Imagine a sudden power outage during a storm. Your lights go out, your fridge stops humming, and your phone is almost dead. It’s a frustrating situation, right? Many homeowners worry about being left in the dark. That’s where propane gas generators come in – they offer a reliable way to keep your home running when the grid fails.
But choosing the *right* propane generator can feel like a puzzle. There are so many sizes and features! You might wonder which one is powerful enough for your needs, how much fuel it will use, and what the best brands are. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the technical details.
Don’t worry! This blog post is here to guide you. We’ll break down what you need to know to pick the perfect propane generator for your home. You’ll learn about important features, how to match a generator’s power to your appliances, and what to look for to get the best value. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice.
Our Top 5 Propane Gas Generator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Propane Gas Generator Detailed Reviews
1. Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Rating: 9.2/10
When the power goes out, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator keeps your home running smoothly. This powerful generator runs on both gasoline and propane, giving you flexibility. It’s ready to connect to your home’s transfer switch, making it easy to power essential appliances and keep your family comfortable.
What We Like:
- It offers a lot of power, with 9500 running watts on gasoline and 8500 running watts on propane.
- You can start it easily with the remote control key fob or electric start.
- It runs for a long time, up to 12 hours on one tank of gas.
- It has plenty of outlets, including ones for your RV and to connect to your home’s electrical system.
- Safety features like rubber outlet covers and automatic low oil shutdown protect you and the generator.
- The digital display shows you important information like voltage and how long it’s been running.
- It comes with everything you need to get started, like oil and a tool kit.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a heavy generator, so you’ll need help moving it.
- While it’s dual fuel, propane offers slightly less power than gasoline.
This Westinghouse generator is a reliable choice for backup power. It’s built tough and designed to keep your home powered during emergencies.
2. DuroMax XP13000EH 13
Rating: 8.7/10
The DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a powerhouse designed to keep your entire home running during a power outage. This generator offers the flexibility of running on either gasoline or propane, making it a versatile choice for various needs. DuroMax is a leader in dual-fuel generator technology, providing solutions for everything from camping trips to whole-home backup.
What We Like:
- It provides a massive 13,000 watts of power, enough to run your whole house.
- You can easily switch between gasoline and propane with the front-facing interface.
- It has a convenient push-button electric start.
- The generator is built with a tough all-metal frame and power panel, meaning no plastic parts.
- It features 100% copper windings, which are better for heat and last longer than aluminum.
- No-flat tires make it easy to move the generator wherever you need it.
- It’s ready for your RV or emergency power needs.
- The 50 amp outlet is ready for a transfer switch, making whole-home connection simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s built tough, it is a heavy unit, so moving it might require two people.
- The noise level, typical of larger generators, could be a consideration for some users.
This generator offers robust power and impressive versatility for any situation. It’s a solid investment for reliable backup power.
3. Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Rating: 9.1/10
When the lights go out, the Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator keeps your home running smoothly. This powerful generator is ideal for keeping your whole house powered during an outage or providing reliable electricity for jobs and camping trips. Its versatile tri-fuel design means you can use gasoline, propane, or natural gas, giving you flexibility when you need it most.
What We Like:
- Tri-Fuel Versatility: Easily switch between gasoline, propane, and natural gas for power.
- High Power Output: Delivers an impressive 14,500 peak watts of power, enough for major appliances.
- Safe for Electronics: Low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) protects your sensitive devices like phones and computers.
- Remote Electric Start: Start the generator easily from a distance with the remote.
- Transfer Switch Ready: Simplifies connection to your home’s electrical system.
- Durable Construction: Features a heavy-duty 550cc Westinghouse engine with a cast iron sleeve for long life.
- Long Run Times: Can run for up to 19 hours on a full tank of gas or 7 hours on a propane tank.
- Copper Windings: Ensure cleaner, cooler, and longer-lasting power generation.
- 3-Year Warranty: Comes with solid service, labor, and parts coverage.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: While powerful, it is a heavy unit and might require assistance to move.
- Fuel Gauge Accuracy: Some users have reported that the fuel gauge can be a bit inconsistent.
This Westinghouse generator offers robust power and fuel flexibility for any situation. It’s a dependable choice for keeping your home powered or taking reliable electricity wherever you go.
4. Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Rating: 8.7/10
When the power goes out, you need a reliable backup. The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is built to keep your home running smoothly. This generator is incredibly versatile, letting you choose between gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It offers a powerful 13500 peak watts of power, enough to run many of your essential appliances. Plus, you can start it up easily with the included remote control or a simple electric start.
What We Like:
- Tri-Fuel capability offers flexibility with fuel choices.
- Powerful 13500 peak watts and 10500 running watts on gasoline.
- Convenient remote and electric start options.
- Runs for up to 19 hours on a single tank of gas.
- Includes multiple outlet types, including RV and transfer switch ready.
- Heavy-duty 500cc Westinghouse engine with safety features like low oil and CO shutdown.
- Comes with everything you need to get started right away.
- EPA compliant and backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the unit can be heavy to move, though it does have wheels.
- The initial setup, even with minimal assembly, might require a bit of time.
