Best Dual Fuel Generators of 2024 | Comparison Chart & Expert Guide

Best Dual Fuel Generator Reviews
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If you are a business or house owner, you might sometimes face a situation when you can’t run appliances because the grid is down.

One of the solutions can be a dual-fuel generator. A dual fuel generator does the same job as a single fuel generator, but the difference is unlike single fuel generators, these generators can run on propane or gasoline as well.

This flexibility in choosing the fuel will let you use the best-suited fuel for different applications like power requirements, noise reduction, restrictions on fuel availability in the area, and the fuel you have at hand.

The dual fuel generator will be cost-effective and eco-friendly and will satisfy all your power needs. Here we have compiled a list of the best dual fuel generators available in the market right now.

Best Dual Fuel Generator
Champion 201052 (Best Overall)
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 4750/3800
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 4275/3420
  • Run-Time (Gas): 14 hrs @ 50% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 10.5 hrs @ 50% load (20-pound tank)
  • Start Type: Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 68 dBA
  • Weight: 119 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years

(Other Variants available too)
DuroMax XP12000EH (Highest Power Output)
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 12000/9500
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 10200/8075
  • Run-Time (Gas): 10 hrs @ 50% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 5 hrs @ 25% load (5-gallon tank)
  • Start Type: Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 74 dBA
  • Weight: 224 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years

  • (Other Variants available too)
Westinghouse WGen3600DF (Budget Pick)
  • Starting Watts / Running Watts (Gas): 3600/4650
  • Surge Watts / Running Watts (Propane): 3240/4180
  • Run-Time (Gas): 13.5 hrs @ 50% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 10.5 hrs @ 50% load (20 pound tank)
  • Start Type: Wireless, Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 68 dBA
  • Weight: 109 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years

  • (Other Variants available too)
Champion 200988 (Best Dual-fuel Inverter Generator)
  • Starting Watts / Running Watts (Gas): 4500/3500
  • Starting Watts / Running Watts (Propane): 4500/3150
  • Run-Time (Gas): 14 hrs. @ 25% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 21 hrs. @ 25% load
  • Start Type: Electric + Recoil
  • Noise Level: 61 dBA from 23 feet
  • Weight: 103 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Special Feature: Dual-fuel, RV-ready, Intelligauge with Power Meter, Compact & Lightweight

  • (Other Variants available too)
WEN DF1100T
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 11000/8300
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 9500/7500
  • Run-Time (Gas): 8.5 hrs @ 50% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 6 hrs @ 50% load
  • Start Type: Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 72 dBA
  • Weight: 214 pounds
  • Warranty: 2 years

  • (Other Variants available too)
Westinghouse WGen7500DF
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 9500/7500
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 8550/6750
  • Run-Time (Gas): 16 hrs @ 25% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 12 hrs @ 25% load
  • Start Type: Wireless, Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 58 dBA
  • Weight: 192 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Special Feature: Wireless Start, GFCI Outlets, VFT DATA Display & Transfer Switch Ready Port

  • (Other Variants available too)
Champion 200961
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 2500/1850
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 2500/1665
  • Run-Time (Gas): 11.5 hrs @ 25% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 34 hrs @ 25% load (20-pound tank)
  • Start Type: Recoil with Cold start
  • Noise Level: 53 dBA
  • Weight: 39 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years
Rainier R12000DF
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Gas): 12000/9500
  • Surge Watts / Continuous Watts (Propane): 10800/8550
  • Run-Time (Gas): 17 hrs @ 25% load
  • Run-Time (Propane): 15 hrs @ 25% load
  • Start Type: Electric & Recoil
  • Noise Level: 72 dBA
  • Weight: 196 pounds
  • Warranty: 3 years

Best Dual Fuel Generators

1. Champion 201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator 

Champion 201052 Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Reliable power backup is synonymous with Champion Power Equipment; The well-known brand in the market famed for manufacturing heavy-duty power generators.

Champion 201052 is an amazing creation of the brand and an ultimatum to those who need reliable backup power for their home or small business.

