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Generators

10 Best Portable Generator for House of 2023 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

When power goes off at night or during working with your desktop or at a construction site, you know how important it’s to have backup power. I personally never felt the need of an emergency backup power at my home until I faced a night-long power outage. It was even more frustrating when my unsaved work on the desktop was gone. After that I got myself a best portable generator for house that saved me from many such events during power emergencies.

There aren’t any generators that run only on propane, so propane generators are mainly dual fuel generators. There are abundant of such generators in the market with different size, power, capacity, and runtime. It can be quite challenging to choose the best propane generator that fits your needs.

Here at Powertoolsgudie, we’ve come up with a list of top 10 generators after testing them with special attention to their running and starting powers when operating on propane. Check out our reviews below to make your final decision. If you’re not much familiar with these machines, read our buying guide at the end of the reviews to get to know them better as well as your specific requirements.

Our 10 Top Rated Portable Generators (Quick View)

Thumbnail Product Name Price
Westinghouse WGen7500DF Check Price
DuroMax XP5500EH Check Price
DuroStar DS10000E Check Price
Champion 3400-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator Check Price
DuroMax XP12000EH Check Price
Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Check Price
Champion 76533 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator Check Price
Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator Check Price
A-iPower SUA12000ED Check Price
Sportsman GEN4000LP Check Price

Best Portable Generator for House Reviews

01 Westinghouse WGen7500DF (Editor’s Choice)

Westinghouse WGen7500DF

The Westinghouse WGen7500DF is capable of running on both propane and gasoline. Depending on the type of fuel you use, this generator produces different powers. It produces 7500 and 6750 running watts and 9500 and 8550 peak watts with gasoline and propane respectively.

The power is more than enough to run all your home appliances during a power wattage. The WGen7500DF also has a larger engine and more fuel capacity than WGen3600DF. With 6.6 gallons of capacity, it can run continuously for around 11 hours at a half load.

Moreover, this machine is equipped with five 120V power outlets that provide much space for several appliances to plug in. We absolutely loved its two USB ports that’s quite handy for charging smaller electronics.

When it comes to sound, it’s quieter than most other generators with the same capacity. It produces only 64 dB and has a pulse-flow meter that helps reduce the noise. We were pretty impressed with such a low noise level from a big unit like this.

WGen7500DF is well-built with sturdy steel. It weighs 192 pounds, which makes it a bit heavy. However, it’s still portable, thanks to its folding handle and rear wheels.

This model offers a lot of other user-friendly features that include a key fob for remote start as well as a modern electric start mechanism. There is also an easy-to-read digital meter to alert you about the fuel levels.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 7500 (gasoline), 6750 (propane)
  • Max Watts: 9500 (gasoline), 8550 (propane)
  • Weight: 192 pounds
  • Engine Size: 420 cc
  • Outlets: Two 5-20R 120V duplex, one L14-30R twist-lock
  • Fuel Type: Dual fuel (propane or gasoline)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 6.6 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 11 hours
  • Noise Level: 64 dB

Pros

  • Five power outlets
  • Long runtime
  • Lower noise level
  • Easy electric start
  • Digital hour display
  • Easy to use
  • Long warranty

Cons

  • Relatively heavy

Our Verdict

If you prefer such a tool for occasional home use, the Westinghouse WGen7500DF is the perfect choice for you. It’s simple to start, maintain, and handle. It’s a plug-and-go generator, meaning you can start using it the moment it arrives. The robust construction also ensures that it will serve you for a long time. Looking at all the amazing features and its performance, no doubt this is well worth your investment.

02 DuroMax XP5500EH (Great Value for Money)

DuroMax XP5500EH

The DuroMax XP5500EH is a user-friendly and powerful dual fuel generator with a max 5500 watts power. It runs on both propane or gasoline.

It has a fuel tank capacity of 3.96 gallons for gasoline and 20 gallons for propane. At 50% load, it can operate for a long 12 hours. This runtime is better than most other dual fuel generators at this price range. For propane, we recommend you to use a 20-gallon tank for even longer runtime.

