Imagine a sudden power outage. Your lights go out, your fridge stops humming, and your comfort disappears. What if you had a reliable backup that could keep things running, no matter what fuel is available? That’s where dual fuel generators step in, offering a flexible and smart solution for keeping your home powered.
But with so many choices out there, picking the perfect dual fuel generator can feel overwhelming. You want power, but you also want to make sure it runs on the fuel that’s easiest for you to get, whether that’s gasoline or propane. It’s a big decision that can save you a lot of headaches during emergencies.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dual fuel generators. We’ll help you understand how they work, what makes them a great choice, and the important things to consider when buying one. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the right generator to keep your family safe and comfortable, no matter the situation.
Our Top 5 Dual Fuel Generators Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dual Fuel Generators Detailed Reviews
1. Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Rating: 9.3/10
The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a powerful and versatile solution for keeping your home powered during outages. It runs on both gasoline and propane, giving you flexibility. With electric and recoil start options, plus a remote start, getting it going is easy. This generator can power essential appliances, electronics, and even your RV.
What We Like:
- Dual Fuel: Runs on both gasoline and propane for your convenience.
- Powerful Output: Delivers 9500 running watts on gas and 8500 running watts on propane, with higher peak watts.
- Easy Start: Features remote electric start with a key fob, plus a manual recoil start.
- Long Run Time: Up to 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon tank of gas.
- Versatile Outlets: Includes standard household outlets, a transfer switch ready outlet, and an RV-ready outlet.
- Safety Features: All outlets have rubber covers, and the generator has an automatic low oil shutdown.
- Informative Display: The VFT display shows voltage, frequency, and hours used.
- Ready to Go: Comes with everything you need to start, including a remote fob, charger, oil, and tools.
- Reliable Engine: Powered by a heavy-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-stroke engine.
- Warranty: Backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At 12500 watts, it’s a heavy unit and might require two people to move.
- Fuel Gauge Accuracy: Some users have reported that the fuel gauge could be more precise.
This Westinghouse generator offers robust power and user-friendly features, making it a dependable choice for home backup power. It’s built to last and provides peace of mind during emergencies.
2. WEN Quiet and Lightweight 3600-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog (DF360iX)
Rating: 9.4/10
The WEN DF360iX generator is a fantastic choice for anyone needing reliable power on the go, especially for RV trips or outdoor adventures. It’s designed to be quiet and easy to carry. This generator offers flexibility with its dual-fuel capability, running on both gasoline and propane. It also provides clean power, which is super important for your electronics.
What We Like:
- It runs on both gasoline and propane. This gives you options!
- It’s very quiet. You can talk normally while it’s running.
- It provides clean power for your sensitive gadgets like phones and laptops.
- The CO Watchdog sensor is a big safety feature. It shuts off if there’s too much carbon monoxide.
- It has a fuel shut-off feature to make maintenance easier.
- It comes with many outlets, including RV-ready and USB ports, so you can power lots of things.
- It includes a tool-free LPG connector, making setup simple.
- It has a good three-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s quiet, some users might still find the noise noticeable in very sensitive situations.
- The wattage on propane is slightly lower than on gasoline, though still very capable for most needs.
Overall, the WEN DF360iX is a powerful and safe generator that offers great value. It’s a reliable companion for all your portable power needs.
3. WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog for Electric Vehicle Backup (DF680iX)
Rating: 8.6/10
The WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerful and versatile option for powering your adventures or keeping your home ready for anything. This generator runs on both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility for different situations. It’s also RV-ready, making it a great companion for camping trips. Plus, its electric start makes powering it up a breeze.
What We Like:
- It runs on both gasoline and propane, giving you choices for fuel.
- The generator can power Level 2 charging for electric vehicles, a big plus for EV owners.
- The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor adds an important safety feature, turning off the generator if carbon monoxide levels get too high.
- A fuel shutoff feature helps protect the generator’s engine for longer life.
- It comes with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easy to move around.
- You get a variety of outlets, including RV, 120V, 120V/240V, and USB ports, so you can plug in many devices.
- It includes a propane regulator hose and a tool-free connector for easy propane hookup.
- The three-year warranty offers peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a CO watchdog, it’s always good practice to have separate CO detectors.
- The surge watts on propane are a bit lower than on gasoline.
This WEN generator is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable power on the go or as a backup. Its dual-fuel capability and EV charging feature make it stand out.
4. WEN 5
Rating: 8.8/10
The WEN 5,600-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a powerful and versatile tool for powering your home or campsite. It runs on both gasoline and propane, giving you flexibility when you need it most. Plus, it has an electric start, making it super easy to get going. Safety is a big deal with this generator; it has a CO Watchdog sensor that shuts it down if carbon monoxide levels get too high. This generator is built to last and comes with a helpful wheel kit.
What We Like:
- It’s a dual fuel generator, so you can use gasoline or propane. This gives you options.
- Starting it is a breeze with the electric start button. No more pulling cords!
- The CO Watchdog sensor is a great safety feature. It protects your family.
- It has a large gas tank that allows for long run times, up to 12.5 hours on half load.
- The included wheel kit makes it easy to move around.
- It has several outlets, including an RV-ready one.
- A three-year warranty offers peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the propane surge watts are a bit lower than gasoline surge watts.