The flexibility of Champion 201052 to work with high-graded gasoline or environmentally friendly propane struck me at first glance.

With the standout hand of the potent 224cc Champion engine, you can get an impressive power output of 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts while working with authentic gasoline.

Also, with the propane, you will be able to get 4275 starting watts and 3420 running watts to empower essential appliances and devices at home.

The capability to work on two fuels also benefits the generator runtime; this varies at the fuel tank capacity of the generator.

Champion 201052 dual fuel generator comes with a large fuel tank that contains a maximum of 4.7-gallon gasoline to give 14 hours of runtime at 50% workload. With the propane usage, the tank support 20 pounds to give 10.5 hours of runtime at again 50% workload

Despite the high-performance rate, the generator is incredibly easy to operate with its all-intuitive controls and simple electric start-up process.

There is a wide panel engraved with all the essential controls, an on/off dial, a circuit breaker, and a fuel gauge, making everything straightforwardly accessible.

The generator comes with a never-flat wheel, ergonomic handles, and a least 119-pound weight keeping portability effortless.

The perfect mingling of versatility and convenience can be stated once you get to use this masterpiece. So overall, the user-friendly design, impressive performance rate, and convenient features make it the perfect dual-fuel generator in the market.

Pros

  • Effortless Electric start
  • Decent power output
  • Easy to transport
  • RV support ready
  • Additional intelligence panel
  • Safety measures included
  • Three-years warranty

Cons

  • Pricey

2. DuroMax XP12000EH 12000-Watt Gas or Propane Powered Portable Generator

DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator

Next in line will be the enormously powerful and absolute DuroMax XP12000EH generator, one with the massive potential and versatility to handle everything from powering your home during blackouts to running construction tools on a job site.

With such tremendous power, the versatility of XP12000EH gets defined by its flexibility in choosing the best fuel source.

With the freedom to choose either gasoline or propane, I believe the competency of this powerful generator gets leveled up. The strongest companion 457cc OHV engine equivalently works with both fuels to grant a certain amount of power to handle the largest equipment.

My experience with gasoline was great; the engine makes space for 12000 surge watts and 9500 running watts.

The unit is definitely designed to handle multiple appliances, even with propane. Working with propane gets 11400 surge watts and 9025 running watts power to fire things up in the heaviest blackouts, all through its secured multiple power ports.

With the power of gasoline, this dual fuel generator can literally empower appliances for 8 hours with 50% load and 19 hours with 25% load, no matter how large the appliances are.

Propane also did better, and you can get straightforwardly 7 hours of runtime while working on a 50% load and 14 hours of runtime while working on a 25% load. This might be because of the 8.3-gallon fuel tank.

Thus, plenty of power, extended runtime, and ease of operating can make it a terrific dual-fuel generator. Above all power, the brand took care of convenience too, and the generator gets an ergonomic design with standard durability.

Featuring an electric start backed up by traditional recoiling is also a plus point, while the control panel is effortless and easy to navigate even for a beginner.

The toughest body, safety measures, versatility, and comfort might cost a little extra, but DuroMax XP12000EH is definitely a wise investment.

Pros

  • Tremendous power
  • Easy electric start
  • Largest fuel tank
  • Strongest durability
  • Powerful DuroMax Engine
  • Intuitive easy controlling
  • Three-year warranty

Cons

  • Noisy with a 74 dB rate

3. Westinghouse 4650-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Westinghouse WGen3600DF Portable Generator

So if you are in the process of finding an ideal dual-fuel generator with power, reliability, and user-friendly aspects, you might want to check this exception out.

From the competent hand of Westinghouse, we have here WGen3600DF Generator. Built with a durability factor, this generator is designed to support essential appliances, no matter whether you are camping in the wilderness or dealing with a power outage at home.

WGen3600DF is known for standing by your side in heavy outages; The generator keeps the flow of steady power with 3600 peak watts going on for handling all the appliances running in the home.

For the larger purpose, the generator secured its 4650 peak watts to provide extra power. This goes for gasoline; since the WGen3600DF is convenient with the propane, the output of 4650 peak watts and 3240 running watts can be expected during the blackouts.

