10 Best Dual Fuel Inverter Generators Reviews and Buying Guide
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Dual fuel inverter generators are gaining immense popularity these days. Do you know why they are picking up compared to traditional generators? The reason is that they are safe for sensitive electronics like personal printers and computers. Above all, an inverter generator can produce pure sine-wave output that is very much similar to the electricity supply by the mains in your home. Without any inconvenience and without requiring starting time, this type of generator can provide uninterrupted backup. Above all, the noise level is very much lesser compared to traditional generators.
As a fuel inverter generator can function with higher efficiency, you can expect reduced running cost comparatively. Also, when you run a lesser load of appliances with the power generated by this generator, you can expect longer running times from these units. Also, in a modern-day inverter generator, you can find the ones coming with dual fuel options. So, you can use either one of the fuels, whichever costs you less.
You will be interested in buying the best inverter generator, isn’t it? Your question will be which is the best in the market. To help you, here is a list of the top 10 choices along with information on what makes them the best:
Now, you know the top choices available in the category of a dual fuel inverter generator. But, it is better to conduct a detailed review before you decide on a generator. To help you, we have conducted reviews of these generators. Read on these reviews to make the right choice of generator for your powering needs:
Are you looking for a fuel inverter generator that is compact? If so, this unit from Champion Power can help. You can operate this generator right out of the box either using propane or gasoline. Above all, this lightweight generator weighs only 39 pounds to make it traveler-friendly. It holds the pride of being a lightweight generator in the 2500-watt category.
It assures quiet operation with a starting watt of 2500 and a running watt of 1800. When you use gasoline, you can power this generator for 11.5 hours. When using propane, it can give you 1665 running watts and you can operate it for 34 hours with this fuel. Even if you want additional output from this generator, you can do it. The reason is that it has been designed parallel ready. You can buy an optional parallel kit that you can attach to this generator separately to connect another 2500-watts inverter from Champion.
The generator comes with a couple of 20A 120V household outlets. Also, it has a couple of USB ports. Above all, it produces clean electricity. To reduce electricity load, the generator uses economy Mode. You can run this generator either using gasoline or propane. Unlike gasoline, it is possible to store propane
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This inverter generator uses an advanced digital hybrid design. It functions 20% lighter and 50% quieter as compared to the traditional 3500-watt generator from Champion Power. Further, the economy mode that this generator uses will help with saving on your fuel. This feature also ensures that the life of the engine extends. Apart from a couple of USB adapters, this generator has a 120V 30A RV outlet and a couple of 20A 120V household outlets. Even, it has a 12Volt DC outlet and the generator is RV ready as well. You can use either propane or gasoline for powering this generator.
With its 64 dBA, this generator is ideal for tailgating, RVs and home backup or even your next product. With its 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts, it can power your devices for 22 hours continuously on gasoline. The generator comes with the option to purchase ParaLINK Parallel Kit. When you go for this kit, you can increase the power output by connecting a maximum of two 3000-watt or higher inverter generators.
The generator comes with Cold Start Technology that makes sure that you can get a dependable start even when the climate is cold. Further, the Intelligauge technology keeps an eye on the voltage of the generator. This generator has been created RV-ready by Champion Power.
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This portable generator from Generac uses PowerRush Advanced Technology. With this technology, the generator can deliver nearly 50% more starting capacity. In turn, you can expect to do more with less. As Generac assures 50% quieter operation than conventional generators, you can use this generator even in noise-sensitive environments. Also, it is 25% lighter than generators of similar capacity, thereby reducing fatigue while improving portability.
To make sure that you can get clean power for your sensitive devices, this generator uses true power technology. Also, the generator has been made RV-Ready. It means that you can directly connect to an RV for powering your RV air conditioner up to 15,000 BTU. To double the power that this generator produces, you can connect it with another generator of the same capacity from Generac as it is parallel ready. The USB outlets in this generator will help you power your USB devices directly.
The PowerDial in this generator integrates stop/run/start functions. Above all, these functions are integrated into a single simple-to-use dial. Also, the size of this generator is small. It is about the size of a bulky suitcase. So, it is portable. You will find that it is easy to start. All it requires is a simple turn of the dial. You will also find that the starter cord is easy to pull and the generator will start functioning within one or two pulls.
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This dual fuel inverter generator from DuroMax is an efficient unit. It permits you to use either propane or gasoline as the fuel for power. It comes with MX2 boost technology and has an all-metal construction. Not just this construction but also all-copper winding brings durability to the generator. To make sure that the generator can generate plenty of power, it uses a powerful engine. So, you can run most of your essential home appliances with this generator.
