If you’re in a hurry and just want to know which is the overall best dual fuel generator we recommend, check out the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator 12500 Peak / 9500 Rated Watts.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may get paid an affiliate commission if you buy something after clicking one of the links on this web page. This does not affect your purchases or the price you may pay but helps support our team continue to provide you with the best and most up to date information.
Every day there seems to be some new article to tell you which is the best dual fuel generator, but the reality is, you need to find a generator that’s best for you.
We’ve sifted through the Internet’s “top recommendations” and did our own due diligence to narrow down the mass amount of options to the cream of the crop.
But our choices were not just based on size, weight, power, and price. We search for the more personal criteria our readers ask about to find a solution that works best for their situation.
These four options are what we found.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator-9500 Rated 12500 Peak Watts
Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
If you would like to read more about why we chose them, you can read on.
Suppose you would like to learn how we evaluate generators. In that case, you can jump to the information section using the table of contents below.
Our Choices Of The Top Dual Fuel Generators
The Best Large Dual Fuel Generator For Home Backup
Westinghouse WGen 12500 Peak / 9500 Rated Watts Dual Fuel Portable Generator Electric Start Transfer Switch & RV Ready, CARB Compliant – 74 dBA
As preppers, we want to know that the tools we prepared ahead of time will support us when the SHTF.
With the Westinghouse WGen 12500 Peak Watt / 9500 Starting Watt Dual Fuel Generator, there’s no doubt that we will ever be without power.
It’s a large dual fuel generator that comes with all the bells and whistles–electric start, remote control, 30 and 50 amp ports. Heck, they even send you the oil you need and a propane hose so that you can get started right out of the box.
It also has the essentials like a low-oil shutoff and a simple to change oil reserve without filters.
It’s a big boy, weighing right around 220 lbs, but with the built-in wheels and handle, it’s easy enough to position right where you need it.
The electric start also comes with a recoil pull start and a manual choke if the electric start fails for peace of mind.
It has an “on the fly” fuel switch meaning that you can change over from one fuel to type to another without having to shut down the generator.
A recent test confirms that you can keep more than just the lights on with this much power. It will handle heavier loads, including well pumps and HVAC units, without a problem.
You’ll need to do your calculations ahead of time to make sure you don’t overload the generator. Still, while we saw it working under a 75% load, it lasted around 10 hours on a single tank of gas. And it can go up to 14 hours with a 50% load.
It could last even longer using propane, but you will lose some power with the alternative fuel source.
One thing to do to make sure you don’t have any trouble starting your HVAC is to have your electrician install a “hard start” assist so that you won’t have any issues.
What’s the point of surviving if you’re going to sweat like a pig?
Best of all, you can also purchase a Westinghouse automatic transfer switch if you need a generator that’s always connected to the house. This way, it will be ready to get you back online if you live in a place where the grid goes down often.
There’s not much we can complain about. It is a bit pricey, but not outrageous for all that you get. And it’s loud. We wouldn’t recommend taking this with you on an RV trip or camping.
But if the grid goes down in an emergency and you want to know that your house will still function at near normal, then this is the dual fuel generator for the job.
PROs
- High power output
- Easy to use fuel switch
- 30 and 50 amp ports
- Fuel efficient
- Easy to read fuel gauge
- Automatic transfer switch
- Remote and electric start
- Manual pull start and choke
- Comes with oil and propane hose
- Easy to change the oil
- 3-Year Limited Warranty
CONs
- Pricey
- Heavy
- Loud
The Best Small Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Parallel Ready – 53 dBA
So you want a small dual fuel generator that has power, safe to use with sensitive electronics, you can take with you on a camping or RV trip, and not have to worry about pissing off the neighbors?
Well, we have a generator for you. Champion is renowned for both their whole house and portable generators.
A few manufacturers make a smaller generator that’s RV ready with a 30 amp port (more on that later).
But now they came out with an even smaller generator for those of you who wanted a smaller generator with the same quality and reliability that you get from other Champion models.
Enter the Champion 2000 watt dual fuel portable generator.
Not only is it small at just 20.5 x 12.6 x 16.9 inches and weighing under 48lbs, but it’s powerful and is propane ready.
