Power outages, often common during extreme weather or in the event of disasters such as fires, often leave us without access to grid power. Dual fuel generators offer a flexible backup option by running on either propane or gasoline, providing two alternative ways to power your home. But which dual fuel generators should you go for?
The best dual fuel generator is the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator for emergency preparedness because of its high-power output, convenience, price, and durable build. This generator is suitable for light-duty and heavy-duty utility applications, making it ideal for powering your home, RV, or other outdoor emergency operations.
The rest of this article reviews the five best dual fuel generators you may add to your emergency preparedness toolkit.
| Make-Dual Fuel Gas or Propane | MSRP | Weight | Gasoline Tank Capacity | Starter System | Running Wattage | Rated Peak Wattage | Noise Level (dB) at 50% Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DuroMax XP12000EH Duel Fuel Generator | $999 | 238 lbs | 8.3 gallons | Electric, recoil | 9,500W | 12,000W | 74 dBA |
| Westinghouse 9500DF Dual Fuel Generator | $899 | 214.5 lbs | 6.6 gallons | Electric, Remote, Recoil | 7,500W | 9,500W | 72 dBA |
| WEN DF1100X Dual Fuel Generator | $799 | 213.8 lbs | 6.6 gallons | Electric, recoil | 8,300W | 11,000W | 72 dBA |
| FIRMAN Dual Fuel Generator | $719 | 119.5 lbs | 5 gallons | Electric, recoil | 3,650W | 4,550W | 67dBA |
| Pulsar 2,200W Duel Fuel Inverter Generator | $420 | 44 lbs | 1.18 gallons | Recoil | 1,800W | 2,200W | 60dBA |
How Many Watts of Power Do You Need for Emergency Preparedness?
In our article “How Much Emergency Power Do You Need For An Apartment?” we also use the table below to show you how much power you need to keep your refrigerator, freezer, space heater and other appliances in your home or apartment running in a power outage.
Calculate the Average Watts Per Hour for Electric Home Appliances
Emergency preparedness is figuring out what you need before you need it. Calculating how many watts of power you need to run your home appliances in a power outage is what you need to do before purchasing a generator.
We believe you need a minimum of 5,000 watts of power just to keep your refrigerator running and a few small appliances.
So you can calculate how much generator to purchase to run your appliances during a power outage. Please use the table below and then look at our recommendations for dual fuel generators.
| Product | Size | Watts Per Hr. | Use (Hrs.) | Watts Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 21.6 Cu. Ft. | 180 | 24 | 4,320 |
| Chest Freezer | 15 Cu. Ft. | 45 | 24 | 1,080 |
| Oven-Range | 5.3 Cu. Ft. | 1,200 | 1 | 1,200 |
| Portable Space Heater | 1500W | 1,500 | 8 | 12,000 |
| Washing Machine | 4.7 Cu. Ft. | 248 | 1 | 248 |
| Microwave | 1.7 Cu. Ft. | 950 | .10 | 158 |
| Electric Water Heater | 50 Gallon | 4,500 | 4 | 18,000 |
| TV – OLED | 50-Inch | 89 | 5 | 445 |
| Total Watts Per Day | 37,451 |
DuroMax XP12000EH Duel Fuel Generator
- Engine size: 457cc
- Engine type: 4-stroke
- Engine cooling: Forced air
- Fuel types: Gasoline and propane
- Fuel delivery: Carburetor
- Output voltage: 120V/240V
- Wheel & handle kit: Included
- Warranty: 3 years
The DuroMax XP12000EH Generator has secured the top spot on our list for emergency preparedness due to its base low price, high output power, user-friendly design, and rugged construction, earning it the nickname the “BEAST.”
This generator effortlessly meets your household electricity needs with 9500 running watts and 12000 surge watts when running on gasoline. It can comfortably power the following:
- Lighting
- Refrigerator
- Entertainment
- HVAC
- Washing machines.
The control panel of the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator offers five power output options, including:
- One 120V-30A socket
- One 120V-30A GFCI socket
- One 120/240V-30A socket
- One 120V/240V-50A socket
- A 12 Volts DC outlet
An analog voltmeter is also included to monitor the output voltage for appliance safety. Equipped with a 457cc OHC engine, this generator can run 8 hours on 8.3 gallons (31.4 liters) of gas at half-load operation. The engine features an idle control mechanism that adjusts the RPMs based on the operational load, maximizing fuel efficiency.
