Best Dual Fuel Generators

As dual fuel generator technology becomes more advanced and less expensive, an increasing number of people are investing in a generator for their home, garage, or camping kit. However, investing in the right generator for you can be tricky as there are dozens of brands and generators to choose from.

We’ve reviewed 15 of the best dual fuel generators on the market, giving you our picks for the most reliable, cost-effective generators in 2023.

Brand & ModelRated PowerMaximum PowerWarrantyWeightSizeAmazon RatingCheck Price
1. Westinghouse WGen6000 Portable Generator
6,000 Rated Watts7,500 Maximum Watts3 Year Limited Warranty174 lbs27.2 x 26.1 x 26 inches4.5 out of 5 starsCheck Price
2. Champion 3,400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
3,100 Rated Watts3,400 Maximum Watts 3 Year Limited Warranty96 lbs25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches4.7 out of 5 starsCheck Price
3. DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
9,500 Rated Watts12,000 Maximum Watts3 Year Parts Warranty224 lbs30 x 29 x 26 inches4.5 out of 5 starsCheck Price
4. Green-Power America 5250 Dual Fuel Generator
4,250 Rated Watts5,250 Maximum Watts2 Years Limited Warranty115 lbs23 x 17.6 x 17.9 inches3.8 out of 5 starsCheck Price
5. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator
3,850 Rated Watts4,850 Maximum Watts3 Year Limited Warranty112 lbs24 x 17 x 17 inches4.4 out of 5 starsCheck Price
6. Pulsar PG10000B16 Portable Dual Fuel Generator
8,000 Rated Watts10,000 Maximum Watts3 Year Parts Warranty209 lbs28.5 x 22.2 x 21.8 inches4.5 out of 5 starsCheck Price
7. Ford 7,750W Portable Dual Fuel Generator
6,250 Rated Watts7,750 Maximum Watts2 Year Limited Warranty196 lbs31 x 23 x 22 inches4.2 out of 5 starsCheck Price
8. Mech Marvels 4000 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
3,200 Rated Watts4,000 Maximum Watts6 Months Limited Warranty100 lbs24 x 19.1 x 20 inches4.5 out of 5 starsCheck Price
9. Firman H03651 Dual Fuel Generator
3,650 Rated Watts4,550 Maximum Watts3 Year Limited Warranty119.5 lbs27.9 x 18.1 x 20.5 inches4.1 out of 5 starsCheck Price
10. All Power America APGG1200GLC Generator
9,000 Rated Watts12,000 Maximum Watts2 Year / 500 hours Warranty239 lbs31 x 21 x 26 inches4.4 out of 5 starsCheck Price
11. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Generator
3,800 Rated Watts4,750 Maximum Watts2 Year Warranty105.8 lbs23.2 x 17.5 x 18.5 inches4.6 out of 5 starsCheck Price
12. Durostar DS4850EH Dual Fuel Generator
3,850 Rated Watts4,850 Maximum Watts3 Year Warranty132 lbs24 x 17 x 17 inches4.0 out of 5 starsCheck Price
13. Rainier R4400DF Dual Fuel Generator
3,300 Rated Watts4,400 Maximum Watts3 Year Warranty104.8 lbs23.3 x 15.5 x 21.3 inches4.3 out of 5 starsCheck Price
14. A-iPower SUA12000EC Fuel Generator9,000 Rated Watts12,000 Maximum Watts1 Year Limited Warranty221 lbs29 x 22 x 26 inches4.3 out of 5 starsCheck Price
15. Generac GP3500iO Open Frame Generator
3500 Rated Watts3500 Maximum Watts3 Year Warranty74.3 lbs19.7 x 16.5 x 16.4 inches4.6 out of 5 starsCheck Price

Before we start reviewing the best dual fuel generators of 2023, let us first explain the basics of dual fuel generator technology. Dual fuel generators (sometimes called ‘hybrid generators’) are generators that use two fuel sources instead of one. These fuel sources include gasoline, propane, and/ or natural gas.


What The Best Dual Fuel Generators Have In Common

Now that we’ve covered how dual fuel generators work, it’s time to dive into the best fuel generators currently available on the market. As a consumer, there are many ways to rank each generator’s quality. The best dual fuel generators have a multi-year warranty, multiple power outlets, and a protective frame made of strong metal like steel.

