Generators are important household equipment in areas where there is a regular power cut and places where natural disasters like hurricanes are frequent. There may be some times when the power doesn’t come back for days or sometimes even weeks.
Even if you don’t live in these areas, a generator is a necessary investment. You never know when you need emergency power. A generator can make your family feel safe and keep all your essentials running in power outages.
Portable generators are becoming more and more popular and especially the ones that run on propane. There are certain factors at work behind the popularity of these propane generators. It is because propane is cleaner than gasoline, it is environment-friendly and is cheaper than conventional fuels.
So, if you are looking for such a generator, then we have compiled a list of the best propane generators in the market to make the task easier for you. This way, you can easily choose the right generator to power your home.
| Champion 201052 (Best Overall)
 
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| DuroMax XP13000EH (Highest Power Output)
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| WEN DF475T (Budget Pick)
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| Westinghouse iGen4500DF (Dual-fuel Inverter Generator)
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| Westinghouse WGen9500DF
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| Champion 200988
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| WEN DF1100T
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Table of Contents
Best Propane Generators for Home
1. Champion 201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve tried my fair share of portable generators, But let me tell you, there is one interestingly crafted generator by none other than the iconic brand Champion that has my undivided attention.
Let’s start with its primary duty, the power backup. With a peak power output of 4275 watts and a rated output of 3420 watts at eco-friendly propane fueling, this generator packs a punch when it comes to powering all your essential electronics, appliances, and tools.
However, since the standout feature of the generator signifies its dual fuel capability, you can enhance the power to 4750 peak watts and 3800 running watts when operating with gasoline with the strong hands of a 224cc power engine.
However, I personally prefer the propane options which are efficient and environment friendly.
Nevertheless, power isn’t everything, right? That’s why the Champion 201052 also boasts impressive features that make it stand out from the competition. For starters, its Cold Start technology ensures a quick and easy start, even in frigid temperatures.
Adding charm to the generator’s versatility, count the noiseless working at 68 decibels, which is another crucial point in 201052 being environmentally friendly.
Operating with propane gives up to 10.5 hours of runtime with the 4.7-gallon fuel tank making it the best propane generator.
And let’s not forget about safety. This generator comes equipped with a low-oil shut-off sensor and a durable steel frame with a fold-down handle, and never-flat tires for easy transportation. And it has a display to give real-time updates.
What made me buy it?
Because I was thoroughly impressed with the Champion 201052 propane generator, it’s durable, reliable, and incredibly versatile.
Pros
- Dual Fuel technology
- Digital Meter intelligauge
- Strongest 4.7-gallon tank
- Environment Friendly
- Never-flat wheels kit
- Easy Electric start
- Low sound working
Cons
- Bulkier than it looks
2. DuroMax XP13000EH Gas or Propane Powered Portable Generator
All my friends are known to be self-proclaimed generator aficionados which kind of makes it my responsibility to find you the perfect propane generator.
I have tested countless models, and my favorite series is minimal; DuroMax XP13000EH and its outstanding performance do come under the list.
The DuroMax creation XP13000EH is a dual fuel technology generator that gives the flexibility to choose our fuel between gasoline and propane. And let me tell you, the propane option is a game-changer.
Not only is it more environmentally friendly than gasoline, but it also produces fewer emissions and is more efficient. Also, as an outdoor enthusiast, it’s much easier to store propane than gasoline, which is a huge plus for me.
The XP13000EH is equipped with a 500cc OHV engine that delivers an impressive 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 rated watts of power with gasoline and 12350 peak watt, and 9975 running watts of power with propane fulfilling all the household needs.
There is a built-in spark arrestor on the generator, so if you want to take it with you in a park to power the appliances of your RV, then you can freely do that with the spark arrestor attached, but there is a noise problem.
One of my favorite things about this propane generator is the built-in idle control. This feature automatically adjusts the engine speed to match the power demand, which not only saves fuel but also reduces noise and wear and tear on the engine.
For safety purposes, the brand DuroMax approached the low oil shutdown, spark arrestor, and covered outlets. The generator has a runtime of up to 8 hours on a single tank of propane and 10 hours on a full tank of gasoline, which is impressive for a machine of this size.
This is all doing to a potent and leak-free fuel tank with the ability to hold around 8.3 gallons of fuel. Also, The control panel is user-friendly, with clearly labeled buttons and gauges, and the whole thing gets started with an electric key backed up with traditional recoiling.
What made me buy it?
Its impressive specs, convenient features, and eco-friendly design make it a standout option in the market and a worthy buy.
