Best Overall
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual-Fuel Generator
Best Bang for the Buck
Pulsar 2200-Watt Dual-Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator
Best Medium-Duty
Champion 7500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator
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Prime Day Deal Extended
Amazon ’s Prime Big Deal Daysmay be over but one of our favorite tested generators , our Best Bang for the Buck option is still on sales agreement . ThePulsar 2,200W Dual - Fuel Inverter Generator is on cut-rate sale for $ 420(save 40 % ) . Hurry , this deal wo n’t last long !
magnate outage can spoil perishable solid food , render appliances worthless , and even leave to animation - imperil situations in cold temperatures , but a propane generator can forestall all that . Before we could advocate any propane generators , we had to screen them for ourselves . Our trial run team researched more than 35 well - selling propane generators before choose the highest - rated example for hands - on testing .
These machines can produce enough juice to keep the lights on , keep intellectual nourishment in the icebox fresh , and power a space warmer or air conditioning unit . Today ’s portable propane author are typicallydual - fuel modelsthat also go on gasoline or diesel . Unlike older petrol - only generators , ones that run on propane offer a higher degree of versatility because they can be connected to handy 20 - Ezra Loomis Pound tank or large whole - house propane army tank . onward , get wind what to look for when shopping for a propanegeneratorand find out how the following role model earned their spot in our lineup of the best propane generators .
How We Tested the Best Propane Generators
The propane generators that made our list allow for dissimilar level of electrical yield , so they ’re well suited for a range of backup tycoon role . We carefully researched more than 35 of the top - selling exemplar and then chose several for literal - cosmos examination . We considered firebrand to an extent — producer like Champion , Westinghouse , and DuroMax are well well-thought-of in the generator industry . Still , we did n’t automatically eliminate smaller or niche blade if they grade highly with users . Our primary goal was to determine the best propane generators in various price crop so our reader would recognise what to anticipate from the models .
examination began with forum if the source was n’t totally meet already . Then , since all the model on our list are also used with gasoline , as the manufacturer urge a wear out - in full stop with gas , that task was do before running the units on propane . Electrical output was test by plugging in a range of power tools , appliances , and electrical devices . We used anonline electric power calculatorto help us estimate the correct electrical power for testing .
We also tax the noise level of each source . Because many generators are inherently loud , not unlike gas - power lawn equipment , we rated noise on whether the generator ’s noise equal the require noise level . If it was noticeably worse , we rated it worse ; and if it was noticeably better , we rate it better . Overall , we found that all of these generators had like sound levels for their major power end product .
We moved the generator to assess portability , an specially important circumstance for those who take them to jobsites or tenting . In addition to stochasticity and portability , we also rat the generators on overall power , ease of use , and economic value for the price .
Testing Stats
product quiz : 7Hours spent examination : 40Tests performed : 5Average price : $ 719
Our Top Picks
Whether you prioritise portability , price , or some other feature , any of the generators below can avail keep a fridge run , major power a cesspool pump , keep the lights on , and keep a heater or AC powered when a menage is without power .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4.5/5;Power5/5;Portability4/5;Noise4/5;Value4.5/5
With a full , received 20 - pound propane tank , the Westinghouse WGen9500DF will generate enough electricity to run several household gismo and top executive tools for up to 7 hours when root for 50 percent loading . It ’s also equipped with a 6.6 - gallon gasoline tank . As with most propane generators , the Westinghouse WGen9500DF is treble fuel , so exploiter can select the fuel they choose .
We test the WGen9500DF while run both propane and gas , and we did n’t note any tangible power difference of opinion . However , the manufacturer number somewhat lower available wattage when using propane ( 11,200 peak and 8,500 running ) compare to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 run watts when using gas . We were able-bodied to track down several large appliance plus power tools without reaching maximal load electrical capacity .
We did n’t comment any difference in randomness levels between the two fuels , but it is brassy enough to potentially annoy neighbors — about as loud as a gas lawn mower . However , its noise is in bank line with that of other generator with similar top executive yield . This generator is also on the heavy side , lead out at 211 pound when empty of fuel .