The best dual fuel generators also include some of these features:

  • Push-to-start or ‘electric start,’ which allows you to turn on the generator with just a button (rather than cranking it manually).
  • ‘Switch and go’ or a ‘transfer switch,’ which allows you to switch fuel sources without turning off the generator.
  • All-terrain wheels, which allow you to move the generator without lifting it.
  • A protective case to keep the generator protected when you aren’t using it.
  • Oil level indicators or a low oil meter, which show you how much oil is in the generator.
  • A remote to control the generator from a distance.

With so many generators to choose from, it can be tough to find the right dual fuel generator for you. In this section, we’ve thoroughly researched all of the generators on the market, giving you our picks for the best dual fuel generators of 2023.

1. Westinghouse WGen6000 Portable Generator

Our Choice For Best Dual Fuel Generator

westinghouse wgen dual fuel generator

Brand: Westinghouse Outdoor

Price Range: $779 – $810

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 6,000 Rated Watts / 7,500 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty for residential use or 1 Year Limited Warranty for commercial use

Description: The Westinghouse WGen6000 Portable Generator is our number one choice for the ‘best dual fuel generator’ title. This generator is well-designed, safe, and perfect for powering your home, campsite, or garage. It offers AC voltage of 120/240 Volts, a 4-stroke engine, and has a 6.6-gallon tank. It will run for 13 hours between re-fuels and takes propane and gasoline.

Pros:

  • Includes electric start and manual recoil start.
  • Suitable for RV’s.
  • Includes a steel frame and all-terrain wheels.
  • Features a transfer switch.
  • It is sold with oil, an oil funnel, and a tool kit.
  • Limited assembly is required.
  • It is certified by the California Air Emissions Board and the Environmental protection agency.

Cons:

  • It does not include a low fuel indicator.
  • No economy mode.
  • No low-oil indicator.

Amazon Rating: 4.5/5


2. Champion 3,400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

Runner Up For Best Dual Fuel Generator

champion dual fuel generator

Brand: Champion Power Equipment

Price Range: $800 – $1,100

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,100 Rated Watts / 3,400 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty with free lifetime technical support

Description: The Champion 3,400 Dual Fuel Generator is our second choice for the ‘best dual fuel generator’ title. It is compact, portable, and easy to use, making it perfect for just about anyone. The generator has a gasoline capacity of 1.6 gallons and will run for 7.5 hours on gasoline and 14.5 hours on propane. It offers multiple power outlets, including a 120V 30A RV outlet, two 120v 20A household outlets, and a 12V DC outlet with a USB adapter.

Pros:

  • Includes both recoil and electric start.
  • Small and easy to carry at just 96 lbs.
  • Extremely quiet compared to other generators, as it runs at 59 decibels from 23 feet away.
  • Includes low-oil shut-off valve to prevent the generator from running without oil.
  • Includes economy mode.

Cons:

  • More expensive than other 3,400-watt generator options.
  • Champion’s customer service is slow.

Amazon Rating: 4.7/5


3. DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

duromax dual fuel generator

Brand: DuroMax

Price Range: $1,000 – $1,290

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 9,500 Rated Watts / 12,000 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Parts Warranty for residential use

Description: The DuroMax XP12000EH generator is a durable, all-metal generator with a powerful engine. The generator offers an 8.3 gallon fuel tank, a 457CC engine, and a 4-stroke engine. It features a 120/240V 50A Heavy Duty Outlet, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets. It can run for 8 hours between re-fuels. It runs on propane and gasoline.

Pros:

  • The generator is made with all-metal parts.
  • Features large, all-terrain wheels.
  • It is sold with an oil funnel, DC cables, spark plug wrench, and toolset.
  • Includes a transfer switch to alternate between fuel sources.
  • Includes a low oil alert icon and a voltage meter.

Cons:

  • Heavier than other generators at 224 lbs.
  • Louder than many other generators.
  • Starts with a manual key start instead of a button start.