Read the Full Review of DuroMax XP13000EH Portable Propane-powered Generator
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Dual fuel technology
- Largest fuel tank
- Easy one-push start
- Energy efficient with propane
- Durable construction
- Safety measures included
Cons
- Contains heavyweight
3. WEN DF475T 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
Being a true adventurer has a thrill in living but also comes at a high price like struggling for electricity. And since propane generators are usually less maintenance and compact, I am all into getting this spectacularly WEN DF475T generator as my reliable power backup companion.
One of the first things that impressed me about the DF475T was its powerful engine. With a 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine, this generator is capable of producing 4350 surge watts and 3500 rated watts of power working on propane.
Whether you need to power up a camper, a construction site, or your home during a power outage, the DF475T has more than enough juice to get the job done.
But power is only part of the equation when it comes to a great generator. The generator is equipped with a 4-gallon propane tank that provides up to 7 hours of runtime at half load, and the tank is easy to refill and replace as needed.
The dual fuel technology allows the generator to dispense 4750 peak watts of power and 3800 running watts for at most 11 hours with a half load while working on any regular gasoline.
In terms of noise level, the DF475T operates at a relatively quiet 69 decibels, making it less obtrusive and the quietest propane generator. The engine is CARB and EPA-III compliant, which ensures its use in all 50 states.
The generator is designed with wheels and a fold-down handle that make it easy to move from place to place. Adding figures to the ease, it also features the effortlessly easiest electric start, which lets the generator roar to life with a push of a button.
There is enough room for safety; also, the DF475T is surrounded by automatic voltage regulation, low-oil shutdown, and overload protection.
What made me buy it?
The generator’s powerful motor, electric start, and quiet operation has sold me out to make it a perfect choice for a propane generator.
Pros
- Effective safety features
- Dual Fuel potentiality
- Quiet empowering
- Separate wide hose
- Reasonably cheap
- Wheel and handle kit
- Super convenient mobility
Cons
- Lesser power output
4. Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Moving on to the next, I had the pleasure of working closely with the globally rated top-notch brand Westinghouse. I had interacted with their iGen4500DF, a wonderful propane generator that promises to deliver reliable power in any situation.
The dual fuel capability allows switching between propane and gasoline, but I am more obsessed with the iGen4500DF power. It has a peak output of 4500 watts and a rated output of 3700 watts, which is more than enough to power all of my essential
Do you know what can enhance the benefits of a Propane generator, more energy saving which apparently is my favorite from this masterpiece? Apart from other generators, iGen4500DF has innovative fuel efficiency technology.
It has a variable engine speed that adjusts according to the power demand, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimizes noise output at a 52-decibel rating.
It’s designed with advanced technology, including a digital display that shows me exactly how much power is being used and how much is left.
With a full 3.4-gallon tank of propane, this generator can run for up to 18 hours at 25% load. That means I can go for a full day and night without worrying about running out of power.
The generator is rugged and durable and built with a cast iron sleeve and a steel frame, which means it can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling.
It has a convenient push-button electric start to initiate the whole powering business; however, things get spiced up with its wonderful remote start option that allows turning on and off the generator from a certain distance.
What made me buy it?
With the high-power performance, easy usage, and such a decent price tag, no way I could get any better option than the iGen4500DF.
Pros
- Brightest LED display
- Longer runtime
- Quieter decibel rating
- Three years warranty
- Remote and electric start
- In-built economy mode
- Low THD clean power
Cons
- Not suitable for big homes
5. Westinghouse WGen9500DF Home Backup Portable Propane Generator
If the gasoline-oriented generator’s high maintenance and cost are bothering you, switch to this wonderful Westinghouse WGen9500DF propane generator.
As someone who values sustainability and efficiency, I was particularly excited to see how this generator would perform. It did come up to my expectation; let me brief you how
The remarkable piece of machinery, Westinghouse WGen9500DF, has numerous perks. Boasting a powerful 457cc Westinghouse OHV engine, this generator can produce an incredible 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline or 11,200 peak watts and 8,500 running watts on propane.
With this level of power, it can easily handle heavy-duty equipment and appliances. Running on propane not only provides a cleaner burn but also extends the generator’s runtime.
With a 6.6-gallon fuel tank for gasoline and a 20-pound propane tank, I can enjoy up to 12 hours of continuous operation at 50% load, giving me peace of mind during extended outages or camping trips.
The WGen9500DF also has a convenient electric start with a battery included, which makes it easy to start up quickly; But being a Westinghouse generator benefits the tool with the effortless remote start option as well.