DuroMax XP5500EH includes two 120V duplex outlets and one 120/240V twist lock outlet. All these outlets are GFCI protected to prevent any electric shock. Besides, there is a 12V DC outlet that allows you to charge the batteries.

This generator features a MX2 power boost that doubles the 120V amperage during heavy loads. This also makes it a good choice for RVs.

We were pretty impressed with the safety features of the XP5500EH. Apart from the GFCI protected outlets, it has surge protector, Low oil shutoff and indicator, and the voltmeter ensures overall safety of the machine.

Moreover, the device and all its parts are made of metals. It weighs 127 pounds which is quite lightweight to move from one place to another. The ergonomically designed wheel and handle kit make it even easier to transport the machine.

We love the fact that this generator provides you with all the necessary tools including an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, handle and wheel kit, and DC charging cables.

The XP5500EH is also one of the most reviewed generators on Amazon. Along with all the impressive features, the low price makes it even more popular among the users.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 4500 watts
  • Max Watts: 5500 watts
  • Weight: 127 pounds
  • Engine Size: 224 cc
  • Outlets: 120V 20A duplex, 120/240V 30A twist-lock
  • Fuel Type: Dual fuel (propane or gasoline)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.96 gallons (gasoline), 20 gallons (propane)
  • Runtime at 50% load: 12 hours
  • Noise Level: 69 dB

Pros

  • Compatible to several outlets
  • Dual fuel capacity
  • Electric start
  • Lightweight
  • Quiet operation
  • Affordable

Cons

  • No propane regulator

Our Verdict

The DuroMax XP5500EH is great for appliances at home as well as a construction site. Its versatility can be a great deal-maker for Americans living in the west coastal regions where power cuts are more prevalent.

This DuroMax model is also pretty easy and safe to use. The best part is that you won’t have to break the bank for purchasing this dual fuel portable generator!

03 DuroStar DS10000E (Best for Home Use)

DuroStar DS10000E

The DuroStar DS10000E is a gasoline generator with a large 440cc 16HP engine. It produces 10000 watts of surge-power and 8000 watts of running power which is more than enough for all the electronic appliances at your home.

This generator has a big fuel tank with a capacity of 8.3 gallons. It can run continuously for 10 hours at 50% load, which is longer than the DuroMax XP12000EH with the same fuel capacity.

It comes with one 120V duplex and two 120/240V twist-lock outlets. You can operate the machine at 120V and 240V simultaneously, but we recommend you to use it only at 120V unless you require 240 volts. You can apply the maximum load at the L14 – 50 R receptacle.

Additionally, there is a 12 volt DC 10A external circuit that allows you to charge the batteries.

The DS10000E also features an idle down switch that helps protect the monitor, lower fuel consumption, and reduce noise when there are no loads. Besides, this machine is usable in every state in the USA since it is CARB and EPA approved.

This machine is quite bulky and weighs 260 pounds. Despite the heavy weight, it’s heavy-duty metal frame along with the four-point motor mounts provide it with stability and help it run smoothly. It also comes with a folding handle and wheel kit to improve mobility.

We were impressed with its quiet operation, thanks to the noise muffler. It makes noise at 72dB which is lower compared to most big generators.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 8000 watts
  • Max Watts: 10000 watts
  • Weight: 260 pounds
  • Engine Size: 440 cc
  • Outlets: 1 120V household, 2 120/240V 30A twist-lock, 1 120/240V 50A heavy-duty
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.3 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 10 hours
  • Noise Level: 72 dB

Pros

  • Smooth and quiet operation
  • Low-oil shut off capability
  • Five power outlets to run heavy-duty appliances
  • CARB and EPA approved engine
  • Dual recoil and electric start system
  • Good runtime
  • Robust construction

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy

Our Verdict

The DuroStar DS10000E provides sufficient power to all appliances in a middle-class home. It’s the ideal solution for your home during any power cuts. It can also be used in small worksites and farms. It’s capable of powering multiple electronic devices at one go.

