The 6 Best Propane Generators – Reviews and Buying Guide

Consider a propane generator if you need a generator for your house or for usage on the go in an RV or at a workplace. Propane is less expensive than gasoline and may be stored for up to a year, making it an excellent fuel for generating energy off the grid. Although there are essentially no generators that operate purely on propane, dual-fuel generators that run on either gasoline or propane are common, and some tri-fuel generators are available.

Choosing the longest-lasting propane generator for your needs might be difficult because there are so many generator alternatives on the market, each with its own set of portability, power, runtime, and usefulness. We examined the top 6 propane generators by reading user feedback and technical specs.

The table below shows the top generators that run on propane and describes the qualities that distinguish them. Continue reading for in-depth reviews of each generator, including the pros and cons of each model.

Is A Gas Or Propane Generator More Efficient?

While propane generators are less efficient than gas generators, they are better for the environment. They emit less carbon monoxide than a normal gasoline generator, around half as much.

Our Top Pick

Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel

Overall, we thought the Westinghouse Wgen3600DF was the finest portable propane generator since it had more mobility than either of its competitors, an RV-ready 30-amp outlet, and a DC power outlet for battery charging that the FIRMAN generator lacked.

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Are Propane Generators Better Than Gas?

While propane generators are less efficient than gas generators, they are better for the environment. They emit less carbon monoxide than a normal gasoline generator, around half as much.

Does A Propane Generator Emit Carbon Monoxide?

Propane generators are said to be more eco-friendly than gasoline generators. They do not produce harmful gases into the environment since they are clean-burning. A propane generator does not produce high amounts of carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous.

Best Propane Generators – Quick Comparison

1. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator – Best-Rated Generator

This DuroMax 4,850-watt generator has a lot going for it: it has a lot of power because of its 212cc engine and can power just much anything, it has a solid all-metal chassis, all copper windings, and it can run on gas or propane.

One of the best advantages is that it doesn’t need to be serviced on a regular basis, as one of the thousands of five-star reviews pointed out “It has taken very little upkeep… just checking and replacing the oil. It is not pampered; instead, it is used and abused in all weather situations.”

Despite the fact that the assembly instructions aren’t the finest, it comes with noise-dampening technology that allows it to run at only 69 decibels, making it the quietest generator on our list.

Specifications

Budget-Friendly

If you want a generator that can operate on propane but don’t want to spend a lot of money, this budget model from DuroMax is a great choice.

Surge Power

The 4,850 W of surge power production on gasoline is also higher than that of other more expensive generators, albeit the continuous output decreases dramatically to 3,850 W.

Outlets

It has a DC outlet for charging a battery and two 20-amp AC outlets, just like more costly generators. However, while having a 30-amp outlet, it is not RV-ready and will require some modification to function with most RVs.

2. Champion Power Equipment – Best Propane Generator For RV

This Champion dual-fuel gas and propane-powered generator is our top choice for RV lovers since it can easily power the whole RV.

This Amazon Choice for the best Champion generator has a rapid electric start, an “intelligence” that records voltage, hertz, run-time, and maintenance, and a three-year limited warranty with free lifelong tech support.

It’s a little louder than some other generators, but several customers praised how effectively it performed.

Specifications

Safe Design

Champion’s dual-fuel generator was created with safety and practicality in mind.

Locking Fuel Selector Switch

It has a locking fuel selector switch that prevents you from mistakenly switching fuels when plugging in appliances, as well as an electric motor start switch and an outlet surge protector built-in.

Run Time

The generator produces 3,800 W of gasoline, has a surge capacity of 4,750 W, and can run for up to 9 hours on a full tank.

Performance on propane

If you operate this generator on propane, it can produce up to 4,275 surges and 3,420 continuous watts. As a result, there isn’t much of a difference in the generator’s performance on gas and LPG.

3. Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel – Best Electric Start

This CARB-compliant Westinghouse gas and propane generator has a large green electric start and stop button that makes starting it quicker than before. Another Amazon’s Choice buys, this generator also includes a simple remote start, which means you won’t have to battle the elements to operate it and can do so from the comfort of your own home or RV.

One satisfied customer stated, “It is very simple to construct (wheels, legs, and handle). Setup instructions are simple. Except for gasoline, you have everything you need to get started.

“Started on the first try,” commented another, adding “This is a terrific generator, especially for the price.” I like that I can use either gasoline or propane, that it has electric, remote, and hand-pull starting… There is very little assembly required, and even that is simple.”

Specifications

Low-Fuel-Consumption Engine

It features a low-fuel-consumption engine that delivers 3240 rated watts and 4650 peak watts (on propane), a high amount of wattage that is critical during a power outage (i.e., a vacuum cleaner).

Propane-Powered Generator’s Dual Fuel Technology

This propane-powered generator’s dual-fuel technology allows the user to operate it on either gasoline or propane, which is a deal-breaker for several of my pals!

Excellent For Camping

Even though it may be rather noisy when overloaded, it has useful features such as an electric push button and a remote start option, which is excellent for camping.

4. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator – Best Transfer Switch

WEN’s transfer-switch-ready propane backup generator will meet all of your demands and keep you running even when everyone else in the area has gone black.

It includes 3,500 operational watts of propane power, an electric start, transport wheels and a handle, and a 47-inch LPG connection so you can connect to your gas tank straight now.