This Westinghouse generator is a robust solution for home backup power, offering excellent fuel flexibility and user-friendly features. It’s a solid investment for peace of mind during outages.
5. Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Rating: 8.5/10
The Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerhouse that keeps your essentials running smoothly. Whether you’re camping in your RV or need backup power at home, this generator offers flexibility and quiet operation. It runs on both gas and propane, giving you options. Plus, it’s RV-ready with a 30 Amp outlet, making it a fantastic companion for your adventures.
What We Like:
- It provides 5000 peak watts of power, enough for many appliances.
- You can start it easily with the remote control or electric start.
- It runs super quietly, so it won’t disturb you or your neighbors.
- It’s very fuel-efficient, running for up to 18 hours on a single tank.
- The LED data center shows you important information like fuel level and power output.
- It’s RV-ready with a 30 Amp outlet.
- You can connect two together for even more power (parallel capable).
- It comes with two USB ports for charging devices.
- The telescoping handle makes it easy to move around.
- It’s backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While tested, some residual oil or fuel odor might be present upon arrival.
This generator is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable and quiet portable power. It offers great features for both home and recreational use.
Choosing Your Propane Gas Generator: A Smart Guide
Picking the right propane gas generator can feel like a big decision. These handy machines give you power when the grid goes down or when you’re off the beaten path. This guide will help you find the perfect one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Power Output (Wattage):
This is the most important thing. Generators are measured in watts. Think about what you need to power. A small fridge and some lights need less power than a whole house or a big RV. Always check the “starting watts” and “running watts.” Starting watts is what the generator needs to get big appliances going. Running watts is what it uses to keep them going.
Fuel Tank Size and Run Time:
Propane tanks come in different sizes. A bigger tank means the generator can run longer without needing a refill. Check how many hours the generator can run on a full tank. This tells you how much backup power you’ll have.
Noise Level:
Some generators are loud. Look for models with lower decibel (dB) ratings. A quieter generator is better for camping or if you live close to neighbors.
Portability:
If you plan to move the generator around, consider its weight and if it has wheels. Some are small enough to carry, while others are more like portable power stations.
Outlets and Connections:
Make sure the generator has the right types of outlets for your devices. You might need standard household outlets, or maybe RV-style outlets. Some have USB ports for charging phones and tablets.
Inverter Technology:
Inverter generators produce clean, stable power. This is important for sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs. They are also usually quieter and more fuel-efficient.
2. Important Materials
Generators are built with sturdy materials to withstand tough conditions. The engine is usually made of strong metal like aluminum or cast iron. The casing is often made of durable steel or impact-resistant plastic. Good quality materials mean your generator will last longer.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Generator Better:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable generators.
- Engine Quality: A good engine runs smoothly and lasts a long time.
- Build Quality: Solid construction with good welds and tight fittings is a sign of a quality product.
- Safety Features: Things like low-oil shutdown and overload protection are important.
What Makes a Generator Worse:
- Cheap Components: Using low-quality parts can lead to breakdowns.
- Poor Design: A generator that’s hard to start or maintain might not be the best choice.
- Lack of Safety Features: Missing safety functions can be dangerous.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
People use propane generators for many reasons. They are great for powering homes during power outages. Many campers use them to keep their RVs or campsites running. They are also useful for job sites where there’s no electricity. A good generator should be easy to start and operate. It should also be reliable when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I run my whole house on a propane generator?
A: It depends on the size of your generator and how much power your house uses. You’ll need a larger, more powerful generator to run an entire house, especially if you have large appliances like air conditioners.
Q: How do I know what size generator I need?
A: Make a list of all the appliances and devices you want to power. Add up their running watts. Then, add the starting watts for any appliances that have motors (like refrigerators or power tools). Choose a generator with a higher total wattage than your calculated needs.
Q: Is propane fuel easy to get?
A: Yes, propane is widely available. You can buy it at many gas stations, hardware stores, and home improvement stores. You can also rent propane tanks.
Q: How long does a propane generator last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality propane generator can last for many years, often thousands of hours of use.
Q: Are propane generators safe to use indoors?
A: No, never use a propane generator indoors. They produce carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Always use generators in a well-ventilated outdoor area, far away from windows and doors.
Q: What is the difference between a conventional generator and an inverter generator?
A: Conventional generators provide power directly from the engine, which can sometimes be uneven. Inverter generators use a more complex system to produce clean, stable power that is safe for sensitive electronics. Inverters are also usually quieter and more fuel-efficient.
Q: How often should I maintain my propane generator?
A: Regular maintenance is key. Check the oil level before each use. Change the oil and air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep the generator clean and store it properly when not in use.
Q: Can I connect my generator to my home’s electrical panel?
A: Yes, but it’s important to have a qualified electrician install a transfer switch. This safely disconnects your home from the utility power and connects it to the generator, preventing backfeeding and electrical hazards.
Q: What happens if I overload my generator?
A: Overloading a generator can damage it and the appliances you are trying to power. Most generators have overload protection that will shut them down if they are working too hard.
Q: Are there any environmental benefits to using propane generators?
A: Propane burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, producing fewer harmful emissions. This makes it a more environmentally friendly fuel option.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.