Amazon Rating: 4.5/5


4. Green-Power America 5250 Dual Fuel Generator

green power america generator

Brand: Green-Power America

Price Range: $450 – $540

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 4,250 Rated Watts / 5,250 Maximum Watts (3,800 for propane)

Warranty: 2 Years Limited Warranty

Description: The Green-Power America Dual Fuel Generator is a fantastic generator built by an American-owned manufacturer. It features a 4.0-gallon fuel tank and a 4-cycle engine. The generator includes a 12V / 8.3A DC outlet and two 120V/ 20A AC outlets. It can run for a total of 9 hours. It runs on propane and gasoline.

Pros:

  • Includes low-oil auto-shutoff to prevent the generator from running without oil.
  • It runs at just 68 decibels.
  • Easy to pick-up at 115 lbs.
  • Manufactured within the USA.
  • It is sold with 8-inch wheels and a steel frame.
  • Folds down for easy storage.

Cons:

  • Does not include a push-to-start button.
  • The generator’s frame is a loud shade of lime green.

Amazon Rating: 3.8/5


5. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator

duromax hybrid

Brand: DuroMax

Price Range: $549 – $600

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,850 Rated Watts / 4,850 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty

Description: The DuroMax XP4850EH Generator is a great buy for anyone looking for a high-quality generator at a reasonable price. This generator includes a 3.9-gallon fuel tank and a powerful 208cc engine that runs on gasoline and propane. It outputs power through two 120V 20A household outlets and 1 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. In total, it can run for 8 hours.

Pros:

  • Includes an electric and recoil start.
  • Suitable for use in RV’s.
  • The generator is certified by the Environmental Protection and California Air Resources Board, meaning it emits a reduced amount of greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Easy to carry at 122 lbs.
  • The generator is made with all-metal parts.
  • Includes surge arrest to protect the generator from power surges.
  • It is sold with an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, wheel kit, DC charging cables, and a tool kit.

Cons:

  • Although the generator is small, it weighs 130 lbs.
  • This generator isn’t suitable for everyone, as it only has three power outlets.

Amazon Rating: 4.4/5


6. Pulsar PG10000B16 Portable Dual Fuel Generator

pulsar dual fuel generator

Brand: Pulsar

Price Range: $960 – $1,100

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 8,000 Rated Watts / 10,000 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Parts Warranty

Description: The Pulsar PG10000B16 Portable generator is the perfect generator for anyone looking for a generator that runs on LPG and gasoline. The generator features a powerful 420cc, 4-stroke engine and a large 6.6-gallon fuel tank, giving it a runtime of 12 hours. It outputs power through 4 120V outlets, one 120V/ 240V twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240V 50A RV port outlet.

Pros:

  • Includes a transfer switch to swap between fuel sources without turning off the generator.
  • Uses electric start with recoil backup.
  • Very little assembly required.
  • Includes a thick steel frame and wheels, making it very portable.
  • Excellent value for money.
  • Certified with the California Air Resources Board, meaning it emits a reduced amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

Cons:

  • Difficult to lift at 209 pounds.
  • No voltage meter or low oil indicator.
  • Louder than other generators.

Amazon Rating: 4.5/5


7. Ford 7,750W Portable Dual Fuel Generator

Ford portable generator

Brand: Ford

Price Range: $890 – $1,100

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 6,250 Rated Watts / 7,750 Maximum Watts on Gasoline, and 6,000 Rated Watts and 7,500 Maximum Watts on LPG

Warranty: 2 Year Limited Warranty

Description: The Ford 7,750W Portable Dual Fuel Generator is a good quality generator that runs on LPG and gasoline. It is built with a single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine and includes a 6.6-gallon fuel tank. The generator includes four power outlets, including two 120V 20A Outlets, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. It runs for a total of 10.5 hours.

Pros:

  • Includes ‘switch and go’ technology to alternate between gasoline and LPG without turning off the generator.
  • Includes electric and recoil start.
  • Very durable and meets Ford’s “Built Ford Tough” motto.
  • It is sold with all-terrain wheels with chrome rims.
  • Built within the USA.
  • Includes a maintenance-free battery (you can read all about maintenance-free batteries here.)

Cons:

  • Difficult to lift at 190 lbs.
  • Louder than other generators at 76 decibels.
  • Requires some assembly.