It produces up to 2000 starting watts of power under gas power and 1800 starting watts with propane. It is challenging to find a small generator that’s propane compatible.
You usually have to get a conversion kit and do it yourself. (Cough, Honda, Cough).
But Champion wised up and delivered exactly what you’ve been asking for.
It comes with an easy to read display, low-oil shutoff, and inverter technology for clean power safe to use with any of your sensitive electronics.
Suppose you’re not sure 2000 watts will be enough. In that case, you can rest at ease, knowing you have can connect a second generator in parallel with the first to double your output when you need it.
Most importantly, it is super quiet at around 53 dBA from a few yards away.
That and seeing as it comes with a 30 amp port, it is an ideal generator to take with you on your next RV trip.
PROs
- Very compact
- Powerful for a small unit
- Propane ready (no conversion kit needed)
- Connects in parallel (connector kit sold separately)
- Super quiet
- Low-oil shutoff
- Easy to access motor and change oil
- Easy to read display with power and fuel gauges
- Lightweight
- 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support
CONs
- Pricey
- No propane purge, which can make starting on propane a little difficult
The Best Quiet and Portable Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start – 59 dBA
If you’re looking for a more powerful dual fuel generator that needs to be particularly quiet, say to use it while camping or for your RV. We would find it hard to recommend a better generator than the Champion 3400 watt dual fuel RV-ready portable inverter generator.
It has 3400 starting watts and a 30 amp port ready to connect to your RV. You can also install a 30 amp port to your home subpanel and use this as a light-duty home backup generator.
If you need more power, you can connect it in parallel with a second unit to double the output. You can also connect them in parallel using a 50 amp connector kit if you have a larger RV with a 50 amp 240-volt system.
The best part is that it will hum at a low 59 dBA.
As it has more power than its little brother, it weighs nearly twice as much at just under 100lbs. But with the built-in wheels and handle, you can easily maneuver it to where you want it. Though you may need an extra hand getting in and out of the truck or RV.
The inverter technology produces electricity with less than 3% harmonic distortion, making it very safe to use with your sensitive electronics.
It comes with the standard low-oil shutoff to protect you from burning the motor up when you forget to change the oil. But luckily, Champion has made it very easy to access the motor and make those routine oil checks a snap.
Knowing their prepper audience, they include a recoil start in addition to the electric start as a precaution.
Champion also gives you a battery and a propane hose so you can get it started out of the box if you have some 10-30W oil on hand.
Suppose you’re not sure how you can also call up Champion’s technical support team. In that case, they can show you how to rig your RV’s propane system to the generator, so you don’t have to carry any additional fuel.
In addition to their excellent customer support, Champion also gives you a 3-year limited warranty.
Champions are a little more on the expensive end, but we feel they’re worth the extra cost.
PROs
- Powerful
- Fuel efficient – runs 7.5 hours on one tank of gas, 14 hours with 20lb propane tank
- Quiet at under 59 dBA from a few yards away
- Low-oil shut off
- Easy to maintain
- Lifetime technical support
- RV ready with 30 amp port
- Connects in parallel with 50 amp port for higher output
- Electric start
- 3-year limited warranty
CONs
- Pricey
- Heavy
The Best Dual Fuel Generator For The Money
Pulsar Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts – Gas & LPG – Electric Start – Transfer Switch & RV Ready – CARB Compliant – 76 dBA
Okay, so you’ve had enough of us going on about how great Weestinghous and Champions are.
They’re too expensive, and you want something basic that will keep you up and running when the grid goes down that you can use with either propane or gas.
It doesn’t matter how much noise it makes.
You just want the best bang for your buck.
We get it.
Times are tough. You’ve got a budget, and your stickin’ to it.
That’s all right. We’ve got your back.
We found a powerful dual fuel generator for a fraction of the cost of some of the more prominent name brands on the market.
Introducing the Pulsar 12000 watt dual fuel portable generator.
We can’t tell you the exact price, because every retailer is different.
But from what we found, it has a cost per watt of just around $0.083.
To put it into perspective, the Westinghouse has a cost per watt of around $0.164.
