Whether you want to power your RV for camping trips or you’re looking for a good backup power supply in case of outages, the dual fuel generator is highly recommended equipment due to its great power output and versatility. As the name suggests, dual fuel generators use two types of fuel to generate electricity: readily available gasoline and cleaner, cheaper propane.
By using two types of fuel, gasoline and propane generators offer more flexibility and convenience; in cases when one type of fuel isn’t available, you can still use the other one. Their running time is also extended since you can switch from one fuel to the other if one runs out.
We’ve carefully reviewed the top products on the market to share with you the 8 best dual fuel generators available today.
Best Dual Fuel Generators
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Best For Low Budgets
3DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Generator
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Best Overall
4Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Generator
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Best For Higher Budgets
8DuroStar DS4400EHF Dual Fuel Generator
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1. Champion 76533 Dual Fuel Generator
- Volt Guard built-in surge protector
- Cold Start Technology
- Intelligauge
- EPA-compliant and CARB-certified
Coming from an established brand in power generation equipment, the Champion 3800-Watt bi fuel generator combines top-notch performance with convenient features, making it ideal for powering RVs or providing electricity during power outages. It uses Cold Start Technology to make sure that you can start it even in cold weather. The Intelligauge helps keep track of power output and maintenance intervals and the built-in shut-off sensor automatically shuts off the generator when the oil is running low.
Its 224cc Champion engine can generate up to 4,750 starting watts and 3,800 running watts for 9 hours at half-load when 3.4 gallons of gasoline is used. When a 20 lbs. propane tank is used, it generates 4,275 starting watts and 3,240 running watts for 10.5 hours at half-load. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support.
Specifications
Pros
- Convenient electric start
- Highly efficient four-stroke engine
- Protected outlets
- Hassle-free set-up
Cons
- Limited number of outlets
- Rubber hoses may need regular replacement
2. Sportsman GEN4000DF Dual Fuel Generator
- 7 HP engine
- Spark arrestor
- 10-12 hours running time
- EPA-approved and CARB-compliant
Weighing 90 lbs. and sporting an open frame design, the Sportsman GEN4000DF is easily one of the more portable multi fuel generators of the 3,000-4,000 rated wattage category. Its 212cc OHV engine is capable of running for 10 hours at half-load using 3.6 gallons of gasoline, and 12 hours at half-load on a 20 lbs. propane tank. Besides its 120 volts RV outlet, it has 4 more AC outlets and 1 DC outlet so that you have enough to power your essential appliances as well as to charge batteries.
The GEN4000DF also comes with safety features like the automatic shut-off when low oil is detected, the circuit breaker to protect from overloads, and the spark arrestor which makes it safe to use even in forested areas. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Specifications
Pros
- Multiple ports
- Lightweight
- Easy to set up and use
- Starts with one easy pull
Cons
- Lacks low-fuel indicator lights
- Lacks wheels for mobile transport
3. DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Generator
- MX2 Technology
- Surge-arrest
- All-metal construction
- EPA-approved and CARB-compliant
The DuroMax XP4400EH packs plenty of power with its 208cc OHV 4-stroke engine that can generate 3,500 and 3,325 running watts on gasoline and propane, respectively. It’s got enough power to supply heavy loads like air conditioners and power tools. It can run up to 11.46 hours at half-load using 3.96 gallons of gasoline or 9.81 hours on 20 lbs. of propane. Its MX2 Power Boost Technology also gives you the option to operate the generator at 120 volts and 240V simultaneously, or 120 volts at full power.
Its safety features include the automatic low oil shut-off, Surge-arrest which protects your generator from sudden power surges, air-cooling to prevent excessive heating up of the engine, and a spark arrestor for safe use during camping. The XP4400EH comes with a 3-year parts warranty.
Specifications
Pros
- Flexible output in its outlets
- Large fuel tank
- Easy start-up and maintenance
- Safe to use in camping sites
Cons
- Some may find the oil drain plug difficult to reach
- May not be suitable for certain RV models
4. Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Generator
- Runs on either gasoline or propane.
- Produces 9500W rated watts / 12,500 peak watts.
- Runtime of up to 17.5 hours on a 6.6 gallon tank.
- Automatic low oil shutdown.
This is a smaller backup generator which might suit you if you have a modest home, or only want to keep your key appliances running. It’s portable and has an open frame design. It produces 9500W running watts, which should be enough for your refrigerator and freezer, lights and possibly an AC unit, depending on the size.
It’s both transfer switch and RV ready, if you want the option of putting your generator to work at home or on the road. You have the option to run this model on propane or gasoline, with a runtime of up to 17.5 hours. This generator has an electric start and remote start key fob.
Specifications
Pros
- Transfer switch ready,
- Remote electric start.
- Range of outlets including 120V, 120/240V and USB ports.
- Control panel showing voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.
Cons
- Less powerful than other home backup models.
- Although this is a portable generator, at 220 pounds it’s heavy to move.
5. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator
- Produces up to 9500W running watts (using gasoline).
- Transfer switch ready.
- Electric start.
- Quiet for a generator in this power range.