Amazon Rating: 4.2/5


8. Mech Marvels 4000 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

mech marvels dual fuel generator

Brand: Mech Marvels

Price Range: $387 – $450

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,200 Rated Watts / 4,000 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 6 Months Limited Warranty

Description: The Mech Marvels 4000 Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a fantastic budget-buy. It takes gasoline and LPG, has a 212 CC engine, and can run for up to 10 hours. The generator features six power outlets, including four 120VAC-20A outlets, one 120VAC-30A-RV outlet, and one 12VDC-8A outlet. It is perfect for RV use and comes with a wheel/handle hit for easy transport.

Pros:

  • Includes a handle and wheels for easy transport.
  • Extremely lightweight at just 100 pounds.
  • Great value for money and will be cheap to run on LPG.
  • Shipping is very fast, as the generator is delivered by Amazon instead of Mech Marvels.
  • Very easy to assemble.
  • Includes a voltage meter.

Cons:

  • It only includes a recoil start.
  • Some customers have had issues with fuel leakage.
  • Does not include a low oil meter.

Amazon Rating: 4.5/5


9. Firman H03651 Dual Fuel Generator

firman dual fuel generator

Brand: Firman

Price Range: $750 – $850

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,650 Rated Watts / 4,550 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty

Description: The Firman H03651 Dual Fuel Generator is a solid, top-of-the-range generator with great environmentally-friendly features. It includes a 5-gallon fuel tank and takes gasoline and LPG fuels. It is fitted with a 208cc engine and runs for 14 hours at a time. This generator includes four power outlets, including two 120V 20A outlets, one TT-30R 30A-120V RV Ready outlet, and one L5-30R 30A-120V twist-lock outlet.

Pros:

  • Includes low oil shutoff to prevent the machine from running without oil.
  • It is sold with a 5.5 ft LPG regulator hose.
  • Includes 8-inch heavy-duty wheels and a folding handle for transport.
  • It is certified by the California Air Emissions Board and limits greenhouse gas emissions.
  • It is easy to carry at 119.5 lbs.
  • Includes an electronic ignition system and a backup recoil system.

Cons:

  • It needs to warm up for several minutes before use.
  • Does not run as well in cold weather.

Amazon Rating: 4.1 /5


10. All Power America APGG1200GLC Generator

all power america duel fuel generator

Brand: All Power America

Price Range: $900 – $1,100

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 9,000 Rated Watts / 12,000 Maximum Watts on Gasoline or 7,250 Rated Watts / 9,000 Maximum Watts on LPG

Warranty: 2 Year / 500 hours Warranty

Description: All Power America’s APGG1200GLC Generator is a great investment for anyone wanting a high wattage generator that releases a reduced amount of emissions. This generator is CARB-compliant, meaning it is certified by the California Air Emissions Board.

It hosts an 8-gallon fuel tank, has a 459cc engine, and runs on gasoline and LPG fuel. It can run for a total of 10 hours and outputs power through four AC 120V outlets, one 120V twist-lock outlet, one 120/240V twist-lock outlet, and one 12V DC outlet.

Pros:

  • Includes a maintenance-free battery (see our ‘Best Car Batteries for 2023 Guide’ for an explanation on maintenance-free batteries).
  • Includes both electric and recoil start.
  • It is sold with a wheel kit, stand, and handles. The handles fold down for easy storage.
  • Includes a meter showing the generator’s run time.
  • Includes manual transfer switch to change between fuel sources.

Cons:

  • It can be slightly loud at 76 decibels.

Amazon Rating: 4.4/5


11. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Generator

wen dual fuel generator

Brand: WEN

Price Range: $439 – $550

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,800 Rated Watts / 4,750 Maximum Watts on Gasoline and 3,500 Rated Watts and 4,350 Maximum Watts on Propane

Warranty: 2 Year Warranty

Description: The WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Generator is a great budget buy for anyone looking for a sleek, compact LPG/ gasoline generator. It is perfect for short power blackouts and camping trips, as it features a 224CC 4-stroke engine and a 4-gallon tank. In total, it can run for 11 hours and outputs power through two 120V 20A outlets and a 12V DC outlet.

Pros:

  • Includes a regulator and overload protector to protect the engine.
  • It uses a fuel stitch to switch between propane and gasoline.
  • Easy to lift at 105.8 lbs.
  • Uses an electric key start system.
  • Sold with a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch, and an LPG connection hose.
  • Compliant with the California Air Emissions Board guidelines.
  • It runs at 69 decibels.

