Our lives revolve around electricity. When the power goes down it is more than the lights that go out. Air-conditioners, refrigerators, and heat all depend upon electricity for power. That is why a backup generator is so important. In this article, we are going into detail about the best dual fuel generator on the market this year.
These power supplies use motors to generate electricity. Those motors need fuel to run. A dual fuel generator is capable of running on either gasoline or propane. There are a variety of features to look for and we will examine them more closely.
A general review of currently available generators will follow and one of them may be the best dual fuel generator for you!
Why Would You Need a Dual Fuel Generator?
Most of us prefer a particular type of fuel to burn, so the major reason for needing a dual fuel generator will be its versatility. Most property owners will have gasoline and liquid propane on their premises to run various outdoor equipment (gas grills, lawnmowers, power tools etc.).
With a choice between fuels, a user is able to switch from one type of fuel to another type if the first fuel runs out. The ability to switch can save a person from taking unnecessary trips away from home during an outage, especially if it happens during extreme weather events.
Gasoline is the most popular fuel used in a generator’s engine and it is readily available under most circumstances. During a power outage, however, getting extra gas from the filling station may prove impossible if it is also suffering from the outage.
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, obtaining petrol may prove to be impossible. Even if a station’s pumps are running, they may soon run out of gas as everyone rushes to buy it up.
Fuel storage is another consideration that favors a dual fuel generator. While gasoline is a cheaper fuel source, it will not store as long as other fuels. Petrol will evaporate in the heat which makes it less cost-effective when storing it in quantity. It can also be more dangerous to store and gives off harmful vapors too.
Having an additional stock of propane offers extra fuel that can be stored nearly indefinitely. The propane tanks provide safer storage for the generator’s extra fuel than gas cans do. When the gasoline runs out, a propane tank can be attached to fuel the motor. This versatility gives a homeowner more control over their storage and consumption of generator fuels.
Dual Fuel Generator Features to Consider
Wattage
The most important feature of a generator is its size. The power of a generator is indicated by the wattage rating it has. The power that a generator produces while it is operating is listed as the Running Rating. The Surge Rating lists the power burst a generator is capable of for appliance and tool start-ups for a short time.
A homeowner needs to calculate the wattage requirements that will be needed for the generator. The wattage for each appliance or tool that needs to be powered should be added together. Next, the highest surge wattage from the list should be added to this total. The sum of the two numbers will indicate the total watts required.
For example, a list contains five appliances that will require 1,200-watts of power to run. The highest surge rating for a single appliance on the list is 650-watts. The sum of both numbers is 1,850-watts. This represents the total watts required from the generator.
If the required wattage is unknown, it can be calculated using the amperage and voltage. Multiply amps x volts to determine the wattage needed. For example, a device rates for six amps and 110-volts. Multiplying 6 x 110 will give a rating of 660-watts.
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Generator Portability
A feature that is sometimes overlooked is the portability of the unit. Generators can be surprisingly heavy. If the generator weighs too much, it may be limited in the places it can be set up.
That could be a problem if the location becomes compromised or it is needed at another location on the property. A lighter generator can be taken on the road, to be used on a job site or while camping and traveling in an RV.
Spacial dimensions also factor into the portability of a generator. Larger units cannot be stored as easily and may be hard to move around as individuals. Smaller generators can be stored until they are needed. They can also be transported by a larger variety of vehicles.
The generator should have at least two wheels that allow it to be moved without lifting. Wheels that provide greater clearance from the ground allow the unit to move across rough terrain.
Handles should be located in a position that provides a good hold for lifting and pulling. Multiple handles allow two individuals to carry a smaller generator.
Dual Fuel
A generator is only as effective as its fuel storage. If the unit is not fuel efficient then it will require constant filling. A larger gas capacity will also allow more petrol to be stored onboard for the motor to run off of.
A good generator is capable of running for eight-hours on either gas or propane at half-power.
Many features are available on most generators that promote less fuel consumption. Manufacturers will include energy saving modes of operation on their engines that cut fuel usage when they are not running at full power.
An engine that is easy to clean and maintain will run more efficiently than one that is hard for the owner to service.
Liquid propane burns cleaner than gasoline does. On the other hand, a full tank of gas will tend to power the generator longer than a full tank of propane.
Propane stores cleanly in pre-filled tanks, while gasoline must be purchased and stored in approved containers that do not seal. Fuel prices constantly fluctuate, so an observant owner will be able to purchase both fuels at cheaper prices over time.
Noise
Generators can produce a lot of noise. Manufacturers may list the decibel level their generators will generate during use. This measure of sound amplitude is often listed as a dBA rating. It should be remembered that these ratings are often taken from a distance of at least 25-feet, so the sound will be louder at the generator. The sound that a generator produces will increase when it is running a full load as well.
Ease of Use
A final consideration is the features that make the dual fuel generator easy to operate.
This will include how easy the break-in cycle of the motor is to perform.
