Whether it’s hurricane season or snow season, you want to have the peace of mind that a generator will carry you through the worst power outages.
Multi-fuel generators are a backup power source that can support you when the lights go out. With a multi-fuel generator, you can use multiple fuel sources with a single generator.
In this article, we’ll take a look at ten of the best multi-fuel generators for your home. We will also discuss what a multi-fuel generator is and the pros and cons of using one.
We’ll also talk about what to look for in a multi-fuel generator so you can find one that suits your specific needs.
But first, let’s take a look at some of the best a multi-fuel generators on the market.
Best Multi-Fuel Portable Generators on the Market
- 9500W running, 12500W peak (gasoline)
- Multiple outlets with rubber safety covers
- Remote start, 12-hour runtime, 6.6-gallon tank
- 4750W (gas), 4350W (propane), dual fuel.
- 11-hour runtime on 4-gallon tank.
- 120V/240V output, electric start included.
- 13,000W dual fuel with CO Alert safety.
- 500cc engine, all copper windings for durability.
- Transfer-ready panel with multiple outlets.
7 Best Multi-Fuel Generators
1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF – 12,500 Watt Duel Fuel Generator
- 9500W running, 12500W peak (gasoline)
- Multiple outlets with rubber safety covers
- Remote start, 12-hour runtime, 6.6-gallon tank
With the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator, you get up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts, running on either gasoline or propane for flexibility.
You’ll appreciate its push-button electric start and remote start key fob, making it effortless to power up.
You can run your major appliances or tools for up to 12 hours on its 6.6-gallon tank, and the Transfer Switch Ready outlets keep things simple.
With its portable design, intuitive controls, and real-time data display, you’re equipped for home, travel, or work, backed by a 3-year warranty and lifetime support.
2. DuroMax XP5500 – 5500 Watt Duel Fuel Generator
- 5500W starting, 4500W running, dual fuel.
- Runs 9 hrs (gas) or 8 hrs (propane).
- MX2 tech for 120V/240V flexibility.
With the DuroMax XP5500EH, you get 5,500 watts of power and the flexibility to run it on gas or propane thanks to Dual Fuel Technology.
You’ll find it easy to transport, whether you’re camping, tailgating, or working on a jobsite.
This durable generator ensures you’re powered up at home, on an RV trip, or wherever you need reliable energy.
It’s designed to be user-friendly, so you can focus on your tasks or enjoy your downtime.
3. Pulsar G12KBN – 9500 Watt Duel Fuel Generator
- Dual fuel capability for fuel flexibility
- ECO switch boosts fuel efficiency by 30-50%
- Parallel ready to double power output
The Pulsar GD950BN gives you reliable power with 9,500 peak watts and 7,600 running watts, perfect for home or camping needs.
You’ll appreciate its quiet operation at 65 dB, making it ideal for social settings without causing disruptions.
Its Dual-Fuel capability lets you choose between gasoline and propane, and it runs up to 5 hours at half load on gas, with voltage options for 120V or 240V.
With rubber outlet covers for durability and versatile features, this generator ensures dependable power for your appliances, tools, and electronics.
4. WEN DF475T – 4750 Watt Duel Fuel Generator
- 4750W (gas), 4350W (propane), dual fuel.
- 11-hour runtime on 4-gallon tank.
- 120V/240V output, electric start included.
With the WEN 4750-Watt Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator, you can power your essentials with ease using either gasoline or propane.
You’ll enjoy up to 4750 surge watts and 3800 running watts on gas or 4350 surge watts and 3500 running watts on propane, with the convenience of electric start.
Its packed panel includes versatile outlets and a voltage selector for 120V or 240V tasks, while the wheel and handle kit ensure easy transport.
Durable, compact, and backed by WEN’s trusted support network, this generator is ready to keep you powered during emergencies or outdoor adventures.
5. DuroMax XP1300EH 13,000 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 13,000W dual fuel, powers entire home.
- Push-button start, 50A transfer-ready outlet.