We were surprised to find that you still get all the bells and whistles for nearly half the price, like an electric and recoil start, low-oil shutoff, and even a 30% larger gas tank.
However, the Westinghouse is more fuel-efficient, getting around the same run time on less fuel.
It doesn’t come with a remote starter. But they do send it to you with a propane hose.
So, there’s that.
And it only comes with a 2-year limited warranty, which is one year less than the Westinghouse.
We suppose you get what you pay for.
PROs
- Powerful
- Built-in wheels and handle
- Low-oil shut off
- Electric and recoil start
- 30 and 50 amp outlets
- Low cost
CONs
- 2-year limited warranty
- Loud
Why A Dual Fuel Generator May Be Right For You
Did you know only 6.5% of US households have a landline? Having a generator, you can charge your phone, and other electronics in a grid-down situation is critical to remain in contact with emergency services, friends, and family.
Most cell towers have backup generators to keep them running, but that won’t do you any good if you can’t charge your phones.
It’s also a useful tool in keeping your essential electronics running so you can stay up to date with news reports.
You also do not want to throw away hundreds of dollars worth of fresh food and have to tap into your reserves because your fridge and freezer shut down.
Having backup electricity will ensure your home security system is up and running when a burglary is common.
Having a dual fuel generator will make surviving a common power-outage or an extended grid-down situation less stressful and safer for you and your family.
Relying only on one fuel can put you at risk if you run out of one. Having the option to use either propane or gas diversifies you so that you can most likely get one if the other is no longer available.
Primarily owners/renters of single-family residences are good candidates for a dual generator. Unfortunately, generators won’t do you much good if you live in a townhome, condo, or apartment complex.
If you live off-grid or in an RV, you probably already have a generator. Still, you may be interested in investing in a new quiet dual fuel generator that makes less noise and is more efficient than older models.
The pros of having a portable dual fuel generator include storing the generator when you don’t need it instead of having a standby generator that’s always connected to the house.
A portable dual fuel generator is less money than a whole house generator (both to buy and install).
You can also use it for other chores aside from home backup in an emergency, such as running power tools on a job site, taking it with you on an RV trip, and camping.
A portable dual fuel generator does not need any permits to use or install. As long as you don’t feed it back into the grid, which you shouldn’t be doing anyway.
The cons include setting up the generator after the grid goes down. It may sound trivial until it happens in the middle of the night when you’re not aware that the power has gone out and your freezer is no longer frozen.
It’s also a pain if you’re in the middle of a natural disaster, and you can’t get to your generator or set it up until the danger has passed.
Whereas with a whole house generator that’s already connected, it will automatically turn on after a predetermined amount of time the grid power has been down. You can have power again without leaving the safety of your home.
We prefer to have two portable dual fuel generators: a dual fuel propane/gas-powered generator and a solar-powered generator.
Having a dual fuel generator will allow you to have a fuel source no matter the situation. If there’s an earthquake and gas stations are backed up, you can run to the local hardware store instead and get some more propane if you run out.
If both gas and propane are scarce, you can conserve your reserves. Use it to recharge the solar generator in just an hour, thus rationing your finite fuel supply.
Then you can use the solar generator to power your devices. When the solar generator dies, you can quickly charge it up again with the gas/propane powered generator.
You can also perform the same relay with two solar-powered generators. Still, you will be more dependent on the sun and charging conditions.
What To Look For In The Best Dual Fuel Generator
Choosing a dual fuel generator may seem pretty straightforward. Still, it can be confusing for those new to the emergency backup power scene.
All of the generators seem alike. But the prices vary widely, some are much louder than others, and you may not yet understand how much power you need or how to calculate it.
Well, the good news is it is all simple to clarify.
You want to examine a few basic features before deciding which is the best dual fuel generator for you.
First, of course, is the power rating. There’s no point in buying a 12500-watt beast if you only need to power the microwave and the mini-refrigerator in your travel trailer.
But how much power do you need?
Well, first, you need to make a list of every device you plan on running with your generator. It may be a short list, or it may be a very long list.
But making a list as accurate as possible is critical to ensure you have enough power to keep everything you want running when the power goes out or while you’re off the grid.
