Portable Power Station

10 Best Dual Fuel Generators Reviews and Buying Guide

Dual fuel generators gain immense popularity these days. This is mainly because of the flexibility and dependability these generators carry. A dual fuel generator is a technology that is existing for a long. It is there even before the grid turned reliable. Earlier, engines using two different fuels were largely used as power generation solutions. Engineers have started experimenting with dual fuels right from the 1890s.

When talking about a portable generator that uses two different fuels, you should not confuse it with a bi-fuel generator. Yes, the former uses two different kinds of fuel mostly natural gas and diesel at the same time. Engines with this facility permit mixing of fuels in varied proportions. Even, some engines demand using only one at a time. In most instances, you will have to start operating the best dual fuel generator using diesel alone. The reason is that diesel is a fuel that is known for its much lower ignition temperature compared to natural gas.

Quick Summary

Dual fuel generators are kinds of portable generators that offer power based on fuel. It can be considered as power station, inverter generator, or home battery backup. We have reviewed solar generators, which includes camping generator or RV generators, they can connect to solar panels or camping solar panels. Different from solar generator kits and portable chargers, portable fuel generators use different power sources – gas, propane, etc., which enable you to have a stable power supply.

As you think about buying a fuel generator that can operate in two different fuels, you will be interested in getting a list of top choices available in the market. Here is the list of top 10 options available along with the reason why they are the best in their own ways:

  1. The best generator for powering a large home:  WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator from Westinghouse
  2. Generator with a powerful engine:  XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator from DuroMax
  3. Generators That Makes Switching Between Fuels Easy:  WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator from Westinghouse
  4. The most versatile power generator:  201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator from Champion Power
  5. Generator with covered outlets:  WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator from Westinghouse
  6. The best generator for RV usage:  XP5500EH Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready Generator from DuroMax
  7. The best CARB-Certified GeneratorDF475T Dual Fuel Generator from WEN
  8. The Best Generator Overall:  DF1100T 11000-Watt Portable Generator from WEN
  9. The Best Generator for Work and Home Use:  G12KBN Heavy-Duty Portable Generator from Pulsar
  10. The Best Generator for Powering Household Appliances:  XP12000HX Dual Fuel Generator from DuroMax

The Best Dual Fuel Generator – Detailed Review

As you intend to buy a dual fuel generator, you will be interested in a detailed review of these top 10 choices. Here is a detailed review of each of these choices. So, you can compare and make the right choice:

1. WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator with 9500 Rated and 12500 Peak Watts from Westinghouse

This generator is undoubtedly the best 9500W generator in the market. The reason is that the generator has been created by Westinghouse as a dependable generator with great power output. Its fuel efficiency also makes it the best dual fuel generator in its category. It has been designed to meet both your job site and residential powering needs. Even though it has the best power capacity, most users feel that the generator has been priced affordably.

This generator can be operated either in propane or gasoline. With its heavy-duty 457CC 4-stroke engine, which is an OHV Westinghouse Engine, it can keep your appliances powered all through the day. Further, the engine in this generator has been constructed using a durable cast iron sleeve. It can run for up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon gas tank. Further, it has features like automatic low oil shutdown and GFCI vents and a built-in fuel gauge to keep your appliances safe.

With the push-button electric start option offered by this unit, starting it will not be tough. For starting from a distance, this unit comes with a remote start fob key. The control panel in this unit is intuitive. This control panel spotlights the transfer switch ready L14-30R and larger 14-50R. With this capacity, it will be possible to power your major appliances like a sump pump, refrigerator, and air conditioner. Even, with its capacity, it will let you power even entertainment centers and light everything at the same time with just a single cord hookup.

Pros:

  • Comes with heavy-duty never-flat wheels for easy transportation
  • Ideal for backup power for larger homes with high running watts
  • Push-button electric start for easy starting
  • VFT Display for real-time updates with lifetime hours, voltage output and frequency.

