Best Propane Backup Generators for Reliable Home Power
When the power goes out, having a reliable propane backup generator is essential to keep your home running smoothly. This article reviews five of the best propane generators on the market today, each offering various features suited for home backup, RV use, and emergency power needs. Below is a comparison table to help you quickly overview these options.
| Generator | Peak Watts | Fuel Options | Run Time | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DuroMax XP13000EH | 13,000 | Gas & Propane | Varies | Electric start, transfer switch ready, whole house power |
| Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel | 12,500 (Gas) | Gas & Propane | Up to 12 hours | Remote start, transfer switch ready, GFCI outlets |
| Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel | 14,500 (Gas) | Gas, Propane & Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours (Gas) | Remote start, transfer switch ready, long run time |
| Westinghouse 13500 Tri-Fuel | 13,500 (Gas) | Gas, Propane & Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours (Gas) | Remote start, CO shutdown, GFCI outlets |
| WEN Quiet 6800 Dual Fuel Inverter | 6,800 Surge | Gas & Propane | Varies | Quiet operation, CO watchdog, EV charging capable |
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH delivers a powerful 13,000 watts of power, capable of running your whole home during outages. It operates on both gasoline and propane, featuring a dual-fuel engine designed for reliability and durability. This generator is electric start, making it convenient to power up, and it’s transfer switch ready, allowing easy integration with home electrical systems. Perfect for emergency situations and RV use, it combines powerful output with a robust DuroMax engine for long-term operation.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Generator
This Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel generator offers 9,500 running watts on gasoline and 8,500 on propane. It supports up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6-gallon tank. Features include remote electric start with key fob for ease of use and a digital display showing voltage and frequency. It includes multiple outlets: two standard GFCI receptacles, a transfer switch-ready outlet, and an RV-ready outlet. The heavy-duty 457cc engine includes automatic low oil shutdown for safety.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel generator provides versatile fuel options: gasoline, propane, and natural gas. It generates up to 14,500 peak watts on gasoline and offers up to 19 hours of runtime on a 9.5-gallon fuel tank. The 550cc engine features a durable cast iron sleeve and a built-in fuel gauge. This model supports larger homes needing reliable emergency backup power and includes remote start and transfer switch readiness.
Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Generator
The Westinghouse 13500 Tri-Fuel unit operates on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, designed for extended home use with up to 19 hours runtime on gasoline. It provides 13,500 peak watts on gasoline and multiple safety features including automatic low oil and carbon monoxide shutdowns. Outlets include GFCI household sockets, transfer switch ready, and RV compatible ports. Remote start and a digital hour meter enhance usability and monitoring.
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Inverter Generator
The WEN Quiet 6800 Dual Fuel inverter generator is ideal for RV owners and small homes needing quiet, portable power. It runs on gasoline or propane with surge watts up to 6,800 and rated watts near 5,000. Notably, it features a bonded-neutral 240V output suitable for Level 2 electric vehicle charging. The integrated CO watchdog automatically shuts the generator off if dangerous carbon monoxide is detected, offering enhanced safety for indoor or campsite use.
Buying Guide for Propane Backup Generators
When selecting the best propane backup generator, consider the following key factors:
- Power Output: Determine the wattage you need based on the essential appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. Generators range from under 7,000 watts to over 20,000 watts for whole-home support.
- Fuel Versatility: Dual or tri-fuel capability provides flexibility to use gasoline, propane, or natural gas. Propane is popular for cleaner burning and longer shelf life.
- Run Time and Fuel Tank Size: Longer run times and larger fuel tanks reduce the need for frequent refueling during extended outages.
- Start Mechanism: Electric start options improve user convenience, especially with remote start features allowing operation from a distance.
- Safety Features: Look for automatic low oil shutoff and carbon monoxide detection/shutdown to ensure safe operation.
- Outlets and Connectivity: Check for sufficient household, RV, and transfer switch-ready outlets to meet your power connection needs.
- Noise Level: For residential or campsite use, inverter generators and quieter models like WEN provide more peaceful operation.
- Portability and Durability: Consider the weight, wheels, and build quality for ease of transport and long-term use.
Choosing the right propane backup generator involves balancing power needs, fuel options, runtime, and safety to safeguard your home during outages effectively.