Best Dual Fuel Generators for Reliable Home Backup Power
Choosing the right dual fuel generator can ensure uninterrupted power for your home during outages. These generators operate on both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility, extended run times, and efficient fuel use. Below is a comparison table of top dual fuel generators that balance power output, runtime, and essential features suitable for home backup, RV use, and emergency situations.
| Product | Running Watts (Gas/Propane) | Peak Watts | Fuel Tank Capacity | Starting Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel | 9500 / 8500 | 12500 / 11200 | 6.6 gal | Remote Electric & Recoil |
| DuroMax XP13000EH | 13,000 (combined) | 13,000 | Not specified | Electric Start |
| Westinghouse 14500 Peak Dual Fuel | 11,500 / 10,500 | 14,500 / 13,500 | 9.5 gal | Remote Electric & Recoil |
| WEN 3600 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter | 2900 / 2600 | 3600 / 3500 | Not specified | Recoil Start |
| WEN 4750 Watt Dual Fuel Portable | 3800 / 3500 | 4750 / 4350 | Not specified | Electric Start |
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Generator
This Westinghouse dual fuel generator delivers 9500 running watts on gasoline and 8500 running watts on propane, making it ideal for powering multiple home appliances during outages. It features 12500 peak watts gasoline and 11200 peak watts propane capacity for startup loads. The remote electric start with key fob offers convenience, along with recoil backup. The fuel tank holds 6.6 gallons with a fuel gauge, supporting up to 12 hours of runtime.
Connectivity includes two GFCI 120V household receptacles, a transfer switch-ready 120V 30A outlet, and an RV-ready 120/240V 50A outlet with protective rubber covers. Powered by a robust 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve and automatic low oil shutdown, it also features a digital VFT display for voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours monitoring.
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH is a heavy-duty dual fuel generator offering 13,000 watts of power to cover whole-home backup needs. Its core features include a powerful DuroMax engine, designed for durability and consistent operation in emergencies. This model excels in versatility, running efficiently on both gasoline and propane.
Ideal for whole-home backup, it supports transfer switch compatibility and RV use, ensuring that essential appliances and systems remain powered. DuroMax’s reputation in dual fuel technology emphasizes reliability, making this model a solid choice for long-term investment in emergency preparedness.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Generator
The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Dual Fuel generator caters to larger homes with substantial power demands. It offers 11,500 running watts on gasoline and 10,500 running watts on propane, with corresponding peak outputs of 14,500 and 13,500 watts.
Fuel efficiency is impressive, with up to 19 hours runtime on a 9.5-gallon tank and 7 hours on a 20 lb propane tank. The remote electric start adds convenience, while the transfer switch readiness makes integration seamless for home emergency systems. This generator is advantageous for prolonged power outages.
WEN Quiet 3600-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Inverter Generator
This WEN inverter generator delivers 2900 rated watts (gasoline) and 2600 rated watts (propane) with a surge of up to 3600/3500 watts respectively. Its dual fuel design allows quick switching between gasoline and propane for flexible fuel use.
Noted for its quiet operation, it produces noise levels comparable to normal conversation, suitable for RV use or sensitive environments. The inverter technology produces clean power, safe for laptops, smartphones, and other electronics. It also features a fuel shutoff and a CO watchdog sensor enhancing safety.
WEN 4750-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
This WEN generator offers dual fuel operation with 3800 running watts on gasoline and 3500 running watts on propane. Surge watts are 4750 and 4350 respectively. The user-friendly selection dial allows effortless switching between fuel sources.
Voltage output is adjustable from 120V to 240V, making it perfect for use with transfer switches and emergency backup systems. The electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a single key turn, enhancing ease of use during emergencies.
Buying Guide For Dual Fuel Generators
Selecting the best dual fuel generator requires careful consideration of several factors to match your home’s emergency power needs.
Power Output and Peak Watts
Assess the total running and peak wattage requirements of your home appliances and devices. Peak watts handle startup surges, while running watts indicate continuous power capacity. For whole home backup, generators with 10,000+ running watts are often recommended.
Fuel Type Flexibility
Dual fuel generators run on gasoline and propane, giving you fuel flexibility during shortages or storage concerns. Propane is cleaner-burning and has a longer shelf life, while gasoline typically offers higher immediate power output.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Capacity
Longer runtimes reduce refueling needs during extended outages. Look for generators with sufficiently sized fuel tanks and efficient engines. Some models also include fuel gauges for better monitoring.
Starting Mechanism
Electric or remote start provides convenience, especially when power outages occur. Recoil start acts as a backup but may be less user-friendly during emergencies.
Portability and Weight
Consider the generator’s weight and wheel kit options to ease transport and storage. Heavy-duty generators for whole-home backup tend to be heavier but often come with wheels and handles.
Safety Features
Look for built-in safety protections like automatic low oil shutdown, GFCI outlets, rubber covers for outlets, and carbon monoxide detection with automatic shutdown sensors to safeguard users.
Compatibility With Transfer Switches
Generators compatible with transfer switches can integrate seamlessly with home electrical panels, allowing safe and straightforward power routing to essential circuits.
Noise Level
Quiet generators are preferable in densely populated or noise-sensitive areas. Inverter generators produce cleaner power with significantly less noise compared to conventional models.