Thanks to its wheel kit , it ’s not unmanageable to pull on a savourless open , but it will take at least two stiff masses to lift it to the bed of a pickup motortruck . Overall , it ’s toughened to vex the WGen9500DF for magnate output , fuel versatility , and easy inauguration — all critical features that make it easygoing to brave out power outages .
Photo: Corey Foster for Bob Vila
Read our full follow-up : Westinghouse WGEN9500DF Dual - Fuel Generator
Get the Westinghouse propane source atAcme ToolsorFamily Farm and Home .
Our Ratings : repose of Use4/5;Power4.5/5;Portability5/5;Noise4/5;Value4.5/5
We tested the Pulsar 2,200 - W author and found it to be a great pick for powering small tools and machine . With a 1.18 - gal fuel storage tank and the power to run either gasoline or propane , the author is capable of supplying 1,800 watts while go , peaking at 2,200 watts .
frame-up was ab initio unmanageable . To get at the oil filling porthole , we had to pop off a side panel ; that dialog box demand a fleck more manual force than we anticipated . However , once we fix it off , getting the generator ready for the first time only took a few minutes . The recoil just postulate a couple of pulls , and the locomotive speedily come in to life . Our examination rig included a couple of estrus gun and hair dryers head for the hills at the same time on different high and low options to vary the load .
We launch the source treat 1,800 watts as advertised but noise levels seemed eminent . Pulsar ’s specification Department of State about 60 decibel , which is about the wakeless level of conversation ; while it seemed louder than that to us , more like the sound of a emptiness , it was about the good level we ’d expect from a generator of its size .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
This source is a great pick for light - tariff world power call for such as small DIY projects and powering a couple of household appliance during an outage .
Get the Pulsar propane generator atAmazonorWalmart .
Our paygrade : Ease of Use4.5/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Portability4/5 ; Power5/5 ; Value5/5
Photo: amazon.com
This Champion 7,500 - watt dual - fuel source deliver enough electrical energy to power up an off - grid jobsite or keep vital household circuits running through a utility outage . It include legion features stock to more expensive models , like a get-up-and-go - button electrical starter , overlay release , and a broken cannular steel frame with 10 - inch wheels and a fold - out rapture handle .
In our tests , the push - clit starter work dead , no matter the weather . We appreciated its two lock 30A outlets ( one 120V and one 120/240V ) for power a home , shop , RV , or heavy - responsibility tools like portable welders . It also has four household - stylus 120V-20A mercantile establishment for lower - wattage applications . This generator supports a 50 percent load for up to 10 hours on a 7.7 - Imperial gallon tank of gas or up to 5.5 hours with a 20 - Ezra Loomis Pound propane cylinder . Using propane , we move a portable tabular array byword , miter saw , router , and melodic phrase compressor for 4 hours and had just under half a tank of propane exit over .
The Champion does have a few drawbacks , however . Despite wheels and a handle , its heavy weighting made it tough to navigate across a railway yard and lift in and out of a truck . It also does not admit an idle accountant , which leads to more fuel usance than eco - accelerator pedal - fit generator . Still , it offered pot of major power and admission points at a time value price .
Photo: amazon.com
say our full review : Champion 7500 - Watt Dual - Fuel Generator
Get the Champion 7500 - watt propane generator atBlain ’s Farm & FleetorAcme Tools .
Best Heavy-Duty
Champion 8500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator With CO Shield
Our rating : Ease of Use5/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Portability5/5 ; Power5/5 ; Value5/5
This Champion 8,500 - James Watt generator is designed as an exigency backup generator , but it ’s just as valuable as an off - grid king source . It die hard on gasolene , and users can also connect it to a propane armoured combat vehicle for quick power - ups . The Champion comes assembled , other than installing its wheel outfit . It features two 30A locking AC outlets and four 20A GFCI outlets . It has a digital display that shows runtime and power yield . Safety is also a top priority with the Champion — it shuts down if its built - in carbon paper monoxide sensing element registers a risky throttle floor .