The WGen3600DF dual fuel generator also has the largest tank with the ability to carry 4 gallons which means you can run the generator for a prolonged time on gasoline as well as propane.

The gasoline gives 14 hours of runtime while working on a 25% workload. Designing with the powerful Westinghouse four-stroke 212cc engine has its own benefits, such as added flexibility when it comes to fueling the generator and making it easier to keep it running for longer periods of time.

WGen3600DF is a lighter generator with 109 pounds weight, and the included wheels and fold-down handles ensure maneuverability factors go smoothly.

I very much adore the generator initiation technique; the popular electric and remote start system with a simple turning key prevents all the struggle.

Also, the generator got a well-designed and labeled control panel to navigate the operation, which is pretty fascinating. Overall, the powerful and user-friendly WGen3600DF may not be the best but a worthy choice for those who need a generator for occasional usage.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • Long lasting framework
  • Easy Plug and power
  • Popular remote start
  • Three years of warranty
  • Four-stroke engine
  • Decent power range

Cons

  • Sound could be a problem

4. Champion 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

Champion 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

Iconic Champion Power Equipment is considerably known for its high quality and reliable power backup generator manufacturing.

Champion 200961 is one special creation of the brand, a competent dual-fuel portable generator adored for its convenience and flexibility. One precious compact, convenient generator with the potential to work on dual fuel technology.

Being able to switch between gasoline and propane means you can easily use the fuel that is most readily available to you. The strongest arm of the 4-stroke 79cc OHV engine makes space for a higher power of 2500 starting watts for both gasoline and propane usage.

The running power differs from 1850 running watts for gasoline and 1665 running watts for propane, ending up granting a longer runtime period.

Not just it, the flexibility of choosing desired fuel also gives advantages to the generator runtime; the large fuel tank with the ability of 1.1 gallon helps achieve this factor.

Champion 200961 generator is also known for its reliable fuel efficiency feature; this is the reason why it assures power running for up to 8 hours on a full tank of gasoline and up to 5.5 hours on a full tank of propane, making it ideal for extended use.

The generator supports parallel collaboration, which means the generator can be connected to another 2500-watt champion generator to double its power.

There is enough room for convenience, portability, and a user-friendly approach to usage, for instance, the starting mechanism. There are other controls labeled precisely and helpful indicators that make the monitoring of generators convenient.

Since the generator wins in every corner, it wouldn’t be fair not to mention its travel-friendly factor, one that is assured by its included never-flat wheels handle and least weight of 39 pounds (lightest on least).

With the easy-to-use start, efficient fuel usage, and exceptional user-friendly control panel, this Champion 200961 is sure to provide a constant power source to back up your appliances.

Pros

  • Quiet operation
  • Support parallel capability
  • Lightest then other
  • Covered power output
  • Three-years warranty
  • Pocket-friendly budget
  • Clean power source

Cons

  • Traditional Recoil starting

5. WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator

WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Moving on to another trusted and globally favorite brand WEN, From their expert wing, I have got this pure beauty WEN DF1100T. The supreme WEN DF1100T is a true workhorse of the highly powerful and reputed dual fuel generator.

Specialized in dual fuel technology, this productive power backs-up tool meets the expectation of heavily demanding consumers.

The standout feature of the generator, the flexibility of dual fuel compatibility, is not only to ease the selection of fuel but also to prove its efficiency during extended power outages or in regions with limited fuel options.

WEN DF1100T certainly has a reputation for providing extra power; something said of 11000 surge watts and 8300 running watts when choosing gasoline as the primary option.

The smoothly configured 457cc four-stroke engines don’t seem to part with the propane. The propane as working fuel can assure you the big time of 9500 surge watts and 7500 running watts; also, remember the choice of fuel can be done simply by turning one selection dial.

