7+ Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House and Camping

Whether it is summer, winter or monsoon, power cuts are always all-season. Imagine a situation where you are all set for a movie night, with dim lights and popcorn. But suddenly, everything goes downhill as the power goes off for long hours. Now, not only are your plans ruined, but also is the food in the refrigerator you saved up for the next morning. All you do is sit in the hot weather, clueless. 

It can leave you in a blackout, but you can combat it if you buy a portable dual fuel generator. You need to look for generators that are convenient, versatile, and compact. 

Hence, we end your tireless search and bring you to a comprehensive guide to find the best portable dual fuel generator in the market.

Why is it important to purchase the right generator for yourself?

While power cuts and electricity shortcomings are unpredictable, your mechanism to combat it, i.e. a portable dual fuel generator should be worth it at all costs. Your generator should exactly suit your needs and serve basic purposes. 

It is crucial to get yourself a generator that saves your money in the long run and is extremely reliable. It should be low maintenance in the areas of storage and accessibility. The generator you opt for should also exhibit flexibility and sustainability. 

You must opt for the generator that not only solves all your power cut problems but also fits efficiently in your budget. Hence, we believe thorough studying and reviewing can help you find the right that exactly matches your demands. 

7+ Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House and Camping

1. Champion 3800-watt Dual Fuel Generator – Best Portable Generator

Champion 3800 is a champion in our list, too, because we have seen some of the best features a generator must-have. The innovative design as per the Industry standards, and the lower fuel consumption, make it the best dual fuel generator.

According to us, it’s a beast running in both gasoline as well as propane. And with full tank gasoline, it can run up to 9 hours and 10.5 hours on a 20 lb LPG tank. Searching for a reliable engine? Champion has covered it all. There’s a 224cc engine that can start just by touch.

There are four outlets to power up all the devices. Hence, we even say this as the best whole house generator. It’s best for a home for a reason, as the outlets are secured, thus if a person even uses sensitive belongings with this generator, they won’t face any loss at any cost.

This generator even comes with a push-button electric start, and for this, there is an internal battery charger too. 3.4-gallon gasoline tank is quiet enough to run the generator for a whole day at half load. As far as the sound is concerned, we have seen this generator a bit noisy from 23 ft; the sound produced is around 63 decibels.

Most of the customers even used this generator at their workplace, and they found it effective and portable as well. It’s also the best standby generator in an emergency or power outage.

We are giving a big thumbs up to this generator for its additional feature as well because there is a three-year warranty and also lifetime technical support. While buying the customer even gets a propane hose, and the unit is EPA and CARB certified.

2. Pulsar PG10000 Gas- Best Indoor Generator

If you are looking for a generator for indoor use, then we suggest you the Pulsar PG1000 gas inverter. It comes with a large single-cylinder, that can run up to 12 hours straight, although being continually operated.

Yet another best feature of this generator is the air-cooled engine, hence one can use significant power appliances like washing machines and refrigerators during any emergency, too; therefore, we even consider this as the best whole house generator also. 

The peak capacity of the generator is around 10000 watts, along with a powerful motor that is designed to last for a longer time. The heavy-duty power frame makes this generator more reliable and durable for home usage. 

While the horsepower of the engine is 15 HP, there are four different outlets as well, to perform a smooth function.

There is a more exciting feature too added, as the electric push-starts with recoil back up, that gives instant access while in power cuts. 

In the kit, there is even a handle along with never-flat wheels because of which transportation also gets more comfortable. 

3. Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel Generator – Best dual fuel generator

What makes Rainier stand in our top third list is its amazing features to be the best dual fuel generator that can be used for homeowners for their household activities and a backup option for their power cuts.

The typical open-frame design has attracted us more than its specifications because it provides the best stability and can be raised above ground level with much ease. The design and specification are compatible enough for heavy use too.

The generator weighs around 196 lbs. Hence it becomes a bit difficult to lift it manually, so it’s not a portable generator. 

