When the power grid fails during a storm or emergency, a reliable generator becomes more than a convenience—it’s a lifeline. A dual-fuel generator offers the ultimate in preparedness, giving you the flexibility to run on either gasoline or propane. This versatility is crucial when one fuel type becomes scarce, ensuring you can keep your essential appliances running, your home secure, and your family comfortable.
Choosing the right model, however, depends on your specific needs. Are you looking for a whole-home backup solution, a portable unit for camping and RV trips, or a quiet inverter for sensitive electronics? Our roundup of the best dual-fuel generators is designed to help you navigate the options. We’ve compiled a list of top-performing models to help you find the perfect balance of power, portability, and features for your emergency plan.
Our Recommended Dual Fuel Generators
- Westinghouse 9500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
- Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
- Champion 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
- DuroMax XP12000EH 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator-4400 Watt
- Champion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Ultralight Portable Dual Fuel Inverter
- Generac 5,200-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
- Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
- Champion Power Equipment 100263 Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Westinghouse 9500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
For robust home backup power, the Westinghouse 9500-watt generator is a formidable choice. Its high output delivers 7500 running watts on gasoline and 6750 on propane, providing enough energy to keep critical home systems operational during an extended outage. The convenience of a remote electric start means you can power up the unit from the comfort of your home, a significant advantage in severe weather.
This model is designed with both safety and ease of use in mind. The intuitive control panel includes GFCI-protected household outlets and a 30A twist-lock outlet, all covered by rubber safety caps. As a transfer switch ready unit, it integrates seamlessly with your home’s electrical system. Furthermore, it arrives as a complete kit with a remote key fob, battery charger, and necessary tools for a straightforward setup process.
Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
The Pulsar G12KBN stands out with its impressive power output, reaching 12,000 peak watts on gasoline. This heavy-duty capacity makes it suitable for demanding job sites and comprehensive home backup. Its dual-fuel capability ensures that you are never stranded without a power source, as LPG can be a more stable and storable fuel option during regional emergencies.
Durability is a key feature of this generator, thanks to its powder-coated frame that protects the robust 457cc engine from the elements. The electric start ensures a quick and reliable beginning to your power generation. With its high wattage and sturdy construction, this generator is built to handle significant electrical loads with reliability.
Champion 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
Champion’s 8000-watt model offers a strong balance of power and user-friendly features. Ready to run on either gasoline or propane straight out of the box, it provides significant electrical support for a range of home needs. The included battery and simple electric start toggle switch make activation effortless every time.
A standout feature of this generator is the Intelligauge, which allows you to monitor voltage, frequency, and run-time hours at a glance. This information is vital for tracking maintenance intervals and ensuring the generator is producing stable power. Combined with a low oil shut-off sensor for engine protection, this unit is a smart and reliable choice for emergency preparedness.
DuroMax XP12000EH 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
When your goal is to power nearly your entire home, the DuroMax XP12000EH is a top contender. With a massive 12,000 watts of power, this generator can simultaneously run multiple large appliances, central air conditioning systems, and well pumps. It represents the high end of portable home backup power, offering peace of mind for prolonged outages.
DuroMax is a recognized leader in dual-fuel technology, and this model is a testament to their expertise. It is built around a powerful and reliable DuroMax engine designed for heavy, continuous use. Transfer switch ready, it is an ideal solution for homeowners looking to create a seamless and powerful backup power system.
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
For those with more moderate power needs, the DuroMax XP4400EH offers a practical and efficient solution. With 4,400 starting watts, it is perfectly capable of running a refrigerator, lights, a sump pump, and other essential household items during a blackout. Its smaller footprint and manageable output make it a great fit for apartments or smaller homes.
This generator brings the benefit of dual-fuel flexibility to a more compact package. The reliable 210cc engine provides ample power for a variety of tasks, from emergency home backup to powering tools at a remote job site. It strikes an excellent balance between capability, fuel choice, and value.
Champion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Ultralight Portable Dual Fuel Inverter
This Champion inverter generator is in a class of its own, prioritizing portability and clean power. Weighing only 39 pounds, it is one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters available, making it easy to transport for camping, tailgating, or RV use. Its dual-fuel capability extends its versatility, allowing for long run times on propane.
Inverter technology means it produces clean, stable electricity that is safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and televisions. It operates at a remarkably quiet 53 dBA, which is less noisy than a normal conversation. For those who need reliable, quiet, and portable power for electronics and small appliances, this is an outstanding option.
Generac 5,200-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Generac brings its trusted name in home backup to a versatile portable inverter. The iQ5200 provides a robust 5,200 watts of clean power, making it suitable for both home emergency use and outdoor recreation. The convenient electric start, with an included battery, ensures you have immediate power when you need it most.