Cons:

  • Some customers have complained that the fuel line leaks easily.
  • The wheels and frame are made of plastic.

Amazon Rating: 4.6/5


12. Durostar DS4850EH Dual Fuel Generator

durostar dual fuel generator

Brand: DuroStar

Price Range: $635 – $650

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,850 Rated Watts / 4,850 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Warranty

Description: The DuroStar DS4850EH Dual Fuel Generator is a great budget buy for campers and RV owners who need a generator for occasional use. It features a 210cc, 4-stroke engine and a 3.9-gallon fuel tank. It can run for 8 hours between re-fuels and outputs power through two 120V 20A household outlets and a single 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. It runs on gasoline and propane.

Pros:

  • Great value and cheap to run on propane.
  • Starts with an electric switch.
  • It is made of metal and copper.
  • Includes a handle and wheel for easy transport.
  • Includes a voltage meter and a low oil sensor.
  • Lightweight, at 132 lbs.

Cons:

  • It only includes three outlets.
  • Low wattage.

Amazon Rating: 4/5


13. Rainier R4400DF Dual Fuel Generator

rainier r4400df generator

Brand: Rainier

Price Range: $487 – $510

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3,300 Rated Watts / 4,400 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Warranty

Description: The Rainier R4400DF Dual Fuel Generator is a budget buy filled with safety features. It is powered by a 212cc 4-stroke engine and includes a 4-gallon fuel tank. This gives it up to 18 hours of use between both fuel sources (gasoline and propane). The generator outputs power through two 5-20R 120V 20 A outlets, an L5-30R 120V 30A outlet, and a 30R 120V 30A outlet.

Pros:

  • Automatic low-oil shutdown to prevent the generator from running without oil.
  • Includes voltage display and lifetime hours.
  • Compliant with guidelines from the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Emissions Board.
  • Includes electric start-up system with backup recoil.
  • It is sold with 8-inch wheels and a foam-grip handle.
  • Lightweight at 113 lbs.

Cons:

  • Parts are made with plastic.
  • The frame breaks easily.
  • Some customers have reported that the electric start doesn’t always work.

Amazon Rating: 4.3 /5


14. A-iPower SUA12000EC Fuel Generator

a ipower dual fuel generator

Brand: A-iPower

Price Range: $900 – $980

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 9,000 Rated Watts / 12,000 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty

Description: The A-iPower SUA12000EC Dual Fuel Generator is a powerful, weatherproof generator that is perfect for emergencies. It features a powerful 459cc, 4-stroke engine and a 7-gallon fuel tank. This generator outputs through two 120V AC outlets, two 120V/240V AC outlets, and one 8a 12V DC outlet. While it is not a dual fuel generator, it offers many of the same advantages – so we have included it anyway.

Pros:

  • Certified by the Environmental Protection Agency and by the California Air Emissions Board.
  • Uses an electric start.
  • Resistant to cold and hot weather, making it perfect for emergencies.
  • Cheaper than all other 12,000 Watt generators.
  • It is built from steel.

Cons:

  • As this generator is open-frame, it is very loud.
  • The generator is very heavy, at 221 lbs.
  • A-iPower is a small brand, you can only source replacement parts from them directly.

Amazon Rating: 4.3/5


15. Generac GP3500iO Open Frame Generator

generac generator

Brand: Generac

Price Range: $671 – $729

Wattage (Rated/ Maximum): 3500 Rated Watts / 3500 Maximum Watts

Warranty: 3 Year Warranty

Description: The Generac GP3500iO Open Frame generator is unique and compact. It is not a standard dual fuel generator, but it can connect to other generators, giving you many of the same advantages as a dual fuel generator. It’s perfect for use in RV’s and on campsites, as it is compact, powerful, and easy to lift.

It has a 2.37-gallon fuel tank and can run for up to 11 hours. It features 3 AC outlets, including two duplex 120V 20A outlets and a 120V 30A receptacle outlet, and 2 DC 5V USB port outlets.

Pros:

  • Perfect for RV’s.
  • Fairly easy to lift, at 74.3 lbs.
  • It is sold with oil, an oil funnel, and a tool kit.
  • You can connect two generator units together to maximize your power output.