The overall design makes it extremely durable and safe to use. Given the price tag, this generator is a great deal breaker.

04 Champion 3400-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Champion 3400-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

The Champion 3400-watt is an inverter dual fuel generator that is easy to use. It has both recoil and the reliable electric start system. The electric start is a rare feature for a smaller generator like this. Moreover, the cold-start technology assures a quick start during cold weather.

This model is equipped with a 192 cc small engine that generates 3400 watts of surge power and runs continuously at 3100 watts of power.

It has a fuel tank with a capacity of 1.6 gallons. We wished it had more capacity that you wouldn’t refuel it quite often. However, it reduces your cost by consuming less fuel and can run for 14.5 hours with propane and 7.5 hours with gas at 25% load. This runtime is even longer than the Champion 7500-watt model.

This machine weighs only 95.7 pounds. You can easily take it with you on your vacation or for camping. As it is EPA and CARB compliant, you can use it at any natural park for camping without any restrictions. What’s more, it includes a never-flat tires wheel kit and two handles that make it even easier to transport.

What we loved the most about this generator was its quiet operation. In fact, it’s one of the quietest options available in the market that produces noise at less than 60 dBA.

However, it can be louder at a full load. You’ll find it the quietest when it runs at a quarter load. Plus, its smart throttle adjusts the engine automatically to save fuel and reduce noise.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 3100 watts
  • Max Watts: 3400 watts
  • Weight: 95.7 pounds
  • Engine Size: 192 cc
  • Outlets: 1 120V 30A RV, 2 120V 20A household, 1 12V DC
  • Fuel Type: Dual fuel (gasoline or propane)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.6 gallons
  • Runtime at 25% load: 14.5 hours (propane), 7.5 hours (gasoline)
  • Noise Level: 59 dB

Pros

  • Dual recoil and electric start system
  • Lightweight
  • Portable design
  • Decent runtime
  • Dual fuel
  • Ultra-quiet operation
  • Long warranty

Cons

  • Limited fuel tank capacity
  • Relatively expensive

Our Verdict

The Champion 3400-watt is a noiseless portable generator that can be quite handy for camping and recreational vehicles. It can be a great backup source of electricity during a power outage. Dual fuel capability makes it even more useful.

However, this amazing portable generator is a bit expensive. If price is not that much of a concern for you, we will highly recommend this generator for your home or RV.

05 DuroMax XP12000EH

DuroMax XP12000EH

The DuroMax XP12000EH is one of the best propane generators that produces a giant 12000 peak watts and a running 9500 watts of power. It can power almost all the appliances and machinery at your home and job site.

The control panel of this generator houses several power outlets that include one 120V duplex, two 120/240V twist lock, and one 120/240V heavy duty outlet. So you can run a large number of tools at the same time.

With a capacity of 8.3 gallons, this machine can run up to 8.83 and 7.2 hours on gas and propane respectively, at half load. We also found the switching between fuels pretty easy. You just need to push a button and switch the fuel even when the generator is running.

It weighs 224 pounds, which makes it quite heavy. Since it’s big, it makes louder noise compared to most other generators. However, you can reduce the noise by running it on a quarter load.

The heavy-duty steel frame makes it extremely durable. Moreover, it comes with a high-quality wheel kit that makes it portable and allows you to take it over uneven and rough ground surfaces.

The XP12000 is one of the highest rated generators on eStores. Many love it because of its power potential but we also believe that its long warranty has a big role to play here.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 9500 watts
  • Max Watts: 12000 watts
  • Weight: 224 pounds
  • Engine Size: 457 cc
  • Outlets: 1 120V household, 2 120/240V 30A twist-lock, 1 120/240V 50A heavy-duty
  • Fuel Type: Dual fuel (gasoline or propane)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.3 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 8.83 hours (gasoline), 7.2 hours (propane)
  • Noise Level: 74 dB

Pros

  • Powerful engine
  • Dual fuel
  • Robust construction
  • Massive power outputs
  • Decent runtime
  • Long warranty
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Noisy
  • Heavy

Our Verdict

If you’re searching for a powerful generator to use at a construction site, the DuroMax XP12000EH can be a great choice for you. It is “the beast” that can generate a huge amount of power for large electric loads. It also costs lower compared to other powerful generators above 1000watts.