A fully enclosed case significantly reduces operating noise, making this generator a considerate neighbor at a campsite or in a residential area. It seamlessly switches between gasoline and propane, offering fuel flexibility. This model is an excellent all-arounder for users who need clean, quiet, and substantial power in a portable package.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is another powerful contender in the home backup category, offering performance similar to other high-wattage models. Its dual-fuel operation provides the essential flexibility to switch between gasoline and propane based on availability and cost. This capability is crucial for weathering long-term emergencies where fuel supply chains may be disrupted.
Designed for reliability, it features a strong engine and a durable construction built to handle the demands of extended use. With multiple outlet options, it can directly power a variety of appliances or connect to a home’s electrical system via a transfer switch. It is a solid, dependable choice for anyone seeking a robust power solution for their household.
Champion Power Equipment 100263 Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The Champion 100263 is designed to deliver reliable power for a wide range of applications. Its dual-fuel functionality ensures you are prepared for any situation, with the option to use the most accessible fuel source. This model is built with Champion’s reputation for durability and performance, making it a trusted name for emergency power.
It offers a practical balance of power and portability, suitable for home backup as well as for use on job sites or at remote locations. With user-focused features like a simple control panel and a rugged design, this generator provides a straightforward and effective power solution for a variety of users and scenarios.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Dual Fuel Generator for Emergencies
When the power goes out, having a reliable generator is a game-changer. I think a dual fuel model is the smartest choice because it gives you options. You can run it on gasoline or propane, which is fantastic when fuel supplies get tight. But with so many models out there, how do you pick the right one for your home? I focus on a few key things to make sure I get a unit that will actually work when I need it most.
First, you need to figure out how much power you really need. This is the most important step. I make a list of the essential appliances I want to run during an outage—things like the refrigerator, a few lights, my phone charger, and maybe a well pump or furnace fan. Add up the starting watts (the surge power they need to turn on) and the running watts (the power they need to operate). Your generator’s output needs to handle that total. For most homes, a unit between 4,000 and 8,500 watts will cover the basics, but if you want to power central air conditioning, you’ll need to look at the higher end of that range or beyond.
Next, consider the runtime. How long can the generator run on a single tank of gas or a standard 20-pound propane tank? I look for models that offer a long runtime at 50% load. This is crucial because you don’t want to be refueling every few hours, especially in the middle of the night or during bad weather. Propane often provides a longer, more stable runtime and it doesn’t degrade over time like gasoline, making it a great fuel for long-term storage.
Portability and outlets matter more than you might think. Even if you don’t plan on moving it often, wheels and a folding handle are a must for getting it out of the garage and into position. Check the outlet panel to ensure it has the right types and number of outlets for your needs, including a heavy-duty 240-volt outlet for large appliances like a well pump or electric range. Finally, I always look for modern features like an electric start for easy operation and a carbon monoxide shutoff sensor for safety, especially if the generator will be used anywhere near the house. Taking the time to think through these points will help you find one of the best dual fuel generators for emergencies that fits your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of a dual fuel generator for emergency use?
The biggest benefit is fuel flexibility. During a prolonged power outage, gasoline can become scarce or even go bad if it’s been sitting in your can for too long. With a dual fuel generator, you can switch to propane, which has a virtually infinite shelf life and is often cleaner burning, which means less maintenance on the engine. This flexibility gives you peace of mind, knowing you have a backup plan for your backup power.
How do I calculate the right size generator for my home?
I start by making a list of the absolute essentials I need to power. For each item, find its starting watts (or surge watts) and running watts. You can usually find these numbers on a label on the appliance itself or in the user manual. Add up all the running watts for the items you plan to use simultaneously, and make sure the largest starting watt value on your list is within the generator’s surge capacity. It’s always better to have a little more power than you think you’ll need.
Is it safe to run a dual fuel generator indoors or in my garage?
No, it is never safe to run a generator indoors. This includes garages, basements, or even sheds with the door closed. Generators produce deadly carbon monoxide gas that can quickly fill an enclosed space. You should always place the generator outside, far away from windows, doors, and vents to ensure the exhaust fumes are carried safely away from your living areas.
Can I connect a dual fuel generator directly to my home’s electrical panel?
You should only do this with a professionally installed transfer switch. Plugging a generator directly into a wall outlet, known as “backfeeding,” is extremely dangerous and is a fire hazard. It can also electrocute utility workers who are trying to restore power. A transfer switch is the only safe and legal way to connect a generator to your home’s wiring system.
How often should I perform maintenance on my emergency generator?
Even if you don’t use it, you should perform basic maintenance regularly. I check the oil level before every use. I also start and run the generator for about 20-30 minutes every month or two with a light load to keep the engine parts lubricated and the battery charged (if it has an electric start). Always follow the specific maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, which will include tasks like changing the oil and spark plug at recommended intervals. This ensures your unit is ready to go when you need it. When you are looking for the best dual fuel generators for emergencies, considering the maintenance requirements is a key part of the decision.