As you decide on what items go on your list, look at each one’s wattage ratings.
You will see two ratings: running (rated) watts and another for starting (surge) watts.
The device may tell you the watts directly or only list the volts (V) and the amps (A).
In that case, you will need to do a little math.
Watts = Volts x Amps
Thus if you multiply the device’s volts and amps together, you will get its total starting watts.
Once you’ve calculated the starting and running watts for each device on your list, add them all together.
It should look something like this worksheet from LCEC.net:
Now that we got that out of the way, we’ll need to look at the generator.
A standard generator will tell you two watt ratings. Sometimes they reverse the order of the listing, but the higher number is the “starting (or peak or surge)” watts, and the lower number is the “running” watts.
The starting watt rating is the number we need to pay attention to the most.
Typically if you have enough starting watts, you will also have enough running watts. But you can check your numbers on your list to verify.
Thus, if the starting watts on your generator meet the demand of your appliances’ starting watts, you will have enough running watts to power your devices using the method shown in the example above.
You must have enough starting watts on the generator to make sure you first have enough power to get everything turned on.
You also do not want to overload your generator for an extended period.
If you run the generator at its starting watt rating or more for too long, it can damage the generator and your devices.
Before choosing a dual fuel generator, you should consider if you will be powering sensitive electronic devices like computers, cell phones, etc.
If so, then you will need to be sure to get an inverter generator.
An inverter changes the direct current (DC) from the generator to alternating current (AC).
We won’t get into what DC and AC are in this article, but just know that your sensitive electronics use AC current, and so you will need to make sure you don’t try to charge them using DC.
In line with preventing damage, even if you don’t need an inverter generator, you will still want to go with a generator with the lowest harmonic distortion possible.
Harmonic distortion is a measurement of how smooth the electricity is coming out of the generator.
We look for generators that have a harmonic distortion of less than 5%. The lower, the better.
This will ensure that even your less sensitive devices will not be damaged by rogue surges in electricity coming from the generator that will overheat the device.
Speaking of overheating, you will also want to ensure the generator comes with a low-oil shutoff. This functions to keep the generator’s motor from burning up when you forget to add or change the oil.
And yes, you will forget.
Next, you will want to check that it has a fuel-off switch. With dual fuel generators, the fuel-off switch sometimes doubles as the fuel source selector.
For example, if you’re running the generator on gas and want to shut it down, you will turn the fuel selector from gas to propane. You don’t attach the propane tank or start the device. Just let the gas run out.
This will also ensure you don’t have any gas left in the carburetors when you put the generator back into storage. Gas left in the carbs can get gummy and make it difficult or impossible to restart your generator in the future.
If you’re just running propane, then you obviously won’t have this problem.
Next, you will want to examine how much noise the little devil makes.
Suppose you’re on a job site where the noise the generator makes is insignificant compared to the noise coming from the machinery and tools you’re using. In that case, it being loud isn’t really a big deal.
But suppose you’re using a generator for home backup power, camping, or RVing. In that case, a noisy generator is a sure way to get all of your neighbors to hate you.
Now you may say, “Hey, I can’t afford a quiet generator, and I need to survive.” Well, yes, but you will have a better chance of surviving with fewer enemies.
Look for a dual fuel generator that has at most 63 dBA under 50% load if you intend to use it at home or off-grid.
You’ll appreciate it, and your neighbors will thank you for it.
How you start the generator is also important.
Many of the less expensive generators will only come with pull cords to start the motor.
Now, this may not be a big deal if you’re a young buck, but if you’re not in the mood to throw out your back or pull your shoulder, then you may want to invest in a generator that comes with an electric start.
Yes, electric starts can potentially fail in an emergency. But you should see that it also comes with a pull cord as a backup.
You may also want to consider a remote start. This may seem like a luxury, but it could be essential if you don’t want to venture out into harm’s way just to push the start button on your generator.
Having a remote start will let you start your generator from the safety of your home.
Suppose you know a storm is coming. You set up the generator ahead of time, being the prepared survivalist you are. In that case, having a remote will make getting the lights back on a snap.