During our tests , we used the Champion to pass several power pecker and appliances , and also connected it to a travel trailer ’s 30A cord . It engender enough power to escape all the appliance without toss any breaker , even at maximum incumbrance . This unit is heavy , though . It weighs 209 pounds without fuel , making it challenging to vacate without assist .
Photo: amazon.com
For those see for a hefty stand-in generator to function several puppet or appliances at the same time , the Champion 8,500 - watt is a solid alternative .
Read our full revue : Champion 8500 - Watt Dual - Fuel Generator with CO Shield
Get the Champion 8500 - James Watt propane generator atLowe’s , Tractor Supply Co. ,The Home Depot , orAcme Tools .
Photo: lowes.com
Best Backup Power
Wen DF1100T Dual-Fuel Generator With Wheel Kit
Our rating : informality of Use4.5/5;Power5/5;Portability4/5;Noise4/5;Value5/5
For a propane generator that ’s quick to go at a present moment ’s notice in case of an outage , the Wen DF11000 T is a great option . This powerful author produces 11,000 pinnacle Watt ( require to start a powerful instrument like a saw ) and 8,300 run watts when using gasoline . It render slightly less power when operate on propane—9,500 tip watts and 7,500 incline Isaac Watts — but that ’s still a good deal of electrical power .
After the initial better - in period , we plug in several items ( not all at once ) , including a dresser deep-freeze , full - size electric refrigerator - deep freezer , laptop computer , tankless water fastball , shop light , table , chop saw , and circ see . The Wen did n’t even seem to be under any load , except for a rip - second surge when we start up one of the saws — saws are notorious for draw a lot of big businessman on startup . We tested all the tools and items we could call up of and had no problems .
Photo: amazon.com
Then , we did it all again while running the Wen on propane . We develop the same excellent upshot , and switching from gasoline to propane only required flipping a transposition . This model comes with an electric start and has a large 6.6 - gallon storage tank that will keep it run for up to 8.5 hours at a 50 per centum load . It features four standard home electrical outlet , a 30A wall plug , and a 50A exit .
Like many fuel - power generators ( if they are n’t inverter ) , the Wen is pretty garish — possibly about as loud as a natural gas lawn mower — but , found on our mental test , that ’s a small price to pay for the hefty amount of big businessman this durable generator provide .
Get the Wen propane generator atAmazon , Walmart , orWen .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Propane Generator
While power output is perhaps the most important dimension of a propane generator , factors such as portability , stochasticity level , and way out types are also of import to look at when shop for one of these models .
Wattage Output
The sole purpose of a generator is to supply power when no conventional means of ability are available . They step in to fill up the opening during a world power outage or at campgrounds with no electrical hookups . With that in mind , the output of the source is important .
Generators are rated by how much wattage they bring about . Most generators capable of functioning off a propane fuel armored combat vehicle have a electric power range of 1,000 for compact models to more than 10,000 for larger units . Most generators have two ratings : peak wattage ( also called begin electric power ) and running electrical power .
The starting wattage is the amount of power a author can supply in short bursts . This is to account for most electric widget , which typically require a higher start wattage but importantly fewer W to run .
Sufficient generator electric power to flow several all-important appliances in many homes would need to be around 5,000 Watt or more . This is enough power to run a 600 - watt refrigerator and a 1,500 - W space bullet or a 1,000 - watt window aura conditioner as well as an 80 - watt 42 - column inch light-emitting diode goggle box , 100 - W estimator , and most kindling in the rest home — especially if the lights are low - wattage LED bulb . Keep in mind that this is only a measuring for running some simple necessity in the case of an outage ; it ’s not enough power to ply all the appliances , include an HVAC unit , H2O warmer , or dryer , for instance , at the same time .
While some generators are knock-down enough to run family HVAC systems , most homes are not wired for this setup . A author powerful enough to scat an entire household is typically known as a “ whole - house ” or “ standby ” generator , and it ’s for good wired to a carry-over electric switch that allows it to come on mechanically when the power grid power go down .