The high stroke of this power is reserved for extended runtime, the gasoline working of the generator lasts up to 8.5 hours while the propane working gives 3 hours working on 50% load. All due to the courtesy of the strongest 6.6-gallon fuel tank

There are other things to notice as well, like the WEN DF1100T is easy to handle and surprisingly quiet while operating for its size. The noise level of 72 decibels at 23 feet distance doesn’t seem to cause any trouble in residential areas.

The weight of 214 pounds might be a downside of the generator; however, considerably, the included inflated wheels and ergonomic, easy-gripping fold-down handle make WEN DF1100T easier to maneuver.

So dual fuel technology generators now have the standard power decency, no hassle starts mechanism, and well-designed controls with the relatively quiet operation; what’s more, will it take to jump on this?

Pros

  • Powerful OHV engine
  • Hassle-free electric start
  • Two-year warranty
  • Four power outlets
  • Easy portability
  • Clean control panel
  • High power support

Cons

  • Bulkier than others

6. WEN DF475T 120V/240V Portable Dual Fuel Generator

WEN DF475T 120V 240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator

WEN has been producing reliable, cost-effective, and quality products since 1951. And this Wen DF475T dual fuel generator is one of those products.

It is an affordable and durable product, and the important thing is you won’t have to break the bank to get yourself an excellent dual fuel generator.

This model works on two fuels; you can use either gasoline or propane. While using the propane, it supplies 4350 surges and 3500 running watts. But if you decide to pour in the gasoline, it supplies 4750 peak watts and 3800 running watts.

With this power, you can charge up your cell phones, run the lights, TV, refrigerator, etc. When the 4-gallon tank is full of gasoline, the generator is capable of providing 11 hours of runtime on a half load.

In comparison, the use of propane will provide 7 hours of runtime on the half load.

The WEN DF475T features two 120 V GFCI outlets, a NEMA 30A twist lock, and a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug to supply all your electrical appliances.

On top of that, to supply the power to the heavy appliances, the panel consists of a voltage selector switch, which will change the voltage level from 120 V to 240 V whenever needed.

The unit can deliver 240 volts to power bigger electronic devices. The 224cc engine is CARB and EPA III compliant, which will make this a perfect backup generator for emergencies; just plug in the 30 A twist-lock into the transfer switch, and the electricity comes back.

If you are planning to take this generator to the camping site, there is no need to worry because the handle and wheels make transportation much easier.

It is also extremely well designed, and it has a robust and durable construction to carry it to the job site, and it is compact enough to make storage easy. Along with all these features, the dual fuel generator comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • Very quiet operation.
  • Affordable.
  • Electric start.
  • Voltage selection between 120V and 240V.

Cons

  • Limited power outlets.

7. Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator

Westinghouse WGen9500DF propane generator

Westinghouse for one last time; Known for their quality, performance, and ease, the brand came up with this another majestically powerful gem, Westing WGen9500DF.

With the steady purpose of providing a decent range of power, this masterpiece Westinghouse stands out as a hero for multiple devices and a savior for those who want to use either propane or gasoline.

Whether it’s gasoline or propane, WGen9500DF got you all covered with its enormous power supply. Reliably strong 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 12500 peak watts and 9500 running watt power with gasoline in action, one that lasts up to 12 hours with half workload.

The environment-friendly and cost-effective propane can also get you 11200 peak watts and 8500 running watts that empower large appliances with 6 outlets and last 7 hours at the half workload. The dominating role of heavy and strong 6.6-gallon tanks is behind WGen9500DF extended working.

Up to its size and power, I find out that WGen9500DF doesn’t make a lot of noise while empowering power to appliances; the 74 decibels at 23 feet distance rate is great considering other options.

The easy electric start feature makes starting the generator a breeze, while the remote start feature allows the generator to initiate the operation from 109 yards.

The generator controls are the easiest, while the helpful indicator is to monitor better. The generator enriches the durability factor with a rigid body, framework, and weather-resistant layering, around 199 pounds weight, assuring stiffness.

Rather than that, the WGen9500DF dual fuel generator is much easier to use; I personally biased my decision because the generator has some remarkably special features.

