Generators come in real handy during tough weather conditions like heavy storms, rains, and hurricanes. Such extreme situations can lead to power outages, leaving you in darkness.
Your best bet in such times is a generator. However, there’s a bit of a problem with conventional generators. They mostly operate on gasoline which can be a bit difficult to obtain and is also a bit expensive. Fortunately, there’s a solution to this problem and it comes in the form of dual generators.
Dual generators are a bit different than standard generators. They give you the option to choose between two fuel types: gasoline or propane.
So, without wasting any time, let’s have a look at some of the most efficient dual fuel generators on the market:
1. Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
- Dual Fuel: Operate your 3800-watt portable generator right out of...
- Electric Start: Power up the 224cc Champion engine with the handy...
- Intelligauge: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to...
- Outlets: One 120V 30A RV outlet (TT-30R), one 120V 30A locking...
- Champion Support: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE...
The first hybrid generator that makes it to our list is Champion 3800. This dual fuel generator offers 4750 starting and 3800 running watts.
It has a large fuel tank and extended runtime, making it suitable for areas where power outages are common.
Features:
Versatility is one of the strongest suits of this generator. This RV-suitable generator is perfect for homes and outdoors. There’s a TT-30R outlet which connects the generator with the RV without any trouble.
The 3.4 gallon gas tank is large enough to keep it operational for 9 hours on gasoline (50% load) and 10.5 hours on propane (50% load).
With such long backup hours, you will be able to sleep peacefully without having to worry about fuel or the generator dying out. Plus, it is safe to use all kinds of appliances as it contains a voltguard.
The voltguard gives protection to sensitive appliances when voltage fluctuates. Hence, you can use the generator to run all kinds of appliances including mobile phones. Moreover, it also incorporates a gauge meter that tells you the amount of power used and output delivered.
The unit offers 4 outlets:
- A 120V 30A RV.
- A 120V 30A locking.
- Two 120V 20A household outlets.
The huge variety in outlets makes it a perfect choice for home and RV.
Champion 3800 is an easy to use generator and has an electric push button start system. You will not have to waste a lot of energy trying to get it to work.
In addition to this, it is safe to use. It shuts down on its own when the oil gets too low. This feature protects the generator and the connected appliances as well.
The unit is not quite silent though. It produces noise equal to 68 decibels, which is the same as someone constantly laughing near you.
Pros:
Cons:
Conclusion:
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator can be a great pick if you are looking for the best dual fuel generator. It has wheels underneath for better transportation making it suitable for outdoor use.
2. Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Switch and Go Technology
- 5,250W peak 4,250W rated (GAS)/ 4,750W peak 3,850W rated (LPG)
- The powerful 224cc, 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled Engine is protected...
- 4 Gallon Fuel Tank gives you up to 12 Hours of Continuous...
- Switch & Go Technology allow for seamless transitioning between...
- (2) 120V AC Outlets, (1) 30Amp RV Port, & (1) 120/240V Twist-Lock...
Pulsar is a popular brand when it comes to dual fuel generators. Pulsar 5,250W generator is no different and for many is the best dual fuel generators as it offers some kickass features.
You can choose between two fuel types and enjoy great power.
Features:
This generator has a 4-stroke 244cc power engine that delivers 5250 peak watts and 4750 running watts on gasoline. In the case of propane, you will get 4250 peak watts and 3850 running watts.
This is enough to run even some big appliances including air conditioners as they require only about 3500 watts to start.
The Switch And Go Technology on this unit is a rare one. It gives you the power to change the fuel type from gas to propane or vise versa while the generator is running. This comes in real handy. You can easily switch between two fuel types to increase power or runtime, if one fuel is near the end.
Very few generators offer this feature. Plus, it is easy to manage thanks to a simple switch system.
The generator provides a runtime of 12 hours on 50% loud thanks to a big, 4-gallon tank. The runtime remains same for both fuel types.
It offers 4 outlets:
- two AC outlets.
- one RV port.
- One Twist lock outlet.
These four are enough to kickstart an RV and run home appliances.
The generator is a breeze to operate thanks to the top mounted fuel gauge and an hour meter at the bottom that keeps you updated about the performance. Moreover, it’s an electric button start generator which is another great plus.
On the flip side, it is a bit noisy with 78 dB of sound rating. We suggest that you invest in an extension cord and place the generator at a distance so that the noise can be less bothersome.
Pros:
Cons:
Conclusion:
Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Switch and Go Technology as all the qualities of a good dual fuel generator. It may be a bit noisy, but the positives seem to outweigh the negatives in this one as it is very powerful and the ability to change fuel while the generator is up and running is another great plus.
3. Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out...
- Electric start – Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the...
- Intelligauge – Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours...
