When seeking reliable power solutions for your home during outages or emergencies, both solar and gas generators offer unique benefits. This guide highlights the top dual and tri-fuel generators, which run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, providing versatile fuel options. These generators are designed for home backup, featuring electric start, transfer switch readiness, and safety enhancements like CO detection. Below is a comparison table summarizing the key features of selected models to help you make an informed decision.
| Generator | Peak Watts | Running Watts | Fuel Types | Run Time | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel | 14,500 (Gasoline) | 11,500 (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours (Gasoline) | Fuel Gauge |
| Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel | 12,500 (Gasoline) | 9,500 (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane | Up to 12 hours (Gasoline) | Low Oil Shutdown, VFT Display |
| WEN 14500 Tri-Fuel | 14,500 (Gasoline) | 11,500 (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane, Natural Gas | Not Specified | CO Watchdog Sensor |
| DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel | 13,000 | Not Specified | Gas, Propane | Not Specified | CO Alert, Remote Start |
| Westinghouse 13500 Tri-Fuel | 13,500 (Gasoline) | 10,500 (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours (Gasoline) | CO Shutdown, Digital Hour Meter |
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Generator
The Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is engineered for larger homes or robust portable power needs. It offers 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, with slightly lower outputs on propane and natural gas. The generator’s dual fuel compatibility allows switching among gasoline, propane, and natural gas, enhancing convenience and fuel versatility. Its large 9.5-gallon fuel tank lets it run up to 19 hours on gasoline, supplemented by a built-in fuel gauge for easy monitoring. Remote electric start and transfer switch readiness add to its user-friendly design, making it ideal for emergency home backup.
Key features include:
- Tri-fuel operation: gasoline, propane, natural gas
- Up to 19 hours run time on gasoline
- Remote electric start
- Transfer switch ready for seamless home integration
- Built-in fuel gauge for convenience
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Generator
This Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel Generator supplies 9,500 running watts and 12,500 peak watts on gasoline, suitable for whole-home backup power with dual fuel flexibility between gasoline and propane. It features a powerful 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve enhancing durability. Users can benefit from remote electric start with a key fob and an intuitive Variable Frequency Technology (VFT) display that monitors voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours. Safety features include an automatic low oil shutdown and protective outlet covers, making it a reliable choice for home emergencies.
Highlights:
- Running watts: 9,500 (gasoline), 8,500 (propane)
- Remote start with included key fob
- VFT display for real-time engine stats
- Multiple outlets including GFCI and RV-ready
- Up to 12 hours runtime on gasoline
WEN 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator with CO Watchdog
The WEN TF1450X Tri-Fuel Generator delivers impressive power output with 14,500 surge watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline. It enables easy switching between gasoline, propane, and natural gas via a selection dial. Operating on both 120V and 240V makes it well-suited for transfer switches and versatile home applications. Safety is enhanced with the WEN Watchdog CO shutdown sensor, which automatically powers off the unit if harmful carbon monoxide is detected, providing peace of mind for indoor or outdoor use.
Features include:
- Tri-fuel capability with easy dial switching
- Power output: 14,500 surge watts gasoline; 12,500 propane
- CO Watchdog automatic shutdown sensor
- Suitable for 120V and 240V power output
- Transfer switch ready
DuroStar DS13000MX 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroStar DS13000MX dual fuel generator provides a powerful 13,000 watts of electric output, ideal for whole-home backup or job site use. It supports both gasoline for maximum power and propane for longer run times and cleaner emissions, allowing fuel flexibility in an emergency. This generator includes a 500cc heavy-duty engine and safety features like advanced carbon monoxide detection that automatically shuts it down to protect users. A remote electric start also adds convenience during outages.
Main advantages:
- Dual fuel: gasoline and propane with easy selection
- 13,000 watts reliable power output
- CO alert for enhanced operational safety
- Remote electric start feature included
- Robust 500cc engine for durability
Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Generator
The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator balances power and runtime with 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline and excellent performance on propane and natural gas. Designed with safety and convenience in mind, it incorporates CO shutdown protection, a digital hour meter, and a long-lasting 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine with automatic low oil shutdown. Compatible with transfer switches and RV connections, this generator supports up to 19 hours of continuous operation, enhancing its reliability for home backup power.
Additional features:
- Tri-fuel operation with flexible fuel options
- Remote start with included key fob
- CO automatic shutdown for safety
- Digital hour meter to track engine runtime
- Up to 19 hours run time on gasoline
Buying Guide for Solar and Gas Generators for Home Use
Choosing the right generator for your home backup involves several factors that affect performance, convenience, and safety. Below are key considerations when purchasing a solar or gas generator.
Fuel Type and Flexibility
Gasoline, propane, and natural gas are common fuel options. Generators with dual or tri-fuel capability offer fuel flexibility, allowing you to switch between fuels based on availability and cost. Gasoline provides higher power output, while propane and natural gas burn cleaner and can have longer run times.
Power Output
Determine your household power needs by listing critical appliances and their wattages. Look for a generator with sufficient running watts to support these loads continuously, and a higher peak wattage for starting surge appliances like refrigerators and pumps.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Capacity
Consider how long the generator can run on a full tank. Larger tanks mean longer runtimes, reducing the frequency of refueling. Some models have fuel gauges, which help monitor fuel levels conveniently.
Starting Mechanism
Electric start with remote key fobs offers ease of use, especially during emergencies. Manual recoil start is more traditional but less convenient for regular use.
Safety Features
Look for carbon monoxide (CO) detection and automatic shutdown technology to protect your family. Automatic low oil shutdown helps preserve the engine life and prevents damage.
Transfer Switch Compatibility
If you plan to connect the generator directly to your home electrical system, ensure it’s transfer switch ready. This allows safe power transfer without backfeeding into utility lines.
Noise Level
Check noise ratings or reviews as generator noise can impact comfort, especially in residential areas.
Portability and Construction
Consider size, weight, and presence of wheels or handles for portability. Heavy-duty engines and materials typically indicate greater durability for prolonged use.
Additional Features
Some generators offer digital displays for performance monitoring, multiple outlet types, and RV-ready connections, enhancing versatility.
By balancing these features based on your home’s needs and lifestyle, you can select a solar or gas generator that ensures reliable power and safety during outages.