For instance, the safety measure explaining Automatic low oil shutdown, fuel gauge, automatic voltage regulation, overload protection, and muffler all to protect your electronics from damage. The generator also has an hour meter, which is fascinatingly beneficial for a regular or occasional user.

Such terrific potential and features shouldn’t go in the void; with this all-fruitful versatility, I can vividly state that WGen9500DF is the best dual fuel option you can get in terms of power, performance, and price too.

Pros

  • Plug and power ease
  • Heavy duty engine
  • Auto low oil shutdown
  • Automatic Voltage regulation
  • Three-year warranty
  • Multiple power outlets
  • Long-shelf iron body

Cons

  • Challenging Assembling

8. Champion 200914 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Open Frame Inverter Generator

Champion 200954 4250-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter Generator

This is a powerful dual-fuel inverter generator suitable to power most electrical appliances in power outage situations. The name champion ensures the innovative incorporated technologies to improve the functionality and usability of the generator.

If we talk about the electrical outlets, then the panel consists of a 120V 30A RV, two 120V 20A household outlets, and a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with a dual USB adapter included.

You can directly connect it to your RV; there will be no need to buy a separate adapter.

This generator can run either on gasoline or propane. When the 4-gallon gas tank is full, the 224cc engine produces 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts, and it will run for 22 hours at a 25% load.

Now, if you use propane, those figures decrease slightly. With the use of a 20-pound propane tank, the unit will supply 3825 starting watts and 3150 running watts, which will run for 14 hours at 25% load.

It is extremely easy to change the fuel on which the generator will run with the help of a fuel selector dial. This is an inverter generator, which means you can supply clean power to your sensitive electrical equipment without worrying about damaging them, thanks to its low 3% THD rating.

Moreover, the Champion 200914 is very quiet, and it doesn’t create chaos as conventional generators do. With a noise level of just 64 dBA, it will leave you alone when you are camping or tailgating.

The engine is EPA and CARB-compliant, which means it follows most of the regulations set by the government. Also, it comes with the economy mode, which will control the engine’s speed based on the load at the end, making it quieter and fuel-efficient.

Have no doubt about the performance and the features of the generator; this is best in terms of power output and price range. To make the purchase more valuable, the manufacturer offers three years of warranty and FREE technical support for the lifetime.

Pros

  • Low oil shut-off sensor.
  • EPA and CARB compliant engine.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Suitable for power-sensitive electronics.

Cons

  • Some customers have complained about receiving a faulty product.

10. Rainier R12000DF Portable Dual Fuel Generator

Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Rainier R12000DF is one of the most powerful dual-fuel portable generators that can supply most house appliances. If you want a generator to power your RV, then R12000DF can run all appliances of your RV as well.

This product offers the choice for fuel use, and you can either use gasoline or propane. The noise this generator emits is 72 dB, which can be reasoned if you see the power output.

With the use of gasoline, the 4-stroke 457cc engine generates 12,000 surge watts and 9500 running watts, and if propane is used as a fuel source, you will get 10,800 starting watts and 8550 running watts from the unit.

You will be able to store plenty of gasoline in the 6.6-gallon tank, and when this tank is full, this dual fuel generator gives you a runtime of 17 hours at the half load.

Moving on, you can either start the generator with the electric start or you can use the manual recoil starter. The recoil starter is a backup if the electric start doesn’t work.

Moreover, the machine is EPA and CARB-compliant, and it is also RV-ready and transfer switch ready. You will just need to connect the cord to get things going.

The control panel consists of the VFT display, which monitors the Volts and frequency generated, and it also displays the lifetime hours. Besides, there are two 120V 20A GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30A outlet, one 120V 30A outlet, and one 120/240V 50A outlet on the control panel.

The Rainier R12000DF is quite versatile and can supply many appliances simultaneously, and it will make a good pick with its 3 years of limited warranty.

Pros

  • Easily accessible control panel.
  • Overload alarm.
  • One-touch electric start.
  • Low oil shutdown.
  • RV and transfer switch ready.

Cons

  • Lacks 12V DC port.
  • No remote start.

What are Dual Fuel Generators?