Dual Fuel
The vast majority of propane generators are threefold - fuel generators . This mean they can run off either a 20 - hammer propane fuel tank or unleaded gasoline . Some can even switch fuels while running . One advantage of a propane author is that propane fuel can be stored for long period of time without degrading .
This allows you to keep a supplying of tanks on handin eccentric of a baron outage , which is a lot easy than making a run for petrol amid a far-flung power outage or dangerous icing storm .
Exhaust and Safety
Propane is a fossil fuel that put out few pollutant than gasoline . This signify there are few fumes to concern about in the pace or at the campsite . This does not mean a propane generator is safe for use in an enclosed space .
Although propane generators get petty carbon copy monoxide equate to petrol - power generators , carbon monoxide is released when propane burns and can fill up an enclosed space . atomic number 6 monoxide is odorless and colorless , dangerous and deadly . Remember , never use a propane generator in an shut in space .
Portability
Because of the exhaust system generator produce , they are safest when place downwind from doors and windows and kept a distance from the house , harmonise to thePortable Generator Manufacturers ’ Association(PGMA ) . Manufacturers will typically specify how many feet aside is a good space . For this reason , many have big handles and wheels or other features to make them portable .
This does not mean that generators are lightweight : Most propane generator matter more than 100 pounds . Lightweight models with outputs of around 2,000 watts can matter as little as 45 lb , but toilsome - duty generators that put out more than 10,000 Isaac Watts can consider over 300 pounds .
Noise
Generators are notoriously gimcrack , as indicate by their decibel military rating , often listed in product specifications ( though not all manufacturers list a evaluation ) . Most generators run at about 70 to 85 decibels , similar to a car engine ’s sound . Quieter generatorsrun at around 55 to 60 dB . Keep in psyche that a generator running at full capacity will be louder than the same generator run at 50 pct of its maximal load .
Outlets
As is the shell in our home , outlets are the means through which appliances get to the power created by a generator . All generators feature stock 120V mercantile establishment , with most having between two and four . Generators with outputs of 4,000 watts or more generally have 240V twist - lock wall plug for large convenience , such as clothes dryers and electric ranges .
Some models also include 12V release , which are outlets standardised to fag lighters in vehicle . RV - ready outlets sport special 30A or 50A vent for power a travel trailer or motor habitation .
FAQs
If you ’re question about how much fuel a propane generator uses or how safe it is to use a propane generator , read on for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about these machines .
It varies widely , ground on the eccentric of generator ( inverter generators can use less fuel than noninverter types ) and how much electric power the source produces . On median , a portable source may burn 0.2 to 1 gal of propane per hour for every 1,000 Isaac Watts of force it produces .
A propane generator ’s noise level is link up to power output signal — high-pitched - capacity generators incline to produce more interference than smaller ones , but the generator ’s mechanical invention also factors in . Traditional generators that create 6,000 or more watt generally run at around 70 to 85 decibels , whereas a modest ( or inverter ) author can produce between 50 to 60 decibels .
Propane in reality has some safety advantages over gasoline . It grow fewer toxic exhaust and does not pose as with child a fire hazard as gasoline , which can shed . Propane is not susceptible to spills because it is contained in a pressurized tin .
To employ a propane generator safely , make certain to congeal up the author in an open quad by from any inclosure , including an subject garage .
Meet the Testers
Glenda Taylor is a declarer , intersection examiner , and writer . With experience in both residential and commercial construction applications , she focuses in the first place on construction , woodworking , and DIY tools and techniques .
extra testing performed byCorey Foster , Austin Fracchia , Becky Helzer , Zach Lazzari , Tom Scalisi , andMark Wolfe . The Bob Vila trial squad is made up of contractors , remodelers , home aim enthusiast , and freelancers from across the nation . Each member is dedicate to delivering gamey - quality product data to our readers so they can shop with assurance , knowing the merchandise they purchase have been fully test and vet .
Additional research provided by Tony Carrick .
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