Monitoring the generator becomes even more comfortable, thanks to the control panel as it displays the voltage, lifetime hours, and frequency. As far as the security of the generator is concerned, we are pleased with the automatic low oil shutoff and overload protection feature.

The peak voltage of the generator is 12000 watts, but when used with propane, the generator und up to 8550 watts, making it the best propane generator too. 

There is an electric starter that runs on a battery, and with such a simple mechanism, anyone who is new to using a generator can use it effortlessly. As far as the noise is concerned, we were a bit disappointed as it’s quite noisy and the sound level is around 74 decibels.

4. Pulsar PG10000B16 Dual Fuel Generator – Best Indoor generator

Although we got a bit disappointed by the run time of this generator, what attracted us a lot is its portability features. Not any dual fuel generator under this much power provides portability; hence we rank it as the best portable generator.

If you buy this generator, luckily, you get lots of other features added too, like the multiple AC and DC outlets for all the power needs. One can either use their fridge or TV simultaneously with this generator.

The 6.6-gallon fuel tank allows the generator to run for almost 12 hours straight. And the steel frame, as well as the air cool engine, gives enhanced durability and protection to sensitive appliances. 

The simple switch goes technology makes this generator the best choice if you are looking for the best propane generators as one can do a smooth transition between gasoline and propane as per their requirements.

Overall it’s the best buy as starting this generator is also very easy as there are no such additional manual requirements. Through the recoil backup electric start, the generator starts up within minutes. 

Moreover, because of all these fantastic features, we even state this generator as a brilliant option for your house back up. Because transportation is quite easier because of the smooth wheels and folds down handles. 

5. Sportsman GEN4000DF – Best Portable Generator

As most of the generators don’t provide the same efficiency as gasoline and propane, we are impressed by this generator’s ability to give the same level of power to both fuels. Also, as compared to all other dual-fuel generators, this generator is not at all noisy, and it just produces 62-decibel noise, making it the best quiet generator.

This generator is versatile and convenient for indoor activities, and for taking it outdoors on vacations. The open-frame design of the generator gives better stability, and it can be raised easily above ground level. 

Moreover, the generator is RV ready, which features a travel trailer 30R shelves; hence it can be used in more robust environments too. 

There is even a voltmeter in the control panel for convenient usage, and that’s the demand of most of the customers as they want to keep a check on power output.

A disappointment yet stands for us is the electric start technology, but the price range of the generator is quite low, and thus compromises can be made. There’s even an automatic low fuel shutoff, which almost most of the expensive generators have. 

Conclusively, if you are looking for an affordable generator with decent features, then it is our pick for you!

6. Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator – Best Camping Generator

Not all dual fuel generators are compatible enough to use while camping, but the champion brand gave us an exception in this case. This generator is not one of the best portable generators, but also one can use it while camping or while doing any other outdoor activity.

The high starting watt of this generator is impressive, as it can deliver approximately 7500 watts on both gasoline as well as propane.

The electric start technology and the intelligence makes the generator more viable for outdoor electricity usage. There is even a handy toggle switch in the generator. 

The low oil shut off sensor makes this generator even best, because when you are running short of fuel, you can easily top up. Also, there are thick wheels, which make the generator more convenient to use in the home, at work, or while camping. 

Operating it is incredibly safe because of the cool start technology, making it more reliable in extreme weather conditions. Safe and will automatically shut off when the oil is running low. The 9.5-inch never-flat wheels, better fold-down handle, and heavy-duty iron frame make this generator the best choice for outdoor activities too.

7. DuroMax XP4400E Generator Powered By Gas – Best Indoor Generator

As we have seen Duromax offering, best portable generators, and affordable generators, we are impressed by this generator too. In this generator, they have even maintained their signature style lightweight open steel frame, along with a durable pair of wheels.