“The power went off one week after I bought the generator,” one customer explained. “Fortunately, I had just finished building a transfer switch three days before.

The generator operated well… It powered my TV, router, fridge, deep freezer, and window air conditioner all at the same time. If you’re debating whether or not to buy this, I strongly suggest you do so!”

Specifications

Least Expensive Generator

If you are searching for a low-cost model, the Wen DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator is one of the better possibilities. It is one of the least expensive types since it is designed for lower power demands or the usage of smaller appliances.

Power Output

When fueled by gasoline, this generator has a peak power output of 4750 watts and a constant power output of 3800 watts. When fueled by propane, the peak output is 4350 watts and the constant power is 3500 watts.

CARB Compliant

This low power output rating is provided by a little 224 cc engine, which is to be anticipated at this price. Unlike other low-cost alternatives, this propane generator is CARB-compliant, which is always a plus.

5. Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – Most Powerful

With a peak output of 12,000 watts, the Pulsar G12KBN is a formidable power horse perfect for heavy-duty tasks. It’s no surprise that many buyers are ready to spend a little more and choose this model, with its electric pull-start, compact design with never-flat wheels, a drop-down handle for convenient storage, a large 8-gallon fuel tank (or use it in addition to propane), and several outlets to power multiple devices at once.

This generator also has a plethora of features. It has a low oil shut-off and a voltage output regulator that is simple to read. Best of all, it has a variety of outlets, making it simple to connect pretty much anything, regardless of what you wish to power.

Its foldout handles are a handy storage feature, but they make moving this generator a little more difficult. This is mostly due to the fact that this machine is rather heavy, making even rolling it between sites difficult, despite the fact that it is fitted with decent wheels.

Specifications

Strong Engine

For starters, its strong engine can provide a significant amount of power. When operating on gas, it can produce an incredible 12,000W at starting and 9,500W when running.

Starting and Operating Watts

It does lose some power while running on propane, as expected, but not nearly as much as some of its competitors. It can still produce 10,800W at starting and 8,550W when operating.

Run Time

Surprisingly, despite giving out such high levels of electricity, this machine can still run for a long period. Even if you run this model at half load all the time, you should be able to operate it for roughly 12 hours at a time, independent of the fuel supply.

6. Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator – Budget Friendly

This quiet propane generator from Pulsar can run a range of electronics while keeping all of your electrical items safe thanks to its inverter technology. It only has 2,200 watts, so it can’t even run a 10,000 BTU air conditioner, but it works fine for smaller devices like hairdryers, fans, and household appliances.

This portable propane generator does not have wheels, but it does have a convenient carry handle at the top for easy movement.

“It works well, and I enjoy the variable rpm eco-mode,” one customer said, revealing how they avoided any problems starting it up with propane: “I love that it runs on propane, but if you follow their starting instructions, it will never work…

If you gently split the tank open and pull it over as quickly as you can, it will almost always be the first time. When it fires and starts running, fully open the tank valve and it will accelerate to full speed.”

Specifications

Fuel Tank

This Pulsar propane generator is one of the finest portable generators since it has a small 1.18-gallon propane tank and a compact design that makes it easy to travel.

Engine

It also has a tiny 80cc 3HP engine that generates 2,000 peak watts / 1,600 rated watts when running on propane, blowing other comparable-sized propane generators out of the water.

Run Time

The PG2200BiS is the ultimate portable generator, with a remarkable 8-hour run-time on a single tank of GAS/75-minute run-time on a 1-pound LPG tank and parallel capabilities.

What To Look For In Propane Generator – Buying Guide

Aside from wattage, portable generators are distinguished by a variety of convenience and safety features.

Portability

Not all portable generators are made to be as portable as others. While some weigh under 100 pounds and come with a pair of beefy wheels to help you carry them around, more powerful generators and tri-fuel types may easily weigh over 200 pounds and are practically hard to move even with wheels.

Smaller generators may be more compact, but without wheels, even these little devices may rapidly become cumbersome. Consider how frequently you intend to move your generator between places, or whether it is more likely to remain in one position outside your home for the duration of its life.

Check More: Best Firman Generator Review

Electric start

An electric start, which substitutes the usual pull cord, is a popular and popular feature on generators. Electric start generators are exceedingly easy to start, needing little of the headache that generators have long been associated with. Some units also include a remote start capability, which is ideal for RV use because it allows you to switch on the electricity in the morning without having to go outside.

Safety

With generators, safety is also a major problem. Because running out of oil can cause irrevocable damage to your generator and perhaps create a fire danger, generators with a low oil indicator and automatic cutoff are widespread. Some generators also have surge protection to keep sensitive equipment, such as computers, from being fried and to lessen the risk of electrocution while connecting to the generator.

Outlets

Finally, when shopping for a generator, look for one with a variety of outlets. Many contemporary versions have an RV-ready 30-amp plug, which is quite useful if you want to use your generator with an RV. Furthermore, while many generators have just two conventional AC outlets, having four or more might free up significant room for plugging in multiple small electronics rather than one or two large appliances.

Check This: Best Generator For Rv Air Conditioners

Best Propane Generators – FAQs

To Sum Up

With so many amazing generators to pick from, selecting the ideal one should be a lot easier now that I’ve detailed what to look for in each one.

The most important takeaway here is to determine how much power you will actually require and what features you want from a portable generator before selecting the one that best meets your requirements.