Overall, this portable generator succeeds in being an excellent choice for homeowners and professionals alike.

06 Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

The Champion 7500-Watt is a dual fuel generator that produces 7500 running watts and 9375 surge watts on gasoline. It’s powerful enough to run different tools and motor-powered appliances along with home appliances like refrigerator, AC, microwave, pump, and lighting.

When running on propane, it produces a bit less power but it is also cheaper and cleaner than gas. With a huge fuel tank capacity of 6 gallons, this generator can run for 8 hours and 5.5 hours on gasoline and propane respectively, at a 50% load.

This model is equipped with multiple power outlets that allow you to plug in several applications at once. It has two 120/240V twist-lock outlets and four 120V duplex outlets. One great advantage of this model is that it has a power-surge protector that efficiently prevents overload and keeps your equipment safe.

It produces noise at 74 dB which is as loud as the previous DuroMax XP12000EH model. The noise is quite okay for a big generator with a 439 cc engine.

Despite its heavy weight, it’s portable. Its sturdy wheel kit and handles make it easy for you to move the machine from one place to another.

We found this generator one of the sturdiest. It’s made of high-grade materials and you won’t need to buy any spare parts. This one is built to last.

Moreover, the maintenance of this machine is pretty easy. You won’t have to spend extra bucks for servicing it. You can clean it yourself following the user manual.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 7500 watts (gasoline), 6750 watts (propane)
  • Max Watts: 9375 watts (gasoline), 8400 watts (propane)
  • Weight: 202.4 pounds
  • Engine Size: 439 cc
  • Outlets: Two 120/240V 30A locking, four 120V 20A duplex
  • Fuel Type: Dual fuel
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 6 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 8 hours (gasoline), 5.5 hours (propane)
  • Noise Level: 74 dB

Pros

  • Dual fuel capabilities
  • Dual recoil and electric start system
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • High starting AC outputs
  • Safety fuel-selector switch
  • Easy to operate
  • Excellent warranty

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Comparatively louder

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a powerful generator for running all the electric appliances at your home during a power outage, the Champion 7500-Watt is worth checking out. It can also constantly power several power tools at your worksite. The versatility of this generator makes it one of the best options in the market. The major advantage is that you can quickly switch between the fuels when one fuel is about to finish.

07 Champion 76533 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

Champion 76533 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

The Champion 76533 is mainly designed for RVs. It comes with a standard 30 amp RV outlet that is able to run your 15000 BTU RV air-conditioner.

You have the option of running this generator either on propane or gasoline. There is a built-in propane inlet, so you aren’t required to make any additional configuration. With its 224cc engine, it pumps out a decent 3800 running watts and 4750 peak watts.

Moreover, it offers you a long runtime. At half load, it can run for 10.5 hours on propane and 9 hours on gasoline. It also makes less noise than the previous Champion 7500-watt model.

We were impressed with its super easy push button electric start. It provides you with a battery and charger that charges it when the generator is running. Additionally, it’s equipped with cold-start technology that optimizes the machine to start up in freezing weather without any hassle.

You can also take this machine with you for camping or any weekend vacation. Its never-flat tires and sturdy folding handle make it easily portable. What’s more, it’s approved in all the 50 states since it’s certified by both EPA and CARB.

Another amazing feature of this generator is its built-in VoltGuard surge protector that prevents overloads and protects your sensitive electronic devices from power surges and voltage spikes.