Cons:

  • It is noisy to run

RELATED: 7 Best Westinghouse Portable Generators Reviews

2. XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator from DuroMax

This fuel generator offers the facility to use two different fuels. Yes, you can employ either propane or gasoline for powering this unit. This generator is powered by a 500cc OHV Engine. It comes with a running power of 10500 watts and a surge power of 13000 watts. With this capacity, it can power even large household appliances like the central AC system in a home and even lights.

This unit comes with a fully-loaded power panel that features multiple outlets. To prevent overloading, it comes with individual breakers that ensure the safety of your devices. The good thing about this unit is that it is both CARB and EPA approved.

On full tank gasoline, this generator can run for up to 8 hours. The all-metal construction of this unit ensures that the generator has been built tough to last even on the roughest job sites. The surge-arrest feature can help with safeguarding the generator from power surges.

It comes with a powerful DuroMax 500cc OHV engine. This engine makes it a workhorse providing plenty of power to handle many jobs. Right from high-voltage appliances, it can power heavy-duty power tools as well. You can control the fuel input right in front of the generator. With the front fuel switch, you can set the fuel to propane, gasoline or even you can employ it for running the fuel out of the carburetor for storage.

Pros:

  • Powerful engine
  • Front fuel switch
  • Low oil shutoff
  • Idle control to save fuel
  • Fully-featured power panel

Cons:

  • The included instruction book is outdated

3. WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator from Westinghouse

This dual fuel generator is engineered by Westinghouse as a portable generator to provide you with reliable power whenever you need it. Irrespective of whether you are at home or on the go, this generator will come in handy to meet your needs to power appliances.

By providing the capability to use two different fuels, this generator ensures versatility as you can operate it either with LPG or gas. When you employ gasoline, it can produce a maximum of 4650 peak watts and 3600 running watts. On a 4-gallon tank, it can run for 14 hours when you employ gasoline. It has a built-in fuel gauge as well. Apart from safety features like overload protection and automatic low oil shutdown, this generator also ensures engine durability with its cast-iron sleeve exteriors.

This generator has been equipped by Westington with an RV-Ready TT-30R 30A outlet. You can employ this outlet for conveniently hooking this generator to your travel trailer. You can employ this generator for running your air conditioner and other travel essentials for an entire day.

To ensure an easy start, this generator has a push-button electric start option. You can pair this push button with a wireless remote key fob. This again will ensure the starting of this generator is easy. It has been designed with an extendable handle and never-flat wheels for portability.

Pros:

  • Easily switch between fuels without shutting off
  • Backed by emergency recoil start apart from easy button start and remote start options
  • Constructed with a durable cast iron steel
  • Built-in fuel gauge.

Cons:

  • Installation of wheels cannot be done with ease.

4. 201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator from Champion Power

Are you looking for a portable generator that comes with a combination of convenience and versatility? If so, this generator from Champion Power can be the best option for you. Irrespective of whether you need power for your next project or home, this generator can meet your powering needs effectively.

It comes with a convenient electric start option. Further, it uses cold start technology. So, you can employ this generator for your power needs even when it is cold outside. You can easily keep an eye on the power output and can track maintenance intervals with its display unit. It has 0.6 quarts of 10W-30 oil and it has been designed with a low oil shut-off sensor to safeguard the unit from the damages caused due to the absence of fuel. The display in this unit will provide you with details like run-time hours, hertz, and voltage.

You can start using this generator right out the box when you have either propane or gasoline at home for powering it. Also, this generator helps you to easily switch fuels with the patented fuel select dial offered by Champion Power. This feature ensures safe switching between the two sources of fuels.

You can be sure about the safety of this generator during electrical volt spikes. The reason is that it uses Volt Guard Technology.

Pros:

  • Electric start option
  • Intelliguage for monitoring power usage
  • Built-in surge protection
  • Comes with a wheel kit for easy movement.

Cons:

  • Fuel filling is not easy.

5. WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator from Westinghouse

This generator has been created by Westinghouse as a powerful solution to help you stay prepared for any emergencies. It produces a maximum of 7500 running watts and 9500 peak watts. On a 6.6 gal gasoline fuel tank, it can function for 11 hours.

This portable generator has been forged by Westinghouse with a cast iron sleeve. Also, it has a 420cc 4-stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine. This feature ensures durability to the generator. For added protection to users like you, this generator comes with features like GFCI household outlets, automatic low oil shutdown and a built-in fuel gauge. It features a push-button electric start option. Also, for effortless ignition, this push-button start combines with a wireless remote key fob. As a dual fuel generator, you can run this generator using propane or gasoline as the fuel.

This generator features an L14-30R outlet, which is transfer switch ready. It means that you can connect this generator straight to your home for entire household power. So, you are relieved of the troublesome power strips or extension cords. With its VFT data center for sharing real-time updates and maintenance information, you can stay confident about easy caring of this generator.

For easy transportation, this generator comes with a hardened steel frame with a foam grip handle and added roll bars. Above all, the never-flat wheels will help you easily transport the generator.

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use fuel selector switch
  • One-touch push start button
  • Outlets with covers
  • Comes with wheels for easy transportation

Cons:

  • You cannot move this generator without wheels.

6. XP5500EH Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready Generator from DuroMax

This user-friendly generator from DuroMax provides 5500 watts of power. You can get help from this unit by powering it either using liquid or gas propane. So, you can get flexibility in fuel choice. You can easily carry it for camping or tailgating and it is the best choice for your job site as well.

With its MX2 Power Boost technology, this generator ensures that you can double the 120V power for powering your RVs and appliances. The Surge-Arrest technology that this generator uses safeguards your generator from power surges. You can stay confident that this generator will withstand even the toughest jot sites. This is due to the all-metal construction of this generator. On a full tank of gasoline, this generator can work for 8 hours.

You can get the utmost power generation with this portable generator. The reason is that it houses 120-volt receptacles. You can choose between operating the generator at 120V and 240 V at the same time. Otherwise, you have the option to operate with full power at 120v. With these features, this generator is the best to use with RVs. Also, the fully-featured power panel offers a wide selection of outlets for the utmost compatibility with your appliances.

You can employ this unit for powering external batteries as well. The reason is that the control panel in this unit encompasses a voltmeter and a 12V DC charging post.

Pros:

  • Fully-featured power panel
  • MX2 Technology for the utmost power
  • Powerful engine
  • Low oil shutoff
  • All-metal construction

Cons:

  • Has considerable harmonic distortion

7. DF475T Dual Fuel Generator from WEN

The electric start facility that this generator offers powers the associated 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine easily with just the twist of a key. It has a four-gallon tank that provides up to 11 hours of working when you run the generator with half-load fuel.

The gasoline fuel capacity of this best dual fuel generator is 3800 running watts and 4750 surge watts. When you take the case of propane fuel capacity, it offers 3500 running and 4350 surge watts. You can easily switch between these power sources with the selection dial. Also, the voltage of this generator easily goes from 120V to 240V, thereby making it the ideal generator for emergency backup and transfer switches.

This generator encompasses a couple of 120V GFCI vents, a 12V DC plug, a 120 volt/240 volt twist lock, a can of oil, a handle and wheel kit, and a 47” LPG linking hose. The LPG hose in this unit allows for immediate connection to propane tanks. With its 240 volts of power and 224cc engine, this generator is EPA III and CARB compliant. So, it can be an ideal companion for emergency backup.

Pros:

  • Never-flat tires
  • Simple engine switch start
  • Voltage goes from 120V to 240V with ease
  • Easy switch between fuels

Cons:

  • Louder operation

8. DF1100T 11000-Watt Portable Generator from WEN

When you choose this generator, you can easily switch between propane and gasoline. In the case of the former, the running watt is 7500 and the surge watt is 9500. In the case of the latter, the running watt is 8300 and the surge watt is 11000. You will find switching between the fuels with an easy rotation of the selection dial.