Same as single fuel generators, these are generators that can be operated with two types of fuels to generate electricity. They can use either one fuel at a time or a combination of both fuels to give better runtime and performance. Generally, the two fuels that most generators use are a combination of natural gas & propane and diesel.

In most US factories, natural gas will already be available at the site, and it won’t need to be stored, which eliminates the problem of storing the diesel in large tanks to save space. While diesel has a low ignition point, that means it will be easier to start the generator on diesel than natural gas.

Some people think that dual fuel and bi-fuel generators are the same, mind you, that’s not the case at all. The Bi-fuel generator works on the two fuels, but they are not mixed, whereas the dual-fuel generators work on the combination of two fuels in a certain proportion or a single fuel alone.

What to Consider when Buying a Dual Fuel Generator?

Dual Fuel Generator Guide

Before buying a dual fuel generator, you will need to keep in mind a few important things that we have discussed below.

Noise

Generators are inherently noisy because they use an engine to generate electricity, and the engine is the main reason for the noise. This means that no matter what kind of generator you buy (except for solar generators), it is always going to be accompanied by noise.

So, it would be best if you buy the generator which produces the lowest noise. But if you come home with a dual fuel generator that creates a significant amount of noise, then it will create an uproar in your neighbors.

50 dB to 90 dB is the general range in which most of the dual fuel generato falls. The level of noise a particular generator will create highly depends on the generator output and the fuel used.

Generally, gasoline-powered generators make more noise compared to propane-powered ones. So, choose the one which makes the lowest noise when all other considerations are met.

Size of a Storage Tank

Consider the dual fuel which these generators use is gasoline and propane. The propane is available in a canister and is stored under pressure.

When you want the generator to run on the propane, you can just connect the hose to the unit. So propane doesn’t need to be stored means there is no need for a storage tank, but to store gasoline, the storage tank is needed.

Most dual-fuel generators, which are powered by gasoline, come with a storage tank, and the size of the tank can range from as small as 2 gallons to a large tank of 10 gallons. The problem with the large storage tank is its space requirement and weight, which makes the unit less portable.

So, you should choose a dual fuel generator with a small tank size if the storage space is less and you want them to be more portable because, with the increase in the storage tank size, the overall size of the generator also increases.

Power Output

The power output of the generator is measured in peak watts and running watts. The power output of the dual-fuel generator won’t be the same for both fuels; instead, they will be different.

The generator running on propane will generate less power, and if it would have been powered by gasoline, the power output would be high. This is because gasoline burns better than propane.

When supplying the generator with propane, you should expect a reduction in power by about 10%. Propane generates less power, but it doesn’t produce harmful gasses, hence keeping the environment clean.

Monitoring and Protection

If you want to know whether your generator is properly working or not, then you will need to check the voltage and frequency generated by the unit. You may also want to know different parameters related to the generator for some reason.

To make the monitoring easier, the dual-fuel generators come with an LED display and indicator lights on the control panel, along with other bunch of things.

The LED display will show the voltage, frequency, total runtime, wattage, and maintenance interval as well.

A good dual fuel generator will have a quality control panel, meaning various kinds of protection will be integrated into the control panel, like a low oil shutoff. To protect the generator if the oil level is low, the control panel also has overheating protection, overload protection, and circuit breakers.

So you may want to look for a generator that gives enough information about the condition of the generator, and enough protection measures are taken.

Portability

Portability represents the ease of moving around the product or carrying it from one place to another, and it highly depends on the size and weight of the unit.

If the weight of the unit is more, it will be difficult to move it from one place to another, and you may even require support from your neighbor if the generator is too big.

While if the generator is bulkier and big in size, it may be cumbersome to fit it into the car or the truck if you want to take it to the repair or transport it somewhere else.

Also, the size of the dual-fuel generators and their power output capabilities depends on each other. The more power you need, the size and weight of the unit are going to increase.

So you will need to choose the one which fulfills all your power requirements and at the same time stays relatively portable.

Advantages of a Dual Fuel Generator

Dual Fuel Generator

Dual fuel generators have many advantages, and some of them are discussed below.