- Powerful – At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on...
- Champion Support – Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE...
Another beauty from Champion on the best dual fuel generators list as the company is known to make excellent products.
It’s rare to find a dual fuel generator that asks for little maintenance and offers lots of power. Champion 7500 is good at preventing overloads and also protects appliances from getting fried thanks to the voltguard protection.
Features:
This powerful dual fuel generator offers 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting watts plus 6750 running watts on propane.
You will have no issue in running a variety of appliances as it comes with several outlets:
- A 120V 30A locking outlet.
- A 120/240V 30A locking outlet.
- Four 120V 20A household outlets.
This is quite a bit of power, making it a suitable option to run big appliances, including field tools as it is suitable for all appliances that require 7500 or less running watts. Plus, the output is uniform, hence there is no risk of damage.
It has a large fuel tank of 6.1 gallon that offers a runtime of up to 8 hours at 50% loud on gasoline and 5.5 hours on propane. You can enjoy extended runtimes by decreasing the overall load.
One special function of this unit is its ability to start in cold weather thanks to the cold start feature. Apart from that, it also has an intelligauge. This component help maintain the generator by giving you information regarding power output, hertz, voltage, etc.
You will get 1.2 quarts of 10W30 oil with the unit. Moreover, you will be notified when the oil gets low, courtesy of low oil shut down feature. This feature restricts the generator from further operation if oil is low.
The generator is louder than a vacuum with 74 dB of noise rating. However, you can reduce it by placing it in the basement or garage as it supports extension cords.
Pros:
Cons:
Conclusion:
Pick Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start is consistency is of importance to you. It offers safety features, incorporates a large tank, and is quite durable as well.
4. Powerhorse Dual Fuel Generator 9000 Surge Watts
- Less than 5% total harmonic distortion for safely operating...
- Automatic voltage regulation
- Voltmeter for convenient monitoring
- 6.6-gallon fuel tank with built-in fuel gauge
- 100-lb. minimum LP tank size (tank not included)
If you are looking for a dual fuel generator that delivers clean and consistent energy can consider this beauty. With 9000 surge watts and 7250 rated watts, this powerful generator can run a multitude of appliances.
Features:
Put your worries to rest as you will have no trouble in starting this generator thanks to the electric start option. Plus, it also has the recoil system as a backup.
Its 6.6-gallon tank can deliver power for more than 9.5 hours. Plus, running a variety of appliances will be no issue as it offers 10 connectable outlets (120/240 V).
It’s even safe for sensitive appliances thanks to a total harmonic distortion of less than 5% which means that it can handle voltage fluctuation and keep your electronic items safe.
While it is powerful, it has a small drawback – it is a bit noisy and generates
75 dB of noise. The best way to reduce the noise is to keep the generator at least 30 feet away.
However, do not let its weight of 215 pounds worry you. It comes with wheels, making it easily portable.
Conclusion:
If you desire a powerful, versatile, and safe to use generator then Powerhorse Dual Fuel Generator 9000 Surge Watts will not disappoint you. It is one of the best dual fuel generators for all the right reasons.
Pros:
Cons:
5. DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH 12,000-Watt Portable Generator
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax,...
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline...
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running...
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power...
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the...
This one is a heavy duty dual fuel generator made to run a large number of big and small appliances. However, that’s not its only benefit. It comes with several other features as well.
Features:
Nicknamed the “beast”, it packs a powerful 457cc engine that o offer 12,000W of power. Furthermore, there’s a voltmeter to gauge voltage and circuit breaker to cut the power off in case of overloading.
Durability is another strong feature you will find on this unit. It has a heavy duty frame with four point fully isolated motor mounts. The frame ensures the unit remains sturdy and there is little noise. On top of that, it has a noise muffler to further diminish noise.
It offers a runtime of 10 hours on gasoline (50%) load. It doubles when run on propane. Plus, it is easy to start thanks to the electric start functionality.
It contains four outlets that will help you run various appliances including an RV. These include:
- A 120V outlet.
- An RV-ready 120V socket.
- One twist lock 120/240V outlet.
- A 12V DC receptacle.
With 12,000W of power and multiple outlets, you can run many appliances simultaneously. Plus, low-oil shut off feature ensures generator or appliances sustain no damage.
The unit is almost 270 pounds in weight but thanks to its solid wheels, portability is not a concern. In addition to that, you can also fold the handles down and store the generator away when not in use.
Pros:
Cons:
Conclusion:
DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH 12,000-Watt Portable Generator can be a good pick if you wish to run big appliances. It is among the best dual fuel generators.
Why Choose Dual Fuel Generator Over Single Fuel?
It’s always good to have options. Believe it or not, there are some regions where gasoline is more expensive or more easily available than propane and vice versa.