Although weighing 338 pounds (153 kg), this generator is made portable with the inclusion of a wheel and handle kit. Its sturdy steel construction ensures durability, making it suitable for various applications, such as RVs, outdoor camps, and construction sites.
With its dual-fuel capability, this generator can be relied upon to provide power during emergencies.
Westinghouse 9500df Dual Fuel Generator
- Engine size: 420cc
- Engine type: 4-Stroke
- Engine cooling: Forced Air
- Fuel types: Gasoline and Propane
- Fuel delivery: Carburetor
- Output voltage: 120V/240V
- Wheel & handle kit: Included
- Warranty: 3 years
The Westinghouse outdoor power equipment is second on our list due to the following factors:
- Impressive power output
- Durability
- Convenience
While the Westinghouse 9500DF Dual Fuel Generator falls slightly short of the output power of the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator, it still provides ample power to meet all your home electricity needs during emergencies.
With 7500 running watts and 9500 surge watts when running on gasoline, this generator can comfortably handle your lighting, entertainment systems, HVAC system, and washing machine. Its 420cc engine can run for 11 hours on 6.6 gallons (25 liters) of fuel at a 50% operating load.
The generator’s convenience package includes the following:
- Remote start functionality
- An intuitive communication screen
- Low noise operation
The remote start fob can operate up to 787 ft (240 meters), enabling hands-free plug operation. The generator’s panel is designed with safety in mind.
Another convenient feature is the VFT Data Center, which provides real-time maintenance information to enhance the lifespan of your generator.
Notable safety features include:
- An automatic voltage regulator
- A main circuit breaker
- Overload protection
- A fuel gauge
- Automatic low oil shutdown
- Rubber power outlet covers
You have various power output options, including the following:
- Two 120V-GFCI household outlets
- One 120/240V 30 amp twist-lock output
- A 12V DC battery charger
However, it does not have a 50 amp AC outlet that is more suitable for heavy-duty commercial use.
To ensure durability, this generator is equipped with a hardened steel frame and a forged cast iron engine sleeve which make it quite heavy for such a small generator. It is sturdy and capable of withstanding rough conditions with minimal issues.
For portability, the generator comes with the following:
- Roll bars
- A foam grip handle
- A set of never-flat tires
While it may be too heavy to lift easily, it can be rolled. The large 8-inch (20 cm) wheels easily handle difficult terrain and vegetation.
One final issue is some of the compalints. Amazon will not send you a replacement generator for this, although they may negotiate a fix. Westinghouse customer support does not do in-home service, and they will send you to their service center voice mail if there are issues with this machine.
You will also have to take the Westinghouse 9500DF Dual Fuel Generator to an allowed Westinghouse distributor or repair location if you have one near you. This may not be a solution in remote or rural areas.
WEN DF1100X Dual Fuel Generator
- Engine size: 457cc
- Engine type: 4-Stroke
- Engine cooling: Forced Air
- Fuel types: Gasoline and Propane
- Fuel delivery: Carburetor
- Output voltage: 120V/240V
- Wheel & handle kit: Included
- Warranty: 3 years
The WEN DF1100X Dual Fuel Generator has earned its place among our top picks due to its exceptional low price, power, safety features, and versatility for emergency preparedness. It is an Amazon’s choice winner with 4.5 stars.
This generator is equipped with an automatic stop system that cuts power in an emergency, working in tandem with the overload protection and circuit breaker system to safeguard both the generator and your appliances. Whether it’s a power overload or a short circuit, this mechanism ensures the protection of your appliances at all times.
One notable safety feature is the CO2 shutdown sensor, which automatically turns off the generator upon detecting dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. This feature enhances your safety, particularly when operating the generator in poorly ventilated spaces like a garage.
In terms of power delivery, this generator packs a substantial punch to meet the needs of a home or camping trip. With 8300 running watts and 11000 surge watts when running on gasoline, it can effortlessly power a wide range of appliances. It can also easily handle medium-duty commercial utilities, such as welding machines and water pumps.
The 457cc OHV engine runs for 8.5 hours on a 6.6-gallon (25-liter) tank under half-load operation. The instrument panel features a digital hour counter to help you monitor fuel usage, and a reliable key electric start system allows for easy generator activation with a simple turn of the engine switch.
