Dual fuel generators are one of those household investments that is easy to put off. But once you have one, you may wonder how you ever lived without it. When you want to power your campsite, light up a work site that doesn’t have power, or get your house back up and running during a power outage, generators save the day.
A dual fuel generator does the same job as a single fuel generator. The unit runs on propane or gasoline, allowing you to choose the fuel based on your needs, like power requirements, noise restrictions, and availability in your area.
The best dual fuel generators have several electrical outlets, a range of power output options, and wheels for added portability. This article explains some of the key features of quality generators and will help you to find a suitable model for your home.
- BEST OVERALL: Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: DuroMax XP5500EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- UPGRADE PICK: DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Pulsar G12KBN Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- BEST FOR HOME: A-iPower SUA12000ED 12,000 Watt Dual Fuel Generator
- BEST FOR RVs: All Power America APGG10000GL 10000 Watt Generator
- ALSO CONSIDER: Champion 3,800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
Before You Buy a Dual Fuel Generator
Before you buy a dual fuel generator, you’ll need to consider a few things to ensure the investment will meet your needs.
First and foremost, keep in mind that you cannot run a dual fuel generator indoors; they produce toxic fumes. Instead, you must set them up outside in a sheltered location to provide electrical power to appliances through an extension cord.
The best multifuel generator uses both gasoline and propane to provide electric power to your home, campground, or work site. These generators skew larger and less portable than single fuel generators. Transporting two different types of fuel, if you decide to, can also be a hassle. If portability matters a great deal to you, consider a portable generator that runs on gasoline or diesel.
If noise levels make a difference, dual fuel generators run quietly in propane mode. However, if you run out of propane and have to switch to gasoline, the generator will make much more noise. If you really want a silent-running generator, an inverter generator may make a better choice. This style has an enclosed body and supplies power using a computer-controlled inverter instead of a noisier alternator.
However, if you see yourself using two fuel types on a regular basis and can deal with a little extra weight and noise, read on to find the best dual fuel generator for your home.
How We Chose the Best Dual Fuel Generators
The best dual fuel generators provide reliable backup power to the home with either gasoline or propane and ensure your home can keep running if the electricity goes down in the neighborhood.
Our list of recommendations pays close attention to the fuel efficiency, fuel tank capacity, noise level, and power output to offer the best dual fuel generator choices for your specific needs. We have made sure to provide a range of options that can suit specific situations, such as large-capacity generators for high power demand, portable and compact units ideal for camping trips, and generators for light power outages and emergencies.
Our top picks stand out from the competition in terms of efficiency and safety features, in addition to reliability. We are aware that most homes cannot function without power: Food stored in fridges and freezers starts to thaw if too much time passes without electricity, and the sweltering heat in the summer months can be unbearable without air conditioning or at least a fan to help cool down.
Our Top Picks
The top dual fuel generators below get high marks for quality, price, and user satisfaction. Each has been selected for its quality, features, and power output, and we also took into account user reviews. Give the following products a look to help you find the best generator for your home.
Photo: amazon.com
For the best dual fuel 7,500-watt generator, the Westinghouse dual fuel portable generator offers 9,500 watts of peak power on gasoline and 6,750 running watts and 8,550 peak watts while using a propane tank. It provides fail-safe ignition with an electric start on the keypad, a key fob with a remote start button, and a backup recoil cord start.
This generator operates at just 72 dB and runs up to 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon tank of gasoline. It has two GFCI 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt transfer switch outlet, and one 120/240-volt RV outlet. Each includes a rubber cover for added safety, and a wheel kit and lift bracket add mobility. The dual fuel generator measures 27.2 inches long by 26.1 inches wide by 26 inches high and weighs 201 pounds.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 6.6 gallons
- Wattage: 6,750 to 9,500 watts
- Noise level: 72 dB
Pros
- Fail-safe ignition with electric start, key fob, remote-start button, and backup recoil cord start
- Built-in wheels make for easier movement and portability where needed
- Efficient fuel burning; runs for over 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank
- Comes with 4 outlets, including 2 GFCI 120-volt standard household outlets
Cons
- Quite loud compared to other models; may cause unnecessary noise pollution
- Heavy to lift; may be hard to carry or roll over rough terrain
Get the Westinghouse dual fuel portable generator at Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Tractor Supply Co.