Suppose you live in a place with regular grid-down situations. In that case, you may want to keep your generator connected to the house with an automatic transfer switch.
This switch will register when the grid goes down. It will automatically start the generator for you after a few seconds, so you don’t even have to pick up the remote.
Depending on how much power, how noisy, and what types of features you need to have will affect the price you pay.
But having a generator that meets your needs is an investment that you will not regret.
Be sure to protect your investment by choosing a brand that provides you with a good warranty and excellent customer service.
How Does A Dual Fuel Generator Work
A dual fuel generator works just like a gas, or solar generator would work. The only difference is in the type of fuel you wish to use.
Dual fuel generators will come with a fuel switch, which you can use to change from one fuel to another.
It’s important to run out the previous fuel when going from one source to another before starting with the second.
If you’re going to use the gas fuel source, set the fuel switch to gas, then pull the choke if you have one.
This will make more fuel available to start the motor from a cold start.
If you’re using propane, then you will want to flip the fuel switch to propane. You won’t need to pull the choke when using propane.
Pull the start cord or push the start button if you have an electric start to start the motor.
Start your generator before connecting and starting your devices.
Once it’s running and warm, then connect your devices.
If using an inverter generator, you can plug your sensitive electronics into any of the 12V or USB ports located on the generator.
Suppose your generator is RV ready, meaning it has a 30 amp or 50 amp port already on the generator. In that case, you can plug in your RV directly to the generator.
If you have multiple smaller generators and need more power, you can connect the two generators in parallel using a parallel connector kit to increase the total wattage for larger loads.
And that’s about it. You should check the manual for grounding requirements. In which case, you will need to connect a copper wire to a grounding rod and the grounding lug on the generator. Then stick in the grounding rod into the earth to dissipate any static discharge.
When finished, be sure to run the gas out of the carbs by turning the fuel switch to off or propane while still running. This will burn off any gas left in the carburetors and prevent them from gumming up.
This will make starting the generator in the future much easier.
If you’re just using propane, you can also do this by switching the fuel switch to off or gas just so long as there is no gas in the tank.
You will also want to run out any propane left in the hose before disconnecting and storing.
More Questions About The Best Dual Fuel Generators
Where Should You Store Your Dual Fuel Generator?
How you store your generator is vital in a grid-down situation or natural disaster. You don’t want to keep it buried in the back of the garage where you can’t get to it. You also want a clear path to wheel it out into the backyard.
You can keep it in the garage or a garden shed. But it shouldn’t be left outdoors without protection, whether it be generator cover or permanent housing.
Be sure to place it out of sight of the public eye. Suppose the power goes down, and your neighbors were not as prepared as you are. In that case, they may come looking for help at your house, or you may attract the attention of someone who would be willing to walk off with your generator.
We’re not saying you should be paranoid, but better safe than sorry.
You should keep the generator at least ten yards away from the house. You don’t want the motor’s heat to catch any dry brush near the home on fire. You also don’t want any accidental explosions to damage the house or set it on fire.
Most of all, you don’t need to suffer from the noise the generator will make by running the generator unnecessarily close to your house.
We recommend going with a quiet portable generator with a 60 or less decibel level under 50% load.
Typically, this will be less than 5000 watts, so you may not be able to power your whole house, but you should have enough power to keep the essentials online.
Do not run your gas/diesel/propane powered generators indoors. They give off carbon monoxide gas and will kill you if not properly ventilated.
You can run a solar generator indoors. It is a sensible option if you’re worried about theft or if you don’t want to risk getting injured going out into the elements during a natural disaster.
Does Honda Make A Dual Fuel Inverter Generator?
Honda does not make a dual fuel generator. But you can buy a converter kit that will make their 2000W gas generator into a Honda dual fuel generator.
Dual Fuel Vs. Gas Generator?
There are four primary fuel sources for generators: gas, diesel, propane, and solar.
Gas and propane are the most popular, followed by solar and finally by diesel.
Diesel used to be a good option because of the low cost and higher efficiency. But now that diesel is more expensive, and the other options are just as efficient.
There are also hybrid generators called “dual fuel” because they run on both gas or propane.