Having a generator that lets you choose between two options puts you in a great place as you can pick one that you can easily get your hands on, especially in tough situations where access to fuel is limited.
Which Fuel Type to Use?
Propane is cheaper and easily available while gasoline can be a bit expensive and hard to find.
Apart from that, propane is safer for the environment as it emits less harmful gases when compared to gasoline.
Other than this, consider your regional temperature as well when choosing a fuel.
Gasoline might be a cheaper option but it is consumed very quickly. This is because heat makes it evaporate faster. Hence, it may not be suitable for very hot regions.
Similarly, living in a colder region can be a bit problematic for people who are thinking of using propane. This fuel begins to contract below 40 degrees. Hence, it may not be suitable for very cold regions.
Best Dual Fuel Generator Buying Guide
Now, the question is how to choose a dual fuel generator that offers plenty of features and is suited as per your needs.
There are a number of products on the market, hence picking one can be quite a challenge.
To make it easier for you, here are a few factors you should consider when selecting a dual fuel generator:
- Regional Temperature: Believe it or not, your regional temperature can make a lot of difference when selecting a generator.
First of all, some generators do not start well in winters as the engine may get frozen. This is why for very cold areas, you should go for a generator like Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start. Its cold start feature ensures you have no problem in turning it on even when it’s snowy outside. - Power: This is a no brainer. Generators offer limited power, hence you must know exactly how much power you need so that you can pick the right generator.
As a rule of thumb, appliances that involve heating or cooling (ACs, refrigerators) require a lot of power. If you want to run such appliances, you will need to go for a unit that provides at least 5000W of power, such as Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Switch and Go Technology.
It’s a powerful generator that is made to run almost all home appliances. - Types Of Appliances You Want To Run: This is important to ensure all appliances can run without any trouble.
You have to pay attention to two features: outlets and the sensitivity of appliances. Some appliances, such as laptops, are sensitive and require continuous power as fluctuations can be bad for them.
We suggest you go for Powerhorse Dual Fuel Generator 9000 Surge Watts if you want to run a variety of appliances including sensitive appliances.
It produces a total harmonic distortion of less than 5% and offers 10 connectable outlets, making it suitable for a variety of uses. Plus, you can even use it outdoors and to run RVs. - Safety: Some of the most common safety features you need to look into are: low oil indicator, voltguard protection, voltmeter, and overheating protection. These features are not only important for the safety of generators and other appliances, but also for the safety of your family members.
They ensure the generator shuts down automatically if anything goes wrong, so be sure to look for these features when picking a dual fuel generator. Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator can be a good choice as it’s safe to use and is also environmentally friendly. - Noise: Pay special attention to this factor as noisy generators can be a pain to handle. While big generators tend to be noisy, some now come with mufflers and other features to suppress the noise so pay special attention to such features.
Anything under 40 dB is said to be acceptable as it only equals to slight whispering but generator above 50 dB can be very noisy.
Every 10 dB increase means the generator is ten times louder. Here’s a small breakdown:
Noise Level (Decibels) | Sound |
|---|---|
20dB | Rustling Leaves |
30dB | Whisper (5 meters) |
40 dB | A bunch of people having a conversation at a distance. |
59dB | Constant laughter |
60dB | People talking right behind you |
70dB | Vacuum Cleaner |
90dB | City Traffic |
110 – 120dB | Night Club / Rock Concert |
- Price: Heavy duty generators will obviously cost more than low-powered dual fuel generators. If you wish to run a few appliances then you won’t need to spend a lot of money and can get a small to medium ranged dual fuel generator.
However, if you wish to run heavier appliances and lots of them then you will need a heavy duty generator like DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH 12,000-Watt Portable Generator. It is quite powerful and offers excellent run-time as well.
Best Dual Fuel Generator: FAQS
Q. Is it wise to charge sensitive electronics using a dual fuel generator?
Ans. Sensitive electronics aren’t able to withstand voltage fluctuations and may easily sustain damage. To avoid your delicate electronics from burning up, make sure to choose a generator that offers clean energy.
Some generators use sine wave technology and have features to prevent fluctuations.
Q. How can I lower the noise of a loud generator?
Ans. While it won’t make a lot of difference but keeping them elevated can help. This is because generators vibrate on the ground and produce more sound. Keeping them above the ground will minimize noise.
Apart from that, buy an extension cord and place them at a considerable distance for additional safety.
Q. Can I use dual fuel generators outdoors?
Ans. Yes, depending on the make and model. Many dual fuel generators are perfect for outdoor use.
The Bottomline:
These were some of the best dual fuel generators that you can opt for. Make sure to identify your needs first and then choose the right one.