- The generator is a bit heavy when not on wheels, but the wheel kit helps a lot.
This WEN generator is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable power. Its dual fuel capability and safety features make it a smart investment for emergencies or outdoor adventures.
5. DuroMax XP13000EH 13
Rating: 9.5/10
The DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a powerhouse for any situation. It runs on both gas and propane, giving you flexibility. You can start it with just a push of a button. This generator is built tough with a heavy-duty metal frame and no plastic parts. It’s ready to keep your whole home powered during outages and is also great for RV trips or job sites.
What We Like:
- Massive 13,000 watts of power can run your entire home.
- Dual fuel capability (gas and propane) offers great versatility.
- Electric start makes powering up quick and easy.
- Heavy-duty all-metal construction ensures durability.
- Transfer switch ready 50 amp outlet simplifies whole-home hookup.
- No-flat tires make it easy to move around.
- 100% copper windings improve efficiency and lifespan.
- DuroMax is a leader in dual fuel generator technology.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 13,000 watts, it’s a larger unit, so storage space might be a consideration.
- While designed for mobility, it’s still a substantial piece of equipment.
This generator offers incredible power and reliability for emergencies or adventures. It’s a smart investment for anyone needing dependable backup power.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Dual Fuel Generator Companion
So, you’re thinking about getting a dual fuel generator? That’s smart! These handy machines let you run on either gasoline or propane. This gives you a lot of flexibility when you need power. Let’s dive into what makes a good dual fuel generator.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important things:
- Wattage: This tells you how much power the generator can provide. Make sure it’s enough for what you need to power, like your fridge, lights, or tools.
- Fuel Tank Size: A bigger tank means longer run time on gasoline.
- Propane Hose Length: A longer hose lets you keep your propane tank further away from the generator, which is safer.
- Outlets: Check that it has the right types and number of outlets for your devices. Many have standard household outlets and maybe a 30-amp RV outlet.
- Inverter Technology: This makes the power cleaner and safer for sensitive electronics like laptops and phones.
- Noise Level: Generators can be loud. Look for models that advertise lower decibel (dB) ratings.
- Portability: If you need to move it around, check its weight and if it has wheels.
Important Materials
The stuff a generator is made of matters.
- Frame: A sturdy steel frame protects the generator and makes it easier to carry. Look for powder-coated steel to prevent rust.
- Engine: A good engine is the heart of the generator. Copper windings in the alternator are better than aluminum. They last longer and handle heat better.
- Fuel System: The fuel lines and carburetor should be made of durable materials that won’t get damaged by gasoline or propane.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a generator great, while others can be a problem.
- Improvements:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): This keeps the power steady, protecting your electronics.
- Low Oil Shutdown: This feature turns off the generator if the oil level gets too low, preventing engine damage.
- Parallel Capability: Some generators can be linked together to provide more power.
- Electric Start: This makes starting the generator super easy.
- Reductions:
- Plastic Parts: Too much plastic can break easily.
- Poor Insulation: This can lead to overheating and shorter lifespan.
- Difficult Fuel Switching: If it’s hard to switch between gas and propane, it’s a hassle.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your generator is important.
- Camping and RVing: Dual fuel generators are perfect for powering your adventures. Propane is often easier to store and use on the go.
- Home Backup: During power outages, a dual fuel generator keeps your essentials running. You can use gasoline when propane is scarce or vice versa.
- Job Sites: For construction or outdoor events, these generators provide reliable power where there are no outlets.
- Ease of Use: A good generator starts easily and switches fuels without fuss. The controls should be simple to understand.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, like oil changes and air filter cleaning, keeps your generator running well for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a dual fuel generator?
A: A dual fuel generator is a power source that can run on either gasoline or propane. This gives you more options for fuel.
Q: Why choose dual fuel over single fuel?
A: Dual fuel offers flexibility. You can use propane for cleaner burning and longer storage, or gasoline for quick power when needed. You aren’t stuck if one fuel runs out.
Q: How much wattage do I need?
A: Calculate the wattage of the items you need to power. Add them up and choose a generator with at least 10% more wattage than your total to be safe.
Q: Is propane or gasoline better?
A: Propane burns cleaner and lasts longer in storage. Gasoline provides more power for its size but can go bad over time. Both have advantages.
Q: How do I switch fuels?
A: Most generators have a simple selector switch or valve. You usually need to turn off the generator and then switch the fuel source.
Q: Are dual fuel generators safe?
A: Yes, when used properly. Always operate them in a well-ventilated area, never indoors. Follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Q: How loud are dual fuel generators?
A: Noise levels vary. Look for models rated at 60-70 decibels (dB) for quieter operation. That’s about the level of normal conversation.
Q: Can I power my whole house with a dual fuel generator?
A: For a whole house, you’ll need a larger, more powerful generator, often called a standby generator. Portable dual fuel generators are usually for backup power for essential items.
Q: How long will a generator run on a full tank or propane cylinder?
A: This depends on the generator’s size, the load you put on it, and the size of the fuel tank or propane cylinder. Check the product specifications.
Q: What kind of maintenance do dual fuel generators need?
A: You’ll need to change the oil regularly, clean or replace the air filter, and check the spark plug. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific details.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.