Best Dual Fuel Generators for Diesel and Natural Gas Backup Power
Homeowners and small business users increasingly rely on dual fuel generators that can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This article highlights five top options that balance power, reliability, and portability while supporting contemporary backup needs. We compare performance figures, runtime, and key features to help you choose a unit that matches your home or jobsite requirements. Each model below offers Dual Fuel or Tri/Fuel capabilities and transfer switch readiness for seamless grid restoration.
| Product | Brand | Fuel Types | Peak Watts / Running Watts | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 | Westinghouse | Gas/Propane | 14,500 / 11,500 (gas) • 13,500 / 10,500 (propane) | Remote start, long runtime |
| DuroMax XP13000EH | DuroMax | Gas/Propane | 13,000 | Whole-home backup, electric start |
| Westinghouse iGen11000TFc | Westinghouse | Gas/Propane/Natural Gas | Gas 11,000; Propane 10,000; Natural Gas 8,800 | Inverter efficiency, CO sensor |
| Westinghouse iGen8200TFc | Westinghouse | Gas/Propane/Natural Gas | Gas 8,200; Propane 7,380; Natural Gas 6,560 | Quiet, transfer switch ready |
| Westinghouse 18000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel | Westinghouse | Gas/Propane | 18,000 / 14,500 (gas); 16,000 / 13,000 (propane) | High-capacity, CO sensor |
Below, five selected models are described in detail. Each section includes practical usage notes, power ranges, and what to consider when selecting a dual or tri-fuel backup generator for American homes and small businesses.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Dual Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse 14500 Dual Fuel generator delivers substantial power for larger homes or job sites. It provides 11,500 running watts on gasoline and 10,500 running watts on propane, with peak outputs of 14,500 and 13,500 respectively. A 9.5-gallon tank supports up to 19 hours of runtime on gasoline, while propane runs extend down to roughly seven hours with a 20-pound tank. Remote electric start and transfer switch readiness simplify operation during outages and after grid restoration. This model balances heavy-duty performance with practical fuel flexibility for emergency planning.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
With 13,000 watts of power, the XP13000EH is designed for whole-home backup and RV applications. DuroMax emphasizes dual-fuel versatility across its product line, including this unit’s electric start and transfer-switch readiness. The core DuroMax engine is built for power and durability, supporting demanding outages and storm protection. Users benefit from the option to run on gasoline or propane, enabling fuel flexibility during prolonged outages or limited fuel availability.
Westinghouse iGen11000TFc Tri-Fuel Inverter
The iGen11000TFc combines inverter efficiency with tri-fuel capability, supporting gas, propane, or natural gas inputs. Running watts vary by fuel: gasoline at 9,000, propane at 8,100, and natural gas at 7,200. It features a 50A transfer-ready setup, a CO sensor for added safety, and parallel capability for increased output. This model is suitable for homeowners seeking a balance of clean power, lower noise, and fuel versatility in a backup system that can cover essential circuits or more demanding loads.
Westinghouse iGen8200TFc Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter
The iGen8200TFc offers a compact tri-fuel solution with inverter performance that preserves sensitive electronics. Power output varies by fuel: 8,200 peak watts on gasoline, 7,380 on propane, and 6,560 on natural gas. It is designed for home backup with a 50A outlet, plus RV and household outlets, and is notably quieter than typical open-frame models. Its fuel flexibility makes it a practical choice for smaller homes or apartments where space and noise are considerations.
Westinghouse 18000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse 18000 Peak Watt model is designed for large homes and demanding job sites. Gasoline output reaches 18,000 peak watts and 14,500 running watts, while propane provides 16,000 peak and 13,000 running watts. With a large 10.5-gallon tank and a robust 713cc V-Twin OHV engine, it supports long runtimes and heavy loads. The generator features a low THD under 5%, safeguarding sensitive electronics, and includes multiple transfer-ready outlets for flexible configurations. This unit is suited for serious backup power needs where high wattage is essential.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations And Comparisons
When selecting a dual fuel or tri-fuel generator for diesel and natural gas compatibility, consider these factors:
- Power needs: Start by listing essential circuits and their wattage requirements. Outdoor tools, HVAC, refrigerators, sump pumps, and lighting influence peak and running wattage choices.
- Fuel availability and cost: Gas, propane, and natural gas each have tradeoffs. Propane stores well and is convenient, natural gas requires a dedicated supply line, and gasoline is widely available but less stable long-term.
- Run time: Tank size and engine efficiency determine runtime. Long outages demand larger tanks or fuel flexibility (natural gas or propane).
- Inverter vs. traditional generator: Inverter models offer cleaner power (lower THD) and quieter operation, but higher upfront costs. Large-load, high-wattage needs may still require conventional units.
- Transfer switch readiness: Ready-for-transfer-switch installations simplify seamless power restoration and protect against backfeeding.
- Safety features: CO sensors, low-oil shutdown, and proper enclosure design reduce risk during operation and in enclosed spaces.
- Portability vs. capacity: Heavier units deliver more power but require stronger transport and setup capacities. Assess wheel kits, handles, and jack options.
- Maintenance and warranty: Look for accessible service networks and robust warranties, especially for high-cycle use during outages.
In practice, users often prioritize a balance between continuous running watts and peak watts, ensuring the unit can sustain critical loads while handling surge demands. Tri-fuel options add flexibility in fuel choice, but may involve more complex maintenance and fuel management. For residential backup, a model with inverter-based power and CO sensing provides a safer, quieter, and more efficient experience. For industrial or larger home setups, higher-wattage dual-fuel units with transfer switch compatibility provide a reliable backbone for critical systems.