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10 Best Propane Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Gas & Propane Powered, RV Ready, CO Sensor, Parallel Capable

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,181
Portability
Noise Level
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
1622 reviews

Portability
Portability is enhanced by wheels and a telescoping handle, allowing easy movement despite its weight.
Noise Level
It's impressively quiet, with a noise level that doesn't disturb even outdoor wildlife, making it ideal for peaceful environments.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is remarkable, allowing for extended operation on a full tank, which is crucial during power outages.
Starting Mechanism
The generator offers excellent remote start options, including a key fob, push start, and pull start, making it incredibly convenient.

The Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is versatile with its dual fuel capability, allowing you to use either gasoline or propane for convenience and flexibility. It boasts a robust power output of 5000 peak watts and 3900 running watts, making it suitable for both home backup power and camping, particularly when RV-ready outlets are needed. This generator excels in fuel efficiency, offering an impressive up to 18-hour runtime on a full 3.4-gallon gas tank, and features an economical mode to enhance efficiency further.

Portability is somewhat of a mixed bag with this unit. Weighing in at 124.7 pounds, it might not be the easiest to move around frequently, but the telescoping handle somewhat mitigates this by allowing for easier transport compared to other heavier generators. A notable strength is its quiet operation, producing noise levels as low as 52 dBA, which is ideal if you're concerned about disturbing neighbors or maintaining a peaceful environment while camping. The inclusion of an electric start, alongside remote start capability with the key fob, adds to its user-friendly aspect, sparing you the hassle of manual starting, which is a big plus for convenience.

Safety features such as automatic CO shutdown and low oil shutdown provide peace of mind, ensuring the generator stops before dangerous levels are reached. However, its size and weight could be a limitation for those with limited space or needing to move it frequently. It’s well-suited for residential use and camping trips where it can stay mostly stationary. In conclusion, this generator is a reliable choice for someone needing a portable yet powerful source of energy, provided they can manage its size and weight. It's particularly appealing to those looking for a quiet, efficient, and easy-to-use solution for home backup or RV use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,181
Portability
Noise Level
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
1622 reviews

Portability
Portability is enhanced by wheels and a telescoping handle, allowing easy movement despite its weight.
Noise Level
It's impressively quiet, with a noise level that doesn't disturb even outdoor wildlife, making it ideal for peaceful environments.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is remarkable, allowing for extended operation on a full tank, which is crucial during power outages.
Starting Mechanism
The generator offers excellent remote start options, including a key fob, push start, and pull start, making it incredibly convenient.
#2

DuroMax XP5500EH 5,500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - Gas & Propane, Electric Start, RV & Emergency Ready

Rating
10.0
Starting Mechanism

Most important from
2106 reviews

Starting Mechanism
The electric start is a game-changer, making operation straightforward and accessible for inexperienced users.

The DuroMax XP5500EH 5,500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a versatile option for those needing a reliable power source for residential use, RVs, or emergencies. With a starting wattage of 5,500 and running at 4,500 watts, it is capable of powering essential appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, as well as high-amperage tools. This makes it a strong candidate for residential and light commercial needs.

A significant advantage is its dual fuel capability, allowing it to operate on either gasoline or propane. This flexibility can be a lifesaver during emergencies when fuel availability might be limited. With a run time of 9 hours on gasoline and 8 hours on propane at half load, it provides a decent duration of operation without frequent refueling. Portability is enhanced by its design, featuring solid fill tires and flip-up stow-away handles, although its weight of 124 pounds might make it challenging to move for some users without assistance. The electric start feature simplifies operation, making it more user-friendly compared to manual alternatives.

Fuel efficiency is reasonable, given the dual fuel option and the provision for choosing between 120V and 240V operations for optimized power usage. The fully featured power panel provides multiple outlets and a voltmeter, adding to its usability for various applications. Potential buyers should be aware of the need for space, given its dimensions and weight, and the necessity of regular maintenance inherent to power generators. This generator is especially suited for those needing versatile power solutions in a portable form.

