10 Best Dual Fuel Generator in 2023

In a Hurry? Check Our Top 3 Picks

1. Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator
2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter
3. Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

With climate change, we are getting more powerful storms and hurricanes. And these often result in power outages. And if you live in areas susceptible to blackouts, you might experience them more often.

That’s why you need a generator. And not just any generator. The best dual fuel generators are versatile and are more powerful than single fuel generators. It can run on two types of fuel. And it’s very handy in emergencies should one type of fuel is not available

We are listing the best brands so that you would get the best value for your money. They can be quite expensive so might as well get the real deal.

What is Dual Fuel Generators

Dual fuel generators use two types of fuel. Oftentimes, it makes use of natural gas and diesel. Diesel is often used to start up the generator since it has a lower ignition temperature.

And you can use these two types of fuel to run a dual fuel generator. Meaning, you can mix these two fuels. It’s quite versatile because you have an option to use just one type of fuel. Or you can opt to use a combination of both diesel and natural gas in different proportions.

Dual fuel generators are often mistaken as bi-fuel generators. These generators are different from one another. While dual-fuel generators can use a mixture of two types of fuels, bi-fuel cannot. Instead, a bi-fuel generator can accommodate two types of fuel, but you can’t mix them.

Quick Summary:

1. The Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator is the simplest, no fuss generator on our list. Albeit its ease of fse, it is packed with modern technologies that other complicated generators have. There is no learning curve so everyone can easily access it.
2. Make your camping and off the grid adventures more convenient with the  Champion 3400. It is light, prtable, but powerful enough to power your entire RV unit.
3. The Champion 7500-Watt is a very versatile generator. It has a great power output that you can use for several applications. Like the Champion 3400, you can also use it for RV vans. And best of all, it’s one of the best generators for emergencies.
4. A large household will have several appliances. And you need a generator that’s up to the challenge. The  DuroMax XP12000EH  can power up several appliances in large homes.
5. If you are on budget, the DuroMax XP4400EH will serve you well. It’s even more affordable than other medium output generators in the market.

Brand	Starting watts	Running watts	Decibels	Button
Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator	9500 Watts (Gasoline)8550 Peak Watts (Propane)	7500 watts on gas6750 watts on propane	70	Check Price on Amazon
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter	3400 Watts (Gasoline)3060 Peak Watts (propane)	6200 watts on gas 5580 watts on propane	59	Check Price on Amazon
Champion 7500-Watt	9375 watts on gasoline 8400 watts on propane	7500 watts  on gas6750 watts on propane	68	Check Price on Amazon
DuroMax XP12000EH	2,000 starting watts	9, 500 running watts	72	Check Price on Amazon
DuroMax XP4400EH	4,400 starting watts	3,500 running watts	69	Check Price on Amazon
Champion 8000-Watt	10,000 watts on gasoline 9025 watts on propane	8000 watts on gas7250 watts on propane	74	Check Price on Amazon
Pulsar Products	10, 000 watts on gas 9000 watts on propane	8000 watts on gas900 watts on propane	85	Check Price on Amazon
Sportsman Gen4000DF	4000 starting watts	3500 running watts	69	Check Price on Amazon
WEN DF11000	11,000 watts on gas9,500 watts on propane	8300 watts on gas7500 watts on propane	72	Check Price on Amazon
Firman HO3652	4550 watts on gas  4100 watts on propane	3650 watts on gas3300 watts on propane	68	Check Price on Amazon

Never settle for anything less. These reliable dual fuel generators will serve you well.

The 10 Best Dual Fuel Generator

1. Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator– Best Overall

This low-maintenance generator is packed with the latest technologies and innovations.

That’s why it took the top spot on our list. This generator has bells and a whistle. But at the same time, it was able to maintain the basic functions. Thus, making it very easy to use and requires little to no maintenance.

a  single push of a button allows for a quick start-up and removes the need to crank. Notwithstanding that, it also has the pull-start capability, and an additional wireless remote start option, so you can operate the generator set even from a few yards away. 