With a 6.6 gallon tank, this generator can run for up to 8.5 hours on a half load. The electric start option offered by the generator powers the 475cc 4-stroke engine with just a turn of a key. The voltage goes from 120 to 240 volts with ease, thereby making it ideal for emergency backup and transfer switches.

This fuel generator encompasses four 120V GFCI vents, a cigarette-lighter style plug, a 120V/240V 50A outlet, a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and a 47-inch LPG linking hose. You will also get a can of oil when you buy this generator.

The handle and wheel kit in this generator makes transportation easier. With the LPG hose, it is possible to immediately connect the generator to propane tanks. You can easily connect your transfer switch for electricity whenever needed. You can refuel the gas tank with a maximum of 6.6 gallons of gasoline. When you do this, you can run the generator with half a load for 8.5 hours. It is compact enough for easy storage and durable for a job site.

Pros:

  • Wheel and handle kit
  • Digital LED hour counter
  • Overload protection and automatic voltage protection
  • 47-inch LPG Hose
  • Voltage versatility

Cons:

  • The gas level is not shown by the unit accurately.

9. G12KBN Heavy-Duty Portable Generator from Pulsar

This generator comes with 12000 peak watts and 9500 rated watts when operated in gasoline. In the case of the other fuel LPG, the peak watt is 10800 and rated 8550 watts. You can choose between LPG and gasoline fuel sources.

This unit comes with a propane hose and it is CARB compliant. It also comes with a 3-in-1 digital meter and 457cc OHV Ducar Engine. It ensures 13 hours of run time on half-load in 6.6 gals. Fuel tank. For portability, it comes with 10” never-flat wheels and drop-down handles.

This dual fuel generator comes with four 120-V outlets and one 120V/240V-twist-lock-outlet. It has one 12-Volt DC output and 120V/240V 50 Amp RV outlet each. The generator offers easy switching between the two fuels used for powering it.

The OHV engine that this generator uses comes with an electric start option. It is safeguarded by a durable powder-coated frame. The four-stroke engine is a single-cylinder engine and it is air-cooled as well. This generator becomes a complete unit with automatic voltage regulation, a three-in-one digital meter, and low oil shut-off for hassle-free usage.

Pros:

  • 10-inch never-flat tires for added mobility
  • Drop-down handles for portability
  • Includes propane hose
  • Powers your devices for 12 hours continuously at half-load

Cons:

  • Noisy Operation

10. XP12000HX Dual Fuel Generator from DuroMax

With 12,000 watts of power, this generator is undoubtedly a beast in the HX series generators from DuroMax. Even though it is efficient enough to provide the power that a standby generator can provide, it is portable and affordable. It comes with a 460cc OHV DuroMax Engine, which makes it the perfect choice for home backup. Also, it can power most of your household essentials like appliances, lights, and even your central AC system during an emergency, storm, or power outage.

The good thing about this generator is that it comes with a digital command center. From this center, you can get to know the maintenance hours, operating frequency, and voltage output. Starting the generator is as easy as starting your car. The reason is that it comes with a push-button for easy starting.

Pros:

  • Digital command center
  • CO Alert
  • Push-button start
  • Idle control
  • Low oil sensor

Cons:

  • High cost

What Is A Dual Fuel Generator?

A dual fuel generator, as you can understand by its name, is powered by two different fuels. Mostly, these generators use natural gas and diesel as the two fuels. Also, in most cases, you can use these fuels in varied proportions. Otherwise, some generators bring the facility to use only one fuel at a time. You should not confuse this generator with bi-fuel generators. The reason is that bi-fuel generators use a couple of different types of fuel interchangeably.