The instrument panel offers a multitude of power outlet options, including:
- Four 120V-30 amp GFCI power outlets
- One 120V-30 amp transfer-ready twist lock receptacle
- One 120V/240V 50A receptacle
- A 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug
This wide range of outlets sets it apart as a medium-sized backup generator. All AC outlets are protected by an AC circuit breaker, while the DC outlet is connected to a 12V DC breaker.
To enhance portability, the generator is equipped with 8-inch wheels and a fiber handle kit, allowing for easy transportation. This is a good generator to have on standby in case of a power outage and any emergency.
FIRMAN Dual Fuel Generator
- Engine size: 208cc
- Engine type: 4-Stroke
- Engine cooling: Forced Air
- Fuel types: Gasoline and Propane
- Fuel delivery: Carburetor
- Output voltage: 120V
- Wheel & handle kit: Included
- Warranty: 3 years
The FIRMAN Dual Fuel Generator has secured its place among our top 5 picks due to its excellent portability and fuel efficiency.
Weighing only 120 pounds (54 kg), this hybrid generator is perfect for RVing and outdoor emergency projects. It can be easily lifted and carried for considerable distances, being nearly half the weight of the other generators on the list.
The FIRMAN Dual Fuel Generator also features an 8-inch (20 cm) wheel and handle system, further enhancing its portability.
In terms of power, this generator is suitable for home, RV, and outdoor use. With 3650 normal running wattage and 4550 surge running wattage, it is capable of powering your essential appliances during emergencies.
However, it may not handle multiple high-wattage appliances simultaneously. Using the fridge, HVAC system, washing machine, and heaters all at the same time may exceed its capacity. Nevertheless, such simultaneous usage is typically rare.
The 208cc OHV engine is equipped with a reliable electric start system and an optional recoil start system. An automatic low oil-off system shuts down the engine when oil levels become too low, or the oil becomes excessively hot.
Running at a 50% operating load, this mid-sized engine can run for up to 14 hours on a five-gallon (19-liter) gas tank. A fuel gauge is included to help you monitor the fuel levels.
The control panel offers three power output options, including:
- One 120V-20A DUPLEX AC socket
- One 120V 30A twist lock AC socket
- One 120V 30A RV AC socket
However, it does not include any DC power options.
Pulsar 2,200W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
- Engine size: 80cc
- Engine type: 4-Stroke
- Engine cooling: Forced air
- Fuel types: Gasoline and propane
- Fuel delivery: Carburetor
- Output voltage: 120V
- Wheel & handle kit: Handle only (no wheels)
- Warranty: 2 years
The Pulsar 2,200W portable dual fuel generator has made it to our top picks due to its perfect combination of adaptability, convenience, and compactness. This generator is a Amazon’s Choice selection with 4.6 rating and stars.
This generator offers an affordable price point while being highly portable and impact-resistant, making it an ideal choice for your daily home and RVing needs. It is easy to carry around and operates quietly, emitting minimal noise from a distance of 10 feet (3 meters).
With 1800 running watts and 2200 surge watts when running on gasoline, this generator is suitable for most light-duty tasks. It can power the following all at once:
- Lighting
- Entertainment systems
- Refrigerator
However, it is not designed for heavy-duty appliances or multiple high-wattage devices running simultaneously. Its 80cc fuel tank can provide up to 8 hours of runtime on a 1.8-gallon (6.8-liter) fuel tank at a 50% operating load, which is remarkable for longer emergency periods.
The Pulsar 2,200W has two 120V-15A outlets, and an integrated 5V DC outlet. However, it does not offer 30A or 50A output options.
In terms of cost, it is priced at almost a quarter of what the other generators on the list would cost. Its compact design not only makes it impact-resistant but also easy to carry. This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious people when preparing for emergencies.
Please see some of our other interesting articles like “Should You Be Worried About Weather-Caused Power Grid Outages?” and “What Happens if the American Power Grid Goes Down?”
Key Takeaways
Dual fuel generators are flexible emergency power backup options and invaluable for emergency preparedness during power outages. As they are significant investments, careful consideration and thorough research are necessary to select the right generator.
You should choose a generator that is powerful enough and suitable for the intended purpose. While more robust generators are ideal for home use, portable options are well-suited for RVing and outdoor activities as well as emergencies.
References:
- BYJU’S: Voltmeter
- The Economic Times: Generator Noise Level Regulations: Permissible Limits and Different Types of Gensets