Rating
10.0
Starting Mechanism

Most important from
2106 reviews

Starting Mechanism
The electric start is a game-changer, making operation straightforward and accessible for inexperienced users.
#3

Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered, Low THD - Safe for Electronics, Parallel Capable, CO Sensor

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
546 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator ran flawlessly for 3 straight days and powered everything in the house, including home heating units.
Run Time
The ability to use both propane and gas makes keeping it fueled easy, with propane lasting approximately 9 hours and gas about 12.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move, despite its heavy weight.
Noise Level
It is noisier than a Honda but seems solid and built to last.
Starting Mechanism
Super easy to use, with various starting options and convenient connections for propane and natural gas.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerful option for those in need of a reliable energy source. With a peak wattage of 11,000 watts on gasoline and 10,000 watts on propane, it delivers robust power suitable for a variety of uses, including residential and emergency backup. Its run time of up to 17 hours on a 9.8-gallon tank is impressive, ensuring long-term usage without frequent refueling. The generator features a remote electric start, which is convenient and user-friendly, along with push button and recoil start options.

It houses a heavy-duty 452cc engine with automatic low oil shutdown and a CO sensor for safety. The inclusion of GFCI outlets and transfer switch ready outlets make it versatile for different electrical needs. While it weighs 187.4 pounds, which may limit portability despite being marketed as portable, it remains a strong choice for those seeking reliability and versatility. Fuel efficiency is good, especially with the ability to run on both gasoline and propane, providing flexibility depending on fuel availability.

The rotating digital display and various included components like the oil funnel and propane regulator make it user-friendly from the start. While its weight might be a drawback for some, the generator’s comprehensive features and robust power output make it a solid choice for those seeking reliability and versatility.

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
546 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator ran flawlessly for 3 straight days and powered everything in the house, including home heating units.
Run Time
The ability to use both propane and gas makes keeping it fueled easy, with propane lasting approximately 9 hours and gas about 12.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move, despite its heavy weight.
Noise Level
It is noisier than a Honda but seems solid and built to last.
Starting Mechanism
Super easy to use, with various starting options and convenient connections for propane and natural gas.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Generators

When choosing a propane generator, it's important to consider your specific needs and how the generator will be used. Propane generators are a great choice for backup power during emergencies, outdoor activities, or even as a primary power source in remote locations. They are known for their clean-burning fuel, which is more environmentally friendly compared to gasoline. To make an informed decision, you should understand the key specifications and how they relate to your requirements.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is crucial because it determines what appliances and devices you can run simultaneously. Generators typically range from 1,000 watts to over 10,000 watts. For small appliances and light use, a generator with 1,000 to 3,000 watts may suffice. For running multiple appliances or larger equipment, you might need 3,000 to 7,000 watts. For whole-house backup or heavy-duty use, consider generators with 7,000 watts or more. Assess your power needs by listing the wattage requirements of the devices you plan to use.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long the generator can operate on a full tank of propane. This is important for planning how long you can rely on the generator before needing to refuel. Run times can vary widely, from a few hours to over 24 hours, depending on the generator's efficiency and load. For occasional use or short power outages, a shorter run time may be acceptable. For extended use or longer outages, look for a generator with a longer run time to minimize the need for frequent refueling. Consider your typical usage scenarios to determine the appropriate run time for your needs.
PortabilityPortability is a measure of how easy it is to move the generator. This is particularly important if you plan to use the generator in different locations or need to store it when not in use. Portable generators often come with wheels and handles for easier transport. Smaller, lighter models are easier to move but may have lower power output. Larger models may offer more power but can be heavier and harder to transport. Think about where and how you will use the generator to decide on the right balance between power and portability.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the generator is during operation. This is important for comfort, especially if you will be using the generator in residential areas or during camping trips. Generators can range from very quiet (around 50 dB) to quite loud (over 80 dB). For quiet environments or close proximity to living spaces, look for generators with lower noise levels. If noise is less of a concern, you may prioritize other features over noise level. Consider where you will use the generator and how much noise is acceptable in that setting.
Fuel EfficiencyFuel efficiency measures how effectively the generator uses propane to produce electricity. This is important for cost savings and reducing the frequency of refueling. More efficient generators can run longer on the same amount of fuel. Efficiency can be influenced by the generator's design and the load it is powering. Look for models with features like eco-mode or variable engine speed, which can improve efficiency. If you plan to use the generator frequently or for long periods, a more fuel-efficient model can save you money and hassle in the long run.
Starting MechanismThe starting mechanism refers to how the generator is turned on. Common options include manual recoil start, electric start, and remote start. This is important for ease of use and convenience. Manual recoil start requires pulling a cord, which can be physically demanding. Electric start uses a push-button or key, making it easier to start the generator. Remote start allows you to start the generator from a distance, adding convenience. Consider your physical ability and preference for convenience when choosing the starting mechanism.

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