When you use gasoline as the source of fuel, this generator can produce 4850 surge and 3850 rated watts. When you use, propane, you can expect 4608 and 3658 as starting and running watts respectively. For Gasoline, the fuel tank capacity in this generator is 3.96 gallons. You have the option to use 20 lbs of a tank for propane.
This unit can run for around 10.4 hours on a single gasoline tank at half load. When it comes to a 20lb propane tank, it can run for around 9 hours at half load. The run-time hours on propane will be lower than that of gasoline.
If you are concerned about the safety of this generator, the thing to know is that it is both CARB and EPA certified. It has GFCI protected outlets. These outlets will safeguard your appliances from any possible electric shocks that can otherwise occur due to faulty ground. Even, the generator comes with a built-in spark arrestor. It means that you can use this generator in an area like a park or a forest without any fear.
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If you are looking for a high-capacity generator with a dual fuel option, you can choose this generator. With its high capacity, it can power your home with ease. Even though it has a better capacity similar to a standby generator, it is affordable and versatile.
When you use gasoline for powering this portable generator, its engine can deliver 12000 watts of surge power and 9500 running watts. When you use liquid propane, the generator can deliver 11400 watts of surge power and 9025 running watts. Apart from helping you keep your electronics running at home, this generator has been created as a cart model unit. It means that with its solid wheels, you can use this generator for your work site. For outdoor usage, the heavy-duty design makes it the best choice. Further, to give you complete peace of mind when using this generator outdoors, it comes with a full-metal frame. Also, the motor is isolated and it even acts as a protective casing for the generator.
This is not a silent generator. Nevertheless, with its 18 horsepower 457cc engine, this generator runs at 3600RPM. Even with these features, the generator’s noise level is 74 decibels. This sound is louder than an average vacuum cleaner. The noise is still acceptable for the power it generates. To reduce noise, however, the generator uses an oversized muffler.
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Are you looking to invest in a generator that can carry both flexibility and power? If so, this generator from Westinghouse can be your choice. This generator is RV-Ready with high power efficiency. The reason is that this dual fuel generator is housed in a hardened-steel open frame. Apart from providing you with a remote starting option, it is also equipped with an electric start option. You can power your home appliances during power outages with ease with this generator due to its high capacity output.
When talking about the positives of this dual-fuel inverter generator, we should talk about its control panel. It will not be an overstatement to say that the control panel in this generator is comprehensive. To help you easily understand the control panel, the generator comes with yellow touchpoints. It will provide you with up-to-date information on lifetime run hours, frequency and volts with its digital data center LED display. Further, you can switch from gasoline to propane and vice versa with this generator. To make this task easier, it comes with a simple dial.
In addition to electric and remote start options, this generator also comes with a traditional recoil start option. When the battery is discharged, this option will make starting the generator easier for you.
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This dual fuel workhouse from DuroMax is powered by a 500cc OHV Engine. You can use this generator for powering your devices either using propane or gasoline. It can provide power similar to that of a standby generator. But, what makes it stand out is its portability. Its running power is 10500 watts. Nevertheless, it has the ability to surge to 13000 watts. It can power all your household essentials like large, small and light appliances including the central air-conditioning system in your home.
This unit comes with a fully-loaded power panel. This power panel comes with multiple outlets. Two of these outlets are 120V GFCI outlets that can help with powering your appliances safely. This generator carries both CARB and EPA approval for use in 50 states in the United States.
The surge-arrest technology that this fuel inverter generator uses helps with protecting itself from power surges. It has been built with all-metal construction to withstand the tough conditions prevailing on your job site. When you operate this generator on a full gasoline tank, it can provide you with an extended run time of up to 8 hours.
The unique feature of this generator is that you can control the fuel input of the unit with ease. The reason is that you can find the fuel switch right in front of the generator.
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Are you looking to invest in a generator with a notable set of features? If so, this generator can meet your needs. Yes, it has features like dependability, easy setup and attractive warranty to name a few.
You can use either propane or gasoline for powering this generator. Further, when you use gasoline the surge watts that this generator can handle is 9500 and the running watts are 7500. For propane, these watts are 8550 and 6750 respectively. It provides you with both remote start and button push start options. It comes with a remote start key fob, a tool kit, a funnel, oil, a 12V battery charger and a remote start key fob.
From this portable generator, you can expect a run time of 10 hours at 50% load. Not only CARB and EPA, but also it is CSA certified as well. It has other features like a digital hour meter and low oil shutdown.
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In recent years, portable gas generators have got many technological improvements. One of the crucial aspects in which improvement was done is the safety of the generator. Also, there is a considerable boost in the performance of a particular variety of this generator called dual fuel inverter generator. If you are thinking about buying a portable generator, you can undoubtedly consider an inverter generator.