The Champion also offers you a long 3-year warranty with lifetime free technical support. Very few generators at this price point offer such generous warranty, which simply makes this generator more reliable.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 3800 watts
  • Max Watts: 4750 watts
  • Weight: 119 pounds
  • Engine Size: 224 cc
  • Outlets: One 120V 30A RV, one 120V 30A locking, two 120V 20A duplex
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline and propane
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.4 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 9 hours (gasoline), 10.5 hours (propane)
  • Noise Level: 68 dB

Pros

  • Recoil and electric start system
  • RV ready
  • VoltGuard and surge protector
  • CARB compliant engine
  • Easy to operate
  • Versatile
  • Cost-effective

Cons

  • Relatively heavy

Our Verdict

Overall, the Champion 76533 is a great fuel-efficient machine that offers the best value for your money. It is portable, operates quietly, and produces enough power for a recreational vehicle. You can also use it at your home as an emergency power backup.

We recommend this model for any RV enthusiast who keeps travelling to different states and requires a constant power supply.

08 Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator

Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Generator

The Westinghouse WGen3600DF is equipped with a TT-30R 30A 120V RV outlet that quickly and easily powers a recreational vehicle. You don’t even need any additional adapter for this. You just need to plug in and it’s ready to use.

You can power this generator with both propane and gas. In fact, you can switch between the fuels when the machine is already in use. It has a 4-gallon tank for gasoline. We recommend you to use gas above 87-grade and without ethanol blend.

It operates on 4650 starting watts and 3600 running watts. The power it produces is pretty decent considering the size of its engine. Moreover, it can run continuously for 13.5 hours at 50% load. This extended runtime makes it extremely useful as a backup power source.

When it comes to the noise, it produces only 65 dB which is much quieter than the big generators. As you decrease the fuel load, the level of noise becomes lower farther.

The WGen3600DF is significantly lighter than the WGen7500DF model. It weighs only 109 pounds which makes it portable. Additionally, the extendable handle and solid wheels make it even easier to transport.

We found this generator pretty easy to maintain. The low-oil shutoff and fuel gauge features are quite handy. They allow you to monitor the machine and not worry about engine damage.

Furthermore, the starting system of this device is pretty convenient. You can pull the cord in the traditional system, use an electric starter, or remotely start it with the included key fob.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 3600 watts
  • Max Watts: 4650 watts
  • Weight: 109 pounds
  • Engine Size: 212 cc
  • Outlets: 1 5-20R 120V Duplex, 1 TT-30R 30A RV, 1 L5-30R 30A
  • Fuel Type: Dual Fuel (Gasoline or Propane)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 4 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 13.5 hours
  • Noise Level: 65 dB

Pros

  • Extended runtime
  • Less noise
  • Easy to start and use
  • Great power outputs
  • Dual fuel capabilities
  • Great price/quality ratio

Cons

  • Larger than its capacity

Our Verdict

The WGen3600DF’s small size is perfect for a job site, the yard or camping. It offers you a lot of safety features to prevent any electric shocks. The power is decent enough for running a RV or home appliances.

Moreover, it’s pocket-friendly and uses less fuel as well. Considering the price and performance, this generator is definitely a steal!

09 A-iPower SUA12000ED

A-iPower SUA12000ED

A-iPower SUA12000ED is rated at max 12000 watts with a running power at 9000 watts. This high peak power helps you supply electricity to big devices like pumps, air conditioners, and refrigerators.

The fuel tank of this generator is made of steel which adds to its durability. It has a capacity of 7 gallons that makes it capable of running for 16 hours at 50% load. This runtime is longer than most other generators at this price point.

The unit weighs 206 pounds but it’s still easy to move, thanks to the 9.5 inch flat wheels. The wheels provide enough traction for all terrains.

It’s powered by a 459cc/16-HP OHV engine. It’s CARB compliant, meaning users in California can also use this machine. However, it makes noise at 78 dB at 23 ft., which can be a bit noisy for some people. The noise is just loud like a gas-powered lawn mower.

This machine runs on both gasoline and propane. There is an easy to use and well-equipped control pad that helps you switch easily between the fuels.

The feature that impressed us the most was its weather resistant cover. It allows you to use the machine safely even when it’s damp. Besides, all the four 120V power outlets are GFCI protected to prevent nasty electric shocks.