This DuroMax generator offers a good value alternative to some of the bigger name brands. It’s a dual fuel option that can produce up to 9500W running watts on gasoline. The wheels and handle mean you can move it into position as needed. It’s transfer switch ready, and there are a range of 120V and 120/240V outlets, plus a DC outlet, with an individual circuit breaker for each outlet.
There’s idle control to reduce fuel consumption and noise when the generator isn’t in use. A downside of using this generator for home backup is that the high THD means it’s not suitable for powering sensitive electronics.
Specifications
Pros
- Can be run on either gasoline or propane.
- Idle control to save fuel and reduce noise when the generator is not in use.
- Portable, with heavy duty frame and solid-fill wheels.
- Range of 120V and 120/240V outlets, plus a 12V DC outlet.
Cons
- High THD means it’s not suitable for powering sensitive electronics.
- No remote start.
6. Firman H08051 Dual Fuel Generator
- Dual fuel – can be run on gasoline or propane.
- Robust open frame design.
- 120/240V output.
- Produces 8000W (running watts) output when run on gasoline.
This is a powerful portable generator for a worksite or for use as a backup home generator if your mains power fails. It offers the flexibility to run on either gasoline or propane, and a simple turn of the dial allows you to switch between the two.
Running on gasoline, it produces 8000 running watts (7250W running on propane). A full 8 gallon tank of gas will give you a 12 hour runtime at 50% load, making this a fuel-efficient option. Operation is simple, with a push button electric start (the battery is included), built-in fuel gauge and a 3-in-1 display to quickly view the hours, Volts and Hertz.
There are a total of five outlets, including one 14-50R outlet which can be used for your RV, and a twist lock L14-30R outlet meaning it can be connected to a breaker box to power your home. This is a portable generator and it comes with a wheel kit, but bear in mind that at 212 pounds it’s very heavy to lift off the ground.
Specifications
Pros
- Can run for 12 hours at 50% load on a full 8 gallon tank of gasoline.
- Electric start.
- Comes with a 5-foot propane hose.
- 3-in-1 data panel measuring hours, Volts and Hertz.
Cons
- No remote start.
- Comes with a wheel kit, but at 212 pounds is heavy to manoeuvre.
7. Pulsar PG10000B16 Dual Fuel Generator
- 12 hours of continuous operation
- Switch & Go Technology
- 3-in-1 Digital Meter
- 6 AC outlets and 1 DC outlet
The combined power of a 420cc OHV engine and 6.6-gallon gasoline capacity propel the Pulsar PG10000B16 to an impressive 12-hour continuous running time at half-load. While its heavy-duty performance is matched by its heavy weight at 209 lbs., transporting this gas and propane generator is made easy with its never-flat wheels and fold-down locking dual handle. It provides a generous number of outlets to power the essentials you need, including a DC output for charging batteries.
It features the Switch & Go technology which lets you switch from gas to propane and propane to gas even while the generator is running. The 3-in-1 Digital Meter makes it easy to monitor its output and fuel levels and its built-in circuit breakers are a safeguard against overloads. The PG10000B16 comes with a 2-year warranty.
Specifications
Pros
- Heavy-duty performance
- Long running time
- Convenient fuel-switching
- Durable
Cons
- Power fluctuations may occur during prolonged usage
- Some may find its noise level loud
8. DuroStar DS4400EHF Dual Fuel Generator
- 7 HP air-cooled engine
- Idle Control
- 4-point motor mounts
- EPA-approved
Powered by a 196cc 4-stroke 7 HP engine, the DuroStar Fortress can produce 3,500 running watts for up to 10 hours running half-load on either 4 gallons of gas or 20 lbs. of propane, making it ideal for powering RVs and key appliances such as fridges, AC units, and sump pumps. Its steel frame and wheel kit make it easy to transport anywhere.
The 4-point isolated motor mounts facilitate smooth and quiet operation and its noise-dampening exhaust aids in muffling the sound to keep the noise level at 69.0 dBA. For fuel-saving and further noise reduction, the Idle Control helps keep the engine RPM at a constant level even under heavy loads. The product comes with a 30-day replacement warranty and one-year parts warranty.
Specifications
Pros
- Durable metal and plastic material
- Good performance for both fuels
- Easy operation
- Additional sound-muffler features
Cons
- Limited number of outlets
- Warranty only on parts
Dual Fuel Generator Buying Guide
Power
When choosing the dual fuel generator for you, it’s important to consider what you’re primarily going to use it for as this will determine what specifications would work best for your situation. For example, if you’re looking into providing electricity for power-intensive applications, you would definitely need a dual fuel generator that can consistently generate more power.
Power output of generators is measured in watts, and for dual fuel generators they come in two output ratings: peak or starting output and rated or running watts, which is the general power output. These ratings are generally different for gasoline and propane.
Remember that generators that are capable of producing more power tend to be bigger and bulkier in size as well as heavier in weight to accommodate the heavy-duty materials needed to sustain it.
3500 Watts
Most standard dual fuel generators produce an average rated output of 3,500W with their peak ratings at around 4,000W. A 3,500W rated output produces enough to power essential, less intensive appliances concurrently such as lights, fridges, ovens, TVs, and sump pumps.