Cons:

  • No wheels are included.
  • It reaches a minimum of 71 decibels at 50 feet, making this generator fairly loud.

Amazon Rating: 4.6/5


Why Two Fuels Are Better Than One

Using multiple fuel sources in your generator allows you to run it for longer, as you can switch fuel sources when one runs out. There are also other advantages to investing in a dual fuel generator over a regular generator, as:

  • You can use lower-cost fuels like propane.
  • Dual fuel generators are more versatile than regular generators.
  • You can run your generator on fuels with a longer shelf life.
  • Dual fuel generators are often quieter than regular generators.

How Dual Fuel Generators Work

Like regular generators, dual fuel generators take mechanical energy from their energy source (i.e., propane, gasoline, diesel, or natural gas) and force it through an external electric circuit. This flow of electricity charges the generator, which is then able to power your home, garage, or campsite. Generators are often compared to water pumps, as they do not “create” electricity but channel it.

While each generator manufacturer uses a slightly different mechanical system, generators usually have the following components:

  • Engine = which takes mechanical energy from the fuel source and pumps it into the alternator.
  • Alternator = which takes mechanical energy and outputs electricity.
  • Fuel Systems/ Tanks = which stores fuel prior to use by the engine.
  • Voltage Regulator = which controls the voltage of the electricity output by the generator.
  • Cooling and Exhaust Systems = which draw into the generator to ensure a medium temperature is maintained.
  • Lubrication System = which stores and pumps oil into the engine parts. This prevents them from seizing or becoming damaged. If you’d like to learn more about the role of oil, check out our ‘Best Oil Filters Guide.’
  • Battery Charger = which takes electricity from the alternator and charges the generator’s battery.
  • Control Panel = which allows you to interact with the generator.
  • Main Assembly/ Frame = which is the external frame of the generator.

You can see how these components come together in the diagram below:

dual fuel generator components

Guide To Dual Fuel Generator Wattage

As you begin to consider your dual fuel generator options, you may notice that each generator advertises a particular wattage. As a consumer, it’s essential to choose a generator with the right wattage for you, so I’ll briefly explain it in this section.

Generators output AC voltage, which is why they can be used to power your house. When you see a generator advertised, you will notice that two wattage figures are given: ‘maximum wattage’ (sometimes called ‘surge wattage’) and ‘rated wattage’ (sometimes called ‘running wattage’).

Maximum wattage refers to the generator’s minimum capacity, while rated wattage refers to 90% of the maximum power. As generators can only output their maximum wattage for 30 minutes or less, rated wattage is the wattage you will get when you actually use the generator.

max rated

NOTE: As a generator owner, you never want to run your generator at maximum capacity for long. This is for two reasons: you will run out of fuel quickly, and your generator will degrade faster.

When choosing a generator, experts recommend selecting a generator with a rated wattage that can easily handle your power needs. For example, if you need a generator with 2,000 watts, you should choose a generator with a rated wattage of at least 2,500 watts, not a generator with a maximum wattage of 2,000 watts.


How To Care Your Dual Fuel Generator

It is essential to take care of your generator, as a well-maintained generator can last for years and give you hundreds of hours of electricity. In this section, we’ll briefly explain how to fuel your generator, how to use a generator safely, and give you some tips for good generator care.

Fueling A Generator

Re-fuelling a dual fuel generator is easy, provided you take appropriate measures to refuel your generator safely.

Your generator will need to be cool before you refuel it. If you add fuel into a generator with a hot engine, the fuel can ignite: causing a fire. To ensure you refuel the generator safely, always turn the machine off for at least 15 minutes prior to refueling.

  • Step 1. Clear the area of children and/ or pets.
  • Step 2. Prepare your fuel/s and ensure the generator is not hot to the touch. Never refuel while the generator is on.
  • Step 3. Open the fuel system and pour the fuel into the fuel tank.
  • Step 4. Use a rag to wipe away any fuel that spills. Dispose of the rag immediately.
  • Step 5. Wait at least five minutes before starting your generator. Use soapy water on the fuel nozzle to ensure no fuel has leaked.

If you fuel your generator at night, always use a flashlight to ensure you never lose sight of the fuel while pouring it.