- Heavy-duty metal frame, 100% copper windings.
The DuroMax XP13000EH delivers massive power with 10,500 running watts and 13,000 surge watts, powered by a robust 500cc OHV engine.
You can run it on gasoline or propane, making it versatile for emergencies or heavy-duty use.
Its fully loaded power panel includes GFCI-protected outlets and individual breakers to keep your appliances, lights, and even central A/C running safely.
EPA and CARB compliant, this portable generator offers the reliability of a standby unit with the convenience of portability for use anywhere in the U.S.
6. Champion Power Equipment 4750 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Dual fuel, 3800W output, low oil sensor.
- Electric start with Intelligauge monitoring.
- Multiple outlets, surge protector included.
With the Champion Power Equipment 201052 Dual Fuel Generator, you get 3800 running watts and 4750 starting watts on gasoline, giving you reliable power for your home or RV.
You’ll appreciate the electric start and Cold Start Technology for effortless operation, while the fuel selector makes switching between gasoline and propane simple.
Operating at a quiet 68 dBA, it’s safe for your appliances with built-in surge protection and easy to monitor using Intelligauge.
Designed with portability in mind, you can easily transport it using the foldaway handle and never-flat wheels, all backed by a 3-year warranty and lifetime support.
7. DuroMax XP13000HX 13,000 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- 13,000W dual fuel with CO Alert safety.
- 500cc engine, all copper windings for durability.
- Transfer-ready panel with multiple outlets.
With the XP13000HX Dual Fuel Generator, you’ll have 13,000 watts of power to keep your home running during storms or outages.
You can easily switch between gasoline and propane, enjoying the efficiency and long shelf life of propane.
Powered by a 500cc OHV DuroMax engine with durable copper windings, it’s built to last and handle household essentials, including lights, appliances, and central A/C.
With a push-button start, CO Alert for safety, and a versatile power panel loaded with outlets, you’re equipped with reliable, portable backup power for any emergency.
Best Multi Fuel Generators Compared
In the following chart, we compare different models of dual fuel generators.
We will list the type of fuel it can use, its starting and running watts, the model’s weight, price, and any special features you might want to use.
| Generator | Type of Fuel | Running Watts | Weight | Price (approx.) | Features |
| Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator | Gasoline, Propane | 12,500 Starting 9,500 Running | 210 Pounds | $999.00 | Remote Start |
| DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start | Gasoline, Propane | 5500 Starting 4500 Running | 124 Pounds | $649.00 | CO2 detector with automatic shut-off |
| Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator | Gasoline, Propane | 9,500 Starting 7,600 Running | 125 Pounds | $1999.00 | 120 or 240 Volt |
| WEN DF475T | Gasoline, Propane | 4750 Starting 3800 Running | 105 pounds | $450.00 | Electric Start |
| DuroMax XP1300EH 13,000 Watt | Gasoline, Propane | 13,000 Starting 10,500 Running | 236 Pounds | $1,418.00 | Heavy duty and home outlets |
| Champion Power Equipment | Gasoline, Propane | 4275 Starting 3420 Running | 119 Pounds | $599.00 | Electric start, wheel kit |
| DuroMax XP13000HX | Gasoline, Propane | 13000 Starting 10500 Running | 245 pounds | $1699.00 | CO2 alert with automatic shutdown |
What Is a Multi-Fuel Generator?
A multi-fuel generator is a type of portable generator that can run on multiple fuel sources.
In other words, it means you can choose from a variety of fuels to use in the same generator, such as gasoline, natural gas, and propane.
For example, if you are home during a power outage, you might want to connect your generator to your home’s natural gas line.
On the other hand, perhaps you go camping and would instead use propane to fuel your generator at the campsite.
Then again, you might find you need to take your generator to a worksite where you need to use gasoline to power the same equipment. Similarly, you can do this with a single, multi-fuel generator rather than purchasing a separate generator for purpose or type of fuel.