These are becoming more and more popular because of the extra safety they provide by having more than one fuel source available in an emergency.
You can use gas for everyday use or while on the worksite while preserving your propane tanks for long term fuel storage.
You don’t have to worry about the gas going bad or spilling or catching fire with propane.
Propane can last years without a problem.
If there is a run on the gas stations, you can go to your hardware or liquor store and just get more propane and let the crowd fight over the gas.
Propane also does not produce as toxic a smell when burning, which is especially nice when using your generator while camping or RVing.
Why Is An Inverter Generator Quieter?
There are three main reasons.
The first is mechanical. An inverter generator operates differently than a standard generator and naturally produces less noise.
The second reason is that inverter generators are typically smaller than standard generators, producing less power and less noise.
Finally, most inverter generators have an enclosed casing and built-in mufflers. This dampens the already lower noise output, making them even quieter than their open-frame counterparts.
How Long Will A Dual Fuel Generator Last?
Duration will vary on fuel source, motor size, and the load you’re powering.
If you’re only powering a quarter load, the generator will run much longer.
Running a quarter load on propane will last even longer compared to gas.
However, if you’ve got it under full load, then the duration could be a fraction of the time.
On average, a 4000 Watt portable generator with a 3-gallon gas tank will have a run time of up to 9 hours on a full tank of gasoline or 10.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank at 50% load.
You can see a solar-powered generator can run up to 10-20 hours under 50% load as a matter of comparison.
A typical dual fuel generator that is well maintained and stored correctly can last for decades. However, if you don’t use it right, it can die or break within one use.
Suppose you’re using gas to power the generator. In that case, it’s imperative to let the fuel run out using the fuel-off switch before storing your generator for an extended period.
If you do not do this, the gas left in the carburetors will gum up, and you will not be able to start your generator again when you need it.
Another factor is making sure the generator has a low-oil shut off to protect the motor from burning up if you forget to change or top off the oil.
It’s also important that you don’t run your generator at its peak (starting) watt rating for an extended period.
If you overload the generator, it will break. Make sure you have a generator with enough watts to power all of the appliances you expect to use during a power outage.
Suppose the generator you have does not have enough power. In that case, you can double it up by connecting it in parallel with another portable generator or investing in a generator with a higher running watt rating.
Be sure that whatever brand you get also has a good warranty. Most brands offer a warranty between 1-5 years.
How Much Does A Dual Fuel Generator Typically Cost?
Dual fuel generators can range anywhere from $400 to $6000. It depends on how much power you need and if you’re willing to buy a lesser-known brand.
Should I Get A Whole House Standby Generator Or A Portable Dual Fuel Generator?
Investing in a whole house generator may be a better idea if you live in a place prone to power outages with frequent natural disasters, i.e., tornado alley, or if you live off-grid.
If you want a generator for peace of mind, then go with the dual fuel generator that you can use in that off chance there’s a need.
Installing a whole-house generator cannot be done yourself. You will need to pay a licensed contractor to install it and pay for permits from the city.
A whole house generator can range from $1,000 to $12,500, not including labor.
A good rule of thumb to budget for the labor is to double the generator’s purchase price. Typically, investing in a whole house generator costs around $5000, and you will pay around $5000 for labor, parts, and permits.
You can get a large dual fuel generator for about half the generator and labor price to install a whole house generator.
Although getting a whole house generator could be a worthwhile investment, as it typically increases your home’s value.
If you would like to learn more about whole house standby generators, you can check out this article.
Where Are Dual Fuel Generators Sold? How Do You Buy One?
Dual fuel generators are sold online and locally by licensed dealers.
There are thousands of dealers located across the country, just like car dealerships.
You may find good deals online, but you will probably negotiate a better price if you go to a local dealer.
They have to list MSRP prices as the manufacturer mandates, but they are free to sell for less.
So if you’re willing to haggle, you will probably get a better deal if you go to buy in person.
But if it’s speed and convenience you want, you will be hard-pressed to find a better supplier than Amazon, who will ship one straight to your door.
Other Considerations
Dual Fuel Generators for RV Use
If you’re looking for a dual fuel generator to take with you on an RV trip, be sure to check that the dual fuel generator is RV ready.