Moreover, the SUA12000ED offers you some amazing features, such as light indicators that give warnings, safety modes for protecting the engine, and fuel-gauges to let you know when to refill.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 9000 watts
  • Max Watts: 12000 watts
  • Weight: 206 pounds
  • Engine Size: 459 cc
  • Outlets: 2 120V 20A duplex, 1 120/240V 30A R30 twist-lock, 1 120/240V R50 34A
  • Fuel Type: Dual Fuel (Gasoline or Propane)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 7 gallons
  • Runtime at 50% load: 16 hours
  • Noise Level: 78 dB

Pros

  • Weather-resistant cover
  • High peak watts
  • Digital control panel
  • Dual fuel
  • Low oil shut-off
  • Powerful engine
  • Dual start system

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Noisy

Our Verdict

The A-iPower SUA12000ED provides plenty of power at such a reasonable price. This generator can power any appliances of your house, a job site, or any business where there is a power outage. Moreover, you can take it with you on vacation since it is portable.

If you’re looking for a high-power generator to run large appliances, we highly recommend this one for you. Contractors who work on construction sites will also be benefited from its high peak-wattage.

10 Sportsman GEN4000LP

Sportsman GEN4000LP

The Sportsman GEN4000LP comes with a 7HP engine that produces 3250 watts energy continuously and surges up to 4000watts. This energy is capable of powering various appliances including refrigerators or other equipment on a job site.

It’s one of the lightest propane generators in the market, weighing only 88 pounds. So you can easily move it from one job site to another. It also fits in any small space of your garage.

The GEN4000LP has a conventional recoil start system. You can easily start the machine by simply pulling the rope. Moreover, it runs at around 68 dB, which makes noise softer than a vacuum cleaner you use at home.

Additionally, this generator includes a dust-cover to keep it protected when it’s not being used.

Compared to gasoline generators, this propane generator runs longer. At 50% load, it can run for about 10 hours. Besides, propane is more stable and burns cleaner than gasoline.

We loved its simple control panel. It has two AC reset buttons at left and right to control the two 120V AC receptacles. You’ll find the DC reset-button on the right to control its only 12V DC outlet.

Though the GEN4000LP is one of the cheapest options for propane generators, it has a quite robust construction. It offers only a one year warranty, but rest assured it will serve you for a long time without any hassle.  Always place the machine on a level surface and make sure it’s not leaking.

Specifications

  • Rated Watts: 3250 watts
  • Max Watts: 4000 watts
  • Weight: 88 pounds
  • Engine Size: 224 cc
  • Outlets: Two 120V AC outlet, one 12V DC outlet
  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Runtime at 50% load: 10 hours
  • Noise Level: 68 dB

Pros

  • Long runtime
  • Lightweight
  • Low noise level
  • Durable
  • Environment-friendly
  • Voltage regulator and low oil shutdown

Cons

  • Short warranty
  • Not CARB compliant

Our Verdict

Overall, the Sportsman GEN4000LP is an all-in-one generator. During natural excursion or in your job site, this machine will be a perfect solution for supply of electricity. The high-quality parts ensure that it withstands the test of time. What’s more, this device is convenient to use while fishing or camping at a place where power isn’t available.

Best Portable Generator for House – Buying Guide

Best Portable Generator for House – Buying Guide

1. Durability

This is difficult to measure just by looking at the machine or reading the specifications. They can get damaged if not used for a long time. However, propane generators generally have a longer shelf life than the gas ones.

2. Conventional vs Inverter Generator

You should first decide if you want a conventional or inverter generator. The inverter one is lightweight and smaller in size, whereas the conventional generators are heavier and bigger in size. The former also makes less noise than the latter. However, the conventional ones have bigger fuel tanks and produce more power.

3. Power

It’s important to buy a generator with more power-output. Power increases the versatility of the machine allowing you to power up various appliances at your home or job site.

4. Start System

Ensure that you’re going to get a propane generator with an electric-start system. You can turn the unit on easily without any hassle. Recoil start system has become an old system now. There are even some units that come with remote-start function, perfect for using in RV.