Dual fuel generators are more common and affordable than tri-fuel generators. However, you need to choose the one that brings you the most peace of mind so that you can take care of your family in an emergency.
Multi-fuel generators give you extra options to choose from, but you do need to know the pros and cons of each.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Multi-Fuel Generator?
Multi-fuel generators are an excellent piece of equipment to have on hand. But, of course, there are pros and cons to owning these types of generators.
One advantage is that you will have more freedom and flexibility to choose which kind of fuel you want to use in any given situation. For example, if gas prices are low, you may want to use gasoline.
But during a hurricane, gas might be difficult to get, so you may prefer to use your home’s natural gas or even propane.
If you use your home’s natural gas, you’ll want to consult with your gas company to make sure you hook up your generator correctly and safely.
Using propane as a fuel source may be considered safer than using gasoline. However, propane might not make as many watts as gasoline or diesel can. If you need higher wattage, you might want to use the gasoline or diesel settings on your multi-fuel generator.
Gasoline may be expensive if you will be using your generator for an extended period.
On the other hand, one disadvantage to using multi-fuel generators is that they are more expensive. You can choose single fuel generators for as low as $300, but multi-fuel generators might run more like $1500. They are also heavier and more difficult to transport.
What to Look for in a Portable Multi-Fuel Generator?
To choose the best multi-fuel generator for your family, you’ll need to look at a couple of things.
- Type of fuel. First is what types of fuel do you want to use. Do you want a dual-fuel generator that uses two fuel sources or a multi-fuel generator that can use 3 or 4? Second, what kind of fuel access do you have? If gasoline is easy for you to access, you might not need to worry about a natural gas generator. However, if your home already has natural gas, it would be an easy choice to use a generator that works with natural gas as its fuel source. Propane is a safe fuel to use than gasoline.
- Noise requirements. Generators can be very noisy, and while some types are quieter than others, some types of fuel are also quieter than others. In addition, some generators are available with sound dampening casing while others are not.
- Power Output. How much power does your family need to keep the household running? Do you just want to power a couple of lights for comfort, run your fridge to keep your food cold, or power your entire house?
- Additional considerations. Do you need a generator with wheels to make it more portable? How many electrical outputs do you need? Do you want a high-tech generator that works with a phone app, or do you prefer a more basic one? You may want to look at the fuel cost for the generator you are choosing and compare it to your need for watt output.
How to Determine What Size Generate You Need?
Generators create electricity which is measured in watts.
Every appliance you run has its own specific amount of watts that it needs to power and run. You can figure out what size generator you need by understanding how many watts the appliances you want to use will need. Here’s how:
- Make a list of all of the appliances you want and need to use during a power outage.
- Figure out the starting and running watts of each item. Running watts are how many watts the appliance needs to run, and starting watts are the extra boost of power that an appliance might need to get started up. For example, your refrigerator might need 1200 watts to start up but only 750 watts to stay running throughout the day. On the other hand, your coffee might only need 1000 watts to brew a pot of coffee.
- Add up all of the running watts needed, and then add up all of the starting watts that are need to run appliances simultaneously. If an item does not have any extra starting watts, then use its running watts instead.
- Once you’ve added up all the starting and running watts, you can look for a generator that produces enough energy to meet those needs.
- If your energy requirements are too high, you can adjust which appliances you run simultaneously. For example, you might need to alternate using your washer and dryer instead of running them simultaneously so you can purchase a smaller, less expensive generator.
Once you know how large a generator you’ll need, you can choose a multi-fuel generator that suits your purposes.
Related Questions
In most cases, switching between fuel sources is as easy as flipping a switch and connecting your fuel source. For example, you can see a video of the Champion generator here https://youtu.be/olRvvKBIyN0.
You can purchase conversion kits for your single fuel generator, such as this one. However, they are not always the best choice. When possible, buy a generator that was built for multiple fuels.
Diesel fuel tends to be the most efficient type of fuel for a generator. However, propane burns cleaner. In an emergency, the convenience of a dual fuel generator will give you options if one type of fuel is hard to find.