Photo: amazon.com
Get out of the house and into the great outdoors with the best portable dual fuel generator by DuroMax; it’s designed with a thick steel lift frame and a rear-wheel kit for easy transport. It makes just 69 dB of noise, so it won’t disturb the peace around the campsite.
On a full 4-gallon fuel tank of gasoline, the 136-pound generator runs for up to 9 hours and produces 4,500 watts of running power and 5,500 watts of peak power. While using a propane tank, it puts out 4,275 watts of running power and 5,500 watts of peak power. This generator comes with two 120-volt standard household outlets and one 120/240-volt twist-lock outlet to run 240V appliances or tools.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 4 gallons
- Wattage: 4,275 to 5,500 watts
- Noise level: 69 dB
Pros
- Runs for up to 9 hours for powering small appliances, devices, and more
- Generator comes with 2 household outlets and a twist-lock outlet
- Capable of powering 240V tools and appliances; built for ample power output
Cons
- Heavyweight compared to similar models; may be hard to transport if needed
- Some users have reported issues when using with an RV
Get the DuroMax XP5500EH dual fuel portable generator at Amazon or Tractor Supply Co.
Photo: amazon.com
The features on this premium dual fuel generator warrant its bigger price tag. On a full 8.3-gallon fuel tank of gasoline, this DuroMax portable dual fuel generator produces 9,500 watts of running power and 12,000 watts of peak power at a 74-dB noise level. (The manufacturer’s specs don’t include power outputs while using a propane tank.)
DuroMax’s generator starts with an electric ignition or a backup recoil cord. For added safety, it shuts down automatically when the oil runs low. This 234-pound generator measures 29 inches long by 30 inches wide by 26 inches high, and it sits in a steel frame on two heavy-duty wheels to aid in transport around the campsite, work site, or home. It includes two 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt twist-lock outlet, one 240-volt twist-lock outlet, and one 240-volt heavy-duty outlet.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 8.3 gallons
- Wattage: 9,500 to 12,000 watts
- Noise level: 74 dB
Pros
- Built for heavy-duty use; 9,000- to 12,000-watt power supply intended for large appliances
- Large fuel capacity provides ample runtime per fuel source; 8 hours per tank of gas
- Built-in automatic shutdown when the generator runs low on oil
Cons
- Pricey compared to similar options; may have too many bells and whistles for some users
- Tires may flatten, cannot be inflated; should not be used over rough or heavy terrain
Get the DuroMax XP12000EH dual fuel portable generator at Amazon, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Tractor Supply Co.
Photo: amazon.com
Pulsar’s G12KBN dual fuel generator makes a great choice for heavy-duty use at home or at the jobsite as it is considered one of the most reliable dual fuel generators on the market. It operates at 9,500 watts of running power and 12,000 watts of peak power on gasoline or 8,550 and 10,800 watts on propane. On a full 8-gallon tank of gasoline, it runs continuously for up to 12 hours. Though it is not the best dual fuel whole house generator, it has a high enough power output for large appliances.
It weighs in at 209 pounds and measures 28.5 inches long by 21.8 inches wide by 22.2 inches high, but the thick steel lift frame, fold-out front handles, and a rear-wheel kit facilitate transport. The dual fuel generator includes four 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt twist-lock outlet, one 12-volt DC port, and one 120/240-volt industrial grade outlet.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 8 gallons
- Wattage: 8,550 to 12,000 watts
- Noise level: 74 dB
Pros
- Solid, durable construction; can be used in rough weather or transported easily
- Runs for over 12 hours on an 8-gallon tank; suitable for using long-term use or overnight
- Excellent power output of 8,550 to 12,000 watts; suitable for powering large items
Cons
- Very heavy; may take more than 1 person to transport or move
- Propane smell can be quite strong while generator is in use; caution suggested
Get the Pulsar portable dual fuel generator at Amazon or Newegg.