The fully-featured control panel at the side of the generator has Household outlets, RV ready outlet, and also a transfer switch-ready outlet, offering extreme convenience while making connections. And there will be no need to look for other adapters.
The versatility of WGen9500DF lets you power multiple appliances and devices simultaneously without the need for extension cords or adapters.
In terms of portability, the WGen9500DF is surprisingly maneuverable for its size; however, the weight could be an issue. There is a digital hour meter that allows you to easily keep track of how long the generator has been running.
This propane generator is also designed with safety in mind, featuring a low-oil shutdown and overload protection, which helps prevent damage to the engine and ensures that the generator runs smoothly in order to make the best propane generator for the home.
What made me buy it?
Its combination of power, technology, and ease all make it the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure.
Check Out the Full Review of the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF Propane Generator
Pros
- Plenty of power
- Large leak-free tank
- Remote and electrical start
- Heavy duty body
- Protected with measures
- Enormous 457cc engine
- Excellent portability
Cons
- A little noisy at full power
6. Champion 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful propane generator that won’t break the bank, the Champion 200988 is the way to go. It’s a true champion in its category and an endless eco-friendly source of backup power.
After putting this machine to the test, I didn’t seem to be over with its magnificent abilities.
One of the first things I noticed about the Champion 200988 is its build quality. The generator feels solid and well-made, with a sturdy metal frame that can withstand heavy use and rough handling. But even with all the strength, the 200988 Is incredibly easy to operate.
The control panel is also well-designed and easy to use, with clear labeling and intuitive controls that make it easy to start and operate the generator.
And the control panel also has even a handy fuel gauge to let you peak your propane levels and avoid any sudden interruption caused by low fuel.
However, the real business is the power and boy, it didn’t let you down there. With a peak power rating of 4500 watts and a continuous power output of 3500 watts, this generator is more than capable of handling even demanding electrical loads.
Meaning it is a Par-Ty for all my electronics, even during blackouts.
Even though the Champion 200988 gives freedom to choose the fuel of your desire following a dual fuel technology, I can say it is much more of a perfect propane generator.
The generator comes equipped with a standard 20-pound propane tank that can provide up to 10 hours of continuous power on a single tank.
Also, since propane is a clean-burning fuel, it may be one selfless environmentally friendly thing to do with the whole propane working; so finest choice of generator that works on propane.
What made me buy it?
Whether I am dealing with a power outage or need to power tools on a job site, this is a proven reliable and enormous source of backup power.
Pros
- Dual Fuel working
- User-friendly control
- Three years of warranty
- Easy electric button starts
- 61 dBA quiet operation
- Decent powering runtime
- Parallel collaboration support
Cons
- Not great for heavy electronics
7. WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Portable Propane Generator
Being a technical enthusiast gives you the privilege of analyzing the product before purchase and choosing only the best; Much likely the next and last on the series WEN DF1100T.
Now this super cool top-of-the-line propane generator lives up to its reputation and guarantees endless power supply during outages.
Getting all the technical aspects together, let me tell you how big of a star this WEN DF1100T is. Being a dual-fuel generator means that it can run on both propane and gasoline; it’s a great deal of power.
The strong 457cc four-stroke OHV engine of the generator delivers 11,000 surge watts and 8,300 rated watts when using gasoline and 9,500 surge watts and 7,500 rated watts when using propane.
Now you may choose gasoline for more power and propane for energy efficiency, eco-friendly, easiest accessibility, and smoothest travel-friendly factor.
Speaking of maneuverability, WEN DF1100T has great mobility function with its never-flat strongest wheel and ergonomic handle kit.
In terms of build quality, this propane-powered generator feels sturdy and well-made. It has a heavy-duty frame and large wheels that make it easy to move around, despite its weight. It also has a digital hour meter, which makes it easy to keep track of maintenance intervals.
The whole business of empowering goes longest because the DF1100T generator is designed with a large 6.6-gallon fuel tank which can provide up to 8.5 hours of run time at 50% load when using gasoline and 4.5 hours of run time at 50% load when using propane.
And did I mention this backup powering works without much noise?
The DF1100T is relatively quiet for its size, with a noise level of 78 decibels. Controlling the generator is the safest and easiest. More pulling cords or struggling to get the power going; with the generator’s electric start, a single press of the button can start this beast in seconds.
What made me buy it?
With easy-to-store and portable propane fueling, this WEN DF1100T is excellent enough to give impressive power output and get the job done effortlessly.
Pros
- Dual fuel working
- Buttery-smooth portability
- Multiple outlets
- Large fuel tank
- Separate LPG hose
- Modern electric start
- Reasonably economical
Cons
- A little overweight
Why Choose a Propane Generator?