Westinghouse sports an easy fuel selector switch to let you alternate between propane and gasoline, even while the engine is running. Color-coded buttons are pretty straightforward to decipher and make navigating the machine a breeze. 

Westinghouse sports an easy fuel selector switch to let you alternate between propane and gasoline, even while the engine is running. Color-coded buttons are pretty straightforward to decipher and make navigating the machine a breeze. 

Features

• 7500 Rated Watts & 9500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 6750 Rated Watts & 8550 Peak Watts (Propane)
•  muffler for quiet operation
• an automated low oil shutdown sensor
• Three outlets: a 120-volt AC duplex outlet, an RV-ready 30 amp outlet, and another 30 amp outlet
• backed by CARB compliance
• Non-burst tires and foldable handles 
• Automatic low oil shutdown gauge 
• weighs 109 pounds 
• 69 dB

PROS

• It is very easy to use
• Seamless switch between fuel propane and gas sources
• Equipped with the latest innovation and technologies

CONS

• Propane use with this generator is quite inefficient when compared to its gasoline use 

What we think about this product

This generator lets you enjoy the best of both worlds. You can take advantage of the latest technologies found in a dual fuel generator. But at the same time, you will not have a hard time hovering through it. And it requires minimal maintenance too. Just take note that it performs better with gas as fuel compared to propane. So if you are going to use propane, this is a better alternative.

2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter– best for RV

This portable and light dual fuel converter can make going off the grid more convenient.

Perfect for camping and RV trips, this inverter is significantly lighter and smaller and comes with wheels for ease of portability. Its inverter technology has a smart economy mode, allowing the machine to control the electrical load applied. A quick dial allows easy switching of fuel types, and changing between them will not result in significant power loss.  

Admittedly, this generator from Champion does not offer as high a wattage as many other dual fuel generators. It produces a peak of 3400 watts starting and 3100 constant running watts on gas, and 3060 starting and 2790 constant running watts on propane. What it lacks in power, though, it makes up for with its features. 

This inverter generator also produces clean power, with its Total Harmonic Distribution (THD) amounting to only less than 3%. This enables you to power even the most sensitive of your electronics with little risk. 

Additional features include the option to attach a parallel kit to give you a clip-on connection to accelerate wattage output, an electric start with its battery that has cold start technology so you will have no problems even in cold weather, and its relatively quiet 59 dB noise.  

Straight out of the box, you get a dual fuel inverter that has a 1.6-gallon gas tank that allows operation for as long as 7.5 hours, and a 20-pound propane tank enough for about 14 hours on ¼ load.  

Features

• Weighs 95.7 Pounds
• 3400 watts
• Convenient Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch
•  Battery included plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
• Noise Level  59 Db
•  7.5 hours run time on gasoline
• 3 year limited warranty

PROS

• Inverter generator with stable output and an economy mode for efficient usage 
• Roughly equal performance between gasoline and propane sources 
• Extremely portable and quiet, perfect for outdoors 
• EPA certified, CARB compliant, clean power use for sensitive devices 
• Has a low-oil sensor, three power outlets, and three ignition switches 
• Cold start technology for battery ensures starting even in cold weather 

CONS

• Small fuel tank without extended tank capability 

What we think about this product

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter is an excellent choice for those who love the expansive outdoors. Perfect for RVs and camping because of its long battery life and smart inverter technology, this generator set is worthy of being called the best dual fuel inverter generator in the market today.

3. Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator– best versatile

This 7500 watts dual fuel generator is quite versatile. It can be used for camping, home use  and emergency use. 

It has a rather powerful output that is enough for multiple uses. It can prove itself very useful during emergencies such as hurricanes. This powerful generator can even run for 4 days straight. 

However, the generator could be unstable and could produce an excess of electricity. During times like these, the generator’s reliable volt guard comes in. The built-in surge protector prevents electrical overloads for minimum damage to your appliances and electronic devices. 