This means the generator will provide a 30 amp or 50 amp port in which you can plug your RV directly without any adaptors.
You may need to get two generators to run in parallel to provide you with enough power if you intend to use it with a 50 amp 240 volt RV system.
Running in parallel means, you connect one generator to the other to make “one big generator.”
You could get a more powerful generator, but they are typically too large to store in the RV. They will also make a substantial amount of noise —something you want to avoid while enjoying nature — and you don’t want to piss off your neighbors.
Generator Tents
We also recommend looking into getting a generator tent or shed to protect your generator from the elements.
Especially if you intend to run it during a storm. You don’t want it getting wet or damaged by flying debris while running.
Despite our selections of dual fuel generators being quieter than the average generator, you may still want to invest in a noise-reducing enclosure to further muffle the sound.
There really isn’t much more annoying than the sound of a generator chopping away in the backyard.
This could be especially problematic while camping or RVing in natural parks. People go there to get away from the noise. Be considerate and do what you can to not disturb your neighbors.
Generator Safety
A dual fuel generator is a combustion engine that produces electricity, two hazardous fields.
Always be aware of what you’re doing and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Be sure to read the manual and consult a licensed electrician before trying to do anything where you lack experience.
Some of these things include accidentally back feeding the generator back into the grid. You don’t want to do this. It could cause a fire and electrocute anyone who could be working on the powerlines.
If it’s wet out, make sure you are dry everything. Then ensure you disconnected it before you attempt to work on the generator to avoid getting electrocuted.
When using gas, be sure to let the engine cool down before refueling. Wipe up spills and store gas tanks out of the reach of children.
Generator Theft
Unfortunately, due to the high value and easy portability of generators, theft has become something we have to hedge against.
You can’t watch your generator all the time, but there are some things you can do to make walking off with your generator more difficult.
First, get yourself a thick cable and a heavy-duty padlock. Strap your generator to a tree or a pole to make it impossible for anyone daring enough to walk off with it if they’re not carrying their bolt cutters.
Etch your name somewhere on the generator so you can’t see it easily. This way, if someone is walking around with a bolt cutter and makes off with your generator, you will be able to identify it as yours if you recover it.
Take a photo of the serial number for further proof of ownership.
You can also attach a magnetic GPS locator on it again out of plain sight to enable you to track it if someone does walk off with it.
Now we know how hot your American red blood will boil if someone walks off with your generator. If you have a GPS locator and see where the thieves are, do not look for it yourself, ready to crack some skulls.
Call the police. Tell them what happened. Give them the coordinates, and let them earn their paycheck. You’re paying for it, after all.
Show them the photo of the serial number and where you etched your name, and they won’t have any problem recovering it for you.
Propane Hose For Dual Fuel Generators
Some manufacturers are kind enough to include a propane hose with the generator for quick setup. Others don’t.
Be sure to get a propane hose when you order your dual fuel generator if you intend to use propane as a fuel source.
Propane Conversion Kits/Adapters For Gas Generators
Suppose you have a gas generator but want to use propane and don’t feel like buying a new generator. In that case, there are ways to convert your gas generator into a propane generator.
However, just be aware that this will void any warranty you have on the generator.
In some cases, it may just be easier to get another generator with a propane valve and use your old gas generator for emergencies.
Or sell it and use it to invest in the new generator.
Debrief
That’s all, folks. If you didn’t know a lot about dual fuel generators, you sure should by now if you made it this far.
However, if you could possibly have any more questions, please leave them down in the comments section below. We’ll be happy to look into finding the answer for you.
If you have experience with any of the dual fuel generators we recommended and would like to share with the class, please feel free to leave what you have to say in the comments section.
If you’re still unsure about which one to buy, then we would recommend the Westinghouse WGen 12500 Peak / 9500 Rated Watts Dual Fuel Portable Generator as the overall best dual fuel generator.
It may be too much power (and too big and loud) if you’re looking for a dual fuel generator for your RV or camping.
But it will be more than enough to tackle your day to day jobs or to keep your home up and running in case the grid goes down.
Until next time, friends.
–Team AppliedSurvial