To know what is double fuel inverter generator, you should first know what is an inverter generator. An inverter generator is a type of generator that electronically chokes the engine up and down. It does it for meeting the power demand as against running a complete incline every time it operates. In turn, you can expect improved efficiency. In other words, when you use this type of generator, you need not have to quite often fill the tank. Even, this type of generator assures quiet operation compared to traditional generators and produces lesser emissions.
Yes, now, you know what is an inverter generator. So, you can easily judge that a dual fuel inverter generator is a unit that uses two different types of fuel sources. Mostly, they are propane and gasoline.
You can understand how a double fuel inverter generator works with ease when you know how a regular generator works. It will have a couple of components in general. They are the engine and an alternator. The former takes fuel, which can either be diesel, propane or gasoline. Then, it turns a shaft. Here, the alternator will have a couple of main components. They are a stator and a rotor. The engine shaft turns on the rotor. In turn, the power in the stator is induced. This power reaches the control panel, where it is used for powering whatever you need like appliances, power tools, etc.
When you take the case of a traditional generator, the power produced by the alternator gets directly to the control panel. For sending the power, it can use either a voltage regulator or other such units. Irrespective of the tool used, the power is not cleaned up in traditional generators. This is why power produced by traditional generators has higher THD as compared to an inverter generator.
Now, you know how a regular generator works. But, the thing to remember here is that an inverter generator works differently. In this case, the AC power that the alternator produces first reaches the rectifier. This device is responsible for converting the AC power to DC power. Then, this DC power is inverted back to AC power by a part inside the generator before the power is sent to the control panel. This is the reason why these generators carry the term inverter in their names. As the power of the control panel is controlled by a part inside this type of generator, it generally produces power with lesser THD as compared to traditional generators. It means that you can get clean power from these generators. As a result, your appliances will remain safe.
Before you buy a portable generator, you will be interested in knowing how this generator is a better choice than other generators. Here are some benefits to be aware of:
Most manufacturers of dual fuel inverter generator these days use precision technology. So, you can expect precision closer to getting power as compared to any other type of generator. Further, you can expect a dependable power supply from these generators similar to the power you get in your home.
Further, a fuel inverter generator is smaller in size as compared to traditional generators. Further, they are light in weight as well. So, you can use them wherever you go even outdoors. Even if the generators weigh more, they come with wheels to make sure that you can move them with ease from one place to another. So, not only for homes and offices, they are friendly for campers as well to a certain extent.
Some manufacturers of inverter generators ensure that the engine in their generator can adjust their speed automatically. It means that the generator can produce the energy that you need alone for your application. In general, traditional generators will have to run at 3600 RPM for producing 60 hertz of electricity, But, when you take the case of a modern inverter generator, it can run a much slower RPM. Also, it will do it besides maintaining power and frequency for the load you expect. Further, as the engine need not have to run at complete speed constantly, it can consume lesser fuel. So, exhaust emissions will also reduce in this case.
The best thing about a portable generator is that it will produce very little noise as compared to a traditional generator. You will find the decibel rating of the generators and can go for the one with a lesser decibel rating. Further, some models also come with technology to reduce noise to a great extent. In turn, you can use them even in camping areas with noise restrictions.
Are you concerned that a dual fuel inverter generator cannot produce that much power like a traditional generator? You need not have to worry. The reason is that nowadays, these generators come with parallel capabilities. It means that you can use a generator with similar capability together with this generator to produce more power.
Also, a fuel inverter generator can provide you with the option to use two different fuels. Based on your convenience, you can use either propane or gasoline to power the generator. As you have the convenience of using the fuel of your choice, you can go for the affordable fuel. Also, when the rate of one fuel increases, you can go for the other fuel. This convenience makes this generator the best choice as compared to a traditional generator.
Here are some key points to consider when you intend to shop for the best inverter generator:
Now, you know that a portable generator using two different fuels and functioning on inverter technology can throttle up and down. So, it will have low emission and fuel efficiency for sure. But, remember that they use either gasoline or propane as fuels. You should give the utmost importance to safety features before you shortlist a generator. Here are certain things you can check from the safety point of view before you shortlist:
Apart from these safety features, it is better to look for other features like automatic low-oil shut-off or at least a fuel gauge to keep an eye on the fuel levels then and there. When a generator has both fuel gauge and low-oil shut-off, it will be even safer.
Of course, a dual fuel inverter generator will provide you with the option to use two different fuels. Nevertheless, it is better to look for a generator with propane and generator with gasoline as against diesel. The reason is that these two fuels are comparatively safer and more affordable.