5. Power Outlets

Look at the variety of power outlets when choosing your generator. Most of the recent models feature RV-ready 30 amp outlets, which is extremely helpful for RV use. A 12-V DC power outlet can be a plus too.

Additionally, you’ll find two household AC outlets on most of the generators, but four outlets will let you plug in many other smaller electronics.

6. Alternative Fuel Capacity

Although most models run on gasoline, some models are equipped with a natural gas line or propane tank.

7. Portability

Portability is one of the major factors to consider when buying a propane generator, especially if you require to move the machine between locations. Models weighing around 100 pounds with sets of wheels are easily portable. However, some tri-fuel powerful models weigh more than 200 pounds.

8. Safety

Some generators feature a low-oil alert as well as automatic shutoff which prevent fire hazard and potential damage to the generator. Some models also come with surge-prevention to protect sensitive electronics from any harm and prevent electrocution.

9. Runtime

Generators with longer runtime are the most useful. Different models come with different power outputs and sizes. Depending on these features, a propane generator can run up to 14.5 hours. Choose the model that essentially meets your power needs.

10. Fuel Gauge

During extended blackouts, you’ll appreciate this feature that allows you to check the remaining fuel at a glance.

11. Ease of Use

You should be able to use your propane generator easily. The installation process will take some time. You may check its start system too since electric and pull cords are comparatively easy to use.

12. Quiet Operation

Propane generators usually run quieter than gasoline generators. Quietness is an important aspect to consider for such machines. Propane is kinder to its engine than gasoline and gives you a quieter experience. Moreover, there are some generators that are equipped with muffling technology to reduce the noise.

13. Removable Console

It is connected to the generator to let you plug in different appliances without using extension cords outside.

14. Warranty

If you run your generator a lot, its various parts may face wear and tear over a period of time. That’s why most of the generators offer a 2 or 3 year warranty period.

15. Budget

With the higher level of power outputs, the price of a propane generator increases. However, you may find a decent powerful propane generator within a range from $500 to $1800.

Why Buy a Propane Generator

A propane generator offers you a lot of advantages. Some of the top advantages are:

Less Noise

Propane generators usually run quitter than gasoline generators. Some models also use muffling technology to reduce the level of noise.

Clean Burning

Propane generators are environment-friendly as they emit less carbon dioxide compared to all other fuel powered generators. Since these generators aren’t a threat for the environment, you can freely use them in all the US states.

Longer Shelf Life

Propane offers longer shelf life than gas. In fact, propane can last a lifetime and doesn’t reduce in quality over time. Hence you don’t need to rush to finish any existing propane stock. Conversely, gas loses its quality over time.

Easy Availability

If you need to travel constantly, propane generators can be pretty advantageous for you. Propane tanks can be bought virtually anywhere. You can also transport them easily. Besides, you can store propane easily in a small tank.

Less Expensive

Propane is quite cost-effective and they run longer than other fuels. In fact, you can buy 1-gallon of propane at half the price of a gallon of gas.

Easy Starting System

Since germs cannot affect propane, you can start your propane generator every time without any hesitation. You never struggle to turn on a propane generator even in the dark.

Portable Generator for House – Usage & Safety Tips

Make sure that you follow the guidelines and tips below for general safety:

  • You should never use your generator indoors. Use them only outdoors and keep them in a ventilated area. Also, don’t operate them near vents, doors, or windows.
  • Give your propane generator enough room for its fuel to expand, meaning don’t overfill the machine.
  • Add fuel only when the machine is off and cooled down.
  • Don’t operate it while wet in order to prevent any risk of electrocution.
  • Run your generator at least two times in a month.
  • Remember the power capacity of your generator and don’t overload it.
  • Read the user manual and follow the instructions strictly.

Care & Maintenance Tips

If you follow Powertoolsgudie’s maintenance guide, you’ll get hours of hassle-free service from it. It’s recommended that you run your generator with at least 50 percent of load capacity. That means, with a 5000-watt generator, the load should be minimum 2500 watts.