Additional features will also make the generator safer for the operator to use.
Best Dual Fuel Generators Reviewed
Best for RVs – Champion Dual Fuel Generator – 3800-Watt Portable
The smaller 22 x 22.8 x 30.7 unit weighs only 122-pounds, a reasonable size that would allow it to be taken on the road. The electric start allows this generator to be started easily. The gas storage system holds 3.4 gallons, providing fuel for nearly nine hours at half-power.
A 20-gallon propane tank can be attached that will run it for a longer time at that same power level.
There are four total surge-protected outlets on this dual fuel portable generator including two 120v at 20a, a 120v at 30a (RV), and a 120v at 30a locking. It is EPA and CARB certified and comes with Champion support.
Best Quiet Dual Fuel Generator – Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator – 4500 Peak Watt
Designed to cater to your power needs on the move, the iGen4500DFc is a premium choice. Featuring a TT-30R RV Ready Outlet, two 20A household outlets, and built-in USB ports, it’s perfect for camping and emergencies alike. This generator maximizes fuel efficiency with variable engine speed, offering up to 18 hours of runtime on a 3.4-gallon gas tank. Whether on gasoline or propane, its dual fuel capability provides flexibility wherever you are.
User-friendly features abound, from Push-Button Electric Start to wireless remote ignition. The LED Data Center, complete with an automatic rotating digital display, keeps you in the loop with real-time data. With clean power output below 3% THD, the iGen4500DFc safeguards sensitive electronics. Its compact design with wheels and extendable handle enhances portability, setting it apart from conventional generators.
Safety is paramount, evident through automatic low oil and CO shutdown, voltage regulation, and overload protection. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty and Lifetime Technical Support, the iGen4500DFc comes with the assurance of Westinghouse’s nationwide service network. Elevate your power solution with the iGen4500DFc Inverter Portable Generator.
Best Dual Fuel Generator 12,000 Watt – DuroMax XP12000EH Portable Generator
This workhorse measures 28 x 30 x 40 and weighs 269 pounds. It could be a good portable dual fuel generator for those needing to run power-hungry appliances. The fuel capacity is 8.3-gallons, and it can run for 10 hours on a full tank at half-power. The time doubles if running at that level with a 20-gallon propane tank.
The unit offers two household outlets as well as a 120v 30a twist lock, a 120v/240v 30a twist lock, and a 120v/240v 50a heavy duty port. Each motor mount is isolated to help reduce noise. The generator has a spark arrestor, providing safe use in forests.
Best Dual Fuel Generator 10,000 Watt – Pulsar Products PG10000B16
This long-running Pulsar dual fuel generator measures 28.5 x 22.2 x 21.8 and weighs 209 pounds. This would be a great unit for someone looking for a long run time. The eight gallon tank can provide 12-hours or power at a half rating. The ability to switch from gas to propane while it is running means there will be no downtime.
This generator provides seven outlets, a great feature for those needing to plug multiple things in at once. This includes four household outlets, a 120v/240v twist-lock, a 120v/240v 50a RV, and a 12v DC outlet. These are protected by circuit breakers.
Best Electric Start Portable Generator – WEN DF1100X 11000-Watt
Seamlessly toggling between gas and propane, this generator caters to both home and outdoor power needs. Start it up with a simple push of the electric start button. Opt for propane to access a robust 9500 surge watts and 7500 running watts. Alternatively, gasoline offers a formidable 11000 surge watts and 8300 running watts.
The control panel boasts exceptional utility, featuring four outlets. Safety is paramount, as exemplified by the WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor. Detecting dangerous carbon monoxide levels, ensures the well-being of users and their families.
Transportation is effortless with the wheel and handle kit, while the provided 47-inch LPG hose guarantees swift propane tank connection. With a 457cc engine and 240 volts of power, this CARB & EPA III compliant generator stands as a reliable emergency backup power for your entire home.
Connect your transfer switch to the NEMA 30A twist lock for immediate access to electricity when needed most. The fuel tank, holding up to 6.6 gallons of gasoline, offers an 8.5-hour half-load runtime, bridging power gaps seamlessly.
It comes with a solid two-year warranty and supported by WEN’s reputation for excellence, it’s a reliable power solution.
Conclusion – The Best Dual Fuel Generator
A generator needs to be able to supply the proper levels of wattage when called upon, and each of the units reviewed above is capable of doing that. Each product offers household outlets to plug in standard devices as well as heavier outlets for heavier appliances. Each of these is smaller than the non-mobile household generators, providing mobility.
So which is the best dual fuel generator? That will depend on needs. By calculating the wattage required for all necessary appliance and tool power, a homeowner will be able to determine the Running and Surge ratings needed. The need for portability is then considered to help narrow the field of potential products.
It is important that any generator we select for emergency purposes is capable of running for at least eight hours, and it should be fuel efficient. We hope this article generated the answers you needed!