Photo: amazon.com
The A-iPower 12,000 watt Dual Fuel Generator is perfect for heavy-duty use at home or at the jobsite with its steel lift frame and wheel kit. It operates at 9,000 watts of running power and 12,000 watts of peak power with gasoline or 8,500 watts of running power and 10,800 watts of peak power with propane. The 7-gallon fuel tank allows the generator to operate for 5 hours but can run for up to 10 hours with a 20-pound propane tank.
The 214-pound dual fuel generator measures 27.9 inches long by 21 inches wide by 22.8 inches high and includes four 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240-volt industrial grade outlet. This unit starts with an electric switch or recoil cord and functions at 76 decibels. It can switch between propane and gasoline using the digital control panel and comes with a weather-resistant cover for use in bad conditions.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 7 gallons
- Wattage: 8,500 to 12,000 watts
- Noise level: 76 dB
Pros
- 7-gallon tank allows for high power outputs for over 5 hours; 10 hours with a 20-pound propane tank
- Comes with 4 120-volt household outlets, a 120-volt twist-lock outlet, and a 120/240-volt industrial grade outlet
- Multiple turn-on methods; either a recoil start or an electric start
- Digital control panel and weather-resistant cover allow for ample versatility and durability
Cons
- Louder operation volume than that of similar dual fuel generators available
- Not as fuel efficient as some other comparable options; may be a gas guzzler
Get the A-iPower dual fuel generator at Amazon or Tractor Supply Co.
Photo: amazon.com
Get out of your house and into the great outdoors with the All Power America Dual Fuel Portable Generator that comes with a steel lift frame and a wheel kit so that it is easier to load, unload, and wheel to your campsite. It can produce 8,000 watts of running power and 10,000 watts of peak power with gasoline, or 7,000 watts of running power and 8,500 watts of peak power with propane.
The 8-gallon fuel tank allows the generator to run an impressive 11 hours at 76 decibels, a noise level that will barely be noticed in the open air of a campground. It can be started with the electric start button or the recoil cord and comes with four 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt twist-lock outlet, one 120/240-volt twist-lock outlet, and a 12-volt DC port. The 227- pound dual fuel generator measures 31 inches by 23 inches by 21 inches, so make sure your RV, truck, or car has space to transport it to your campsite.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 8 gallons
- Wattage: 7,000 to 10,000 watts
- Noise level: 76 dB
Pros
- Provides over 11 hours of runtime; suitable for powering multiple devices, appliances, and more for a whole day
- Comes with 7 outlets: 4 household, 2 twist-lock, and 1 DC port
- Made with a steel frame and wheel kit; suitable for portability and transporting
Cons
- Louder operating volume than that of similar dual fuel generators available
- May be cumbersome to transport without a truck bed or storage space
Get the All Power America dual fuel generator at Amazon.
Photo: homedepot.com
Though a small dual fuel generator, Champion’s compact model makes for easy transport and storage with enough power output for small devices and appliances. At 119 pounds and just 26.3 inches long by 24.8 inches wide by 22.9 inches high, the unit includes a wheel kit and lift bars for added mobility.
On a full 3.4-gallon tank of gasoline, the generator runs for up to 9 hours while producing just 68 dB of noise. This little unit packs 3,800 watts of running power and 4,750 watts of peak power on gasoline or 3,420 and 4,275 watts on propane. When the oil runs low, the machine shuts off automatically.
The device offers an electric or pull-cord start and includes two 120-volt standard household outlets, one 120-volt twist-lock outlet, and one 120-volt RV outlet.
