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These generators have a built-in gas tank and attach to a 20-gallon propane tank with a short hose.
The Spruce
Youll find dual-fuel generators in a wide range of power capacities.
But dont assume that the more, the better is always true.
If you’re looking to power the entire home, 7,500 watts or more may be necessary.
PHOTO: Amazon
We also considered additional features like remote starts and CO sensors, as well as overall value.
When using gasoline, this generator can produce up to 12,500 peak watts and 8,500 running watts.
That’s about two hours longer than ourbest for emergency backuppick.
PHOTO: Amazon
When run on gasoline, the peak wattage is 4,750 watts, with a running wattage of 3,800.
That’s nearly as long as ouroverall bestrecommendation, which can run for 12 hours on a tank.
When attached to a 20-gallon propane tank, the generator will run for up to 7 hours.
PHOTO: Amazon
The engine starts with a key, not a button, but it is still easy to operate.
Theres also a 12-volt cigarette lighter outlet.
However, we wish this generator had a carbon monoxide safety shutoff.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
For those situations, youll love this small-but-mighty option from WEN.
This small generator has a 1.2-gallon gas tank that runs for up to 6 hours at 50 percent power.
It produces up to 2,350 surge watts and 1,900 running watts on gas.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
By contrast, many larger generators produce 75 to 85 decibels of noise.
This generator has a duplex 120-volt standard household outlet along with two USB outlets.
There are no wheels, but its easy to carry this lightweight generator.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its very easy to use, as well, even for people who have never used a generator before.
We recommend this model from Champion Power Equipment.
If you need more run time, ouroverall bestpick can go for up to 12 hours on a tank.
PHOTO: Amazon
It also has two never-flat wheels and a foldaway handle for easy transport.
This generator provides up to 6,600 peak watts and 5,300 running watts when running on gasoline.
Youll get up to 14.5 hours of runtime from a full 4.7-gallon gas tank.
Switch it over to propane, and you get up to 5,800 peak watts and 4,800 running watts.
Along with the RV and transfer-switch-ready outlets, you get two 120-volt standard household outlets.
It also includes a remote start key fob and a CO safety sensor, and its transfer-switch ready.
The more appliances you have, the more power output the generator will need to provide.
In emergencies or off-grid situations, the ability to switch fuels can be a lifesaver," Brabant says.
Generally, a generator will be less noisy when running on propane, as well.
More Powerful Generators Are Less Portable
Dual-fuel generators tend to be heavy.
This helps prevent damage both to your generator and to the appliances its running.
Many also have an emergency backup recoil pull cord.
Thats very convenient on a job site or in a situation where you dont want to venture outdoors.
Our best overall pick, theWestinghouse Dual Fuel Portable Generator, comes with a remote start key fob.
Keep these devices outside, and point the exhaust vent away from nearby doors, windows, or vents.
Do You Need An Inverter Generator?
Inverter generators tend to be quieter than traditional generators, are more fuel-efficient, and produce fewer emissions.
One inverter generator that we especially like is our best for camping pick, theWen 2350 Watt Inverter Generator.
On the downside, inverter generators can be more expensive than traditional portable generators.
While they are relatively lightweight and portable, they do not have the power capacity of their traditional counterparts.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullmanis a writer for The Spruce who specializes in home improvement products, including tools and landscaping supplies.
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