When you take the case of the best dual fuel generator, you can easily shift between the fuels. For this switching, there will be an easy-to-turn fuel selector knob. The good thing about a generator that permits the use of two different fuels is that it is capable enough of operating on just a single source of fuel in the absence of the other. However, in most cases, the generators need that there should be one specific fuel to start the engine. For instance, most generators use diesel as the starting fuel. The reason is that diesel ignites at just 500-7000F. With these things known, you will be interested in learning how does this system work. Let us find out here:

How Do Dual Fuel Generators Work?

As mentioned earlier, a dual power generator will have a switch that will help you easily switch between the two types of fuels. In most instances, you can power the generator only using one fuel. This is a good option as you can make the generator continue to power your devices even if one fuel finishes by switching it to the other fuel. So, you can prevent the generator from going off due to low or no fuel. Some generators provide the option to automatically get a power supply once there is a power cut in your home or office.

To know how a fuel generator that uses two different fuels work, you should have a closer look at each stage of the process. Initially, you will have to start the generator. In most instances, it will need a particular type of fuel for igniting the engine and for warming up the generator. You cannot start the engine without the specific fuel that a generator demands. Once the generator warms up, the other fuel can be slowly added. You can do this until the right combination of the fuels is achieved. Even though these generators can accept two different fuels, they can also function slowly on one fuel alone. This will help when the supply of a particular fuel is disturbed. In turn, you can ensure that your appliances continue to function without going off.

Once the generator starts with fuel, the other fuel combines it to the starting fuel slowly. Most of these generators come with different outlets. So, you plug in some of your devices directly to the generators to power them. You can also connect the generator to your home’s electricity outlet to power your entire home in the case of a power off.

What Are the Benefits of Dual Fuel Generators?

1. Dependability

Are you looking for a power generator that carries dependability and convenience? If so, a dual fuel generator can be the right choice for you. The good thing about this generator is that it can provide the convenience of powering your devices as and when you need even when you are off-grid. Above all, these are durable devices will help you can get an uninterrupted power supply. The reason is that even when one fuel is finished, you have the option to shift the generator to use the other fuel.

2. They Are Economical

The good thing about a fuel generator that uses two different fuels is that they have engines that are not only easy to operate but also easy to maintain. Further, they are economical as well because irrespective of the fuel you use, the consumption will be low. If you are looking for maximizing the energy output, you can think about buying this type of generator. You can run them even when the fuel is at a low level. So, they are cost-effective to operate your appliances.

3. Peace of Mind

As a portable generator with dual fuel can function in any terrain, you can get complete peace of mind that you have power handy no matter how bad things get out there. Even, when you face natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes that can disrupt gasoline supply, you can rely on this generator as it can operate on the other fuel.

4. No Need to Store Expensive Fuel

One of the biggest advantages of a dual fuel generator is that it will eliminate the requirement to store a needless amount of expensive fuel. The reason is that you have two fuels. When one fuel is completely used, you can easily switch the mode of the generator to use the other fuel. So, you get the time to buy the second fuel when the generator functions on one fuel. If you live in a region, where fuel prices change daily, you have the option to buy the fuel on a day with comparatively competitive pricing. You are relieved of buying a particular fuel in bulk as storage of fuel should be done with the utmost care, as you know.

5. Suitable for Different Terrains

The good thing about the best dual fuel generator is that it will be useful in areas with extremely cold winters and hot summers. The reason is that when you take the case of a generator with gasoline as one of the fuels, this fuel fires better in freezing temperatures as compared to the other fuel propane. Nevertheless, propane is a better source of fuel in areas with warm temperatures. In the case of regions with possibility to natural disasters, this type of generator will turn out to be a wise investment option. The reason is that natural disasters can reduce access to certain types of fuels.

How to Choose A Dual Fuel Generator?