Product Specs
- Tank size: 3.4 gallons
- Wattage: 3,420 to 4,750 watts
- Noise level: 68 dB
Pros
- Includes 2 standard household outlets for small appliances and devices
- Compact size; can be moved or transported easily if needed
- Ideal during power outages since it can power fridges, appliances, smart devices, and more
Cons
- Oil changing is difficult; may require professional help to change
- Doesn’t run well in high temperatures; should not be used rigorously during hot summer months
Get the Champion dual fuel generator at The Home Depot, Grainger, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dual Fuel Generator
To find the best dual fuel generators for your home, campground, or work site, keep these important considerations in mind, including fuel efficiency, fuel tank capacity, power output, control panel configuration, and several additional factors detailed below.
Fuel Capacity
Dual fuel generators have an isolated gasoline tank with a fuel capacity that ranges from as small as 2 gallons to more than 10 gallons. The larger the fuel tank on the generator, the longer the generator can provide gasoline-based power. But, as tank size increases, so does the size of the generator itself.
Fuel capacity has no bearing on how much propane you can use with your dual fuel generator. Propane gas is stored under pressure in canisters, which attach to the generator with a hose and pressure regulator for direct fuel consumption.
Power Output
The power output on dual fuel generators is measured in watts (W). Manufacturers’ specs include peak power output and running power output. Peak power output refers to the maximum number of watts the generator can provide at any one time. Running power output equals the average number of watts produced during use.
Dual fuel generators produce a power output from 1,000 watts to over 12,000 watts depending on the size and function of the generator. Some manufacturers of dual fuel technology may further break these numbers down into propane peak and running power outputs and gasoline peak and running power outputs.
The breakdown of these numbers matters because gasoline produces a higher wattage than propane. Still, many manufacturers of dual fuel generators do not differentiate between the two fuels when they report peak and running power output. Instead, they report the highest numbers using gasoline, which leaves you to estimate the range for propane.
Recoil Cord vs. Electric Start
You can start your dual fuel generator with an electric start switch or a recoil cord.
- Electric start generators store extra electricity in an internal battery, which it then uses to start automatically when you press the button or flip the switch. An electric start makes ignition much easier than a recoil cord does, but it requires stored electricity in the generator. Without a charged internal battery, you cannot use the electric start.
- Recoil cord is an old but reliable technology that has been a feature of generators, lawn mowers, chainsaws, and many other fuel-powered tools for years. This method of starting the generator requires you to quickly and steadily pull the recoil cord to kick-start the engine. While it will take some effort, and possibly more than a few pulls to get the generator started, you won’t have to rely on electricity. This allows you to start up the generator any time, even if it has been stored in the garage or shed for a few years.
Operating Noise Level
Operating any power tool or accessory will produce some sound, but some of the best dual fuel generators have a very low noise output and still produce enough power for your purposes. The operating noise level is measured in decibels (dB). To understand the range of sound produced by a generator, consider these common sounds and their equivalent operating dB level:
- Refrigerator: 50 dB
- Hair dryer: 70 to 90 dB
- Motorcycle: 95 to 110 dB
A dual fuel generator will produce 50 to 90 dB of noise, depending on the size of the generator, the type of fuel (remember that gasoline runs louder than propane), and the power output of the unit. Most generators will fall between 65 dB and 75 dB, which compares to the noise output of a hair dryer on low.
The quietest dual fuel generators belong to a relatively small group of products that utilize dual fuel technology and inverter technology to create a dual fuel inverter generator.
Wheel Kit
Dual fuel generators are heavy and broad and may include hoses or tanks that make them difficult to carry and move around. In recognition of this portability shortcoming, some manufacturers of dual fuel portable generators (and generators in general) now include wheel kits with their products so that you can tilt the generator back and roll it to the desired location.