Of course, a fuel inverter generator that can use two different fuels is known to be portable. But, these generators come in different sizes ranging from small to large. The size will differ based on the wattage capability of a generator. You should decide on the right size based on the appliances that you wish to power. For the exact wattage capacity of the devices you wish to power using the power generated by a generator, look at the user manual of the appliances. Here are some examples to help you better understand the suitable size generator for your needs:
So, now, you might have a rough understanding of your power needs. You can accordingly choose a suitable size. Also, the thing to remember here is that most inverter generators provide you with parallel connection possibilities. It means that you can pair a generator with similar capability with this generator. In turn, you can double the power produced by the generator. Of course, you will have to spend money to buy two generators. But, just in case, your power needs to increase in the future, you can use this feature.
One of the important features to consider when you intend to buy a fuel inverter generator is whether it comes with an electric start option. You might be interested in a traditional recoil start. But, it is better to check whether the electric start option is present. Just in case, you do not have the energy to use the recoil start on a particular day, the electric start option will come in handy undoubtedly. In the same way, you can check whether the unit comes with a remote start option. With this option, you can start the generator from a particular distance. This will be an added advantage when you cannot get near the generator every time you wish to use it.
When you wish to use the inverter generator in your home during a power outage, you can look at whether you can set the generator to auto-start mode. This feature will ensure that the generator will start immediately and automatically during a power outage. So, you need not have to get near the generator to start it during a power outage. Particularly, it will help when the power outage happens at night.
Also, before you buy a portable generator, it is better to consider the number of outlets. More the outlets, better will be the possibility to power many of your devices. Particularly, you should check whether the outlets in the unit will meet your powering needs.
When you compare dual fuel inverter generators, you will find that the product specification gives details about the rated and peak output for the two fuels. Rated output is the power that the generator can produce, while peak output is the utmost output you can expect from the generator using different fuels. Peak output is provided because when starting, some appliances like refrigerators need higher power than the operating watts. To meet this power, the surge or peak power of the generator is an essential factor to consider. So, consider these two power outputs before you shortlist a dual fuel inverter generator for your home, office, or camping use.
Let us consider that you plan to use the fuel inverter generator for camping. In this case, you should remember that many camping sites have a restriction on the level of noise a generator can produce. So, before you shortlist any camping generator, it is better to look at the noise levels. The noise level of a generator is denoted in decibel value. The more the decibel, the higher will be the noise. So, remember this before you shortlist a generator.
Apart from these factors, before you shortlist an inverter generator, consider the efficiency of the engine, warranty period, and even the fuel capacity. Considering these features will help you make the best choice.
Having a generator is a must in these changing times. The possibility of an emergency being occurred is high in recent years. So, as owning a generator is an inevitability it is even better to own a dual fuel inverter generator for better amenities.
Dual fuel generators are better than regular generators in many ways. The first and foremost one is that it can change its fuel resource from gasoline to propane in just the flip of a switch. This provides greater flexibility to the owner as to the fuel to use in it. The owner can choose the fuel which fits his/her budget. This change between two fuels is enabled by a fuel selector knob which makes the process even more convenient.
The biggest benefit of a dual fuel generator is that propane can be stored safely for years, which makes them an excellent backup option, and the generator can be powered with gasoline as long as it is available. When a natural calamity or emergency occurs, even if gasoline runs out in the market, the generator can be powered using the stored propane. This brings the utmost reliability to a dual fuel generator than any other generator.
In short, a dual fuel generator offers the best of both worlds, and if you are up to making use of that convenience, it would always be better to buy a dual fuel inverter generator.
Generators generally come in three sizes- small or portable generators, midsize generators, and large generators. Choosing the size of a generator depends solely on the requirement of the buyer. It would be better to calculate the power need of all the appliances that you are planning to connect to your generator in the occurrence of a power outage.
Small or portable or recreational generators are generators that can usually produce up to 4000 watts. They, as their name suggests, can be carried along easily to use in vehicles or for outdoor activities. If you are planning to connect basic devices like cell phones, refrigerators, lamps, radio, etc. during a power breakage, a small-size dual fuel inverter generator will be ideal for you.
A midsize generator ranges between 4000 watts and approximately 7000 watts. They are quite big to carry around due to their bigger engines which are built with the intention of producing more power. As they have less portability, they come with wheels and handles to provide as much mobility as possible. Generators of this size can power up several more devices like fans, television, pump, etc.
Starting at around 7000 watts, a large generator could produce a great deal of power and thus, it can function perfectly as a stand-by generator for homes and buildings. They can even power up high-power-consuming appliances like AC for quite a long time.