Regular gasoline, propane, or diesel-powered generators is what most homeowners in the US have as a backup for their home. These generators are stationary and can’t be moved around or taken with you if you need power somewhere else.
The disadvantage of these conventional generators is their size and the noise they produce. Moreover, if you want to bring it to camping or boondocking, then heavy-weight restricts that.
That’s why there are portable generators, which offer a solution to all these problems. The portable generator can either use gas or propane. When both fuels can be used in a generator, they can be called dual fuel generators.
A single-fuel generator that works only on propane is not ideal equipment to make since the availability of propane is less in some areas, so if propane is not available, then they should be able to use gasoline. And that’s why most propane generators are dual-fuel generators.
The portable generators can be taken to the camping or power your tools at the works site. When propane is used, it offers many advantages over gasoline. Propane burns cleaner, and that’s why it is more eco-friendly. Also, the price is less compared to gasoline. The engine makes less noise when running on propane.
Besides their unavailability in some areas, the only other downside is that they can’t produce the same amount of power that gasoline can. So, if you want a portable generator, then a generator that can run on propane will be an ideal choice.
Benefits of Using Propane Generator
The use of propane offers many benefits over the use of gasoline, and they are listed below.
Long Shelf Life
When it comes to storing fuel, propane beats them all, and it has the longest shelf life. If you store it properly, then it will be useful even when you take it out after 8 to 10 years.
The long life offers convenience when the power is down, and you can’t find the gasoline or don’t want to go and purchase it.
A Bit Easy on The Environment
Compared to the exhaust of gasoline, propane produces less amount of carbon dioxide. So if you want to reduce your overall carbon footprint (global warming) and want cleaner fuel, then propane is the way to go.
Makes a Less Noise
If you compare the noise of a propane-powered generator with a gasoline-powered generator, then the noise from the propane will be less than what a gasoline-powered generator makes. This makes them a great choice for camping trips.
Available at A Lesser Price Point
The cost to use propane as a fuel is less when you use gasoline as a fuel. This is because propane doesn’t need to be synthesized separately; it is a by-product of petroleum. Moreover, you can easily find it at any gas station or retail store.
Less Maintenance
When propane is used as a fuel, it doesn’t leave any residue behind, so it will require very little maintenance than gasoline. These few maintenances mean you are going to save much on the maintenance cost annually.
Propane Vs. Gas Generator
Propane and gasoline both have a few downsides and a few upsides. Knowledge of their plus and minuses helps you make a more informed decision.
The major difference is in their exhaust. The exhaust, which gasoline or diesel produces, contains much more carbon monoxide than propane produces. With gasoline generators, you will need to make sure that the proper venting of the exhaust is possible otherwise, it can turn out to be fatal if the exhaust gets accumulated.
The propane generator’s exhaust with less CO is not that fatal, but the fumes need to be properly ventilated. Propane burns cleaner and has a low impact on the environment.
When it comes to portability, generators that use propane are heavier than gasoline generators. This less weight makes them a more portable and suitable choice to easily bring along to the camping site or for tailgating.
Moreover, there is a huge difference in the amount of power a generator produces. A gasoline generator can produce more power than a propane generator can. Plus, gas costs more than propane, and propane might not even be available in remote areas, but you can easily find gasoline.
The propane beats the gasoline when it comes to the maintenance of the generator. This is because, unlike gasoline, propane doesn’t leave behind residues, and that’s why it needs little to no maintenance or upkeep.
Another major difference between gasoline and propane is storage. Gasoline can’t be stored for much longer, and even with the stabilizer mixed, you will have to use it within one to two years otherwise, it will go bad. On the other hand, Propane can be stored for years without any kind of stabilizers, and it will run the generator when used even after a few years of storage.
Also, when not in use, you might need to drain all the gas from the generator for its maximum life expectancy.
In the end, there are generators available in the market that can work on gasoline as well as on propane. So, there is no need to make a choice.
Read More: In-depth Comparison of Propane and Gas Generator
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Propane Generator?
Before you decide which propane generator to purchase, keep these things in mind to make a more practical decision.
Starting Methods
Most of the generators in the market come with one or a combination of two or more starting methods. The starting methods with which most of the generators come are electric start, recoil start, and remote start.
Make sure that the generator you choose comes with an electric start because still many of the manufacturers only include a recoil start in a few of their models. An electric start offers added convenience, and you can start the generator with just a press of a button, but keep in mind, it will only work when the battery has some juice in it and is not completely drained.