Features

• can run for about 8 hours on a full gas tank and around 5.5 hours on a full propane tank
• Has a  cast-iron sleeve around the generator to protect it from damage
• 8,400 starting watts and 6,750 at running watts
• Weighs 202.4 lbs
• Automatic low-oil shutoff sensor 
• “Intelligauge” system provides monitoring of system specifics 
• 4 stroke engine type
• 3 year limited warranty
• Hand toggle switch

PROS

• Steel frame and non-burst wheels provide protection and portability respectively. 
• The 10,000-watt engine is powerful and efficient
• Affordable price 
• Surge protector adds a layer of safety for your electronics 

CONS

• Short oil drain can lead to oil slicks and messes 

What we think about the product

The Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is one of the more versatile dual fuel generators on our list. It has a powerful output that can serve you well in emergencies. This is also  one of the best that you can use to power in emergencies. It’s also a suitable generator for RV use as it is also quite portable. 

4. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator– Best High Capacity

This high capacity dual fuel generator is best for large households.

If you have a large household with a large need for power, this DuroMax generator is the perfect choice for you. It’s also suitable for business and operating motor driven appliances and tools. 

Powered by a 457cc OHV engine, this generator can produce a total power of up to a peak of 12,000 watts, enough for virtually any electrical need. At 50% load, the 4-stroke engine has a continuous run time of 4 hours on propane and 9 hours on gas. It has a relatively high THD of 12%, so small electronic devices are at risk of burning. However, more power-hungry appliances such as refrigerators or televisions run no problem. 

The generator comes equipped with a heavy-duty steel frame, monitoring interfaces such as a voltmeter and oil levels, safety features such as a circuit breaker, and a low-level light indicator. The isolated motor mounts, as well as its noise-reducing muffler, allows for the quiet operation of the machine. 

Features

• 18 Horsepower engine with dual-fuel technology 
• 5 AC outlets along with 1 DC outlet
• CARB compliant
• Circuit breaker, warning lights, voltmeter, and oil gauge enhance the usability 
• Power Boost technology gives you the power to select between 120V and 240V with a single switch.

PROS

• High power output suitable for larger households and businesses
• Operates quietly
• Low oil shutoff protects the engine 
• The rugged and heavy-duty frame protects the engine 
• Large gas tank

CONS

• It can be quite massive and hefty

What we think about the product

One word. Power. If you need power worth the price tag, then the DuroMax XP12000EH provides it in spades through its lucrative engine. It is a cut above the rest with its longevity, efficiency, and performance.

5. DuroMax XP4400EH Generator– Best Budget

This generator from DuroMax will not  only provide mind-blowing power or efficiency ratings, but it will also not break your bank account. 

The XP4400EH’s strength is in its affordability. It is relatively cheaper than most brands while also providing moderate power output. 

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Features

• Triple power outlets, two 120V, 20A, and one twist-lock 240V outlet, an analog voltmeter, and a steel frame
• 7 HP air-cooled engine with a low-oil shutoff sensor
•  4,400  wattage and 3,500 continuous watts on gasoline 
•  surge arrestor and muffler
• It can run for up to ten-hours on both fuel sources when set-up at half power

PROS

• Relatively inexpensive with a moderate power output
• 10-hour runtime at half power can mean power for most of the day 
• Perfect for recreational activities 

CONS

• Quite noisy and heavy 
• Not enough power for many household or business applications

What we think about the product

This dual fuel generator is easy on the pocket. And it’s the best for those with moderate power needs. It’s also suitable for use in RV or when you’re camping. Keep in mind that this isn’t for use on large households or businesses. If you do have a large need for power, the DuroMax XP12000EH is a better option.

6. Champion 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator– Best for Gas

If you have a readily available source of gas, this  is the best generator.

When using gasoline, this ultra-powerful generator from Champion peaks at 10,000 watts. This machine runs more efficiently on gas, so opt for this fuel source when you decide to buy this model. It is a reliable and robust power source for households and businesses requiring off the grid power, such as food trucks and construction. 