We have found this generator as the best option for indoor emergencies because of its exceptional features. The generator features high starting watts, which is best to run a small apartment for around 8 hours. 

There is even an electric key start for smooth and instant power, which can also be used for heavy-duty as well. There are two outlets on the control panel through which one can use multiple devices simultaneously. The generator can work smoothly up to 8 hours with half the load. 

The disappointment comes here because of the low oil sensor, as there is no such thing in this generator. But once the oil starts to run low, the generator automatically shuts down, through which there is no harm done to other connected devices. 

Overall, this generator is hard-wearing and a robust model along with good tires, which makes storage and transportation more comfortable.

8. Duromax XP4850EH Generator

We highly recommend Duromax XP4850EH if you are looking for a dual fuel generator for a longer life duration. The outer part of the generator is sturdy enough; it can deliver 20-hour straight power if used with propane. Hence, it’s also the best propane generator.   

With the electric and recoil start system, the generator can either be started with the help of a button or by a rope. Both ways are effortless. 

There is also a 208cc air-cooled engine that will give a smooth and secure energy supply to all the household appliances. 

Switching between propane and gasoline is also very easy, but it is suggested to run this generator on propane as it works efficiently.

Although both the options provide sufficient levels of wattage, there is even a wheel kit provided additionally for secure handling and movement of the generator.

Buyer’s Guide to Portable Dual Fuel Generators.

Since now you are quite acquainted with the various generators in the market, you might be facing a dilemma on which one to choose. You will surely have some options in your mind, but how do you settle for the right one?

Hence, we bring to you our detailed buying guide that outlines all the parameters you must consider and all the properties you must study for accurate purchase. 

1. Outline your power needs:

Any generator purchased is based on how much power you wish to extract. If you wish to utilize a generator to power your entire house, you need to purchase a high-powered model that produces at least 5,000 Watt. However, for lesser requirements, like powering only a few appliances, a smaller model along with a low power rating, i.e. preferably a 2000 Watt generator is more feasible.

2. Know the exact generator size you require:

Your generator size comes into play if you have to move it around. So keep in mind to choose a generator after thoroughly reviewing your power requirements as its size and weight form an important criterion. 

Heavy-duty generators can be tedious to be carried around as compared to the smaller models. Meanwhile, a compact-sized generator exhibits a lower power and low fuel capacity, Hence, it is easily portable.  

3. Fuel capacity should be taken into account:

Dual fuel generators, as the name suggests function with efficient fuel tanks to house fuel. These generators are usually run by gasoline and propane. The fuel tanks are distinct and have their storage capacity, which is measured in gallons. These large fuel talks are available with premium options. 

It is always advised to purchase a tank that can store a high quantity of fuel to reap the benefits in several ways. Re-filling the tank is a repetitive task, but with high capacity tanks, you have to do it fewer times. You also don’t run out of power when you need it the most, owing to a large quantity of fuel in these tanks. 

4. Pay attention to rated and peak output. 

While you buy the generator for power cut crisis, you must carefully view the two different output ratings that accompany every portable dual fuel generator. This is also known as peak and rated output. However, with the two gases, i.e. gasoline and propane, the values vary. Hence, you will notice four values for the power output on each generator. 

At the start, this may seem confusing but here is a trick you need to know. You have to only pay attention to the peak capacity for both fuels while purchasing a generator. It works relatively and you end up getting a higher running value. 

To gain more perspective let’s say, in generator type A, if you choose for a high peak value for propane, you automatically achieve a higher peak value for gasoline as well as a higher running watts output. 

5. Keep a check on the noise level. 

Dual fuel power generators work on the principle of internal combustion of gasoline or propane. This combustion is an ongoing process, and hence, there is quite some noise produced when the generator is running. While you cannot find a generator that is devoid of noise, you can look for a portable dual fuel generator with a lower noise value. 

Having a low noise rated generator is important as this disturbing noise can affect your applications and also give you a hard time, when in operation. It is recommended to utilize propane as your primary fuel among the two. This is because propane undergoes silent combustion. 