NOTE: When running a generator, always ensure you keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Good Generator Safety

Dual fuel generators are extremely safe power sources when used correctly. However, as they are gas-powered machines, fuel generators emit carbon monoxide –  which can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. To minimize the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, always run your generator in an open, ventilated space and never run your generator indoors or under a shelter.

If you notice any of these carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms, switch off your generator and seek medical attention immediately.

  • Minor or major headache
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Fainting
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision

Dual fuel generators are also hot to the touch and potentially dangerous if tipped. When operating a generator, always keep children away from the machine, run the generator upright, and take measures to prevent the generator from moving, falling, or rolling (like placing bricks around the wheels).

Tips For Good Generator Care

To get the most out of your generator, make sure you:

  • Store your generator in a cool, dry location like the garage.
  • While using your generator overnight or out of sight, chain the generator to something secure (like a poll) to prevent people from stealing it.
  • Never use fuel that has been left in a generator long term, as the fuel may be unstable. Always test the quality of your fuel after it has been stored (check out our ‘Best Fuel Injector Guide’ to learn more about fuel).
  • When storing your generator long term (like over summer), store the generator without any fuel in the fuel tank.
  • Watch your generator for water leaks, as this can ruin the engine.
  • Secure all cords when your generator is in use.
  • Get your generator serviced and checked annually by a local technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Makes The Best Dual Fuel Generator?

The best dual fuel generator is made by Westinghouse Outdoor. Their ‘wGen6000 Portable Generator’ is safe, well-designed, and great value for money. It hosts a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, takes propane and gasoline, and can run for up to 13 hours.

What Is The Best Dual Fuel Inverter Generator?

An inverter generator is a generator that converts DC power into AC power. Most dual fuel generators are also inverter generators, just by the nature of their design. The three best dual fuel generators are the ‘Westinghouse WGen6000 Portable Generator’, the ‘Champion 3,400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator’, and the ‘DuroMax XP12000EH Generator’. All three of these generators are powerful, safe, and suitable for camping, emergencies, and RV’s.

Is It Worth Getting A Dual Fuel Generator?

It is definitely worth investing in a dual fuel generator. Unlike regular generators, dual fuel generators can switch between two fuel sources – giving them a longer run time. As you can run your generator on fuels like propane and LPG, it is also cheaper to run a dual fuel generator than a regular generator.

What Is The Quietest Dual Fuel Generator?

The quietest dual fuel generator on the market is the ‘Champion 3,400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator’, which runs at just 59 decibels from 23 feet away. Other quiet generators include the ‘Green-Power America 5250 Dual Fuel Generator’ at 68 decibels and the ‘WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Generator’ at 69 decibels.

What Is A Dual Fuel Generator?

A dual fuel generator (sometimes called ‘hybrid generators’) is a type of generator that runs on multiple fuel sources. Usually, this includes propane, LPG, and gasoline. Compared to single-fuel generators, dual fuel generators are cheaper, use lower-cost fuels, and run for longer.

Can You Run A Dual Fuel Generator Inside?

You can never run dual fuel generators inside or in an enclosed environment. All generators, dual fuel generators included, release carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can be toxic when inhaled. To protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning, always run your dual fuel generator outside in a well-ventilated area.

Is It Cheaper To Run A Generator On Propane Or Gas?

It is cheaper to run a generator on propane than on gas, as propane usually retails for less per gallon and has an indefinite shelf life. However, propane and gas prices fluctuate throughout the year and by region, meaning it is impossible to say that propane is always cheaper everywhere.


Conclusion

A dual fuel generator is a fantastic investment for anyone who loves camping, owns an RV, or lives in an area where power outages are frequent occurrences. Unlike single-fuel generators, dual fuel generators can run on LPG, gasoline, or propane – making them cheaper to run for longer.

As we know investing in a new generator can be tricky, we hope our list of the best dual fuel generators helped you compare the top models on the market. If you’ve got any other suggestions for great dual fuel generators, please leave them in the comments below.

Garry

Garry is the happy owner of a funky 2018 Nissan Juke Ti-S AWD. After growing up around his family’s mechanics shop, he is passionate about bringing budget-friendly car care to every driver. Garry has a business degree and is a car enthusiast.