On the other hand, the recoil starting method uses a ripcord to start the generator, it is a thing of the past, but it comes with most generators just as a backup method if an electric start fails for some reason. Note here that starting with the cord will require effort.
Moreover, when the propane generator comes with a remote start, it means you won’t have to come out of your home just to start the generator. With the dedicated key fob, you can simply start the generator from inside, and it is just like a remote starter for a car.
Power Output
Another important thing to consider when buying a new generator is its power output. A generator is generally going to have two power ratings, starting watts and running watts. To buy a generator of the proper size, we suggest that you first calculate the total starting and running watts of all appliances powered by this generator.
Because if you purchase a generator that is too small, then it won’t be able to power the appliances you want it to power. And if it is too big, then your initial investment will be more, and on top of that, the operating cost also increases due to its higher fuel consumption.
There are various generators available as consumer-grade and industrial-grade; they differ from each other in terms of their power outputs.
If you want a generator to power a big house, then a generator with a power rating of 10,000 watts will be more suitable. Whereas, if you are looking for a generator to power a few appliances at a camping site, then a generator with a power rating of 4000 watts is a good choice.
Portability
The portability becomes of utmost importance if you are someone who moves the generator a lot. The weight increases as the power output of the generator increases. And it doesn’t become an issue as long as you are powering your home with it, but if you need a generator to power a few heavy-duty appliances at the job site, then the generator needs to be moved around, and the heaviness becomes an issue.
The portability issue can be somewhat tamed, even in a 300-pound heavy-duty generator with the addition of wheels and handles. The portability of the generator increases up to a considerable extent.
The weight also becomes an issue when you want to carry the generator with you to the camping site. But, power needs at a camping site are going to be much less, so the weight of the generator will also be less.
Gauges
I believe you don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are stuck with a dead generator and an empty can. This can ruin the day if you are camping with your family. There is nothing more frustrating than knowing that your fuel has run out just before you need the generator to power the house in an emergency. That’s why gauges are important.
More advanced generators will have an LCD, which indicates many more things besides the fuel level. But in reality, what you need is just an indicator to show you that the fuel level is dropping, and you will need to add more fuel soon.
Make sure that the generator you purchase comes with some kind of indicator, and the generator generally indicates the exact level of fuel or just the light, which signals that the fuel level is less. If not more, the indication is important. It will be good if the generator also comes with a low oil level indicator and auto shut-off to protect the generator from damage when the fuel or oil level falls below a certain level.
Warranty
The standard warranty period is 1 to 3 years, most of the manufacturers offer the warranty in that period. But some brands offer a warranty of up to 5 years.
You must read the term and conditions of the warranty before making a purchase. The generator has many moving parts, so the wear and tear of some parts are common, and there are also electrical components. If any fault arises during the warranty period, then the manufacturer will repair it free of cost if it is under the warranty period.
The warranty is there to give peace of mind to customers.
Best Propane Generators: FAQs
Q. Is it True That the Propane Makes the Engine Dangerous?
No, this is not true. The engine becomes dangerous if the temperature rises above a certain level. But that is not possible when you use propane because it releases low BTUs under the combustion, which is just not enough to bring the engine temperature to a dangerous level.
The BTUs of propane is lower than that of gasoline, so if the use of gasoline is not dangerous, then the use of propane is certainly not.
Q. How to Ensure Safety When Using a Propane Generator?
The first rule of safety when using any kind of generator is that it should always be used in an open place where proper and enough ventilation is possible. The accumulation of gases can turn out to be fatal if inhaled.
Also, place the propane tank when it is not exposed to flames or extreme heat, and it might lead to an explosion, which is highly dangerous.
At last, check that there aren’t any leaks in the hose connecting the propane tank to the generator. If found, then you will need another hose.
Q. What are the Limitations of A Propane-Powered Generator?
The main limitation of propane is that it is not available everywhere. If you live in a remote area, then getting a hold of a tank can turn out to be quite a task. On top of that, if you miss the tank delivery, then you might need to travel a few miles to get the one.
Another limitation is that propane has a less BTU rating than gasoline and diesel, which means that the power output of a propane-powered generator will be less than a gasoline-powered one. Moreover, the lifetime of a propane generator is less.
Q. Are Propane Generators Loud?
Let me clear something first, the fuel used doesn’t decide the noise level. The noise level is decided by the type of generator, whether it is an inverter generator or a conventional generator.
The inverter generator is much quieter than the conventional generators. So if you majorly use the generator at a camping site or near the house, you should go with the inverter generator. Otherwise, there is always an option to go with the conventional generator, which you can place a little further away to reduce the noise to some extent.