The 8000-Watt generator shares some similarities with the 7,500-Watt variant, such as pull-start and electric switch start options, cold start technology to enable powering up even when freezing, and the same “Intelligauge” system. 

However, it has a relatively shorter runtime – only eight hours at ¼ power when using gasoline, and five hours under the same amount when using propane.

Features

• 800 watts
• Pull-start and electric switch start options
• Electric and Cold start technology
• Runs for 8 hours when using gasoline as fuel, and 5 hours when using propane

PROS: 

• Extremely powerful 
• Numerous outlets and surge protection capabilities 
• High-quality and reliable

CONS

• Short run-times
• Heavy and noisy 

What we think about the product

The Champion 8000-Watt dual fuel generator packs a powerful punch. But it performs better when you use gasoline. Thus, only this if you have a readily available source of gas. You may also use propane, but you  will not be able to maximise it. 

7. Pulsar Products– Best for Demanding Appliances

If you have large and demanding appliances, this Pulsar generator will serve your needs wheel.

And like the DuroMax XP12000EH, this is also suitable for large households. 

This generator from Pulsar is one of the best dual fuel generators that sports a 10,000W starting power and 8,000W continuous running on gas, and a 9,000W starting and 7,000W running on propane. With that power, PG10000B16 is suitable for powering large homes and appliances, or for applications requiring substantial electric capability. 

This generator has a 15 horsepower engine inside a sturdy steel frame with drop-down handles and never-flat wheels. Cart this machine through a cement path, through a forest trail, through rough terrain. 

The machine’s Switch & Go feature makes it a breeze to switch between the two fuel sources, even if the engine itself is still running. This capability makes it so that there will be no significant drop-off in power during the switch. The electric push start is easy to use and has the traditional pull-crank start as a contingency. This is also one of the longest-running generator sets today, a 12-hour continuous operation at half-load. 

Features

• Switch & Go capability
• 3-in-1 digital voltmeter 
• Numerous outlets 
• 12-hour continuous operation at half-load
• Low oil shutdown sensor , circuit breaker, overload protection

PROS

• Powerful output, even on propane 
• Longer runtimes 
• Low oil shutdown sensor lowers the risk of damage 

CONS

• Choke linkage may easily break 
• Heavier than most comparable generator units 
• Not suitable for RVs  
• Some concerns about inconsistent wattage and power outputs 

What we think about the product

With its powerful output and seamless switching capability, PG10000B16 runs well on both fuel sources. Also it can run rather long at 12 hours continuous use at half a load. So this is one hardworking beast. If you have demanding appliances or larger households and businesses, we highly recommend this generator. 

8. Sportsman Gen4000DF Dual Fuel Generator– Best for small homes

This Sportsman generator is ideal for small homes, businesses, and events. It is a relatively low-priced option for a backup power supply for RV owners. 

This generator is perhaps the most fuel-efficient one on this list and is apt for people who are conscious about their fuel usage, especially if they are in disaster-prone areas or if they are far from gasoline stations. 3.6 gallons of gasoline allows run times of up to 10 hours, at power levels comparable to other generators. The Gen4000DF has the ability and flexibility to handle most tasks. 

Peaking at 4000W and 3500W continuous on gas, while peaking at 3600W and 3150W constant on propane, the generator’s small frame packs a reasonable amount of power. 

Features

• Five AC outlets 
• Weighs 90 lbs
• 4 strokes engine type
• 3500 running watts  400 starting watts

PROS

• Incredible fuel-efficiency 
• High-performance for its small frame, relatively cheap
• Compact and portable 
• A wide range of private power applications
• Not too loud and environmentally friendly 

CONS

• Lack of wheels limit mobility 

What we think about the product

For those with comparatively lighter power consumption demands, the Sportsman Gen4000 is the prime choice because of its highly efficient use of fuel resulting in an output comparable to bigger, bulkier generators. We only wished it had wheels for easier mobility. 

9. WEN DF11000– Best Premium

Wen DF11000 is quite pricier than most generator sets but provides maximum surge power. 

