Best Dual Fuel Generators 2016

For those who are in need of a portable generator for emergency use at home or taking with you on trips, there are a considerable number available on the market. One consideration you may want to make is choosing a dual fuel generator.

Today, portable generators have been blessed by advance technology that makes them quieter, easier to start, and very reliable even under rugged conditions. The materials that make up a portable generator have improved considerably over the years which is why more people are turning to them in times of emergency as well as for camping and tailgating events.

A dual fuel generator means that you can use whichever fuel source is more convenient for your particular needs. Leading manufacturers of dual fuel portable generators offer durable and portable products.  Three generators have earned the title of best dual fuel generators on the market thanks to their individual construction, features, and price.

Best Dual Fuel Generator Overall 

DuroMax XP10000EH 8000 Running Watts & 10000 Starting Watts Dual Fuel Portable Generator

The mighty XP10000EH from DuroMax retains the top spot from our 2015 review as the Best Dual Fuel Genarator on the market is a very popular generator thanks to its remarkable power output in a relatively small package. The portable nature of the generator combined with the power output makes it the perfect choice for emergency use as well as taking out on camping trips.

This generator offers several different features which makes it one of the best on the market today. It is easy to use and powerful enough to run a number of devices. The engine is crafted with a cast iron sleeve and has steel bearings to extend its life. The generator also offers a number of other features:

  • 18HP Engine
  • Quiet Exhaust: 72 DBA from 7 Meters Out
  • Built-in Spark Arrestor
  • Outlets: Two-120V 20 amp three prong outlets/ One-120v 30 amp twist lock, One-120v/240v 30 amp twist lock, One-120v/240v 50 amp heavy duty outlet and One 10a 12v

The full power panel includes the key start switch, volt meter, circuit breaker, advance oil warning light, and power outlets. The engine is EPA approved, but it is not available for shipping to California.

What makes the XP10000EH the best dual fuel generator on the market today is the combination of power, performance, and longevity. The nifty aspect about this generator is that in cold climate conditions that make propane difficult to start the unit, gasoline can be used instead initially and then the switch can be made in just a few minutes. 

Best Value for Dual Fuel Generator

DuroMax XP4850EH 3850 Running Watts and 4850 Starting Watts Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator

DuroMax XP4850EH

There are few dual fuel generators that combine the power, portability, and reliability of the XP4850EH from DuroMax. The generator itself offers a number of features that makes it well suited for different needs. First, this generator is constructed on a heavy frame to ensure stability and quiet operation thanks to the completely isolated four point motor mounts. In addition, the generator offers great features making it perfect for emergency use or when traveling on the road.

  • AC Output: 3,850 Watts
  • Max AC Output: 4,850 Watts
  • 7 HP Air Cooled DuroMax OHV Engine
  • EPA Approved: Safe to Use in National Parks
  • Full Power Panel

The panel itself includes the key start switch, volt meter, circuit breaker, advance oil warning light, and power outlets for your needs. There is also a low oil indicator lamp and shutoff to prevent damage to the motor itself.

Using either gas or propane, the XP4850EH provides a considerable amount of power. However, it must be noted that propane is cleaner, longer lasting, and will cause less wear on the generator itself. Plus, propane is usually more available in emergency situations and can be safely transported when needed. When in use, this generator will run the basic necessities of your home including lights, refrigerator, and other important items.

Best Dual Fuel Generator Under $600

Champion Power Equipment 76533 3800 Running Watts 4750 Starting Watts

Champion Dual Fuel Generator

For those who are looking for an emergency use generator while staying within a budget, then this is the product for you. At under $500, the Champion Power Equipment offers a safe, powerful, and portable generator that provides plenty of power to run the essentials in your home.

  • 3800 Watts Rated
  • 4750 Watts Maximum Output
  • Outlets: One-120v DUPLEX Outlets (Five-20R), One-TT30 Amp RV Outlet, One-120V Twistlock (L5-30R)
  • 8 Hour Running Time on Gas
  • 5.5 Hour Running Time on Propane at 50% Load
  • Weight: 119 lbs
  • Two Year Limited Warranty

In addition to the impressive two year warranty is a lifetime free technical support which will help walk you through any difficulties with the generator. As with the other best dual fuel generators on the market today, this particular unit offers a considerable number of advantages. This is all the more remarkable thanks to the very low price.

Champion Portable Dual Fuel Generator

Although it can be transported to different events, it does weigh 119 lbs which means it will take a little muscle to get around. However, it is very well priced to be a superb emergency generator for your home that is compact in design so that it can be easily stored. For those who are looking to spend under $600 for a portable generator, this entry from Champion is arguably the best.