So, it is advisable to find your power requirement and decide on the size of the generator accordingly.
Despite being a simple power source, generators have more to offer. There is a multitude of options in generators for users to choose from, and two major ones of them are dual fuel inverter generators and solar generators.
Dual fuel generators can be operated using two fuels which provide greater flexibility and convenience to the user. It does away with the necessity of storing one sole fuel in large amounts. If one of the fuels runs out, the user can always make use of the other fuel tank in it, and it thus ensures continuous flow of power in it. Long hours of operation are thus an advantage of dual fuel inverter generators. It is more cost-effective in nature as there is literally zero expense to install it. But it does have several flaws like its harmful effects on the environment, high maintenance cost, depletes non-renewable resources, etc.
A solar generator works on solar-powered cells and thus can be termed as producing clean energy. They operate on low noise and are thus appropriate for residential areas. The maintenance cost of a solar generator is quite less when compared to that of a dual fuel inverter generator. But they demand a high installation cost and require professional assistance for installation. They are not ideal for long hours, sunny days, rainy days, etc. The recharging process is a bit time-consuming too.
Dual fuel inverter generators are simply those generators that run on more than one source of fuel and the choice of the two fuels differ in different models. Portable powers stations or battery-powered inverter generators are generators that acquire power from electricity and store them in cells for further use. Both of them differ in many ways.
One of the major differences is that dual fuel generators cause harmful emissions of carbon monoxide which can cause problems for both environment and humans and is not at all suitable for indoor activities. But power station does not cause any emissions and thus, are safe to use indoors. Even though power stations provide clean energy, they deliver less power when compared to fuel generators. It also takes a while to get fully charged whereas fuel generators can operate according to the availability of the fuel.
Another difference is that dual fuel generators generally produce much noise during operational hours whereas portable power stations are almost noise-less in nature. But when it comes to running hours, dual fuel inverter generators are way ahead of portable power stations. Dual fuel generators can run for long hours and even days and weeks once they are provided with fuel whereas portable power stations get drained off the power after several hours and can’t be used further without charging it again. If a power outage is going on, charging the power station would not happen, and thus, it will be useless at times.
Dual fuel inverter generator makes use of multiple fuels for its operation. It provides the user enough flexibility and convenience to use them according to the availability of any one of the two fuels used in it. A home backup battery is a tool, that on charging, can store electricity for further usage. Both of them have their own fair share of pros and cons.
The major reason behind the popularity of dual fuel inverter generator is the flexibility that it offers. It can run on multiple fuels, it can store electricity for further use, etc. making them one of the most reliable generators in terms of power production. The technology used in dual fuel inverter generators makes them a bit costly to purchase, but in the long run, the amount spent will be proven as worthy. The major flaw associated with the fuel generator is the emissions that it produces. It expels carbon monoxide onto the atmosphere causing it a piece of dangerous equipment to use indoors.
Home backup battery has the biggest positive of producing clean and safe energy, which in no way harm humans or the environment. It operates with less noise and is ideal for smaller equipment as the power provided does not have any fluctuations. But the major drawback of the backup battery is the possibility of it running out of power once it is operated for long hours. It cannot persist for long hours and require recharging making it a non-reliable source during continuous power breakages. The installation cost is also a bit higher than that of a dual fuel inverter generator.
Dual fuel inverter generators operate with a bi-fuel system that, according to the model of the generator, make use of any two fuels to produce power. They also perform the functions of a generator as they produce and store electrical power according to the requirement. It usually has two engines for the two fuels and the transition between both the engines are made possible by a simple knob.
Dual fuel generators produce a great amount of power and are available in different sizes. They can run for a very long time according to the availability of fuel. It does not have any installation cost as they are ready to use out of the box. But it tends to get a bit noisy during operational hours. They also emit quite a lot of carbon monoxide gas making them not suitable for indoor activities.
Portable generators also produce electricity by making use of a power source like gasoline, diesel, propane, etc. They are different from dual fuel inverter generators in their size. Portable generators are quite smaller in size, making them ideal for traveling and other outdoor activities. They can be handled well by a single person also.
As they are smaller in size, they cost less too. They are an excellent choice during emergency situations during which portability is a major advantage. But it does possess similar cons to a dual fuel generator. They too are noisy and cause carbon monoxide poisoning. It can only be used to power up a limited number of appliances too.
Now, with these top 10 generators reviews, you might wonder which one of these is the best dual fuel inverter generator. It depends on your needs and here are some choices:
This post was last modified on April 30, 2023 4:29 pm