline with the simple turn of a dial. The powerful engine is easily capable of handling heavy electric loads, as well as multiple smaller load appliances at the same time. This generator is also equipped with 120v outlets, one 30amp RV outlet, and one 120/240V twist-lock outlet, helping you power all your tools and devices.
With a fuel tank and a holding capacity of four gallons, you get a run time of up to twelve hours when on gasoline, making it perfect for activities such as camping. This generator has a fold-down handle, helping you to store it easily. It also has never-flat wheels, meaning it can easily be maneuvered. Adding to the ease of use, the generator has a 3-in-1 digital meter, low oil indicator, and a low oil shutdown. It also comes with a useful propane hose. A one year warranty also backs this dual fuel generator.
Pros:
+ Air-cooled engine
+ Four-gallon fuel tank
+ Run time of up to 12 hour
+ Comes with a propane hose
Why We Like It – With an air-cooled engine, the dual fuel generator is always able to be cooled as it doesn’t rely on liquid coolant, and also has a longer engine life.
Dual Fuel Generators Buyer’s Guide
Are Dual Fuel Generators Any Good?
Certainly – dual fuel generators are, in many ways, particularly good in all situations, and most would probably argue that they have the edge over your simple standard generators.
The fact that these dual fuel generators use two different fuels (surprise, surprise) means that they are easier to keep topped up. If you run out of gas and can’t find any anywhere, then the answer is simple: go and find some propane. If you can’t find any propane, the chances are you can find some gas. This reduces the likelihood of not being able to power your generator.
There are a couple of other main advantages to dual fuel generators, too. They are cheaper to run and often produce a greater amount of power (more Watts) than standard fuel generators.
Essentially, if you have the option and the funds to purchase a dual fuel generator over a standard one, there aren’t many reasons why you shouldn’t.
Of course, perhaps the main reason would be if you have done your research in your local area as to what fuels are readily available (this is pretty important to do). If you have discovered that propane, diesel, and natural gas can’t be accessed anywhere convenient at all, then perhaps a single fuel generator running on gasoline would be most worth your time. However, we feel this situation is more likely to describe the few rather than the many, and that the majority of people would get more use out of a dual fuel generator than a standard one.
Propane and gasoline, especially, should be available in gas stations, garages, hardware stores, camping stores, and so on.
Because of having two different fuels to power these generators, the power supply should be less interrupted and smoother than in a standard generator. If you were to run out of one of the fuels (for example, gas), then you could simply switch it over to propane. More often than not, this is a very simple process.
The two fuels can also be used more effectively in different seasons and weather conditions. When it’s colder, gasoline is the best idea. It’s less unstable than propane in the cold. By contrast, propane is more suited to warm weather.
Is it Cheaper to Run a Generator on Propane or Gas?
Gasoline is a great, readily available fuel that can be found almost anywhere in the United States. It’s a fuel that has quite literally powered the country for 100 years or more, and so anywhere where there are people, you are likely to find a source of gasoline. As a disadvantage, however, gasoline is more expensive and not as kind to the environment.
Propane, by contrast to gasoline, is relatively cheap. Since it’s bought in a tank, it may be easier to store and will produce less of a smell than gasoline when you aren’t using it. In general, for a like-for-like generator, propane generators can also be thought of to be slightly quieter. Still, there are so many different factors involved that it’s hard to give a definitive answer. Instead of the many harmful pollutants that gas puts out after burning, propane leaves behind only water, heat, and carbon dioxide.
Of the two, propane is cheaper to use for a generator than gas. If you know that it is certain always to be readily available, you may want to consider a propane single fuel generator.
What is the Best Propane Generator for Home Use?
Propane generators (whether they are used as single generators or as part of a dual fuel system) work by storing the propane in liquid form in the tank of the generator. From here, there are two different possible systems. In a liquid system, the liquid travels straight to the fuel injector, where it’s converted into a vapor. In a vapor system, the liquid first travels to a regulator to be converted to a vapor. Then, it goes on to the fuel injector. Other than that, propane generators work in much the same way as a standard ICE (internal combustion engine).
If you are looking for the best propane generator for using at home, this is, again, something we can’t do justice in only 1 point of this buyer’s guide. It requires its own article, because the best generator for you may be different from the best generator for somebody else.
However, the DuroMax XP12000EH is considered by many to be one of the best. This is actually a dual fuel generator that features in our list of the best dual fuel generators, but it’s more than possible just to use propane to power it if you so wish.
Finding a generator that runs solely off propane is reasonably rare. Your best bet is probably to get one of the best dual fuel generators that we have recommended in our list, but then only use that type of fuel to power it, if that is what is going to be most useful for you.
How Do I Choose the Best Dual Fuel Generator For Me?
When choosing the best dual fuel generators, you should take into account a few different things that may affect what’s best for you and your needs.
- Tank size – In general, bigger is better when it comes to talking about how much fuel you want to be able to put into your generator, but that may not be the case for you. Both the size of the fuel tank and the power output are likely to affect the overall size of the device as a whole. We are thinking more about gasoline than propane here because propane is attached by a hose rather than poured into a tank. Think about how much space you have and how much you expect your generator to take up.
- Power output – Dual fuel generators generally produce more power than you might expect. Both fuels are very efficient at producing electrical currents with high amounts of Watts. As with the tank size, this is another instance of “biggest is best” – but within the other constrictions that you might place on the product. It also depends on what you are going to be using it for. If you’re only planning on needing to power very low-powered camping equipment, then you are unlikely to need a monster generator.
- Portability – Portable generators are generally more useful than those that aren’t so. With portable generators, you can (obviously) move them around and therefore use them to power different appliances, depending on the situation at hand. You will find that most generators are portable to some degree. However, you can still look at the different wheels and handles available on different models, considering what is most comfortable for you and what kind of terrain you are going to be needing to move the generator across.
- Noise level – Noise level is an unfortunate side effect of most dual fuel generators. It is, basically, inescapable that your device is going to making somewhat of a racket. However, the noise level of some is certainly worse than others. In general, the lower the noise level, the better the generator will be for you. This serves to not only protect your hearing but also to avoid annoying your neighbors, work colleagues, or family members so much.
- Local fuel availability – As we have said, both gasoline and propane should be readily available almost anywhere in the country, even in the world. However, you may want to look at how far you will have to go to get your fuel – and decide if it’s worth it. You can always store some on your property if you have room, too.
Warranty – Again, it’s just worth mentioning. Being covered by a warranty or guarantee will give you much more security than purchasing a cheaper product without one. Dual fuel generators use a lot of moving parts and are responsible for large amounts of power, so you should get protection for your investment if you can.
Conclusion
Overall, the best dual fuel generators can be somewhat difficult to choose between, but we hope that this article has been useful in explaining to you the benefits of getting your hands on one.
Thank you for spending time with us to read this article, and we hope to see you again soon.