Reliability

The main advantage of the dual fuel generator is its ability to supply continuous and uninterrupted power in situations of a power outage or natural disasters.

They can supply the power for more than 24 hours if both fuels are properly utilized. It will be enough for many households and important places where downtime of even an hour is not allowed, like hospitals, factories, and some businesses.

When gasoline alone is used as fuel, it provides the high output wattage but to supply the high wattage, it also burns faster, which results in less runtime. Besides, most of the generator comes with tanks that can hold a few gallons of gasoline, which won’t give a runtime of even 12 hours.

On the other hand, propane burns slower, and this slow-burning will result in longer runtime, but it won’t be able to provide the wattage same as gasoline. Propane is available in canisters, so you won’t need tanks to store them.

Their availability can range from 5 gallons to 120 gallons of tanks, which can supply electricity for almost 20+ hours.

Now, if we talk about the dual fuel generator, which can work on both gas and propane, then it offers the advantages offered by both fuels. When one runs out, you can use another, and you will have an uninterrupted power supply that can supply the power for more than a day.

Effectiveness and Environmental Impact

The burning of any fossil fuel emits carbon into the environment, and these dual fuel generators are no different. They also emit gasses that are hazardous to people and the environment.

The exhaust of gasoline, when used as fuel, has a more detrimental effect on the environment than the exhaust of propane, and also, the effectiveness of both gasses is not the same. Gasoline has more BTU than propane, which means gasoline will generate more energy when it is burned compared to propane.

If you are conscious about the effect of your lifestyle choices on the environment and the reduction of a few BTUs doesn’t bother you, then the propane generator will be a good choice.

But, if you are someone who wants the same power and also cares about the environment, then the Dual fuel generators are for you, my friend. When you need more power, you can increase the proportion of gasoline, and when you don’t need that, you can use more propane and less gasoline in the fuel, the exhaust of which is easy on the environment than gasoline.

This is something that you don’t get in a single fuel generator.

Versatility

The capability to supply electricity using any of the two types of fuel makes these generators highly versatile. Dual fuel generators are for those who are always out camping or running their RV around in different towns.

There might come a time when in some remotely small town, you might not be able to locate the propane tanks.

If you are in an instant need of electricity and you have a single fuel generator that only works on propane, then the first thought which will flow through your mind would be,” I should have bought a dual fuel generator. “ Because along with propane, it also runs on gasoline, which is generally available in every town.

Furthermore, in the area where hurricanes and snowstorms are regular things, you won’t have power for weeks, let alone days. In that kind of situation, a versatile dual fuel generator will become your savior and supply the electricity using any fuel you have at hand.

Effect of Temperature

Gasoline and propane; both fuels are affected by temperature. If we talk about gasoline, then it doesn’t have a long life span; it will go bad in a matter of time if not properly stored. Besides, a hot climate makes it evaporate, so you can’t store it for longer periods, especially in summer.

On the other hand, propane works just fine in hot climate and can be stored for more than ten years, and it won’t go bad, but the downside of propane is that it shrinks.

Yes, the volume of the liquid propane shrinks in a colder climate, reducing the pressure at the regulator. The pressure may drop to that degree that it may not be able to even start the generator.

Luckily, we have a solution. You can use gasoline in the winter and propane in the summer because hot temperatures don’t affect the propane.

Durability

A simple observation would be that this kind of generator will be mostly used in harsh weather areas. This means the generator should be capable enough to ride through many of these situations. That’s why this dual fuel generator is made from durable and sturdy materials to last long.

It will keep supplying the electricity in any weather condition. These generators are built to last, but there is one culprit that can damage the generator, especially if it is sitting inside, That is gasoline. If it stays inside the machine, then it will damage the carburetor and other parts as well.

This is because when the gasoline stays idle for a long time, then the fuel will undergo a phenomenon called phase separation, where ethanol separates itself from the fuel.

After that, anything that uses this gasoline will be damaged. That’s why experts suggest not to use the gasoline which sat idle for more than 3 months.