A dual power generator uses propane and gasoline as dual fuels in most cases. When talking about fuel, gas is a fuel that is pretty easy to get. The reason is that it is easily available almost anywhere. Nevertheless, it has some disadvantages like more exhaust fumes and high noise. When you take the case of propane, it is quieter and cleaner when using it for power generation. When you intend to shop for this generator, you will have to consider different factors. In turn, you can end up making the right choice. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Power Output

When you shortlist a particular fuel generator, you should  consider the power output of the unit. Higher the power outlet, the more devices you can power for a long time. Many  manufacturers provide details about the utmost output a generator can produce. You can get to know the running power output and peak power output of a generator before buying it. You should also consider the peak power output. In dual-powered generators, the power output ranges from 1000 to 12000 watts.

As these generators have two sources of power, manufacturers give details about the utmost power output in propane and gasoline. You will find that the power output on propane will be a little less as compared to gasoline. For instance, if a generator can produce 10000 watts of running power in gasoline, it can produce 9000 watts of running power on propane.

2. Fuel Capacity

A portable generator functioning using two fuels will generally have an isolated gasoline tank. This tank can have a fuel capacity that ranges from as few as two gallons to as high as 10 gallons. Yes, you are right! The higher the tank capacity, the longer the generator can power your devices using gasoline. But, when the size of the tank increases, the overall size of the generator will also increase. When talking about fuel capacity, it has no effect on the level of propane you can use for powering the generator. The reason is that in most models, propane gas is filled under pressure in cans. These cans are attached to the generator using a pressure regulator and hose for straight fuel consumption. So, if you need better capacity, you cannot expect portability. Decide which one is important to you and accordingly make your choice.

3. Control Systems and Management

A dual fuel generator can have the best control system when it offers a wide range of features. For example, if a generator has the ability to start remotely and it has low-fuel auto shut-off these are good features. Also, when the unit has a display unit that provides a wide range of data including fuel availability, you can ensure that you do not run out of fuel.

Nowadays, many generators come with Power Management Systems. With this feature, you can configure the unit with ease. More than the presence of control systems, it is equally important that they should be user-friendly. Only then, you can make the best use of the features present.

4. Receptacles

Are you planning to use the best dual fuel generator as the remote source of power for powering one or a couple of low-wattage devices at a time? Otherwise, are you planning to use the power from the generator for powering multiple devices with high energy needs at the same time? Otherwise, are you planning to connect the generator to the circuit breaker in your home for powering the entire house during a power outage? When you can find the right answer to these questions, you can figure out the receptacles you require. For instance, some generators come with many 120V outlets, while some come with 120V/240V twist-lock outlets. Based on your requirement, you will have to shortlist the generator with the right output.

5. Level of Noise

You might be aware that any combustion engine will obviously make noise. You cannot find anything like a silent gas engine for sure. The reason is that they depend on dozens of tiny little explosions in order for producing energy. When you compare one power generator to another, you should look for noise ratings on the technical specs page. You can find this information in decibels on the specification page. Are you planning to use the generator at home? If so, you should look for a unit that can function as quietly as possible. The reason is that a noisy generator can fuel tension with your neighbors.

6. Portability

Are you planning to use the fuel generator even when you will be on a trip? If so, it is better to consider the portability of the generator. Most generators come with wheels for portability. However, even though some of them have wheels, it will be hard to move them due to excess weight. So, do not forget to consider the weight and portability of the generator before you shortlist.

7. Electric or Recoil Start

When you compare portable generators with dual fuels, it is better to check the kind of start it offers. If you are particular about the traditional way of starting, you can go for a generator with a recoil start. But, if you wish that you should find it easy to start the generator, it is better to look for a unit with an electric start. Also, the good thing about electric start generators is that they come with an internal battery to store additional electricity. But, recoil start being a traditional starting method is a dependable technology. The thing to remember here is that at present  recoil start technology has improved a lot. So, you need not have to worry that you will have to spend a lot of your energy. So, decide one of these based on your personal preference.

In addition to these features, when you intend to buy a dual fuel generator, do not forget to check the fuel efficiency and safety features before deciding on a particular model. Naturally, you should look for durability and positive reviews before deciding on a generator.