6. Engine efficiency is important. 

In every portable dual fuel generator, there exists an engine that combusts propane or gasoline to produce energy. You have to realize that the fuel consumption might vary, unlike power output values. This is credited to the efficiency of the generator’s engine that determines how productively each fuel can be utilized to generate the output. Hence whether it is a low power engine or a high-power engine, you have to ensure efficiency in regards to fuel consumption

Engine efficiency is important due to two main reasons. One, without it your fuel will be exhausted very quickly. Second, an inefficient engine produces a large number of harmful exhaust gases due to improper combustion. Thus, engine efficiency allows you to save up money on fuel and save yourself from inhaling harmful exhausts. 

Frequently asked questions

Here are some frequently asked questions that might have occurred to you as well. Have a look.

Q1. Which fuel is better suited to be as a primary fuel: gasoline or propane? 

Answer: While both the fuels have their merits and demerits, propane is comparatively cheaper and combusts silently. It has a higher shelf life and is easier to get, even during emergencies. However, gasoline is otherwise widely available and burns with greater efficiency, even in lower temperatures.  

Q2. Can I connect the portable generator to my home? 

Answer: It is highly dangerous to directly connect your generator to any electrical system due to the risk of electrocution and equipment damage. Hence, you must install a transfer switch by a professional electrician to prevent any damage. 

Q3. Why is changing oil better than refilling oil in the portable generator?

Answer: It is recommended to change the entire amount of oil instead of refilling it at regular intervals. This increases the efficiency life of the engine and prevents damage to the components as the engine oil gets destroyed over time due to the heat from the engine. You can treat it as a similar case of the oil boiling in a pan that cannot be re-used beyond a certain point.

Q4. Why does the generator need to be grounded?

Answer: The grounding of portable generators is an important safety measure to avoid all possible risks of electrocution. To achieve this, a copper rod is driven into the ground and copper wire is attached from this rod to the frame of the generator. You have to follow the entire grounding instructions specific to your particular generator. This will protect you from the threat of electrical shocks. 

Q5. Is it okay to run or vent out a generator in an indoor area or a garage that has an open door? 

Answer: The primary rule of operating a generator is running it in an open area with a high amount of airflow and ventilation. If you run a portable generator indoors, it can prove fatal or result in respiratory problems due to the inhalation of carbon monoxide and other harmful gases that are exhausted.  

Q6. What do I do, if I am not using my generator for a long period? 

If you plan to not utilize your generator for a certain period, follow basic storage precautions. These include draining the fuel tank, adding a fuel stabilizer, and cleansing the carburettor. 

Our champion runner- Rainier R12000DF

Rating- 5 stars

Among all these competent products, we find the Rainier R12000DF to be our ideal pick. This is credited to its easy usage, low noise levels, and excellent value for money. 

Compatibility:

This device is extremely compatible with a large number of applications and locations. Hence you can rely on this generator and its portable characteristics to produce power at homes, camping or job sites, or any safe location of your choice.

Low noise levels:

If you are tired of the ears echoing with the generator’s sound throughout the day, this model will put your worries to rest. The Rainier R12000DF functions at a sound level of 74 dBA, which is a lower noise level than any normal conversation. 

Quality performance:

This product comes with a guarantee of Rainier technology. It assures top quality stable power which is authentic and similar to the power you receive in your home outlets. 

A concluding verdict. 

Portable dual fuel generators catch multiple birds with one net. This implies it serves so many purposes and provides you with a plethora of benefits. Apart from the usual power generation in crisis, these devices are economical and help you cut on electricity costs. They work well on the sustainability factor as they have low gas emissions and result in lower fuel storage. They provide optimal performance in any operating conditions. 

Thus, all in all, we hope this was your one-stop extensive guide in finding the ideal portable dual fuel generator that meets all your requirements.