Generally, 4000w generator is enough to power an RV though within reasonable limits.
7500 Watts
A dual fuel generator that can generate 7,500 running watts is capable of powering most household appliances in relative comfort. If with 3,500W you can power the essentials, with 7,500 watts you can add to those with many smaller appliances or a few big ones, along with heat and water pumps.
Though some sacrifices still have to be made, you’d be able to weather through the emergencies quite comfortably.
12000 Watts
With a 12,000W generator, you can be sure to have most, if not all, of your home conveniences up and running: lights, fridge, sump pumps, security systems, air conditioners, TV and computers, modem/router, etc. For projects, a 12,000W generator can power multiple tools and large equipment.
Efficiency
Efficiency in terms of dual fuel generators involve fuel, and what you value more: higher power output or longer running time. As a rule of thumb, gasoline produces more energy so running your generator on gasoline will deliver higher power output, which would be useful if you aim to generate more power for your appliances. However, gasoline tends to burn fast and so the trade-off for more power is less running time.
Propane, on the other hand, generates less energy but burns slower compared to gasoline, adding at least 2 hours of running time. Be sure to check the rated output for both fuels and adjust consumption accordingly, and keep in mind that using propane may drop anywhere from a couple hundred to a thousand watts in rated output.
The beauty of using dual fuel generators is that you can combine the benefits of both gasoline and propane giving you at least 20 hours of non-stop uninterrupted power, which is more than enough time to get the fuel that you need to refill the generator.
Versatility
Versatility is one of the main selling points of dual fuel generators, which is in this case the ability to use two different fuel types to power the generator. This is especially useful when either one runs out or is unavailable at the moment, which can happen when a natural disaster occurs and leaves you without power for days.
Having the option to use what fuel you have available is invaluable in this situation, and the choice that dual fuel generators afford you makes it safer to use than its counterparts.
Having the option to choose your fuel also helps those in a budget. Gasoline is more easily available, though not by much nowadays as propane is fast becoming readily obtainable.
Propane is also much easier to store because of its storage container. Bear in mind though that unlike gasoline, propane is more likely to flare up during cold weather, making it more ideal for summer use.
Noise Reduction
One of the downsides of using a generator is the noise it emits when in operation, which is comparable to the sound a vacuum cleaner makes. It may seem unavoidable, but it is still possible to get a quiet dual fuel generator that packs a punch.
While it may be hard to find a dual fuel generator running on at least 3,500W with a noise level lower than 65.0 dBA, there are available models that sport sound-muffler features such as a noise-dampening exhaust and isolated motor mounts.
Always remember not to stay near the vicinity of the generator as prolonged exposure to their noise level can result in irreversible hearing damage. Also, when looking at the noise levels of the units, double-check their level at full-load to avoid nasty surprises as some manufacturers measure the noise level at 25% load and at 23 ft. of distance. In any scenario, you can always opt to upgrade your generator with a muffler that will significantly reduce the sound your generator makes.
Ease of Use
Ease of use encompasses a host of features that come together to make the set-up, operation, and transport of these dual fuel generators convenient on the users. The best dual fuel generators boast of easy set-up and operation, whether they use the electric start or recoil, taking only one flick of a switch or one pull of the rope to get the engine running.
Monitoring System
Control panels with clear indicators and meters also factor into the ease of use of a model. Additional safety features present in standard dual fuel generators like the circuit breakers, automatic low oil shut-off, and spark acceptors not only make these generators safe to use but they also help in providing peace of mind when they’re in operation.
Portability
Most portable dual fuel generators sport never-flat wheels, which when combined with their open frame design and adjustable handles, make it easy to transport them. Some models that don’t include wheels make up for it with their comparatively light weight.
Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator
Dual fuel generators with an electric start use the included battery to start up the engine without needing to crank it. This provides another level of convenience as it only takes a flick of a switch, the turn of a key, or a push of a button to get your engine running.
Should the switch fail or the battery give out, dual fuel generators can still fall back on the recoil pull starter, which only takes one pull of the rope to get the engine humming. The electric start feature comes especially handy during emergencies as it would only take a few seconds to start up the generator and supply power to your home.
Our Verdict
Dual fuel generators are important equipment to have as they can power your home during emergencies or supply power to your RVs during camping trips. Choosing the best dual fuel generator for you entails determining what you’ll primarily use your generator for.
If you’re simply looking to have a sufficient power supply for your essentials during outages, then a 3,500W generator will do just fine. If you’re looking to retain the comfort and convenience provided by most of your household appliances then a 7,000W or a 12,000W generator is the one you’re looking for.
Keep in mind that the more power a generator produces, the bigger and bulkier it is. If you’re thinking of getting a dual fuel generator to use in your camping trips, then your prime considerations besides output performance should be portability and the noise level the generator emits.
Get to know your dual fuel generator better in order to maximize its use, such as by learning which fuel is more easily accessible in your area and planning your fuel usage accordingly. Lastly, pay attention to product warranty as this may prove to be invaluable should you run into trouble with your dual fuel generator.