FAQs – Dual Fuel Generators

  1. Can a dual fuel generator run on natural gas?

    A dual fuel generator is traditionally designed to run on dual fuels. It can either be a combination of two fuels or one of them. Modern generators of this kind can run on gasoline, propane, or both. However, they come with an arrangement to run on natural gas too. 

    Switching to natural gas is safer and makes the equipment fuel-efficient. Natural gas runs clean, leaving behind less maintenance and low noise. You need to modify the generators to improve their versatility in this case. There is a special conversion kit for modifying a dual fuel generator to work on natural gas. 

    Use a manufacturer-approved conversion kit to avoid fatal damages. This kit comes with an adapter that helps use natural gas as fuel. You can also do the same without a natural-gas kit. Either way, you’ll connect a fuel tank with natural gas to the carburetor and run the generator on this fuel. 

  2. How to start a dual fuel generator? 

    Start by reading the user manual coming with your dual fuel generator. Though starting a generator is a general approach, there could be some specific operation processes. So, read the manual thoroughly and ensure that your generator is set up correctly. 

    Check for fuel leakage before starting your generator. Generators usually emit a lot of carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas. So, take the generator at least 15 feet away from your residing place. Now, check for the fuel in the generator. Best that you fill in fresh gasoline, propane, or a mix of both. Stale fuel can damage the motors and the engine. 

    Also, check the oil level and ensure that your generator’s engine is properly lubricated. Now, plug off all the cords and follow these steps: 
    Turn the fuel valve to release the fuel and move the choke rod. 

    Pull the recoil cord until you feel resistance. This is when your engine starts to run. 
    Now, move the choke back to the run position.
     
    In case your dual fuel generator has an electric start button, use it to start your engine. If the button doesn’t work, try charging the generator battery and use the button again. 

    Let your generator run for a few minutes before you start connecting the devices to it. Leave it to run for around five minutes and start connecting your appliances, devices, or any equipment with appropriate connecting cords. 

  3. Are dual fuel generators worth it? 

    Dual fuel generators are gaining immense popularity because of their flexible operation. They can run on a combination of two fuels or on either of them. So, you don’t have to stock large quantities of fuel.

    Though dual fuel generators are slightly expensive, they fall in the low-maintenance category. In the long run, they demand lesser costs for fuels compared to the traditional generators.

    Usually, dual fuel generators use a perfect ratio of two fuels to run the engine. They burn the fuel efficiently and provide more output. Their engines are designed to adjust the load imbalances by maintaining the fuel ratio, making them a safer alternative.

    The fuel options for these generators are extensive. You can find generators running on natural gas and diesel, propane and gasoline, ethanol and natural gas, etc. You can choose the best generator based on the fuel stations near your place.

    Dual fuel generators are known to run clean. As in, their emissions are pretty low compared to single fuel generators. Moreover, these generators emit low noise and can provide high power outputs. 

  4. Are dual fuel generators reliable? 

    Dual fuel generators are indeed a reliable option. They use a proportion of two fuels to run the engines. Usually, natural gas and diesel are combined to run these generators. But most generators might need diesel to start the engine for its low ignition temperature.

    Dual fuel generators are an eco-friendly alternative. Their noise and waste emissions are low compared to other generators. So, the users are safer from carbon monoxide and other harmful emissions.

    Having two fuel options is the biggest advantage with these generators as you’ll hardly run out of them. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about stocking a specific fuel all the time.

    Though these generators are slightly expensive, they provide higher surge and running wattage. They come with versatile outlets and can run multiple devices for a long time. Dual fuel generators can seamlessly run high power equipment too, making them a reliable investment. 

  5. Dual fuel generator vs solar generators

    Dual fuel generators are compact and provide higher power outputs. Solar generators, on the other hand, require additional set up of solar panels and cannot standby for long.