While the propane has a longer life, it stays good for more than 10 to 12 years. This means you can use propane for more general needs, and when you need more power, you can switch to gasoline. This can only be done with dual fuel generators.

Disadvantages of Dual Fuel Generator

Everything is good about these units, but we found some things which can be considered as disadvantages and they are listed below.

Expensive

You can consider this as the main disadvantage. The upfront investment in the dual fuel generator of the same power rating will be more compared to the single fuel generator. You will need to figure out your needs correctly and invest in one that best suits your circumstances with the price point considered.

Bigger in Size

The other disadvantage will be the size of the units. They are generally bigger and heavier. The weight of most of the units will be more than 100 pounds. But to handle this weight, they are generally equipped with flat & sturdy tires, which will be good for any kind of terrain and a soft handle to have control over the unit.

Generally, the size and weight of the unit will increase with the power output.

Which is Better; Gas or Propane?

Let’s find out which one is better.

If we talk about gasoline, then it is available in almost all towns in enough quantity to run your generator, but that’s not the case with propane. In many remote places, you may not find propane tanks or canisters to use in your generator.

gas vs propane - right fuel for generator

Gasoline has a shorter lifespan due to phase separation and fuel gum-up and can only be stored for a maximum of 3 months; after that, it will damage the machine in which it is used. But that’s not the case with propane; it can be stored for more than 12 years without worrying about a single thing.

Another aspect where the propane shines is its clean-burning ability than gasoline. The exhaust of gasoline is more harmful to the environment compared to propane, and it is relatively easier on the surroundings. Also, when it is burned, gasoline leaves behind carbon deposits, which will need to be periodically removed.

When propane is used as fuel, it generates less noise compared to gasoline.

Gasoline is highly flammable, which means storing it in a large quantity will be dangerous, while propane is the least flammable fuel, and it doesn’t pose any risk if stored in higher quantities.

From this, we can conclude that despite the easy availability and high power output capabilities of gasoline, propane is better due to its long lifespan and less impact on the environment. At last, it all comes down to your power needs and personal preference.

FAQs

Can I Power Sensitive Electronics with The Dual Fuel Generator?

For proper functioning of the sensitive electronics, it should be supplied with clean power. If it contains any spikes and surges, then there is a high possibility that electronics might get damaged. Generally, most of the dual-fuel generators tend to supply the square wave power on which most of the appliances will work but not all of them.

So if you want to power the sensitive electronics, then I suggest that you first make sure that the generator supplies pure sine wave with very little THD rating. If not, then keep your electronics away from the generator.

How to Increase the Runtime on A Dual Fuel Generator?

Dual fuel generators indeed provide more runtime than single fuel generators. In a single fuel generator, once the fuel is depleted, you will need to pour in more fuel and start it again to keep it going. This refilling will result in a downtime of a few moments, and if you live in a cold area, then your generator might refuse to start altogether.

Whereas for the dual fuel generator, you can run it on gasoline, and once it is depleted, you can set the knob to propane, and the generator will keep supplying power with minimal downtime.

How to Connect the Generator To The Home?

The first way to connect the generator to run different appliances would be through the power cords directly connecting the equipment to the socket of the generator. This may not be the ideal choice because it poses so many risks.

To supply the power with this method, you will need to lay down the wires in your home, and the distance shouldn’t exceed 100 feet. If that happens, then there will be a voltage drop in a cable, and some of the equipment might not work properly.

The other way is to install a transfer switch from where you can supply the most important circuits if the power goes out. Not only that, but you can also select which appliance you want to power. This is a more safe and hassle-free method.

Why are Transfer Switches Used for Power Transfer to The House?

If you use a transfer switch, then it eliminates most of the potential accidents. If you directly connect the transfer switch to the generator, then there may be a back feed of power which can harm the person working on a power line or the appliances will also be damaged.

The main advantage of the transfer switch is that it prevents the simultaneous connection of the generator and the supply from the grid to house circuits, which will save your appliances and the generator as well. That’s why you shouldn’t connect the generator directly to your home.

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