Most generators come with an hour-meter. Note the run hour each time after changing oil level and also inspect the air-filter. Be aware of the specific hours when you’ll require to service your generator.

After every 9 or 10 hours, make a visual inspection. You should change the fuel filters every 500 years. For conventional generators, adjust the valves every 800-900 hours. Don’t forget to check the slip rings, brushes, and exhaust system.

Finally, check your rubber fuel supply-lines every year for any damage or cracks. According to your manufacturer’s suggested interval time, change the filter, air cleaner, and engine oil.

It’s Time to Wrap Up

We hope our list will help you find the best propane generator for the money. We tried to cover everything you need to know about the finest models and shared our hands-on experience with you. We recommend that you keep your budget and needs in mind before making the final decision.

If you’re still confused, you can consider these recommendations:

For a heavy-duty generator for professional use, you can go for the DuroMax XP12000EH. It’s one of the most powerful propane generators in the industry. You may also choose the Westinghouse WGen7500DF for an overall price and quality ratio.

If you’re on a shoestring budget, consider the DuroMax XP5500EH. Despite being the cheapest choice here, it offers you a decent 5500 watts of power that is enough for all the home appliances.

FAQs

1. Are propane generators more efficient?

Ans: Propane generators produce less BTUs compared to diesel or gas powered generators. So they are less efficient than their alternatives. But propane is a much cleaner burning fuel than diesel or gasoline, which makes it better for the environment as well as your generator.

2. Why is propane used as a fuel?

Ans: Propane has a higher energy content and burns with oxygen at 1980°C. It burns cleaner than other fuels, leaving behind carbon-dioxide, heat, and water. The heat helps power the internal combustion-engine to produce electricity. Propane also increases runtime of your generator.

3. What size generator do you need?

Ans: With a propane generator rated from 5000 to 7500 watts, you can use most of your household equipment, such as a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lightings. However, a 3000 to 4000 watt generator will be enough for RV.

4. How does a propane engine produce electricity?

Ans: A propane generator uses either liquid or vapor fuel-injection system. In both these systems, propane remains in a liquid state in the tank. In the vapor system, propane goes from a hose into its engine. Then with a regulator, it’s converted into vapor. On the other hand, in a liquid injection system, liquid vaporizes only after reaching the injector. When the engine is at 3600RPM, electricity starts to produce.

5. How loud are propane generators?

Ans: Propane or any other fuels don’t affect the level of noise. The noise depends on the inverter units. Conventional generators are usually louder than inverter ones. So, if you want a quiet environment, choose an inverter propane generator.

6. How many hours will a generator run on propane?

Ans: Most of the propane tanks come with a capacity of 500 to 1000 gallons. A propane generator can burn 2 to 3 gallons per hour. You can expect a 500 gallon tank to power your house for about a week and a 1000 gallon tank may last for two weeks.

7. Is it cheaper to run a generator on propane or gas?

Ans: Diesel is the cheapest option for generators. Gas generators use less fuel than propane generators. However, propane doesn’t expire while gas may expire in a year.

8. How much propane does a 20kw generator use?

Ans: At full load, a 20kw generator uses around 3 gallons per hour. At 80% capacity, a 500 gallon tank can continuously produce power for a whole week.

About the author

Noah McDonnell

A Garden Equipment Specialist

Noah here! Mow, blow, trim, prune…That’s all I do and love to do every day. Being proud of a large garden, I take pride in growing and nurturing plants of a wide variety. So, my familiarity with blowers, mowers, saws and pruners is nothing surprising. These appliances are good except on occasions when I detect signs of malfunctions. Gardening is a rewarding job as long as you know how to make peace with the tools. Buying a set of equipment every year is, by no means, a pleasant thing to do. therefore, I enjoy helping people use their gardening tools appropriately, take care of them, and ensure that everything goes without a large investment. Got an issue to seek remedy for? Well, check out my posts and become educated instantly!

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