Overall, the best dual fuel generator is one that fits your needs as well as your budget. The three mentioned here are among the best you can find for 2016. Plus, all three are robust, easy to use, and provide you with the power needed for emergency use, camping events, and even tailgating in approved locations.

You may also be interested in our 2014 and 2015 dual fuel generator reviews.

Best Generators For Small RV or Camper 2016

* The generators reviewed in our article Best Generators For RV and Travel Trailer 2013-2014 are still great buys. Feel free to review for more insight.

 

The open road and natural wonders of our world call. And we want to make sure you have a reliable portable generator for your small RV or camper adventure this season. It will be most useful those nights you want to be independent from plugging into or paying for outside electricity. We have complied a list of our best generators for RV in 2016. Our ratings consider quietness, portability, reliability, and affordability of the generator. Let’s briefly discuss why we chose each of the rating categories:

1.) Quietness

A small RV and camping experience is meant to be a peaceful one for both your party and others around you. You don’t want the roar of a loud generator in your ear as you watch the sunset or gaze at the mid-summer night sky. Nor, do you want to draw the ire of your neighbors with overpowering noise from your RV. We recommend a generator with dBa ratings below 60 to ensure a pleasant experience for all. This typically will come in the form of an inverter generator.

2.) Portability

Every traveler knows that maximizing available space and minimizing pack weight are keys to a successful and enjoyable experience. The same idea applies to your RV or camper generator. Many home generators can weigh up to 500 lbs! We recommend an RV generator weigh no more than 100 lbs as it is a manageable weight to load and unload from the RV and will be kind to the miles per gallon performance while driving your RV.

3.) Reliability

Of course this is one of the most important factors. We look for generators with a strong track record of performance and high ratings from consumers and seasoned RV and traveling enthusiasts. We are looking for generators that provide around 2000 watts of output. This is the sweet spot to power an RV (appliances, electronics, etc.) with a little room for an additional needs.

4.) Affordability

We are looking for the sweet spot of affordability and high marks for the prior three metrics. A strong performing portable generator for a small RV or trailer can be had for between $500 and $1,300.

 

Top Rated Inverter Generator For Small RV

Yamaha EF2000iS 2,000 Watt 79cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant, Blue

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Our top pick for 2016 remains the Yamaha EF2000iS 2000 watt gas powered portable generator. This generator packs more than enough power and is quiet with a noise rating of just 51.5 dBa. Weighing only 44 lbs, the generator is light enough for most any adult to move. The generator can run up to 10.5 hours continuously without refueling giving you long lasting power. It will reliably power a 5,000 BTU air conditioner, microwave, and small refrigerator. We were extremely pleased with its performance during our own testing and consumers agree with us. The EF2000iS has garnered a near 5 out of 5 stars from almost 300 consumer reviews on Amazon.com.  The generator delivers and exceeds our criteria for under $1000 at a cost of $989. Shipping is included in the price. We feel this is an excellent value that is difficult to top.

The EF2000iS is CARB compliant and is available for sale and use in California.

If  you are looking for a generator to reliably power a large 13,500 BTU air conditioner, try the slightly more powerful Yamaha EF2400iSHC.

 

Best Small RV Inverter Generator With Additional Power For The Money

Champion Power Equipment No.75531i Inverter Generator, 3100-watt

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The Champion Power Equipment No.75531i Inverter Generator, 3100-watt is our favorite RV generator for those seeking a little extra power.  The 75531i is still impressively quiet testing at 58 dBa, only slightly more than the Yamaha 2000iS. The 75531i does weigh considerably more at 80lbs, but wheels and a handle are built in to the generator helping it to maintain a very high portability rating. 80lbs is still extremely light for a generator.  The generator can run 8 hours on a full tank of gas (1.5 gallons) at a 25% load or 5-6 hours on a higher load. Champion offers excellent customer service and support. A two year manufacturer warranty is provided and a knowledgeable customer support line staff is available should you have any questions or require assistance.  Consumers agree that the the generator is a great buy at only $839 on Amazon, rating the generator a 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 100 reviews. Getting 3100 watts of power, light weight, and quiet is rare at this price point. 

Best Small RV Inverter Generator Under $600

Champion Power Equipment 73536i 2,000 Watt 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator (CARB Compliant)

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Champion comes through again with the 735361i 2,000 watt 4 stroke gas powered inverter generator. The generator checks all of our boxes.  The 735361i is light at only 48 lbs and is equipped with a built-in carry handle. It is quiet with a low 53 dBa rating making it perfect for dense camp site areas. Consumers also love this generator awarding it nearly 5 out of 5 stars across 74 reviews on Amazon. The 735361i can be had for $599 on Amazon.com. Shipping is included in the price.

The 735361i is CARB compliant and available for sale and use in California.

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