    Dual fuel generators are easy to operate. You just need to fill the fuels and pull the coil or press the start button. Solar generators need charging with solar panels and are slightly complex in operation.

    Solar generators are quiet and require low maintenance. Dual fuel generators are a little noisy and demand timely maintenance. Moreover, solar generators don’t run on fossils, leading to fewer emissions. The emissions from a dual fuel generator are more compared to this counterpart.

    Solar generators require complex assembly and require a lot of time or additional panels for charging soon. As dual fuel generators are compact, they only need fuel refilling.

    Dual fuel generators can have mass productions. So, they can be slightly in the affordable niche. Solar generators of the same ability are a little pricey. 

  6. Dual fuel generator vs portable power stations

    One main difference between a dual fuel generator and a portable power station is the principle of power. Generators use fuel to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Power stations use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries store electrical energy and supply it when needed.

    Portable power stations provide a hassle-free operation. You just need to use the on-off switch for the same. Dual fuel generators with electric start buttons are also convenient. But if your generator comes with a pull-coil mechanism, you need additional efforts to start the engine.

    Dual fuel generators can provide more output compared to portable power stations. They can be used for high-power requirements in construction sites, field activities, etc. Power stations cannot supply such higher outputs. So, they are mostly used for home purposes and recreational activities.

    A traditional dual fuel generator is slightly heavy when compared to portable power stations. The latter is convenient to carry. Dual fuel generators can cover for long, whereas portable power stations can cover for a few hours. 

  7. Dual fuel generator vs portable electric generator

    A portable electric generator is compact and lightweight. You can easily transport this equipment without having to worry about its parts. A dual fuel generator is slightly complex when compared. This equipment is also portable but can cause fuel leakages.

    Dual fuel generators are usually intended to deliver high output powers. So, they can cover blackouts at construction sites, on-field activities, homes, and different scenarios for a long time. Portable electric generators, on the other hand, cannot deliver such outputs. So, they can cover some home appliances. These are specially meant for recreational and outdoor activities.

    Portable electric generators are affordable and come with little or no assembly. Dual fuel generators are a little complex and are 10-15 percent more expensive than traditional generators.

    As the output from a portable electric generator is low, it cannot run high-power appliances like refrigerators. These appliances require a higher surge, which can be supplied by dual fuel generators.

    Portable electric generators can be easily transported in your car. Dual fuel generators are also portable but require additional care.

  8. Dual fuel generator vs portable propane generator

    One significant difference between a portable propane generator and a dual fuel generator is the fuel. The former can only run on propane. Dual fuel generators can run on two different fuels, either in a combination or one alone. So, you have a lot of fuel options for the latter, as you can use natural gas, diesel, gasoline, propane, or anything based on your generator’s requirement.

    A portable propane generator requires you to store propane fuel carefully. Storing in bulk quantities may stagnate the fuel and damage your equipment. Dual fuel generators allow you to play with the combinations. So, you don’t have to stock up a single fuel all the time.

    Portable propane generators are less expensive and lightweight. Dual fuel generators are more expensive than propane generators. They are heavier and more complicated too.

    Dual fuel generators can backup for a long time. Portable propane generators cannot run as long as dual fuel generators do. Their power outputs are also low. 
    Portable propane generators emit noises and greenhouse gases. Dual fuel generators emit low noise when compared. Their greenhouse emissions are also low. Dual fuel generators are considered an eco-friendly option over portable propane generators.

    Dual fuel generators usually have more outlets compared to portable propane generators. Their versatility helps connect various devices and appliances at once. Portable propane generators usually come with limited outlets. 

Conclusion

Are you wondering, which dual fuel generator to choose among these top 10 generators? If so, here are some choices:


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This post was last modified on March 2, 2023 1:50 pm

Kristine

Editor and reviewer. I am dedicated to helping everyone make home and life to be more beautiful, organized and healthy. It can be achieved by connecting us to a wealth of reviews, resources, and ideas.

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