On gasoline, it peaks at 11,000 watts and continuously runs at 8,300 watts. On propane, it peaks at 9,500 and continuously runs at 7,500 watts. A single half-load tank is enough to finish most tasks a household needs in a day.  

It has a total of six outlets, letting you run a wide variety of machines. Its 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine runs best on gas, but the propane option runs just as well as the gasoline option from other brands. 

Features

• Six outlets at several voltages 
• With wheels
• Weighs 214 lbs
• Comes with four 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), a 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a 47-inch LPG connection hose
• 2 year warranty

PROS

• Exceptionally powerful engine 
• Multiple outlets allow the plugging in of many electronics
• Portable and mobile

CONS

• Difficult user interface

What we think about the product

It’s a rather pricier generator but it will surely account for its powerful engine.

Apart from the incredible engine and numerous outlets for lots of household and commercial applications.

10. Firman HO3652– Longest running time

For people who want to spend less on fuel, this generator is a welcome choice. 

The machine’s long run time is probably its best quality, as its five-gallon tank allows for 14 hours of running time.

Even if the FirmanHO3652 is weaker than most generators in this list, it still packs quite a bang. The generator is still strong enough to handle tasks such as emergencies, camping, and appliances.  

Additionally, the machine’s battery life is also on the longer side. The engine rarely runs hot due to its Phoenix Fat Head Block, so you won’t have to worry about heat making it hard to hold. The generator is also quite affordable for its specifications. 

Features

• 4,550 surge watts and 3,650 running watts on gasoline, as well as 4,100 surge watts and 3,300 running watts on propane
• Weighs 58.6 kg
• 5 gallon tank
• 14 hours continuous running time
• Three-year warranty 

PROS

• Incredible battery life and run time
• Will not run hot 
• Affordable 
• No-burst tires ensure that it won’t flatten, even during prolonged storage times 
• Cast iron cage along with wheels ensure portability

CONS

• Weak wattage 

What we think about the product

Firman HO3652’s only significant flaw is its smaller and weaker wattage, but when you don’t need much, then this dual fuel generator set should cut it just fine. It is cheap with long battery life, perfect for most families or camping fans.

Buying Guides: What to Look for in the Best Dual Fuel Generator

There is no shortage of dual fuel generators in the market today, and the problem of overchoice will make it harder for you to choose the right one for your needs and capability. Here are some of the things you should take into consideration to simplify your search. 

Size. Free room space is critical in choosing a generator set. Instead of selecting a machine first before thinking about where to put it, do the reverse. Find a device that will fit the space you currently have. There is a myriad of generator sets over a variety of sizes and specifications. Choose wisely. 

Power Needs. Take note of the power and wattage you need, which will depend on what you will use it for. If you use it for commercial or construction purposes, then chances are you will need heavy hitters. If you use it for standard home work, then you may consider lighter options. 

Noise. You do not want to get complaints from your surroundings about your generator set. Consider their dB ratings to assess what unit to purchase. Noise will also depend on where you will put it, so think ahead on the possible places. 

Portability. If you use it for frequent outdoor events, then consider the more portable variants. For home and work usage, you may consider a less portable dual fuel generator. 

Budget. This is arguably the most crucial consideration. It could be the most powerful, most portable, and least noisy of all dual-fuel generator sets out there, but if it is out of your budget, then you cannot buy it. Stick to your budget plan; there are all sorts of the best dual fuel generator sets for all budget ranges.

Related read: How Does Gas Generator Work

Benefits of a Dual Fuel Generator

Economical. Dual fuel generators maximize their utilization of gas and consume fuel at reasonably slow rates. Also, dual fuel generators are cost-effective during operation because they can use not only one, but two fuel sources. 

Save on Electricity Costs. Dual fuel generators produce optimal and reasonable wattages per gallon of fuel due to a highly efficient combustion process. By knowing the efficiency of each fuel type and planning your operation times, you may have just enough power to last a whole day on one full tank. 