You can also purchase a wheel kit separately to add to your existing generator or replace an older wheel kit that doesn’t work well anymore. Either way, a wheel kit makes transportation of portable dual fuel generators much easier.
Lift Hook Bar
Lift hook bars come in most handy on jobsites where workers use them to attach the generator to a hook-and-pulley system and raise or lower it from floor to floor instead of carrying it up or down stairs or ladders. In industrial settings, this feature helps raise the generator onto a walkway or platform.
A lift hook bar will increase the weight (and likely the price) of the generator, so don’t look for a generator with this feature unless you truly plan to use it.
Size and Weight
The overall size of the dual fuel generator can be measured in inches and usually includes the length, width, and height of the generator, with most models falling between 22 by 22 by 22 inches and 35 by 30 by 30 inches. They typically weigh between 100 and 250 pounds.
If you plan to move the generator frequently, size and weight should figure prominently into your decision. Make sure it will fit in your car or truck and that the weight and dimensions allow you to take it where you need it to go. Don’t go so large that you can’t move it, and don’t go so small that the generator doesn’t provide the power you need. Remember: larger, heavier motors are also the most powerful.
The Advantages of Owning a Dual Fuel Generator
Gasoline and propane each have their pros and cons as generator fuels. Gasoline is easier to find, but propane costs less. Propane is a better fuel source in hot summer weather, while gas burns better in the cold. A dual fuel generator lets you weigh some of these pros and cons and choose a fuel based on your immediate circumstances.
When you use both fuel sources, one after the other, you may double your generator’s runtime. This lets you run to the gas station to refuel while the generator keeps providing power on propane.
To recap, with a dual fuel generator, you can:
- Choose your fuel based on cost or availability.
- Switch between propane and gasoline depending on the ambient temperature.
- Extend the total runtime of your generator by using a full tank of gasoline followed by a full tank of propane.
FAQs
Before buying, consider these frequently asked questions about dual fuel generators.
Q. How does a dual fuel generator work?
A dual fuel generator operates in the same way as a single fuel generator, except that it can burn both propane and gasoline to produce electrical energy. The generator converts the mechanical energy produced by the burning fuels to force the movement of electrical charges and generate electricity.
Q. Can you run a dual fuel generator on natural gas?
While some single fuel generators can be adapted for use with natural gas, this isn’t the case with dual fuel generators. Unless specially designed, dual fuel generators do not run on natural gas and cannot be adapted for this purpose.
Q. Is it cheaper to run a generator on gas or propane?
Propane gas is less expensive than gasoline, nearly impossible to spill, and burns cleaner, resulting in less wear on the engine over time. Save some money in the short and long term by investing in propane gas whenever possible.
Q. How long will a dual fuel generator run on propane?
The type of fuel doesn’t determine runtime; rather the fuel efficiency and fuel tank capacity of the specific product do. However, on average, a standard dual fuel generator runs about 8 to 10 hours on propane.
Q. What is the most powerful dual fuel generator?
If power is the goal, then the Pulsar G12KBN Dual Fuel Portable Generator is one of the best options to help ensure the campsite or the home has power for hours.
Q. How do you hook up a dual fuel generator to your house?
Dual fuel generators are not difficult to set up in your home if you have the proper instructions. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to power your home with a dual fuel generator:
- Before using your generator, a transfer switch will need to be installed by an electrician. These switches connect your generator to your home’s breaker, powering a certain number of circuits.
- Place your generator outside or on an even surface about 20 feet away from your home.
- Ensure that you have enough gasoline or propane to run the selected circuits.
- Start your generator and then plug in the appliance or circuit that will draw the most watts, followed by any other appliances or tools.
- Refuel as needed.
Q. Are dual fuel generators quieter on propane?
Generators that run on gasoline are typically louder than ones that run on propane since it requires less energy to burn propane fuel.
Q. How do you properly recycle an old dual fuel generator?
As is the case with most outdoor tools and large household appliances, they should be taken to a local recycling plant to be recycled.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