Reduce Fuel Storage. You will not have to maintain extra tanks and containers for each type of fuel because the dual fuel generator itself contains ample storage tanks. Furthermore, efficient engines mean that you do not have to use much fuel to run them, leading to lower amounts of stores fuel and logistical efficiency. 

More Reliable Than Single Fuel. The best dual fuel generator is built with reliability in mind. They are made to last long, no matter what type of fuel is used. Their efficiency is also superior to single fuel generators, so they are the right choice for many modern households. 

Longer Running Times. The best dual fuel generator for you can run uninterrupted for more extended periods simply because of their larger tank capacity and their efficiency. Lots of models come with knobs and meters so you can monitor fuel consumption and adjust wattages to stretch the fuel further. After one fuel source is depleted, the engine automatically switches to the other type of fuel and continues its work.

Single Vs. Dual Fuel Generators

Let’s see some of the differences and benefits of choosing dual fuel generators over single fuel generators. This might further entice you to make the switch.

1. Ideal for remote areas

Since dual fuel generators can use two types of fuel, it’s ideal if you live in a remote place. Far-flung areas often do not have a steady supply of diesel or one type of fuel. Thus, you can still make use of propane, or which of the two is available. A single fuel generator will not give you this convenience.

2. Useful in health care settings

Since you have more options for what fuel to use. You can be assured of an uninterrupted power supply. And this is crucial in healthcare settings where you need life support machines to run continuously. You don’t need to stop the machine from functioning should a blackout happen and you run out of gasoline. 

You can also safely use these generators to fuel sensitive devices. It produces a clean sine wave with a total harmonic disruption (THD) of less than 3%, so it’s safe to use on life support machines.  

3. Propane is easy to store

Gasoline and propane are readily available in most areas. Propane especially is very easy to store. The user-friendly containers of propane make it possible for you to have a decent supply of fuel should an emergency arise. 

4. Reliability

Dual fuel generators are dependable. Aside from the convenience of easily switching between two types of fuel, it can run for 24 hours. And even if the generator is loaded to 25 percent, it can run for 14.5 hours. 

5. Economical choice

The upfront cost of dual generators may be expensive. But it can save you more money in the long run. Especially if you will run it on propane, this fuel is more affordable than gasoline.  

6. A reliable source in colder climates

Dual fuel generators are more effective and can easily ignite in colder climates.

Which is Better: Gas Or Propane?

Diesel or gasoline may be a more preferred fuel because everyone has been accustomed to it. But propane has a lot going for it. It can be a better source of fuel for the following reasons.

1. Propane can be a greener alternative than gas. It does not produce any toxicity so it’s less harmful to the environment.
2. Gas doesn’t burn cleanly. And it leaves behind toxic byproducts that are harmful to you and the environment.
3. Gas may leave several carbon deposits in your generator. So it would require more frequent upkeep.
4. Gas is highly flammable. That’s why it’s not advisable to store gas, especially in large amounts
5. Gas degrades as the years pass.
6. Propane is easy to store since they have user-friendly containers you can store this type of fuel and have them ready in emergencies. 
7. Gas is almost readily available but there is a high demand for it in emergencies so it’s likely to run out fast. And a gas pump may require electricity for it to work.

Disadvantages of Dual Fuel Generators

Let’s see some of the cons of dual fuel generators. This will help you decide further if it’s for you.

1. Expensive cost upfront

Since dual fuel generators veer away from traditional types of generators, the cost upfront is higher.

2. Complex operation

Dual fuel generators are more challenging to operate. They have more features, thus it’s more complex to use.

3. Not for small power requirements

The smallest dual fuel generator can provide 440 watts of power. Thus, this can be overkill for smaller homes. If your power requirement is lower, a single fuel generator would suffice.

FAQs:

Conclusion

The best dual fuel generator is a perfect way to produce electricity, even when you are off the grid because of emergency outages, disasters, or if you are outdoors. The flexibility to choose your fuel source based on the circumstances is unmatched by a traditional single fuel generator.

Make you, your loved ones, and your family’s lives more bearable during a power outage, or use it in your next commercial or recreational event.