10 Best Propane Generators To Buy In 2021
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If you are looking for a generator to power your home, RV, or job site, it is high time you consider a propane generator. Propane is a clean, convenient, and environmentally friendly source of energy that can also save a lot on your bill.
For decades, gasoline has been the most popular choice for fuel. However, we are also well aware of the effect it has on our planet and ultimately ourselves. Nonetheless, it remained a familiar energy source for a long time because it was easily available and also because alternatives were hard to find.
Things have changed as alternative energy sources like propane are now readily available. In recent years there has been a surge in the demand for Propane Generators as more and more people are becoming environmentally conscious and want to do their part to help the planet.
However, choosing the best propane generator that suits your needs can be challenging since you have a lot of factors to consider including power, portability, runtime, and usability. Besides, various brands offer generators that differ in quality and price. That’s why we have compiled this list of the Top 10 Best Propane Generators – so that YOU don’t have to do the work!
Now, needs vary from person to person, and each need requires a different kind of solution. The 10BestBuy® Team has prepared this 10 Best Propane Generators list to satisfy the needs of all kinds of customers.
We have also taken care to include only generators manufactured by the most reputable brands so that you don’t have to worry about quality.
At the end of the review, you will also find a Propane Generator Buyer’s Guide prepared by our Chief Editor, that will help you choose the most suitable propane generator for your needs, from our 10Best list.
10BestBuy.com selects
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel 12500 Watt Portable Generator
Dual Fuel Portable, RV Ready, C.A.R.B compliant Generator with Electric start and transfer switch.
A-iPower SUA12000ED Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel 13000 Watt Generator
DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel 4850 Watt Portable Generator
Champion 100263 Dual Fuel 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
All Power America APGG12000GLC Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
All Power America APG3590CN 10000 Watt, Propane, Portable Generator
Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty, 12000 Watt, Portable, Dual Fuel Generator
Pulsar PG7750B Dual Fuel 7750W Portable Generator
Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
Our rating system
Our customer reviews are provided by consumers like you The star ratings are based on an overall rating of the brands displayed, as well as specific ratings for ease of use, purchase satisfaction, value for money and quality of service. Any customer can, and is encouraged to write a review of their experiences with these brands.
Top 10 Best Propane Generators – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
01.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel 12500 Watt Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 11200/8500 (Propane), 12500/9500 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 220 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R), (1) 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), (1) 120/240V 50A (14-50R) (1) ST Switch Ready Outlet
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Tank Volume: 6.6 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Residential/1 Year Limited
Westinghouse is one of the most trusted manufacturers of generators with over 130 years of experience in the industry. When it comes to the wide array of portable generators in Westinghouse’s roster, the WGen9500DF Dual Fuel portable generator stands out from the rest.
It is one of the best propane generators you can get your hands on. It produces up to 11,200 peak watts and 8500 running watts when fueled with propane (12500/9500 on Gasoline) and is an ideal backup power source for larger homes and is a dependable source of portable power.
The WGen9500DF Dual Fuel portable generator is equipped with a heavy-duty 457cc 4-stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed of a durable cast iron sleeve and runs for up to 7 hours on a 20lb Propane tank at half load (12 hours on Gasoline). It also comes with a built-in fuel gauge, automatic low oil shut down, and GFCI outlets.
The Push-Button Electric Start makes starting the WGen9500DF Dual Fuel portable generator effortless and the Remote Start Key Fob lets you access it from a distance.
Despite weighing around 220 pounds, the generator is conveniently portable as it comes with a set of heavy-duty never-flat wheels, handles, and a lift bracket. It also comes with a VFT display that gives you real-time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours.
So for those seeking a durable and trustworthy propane-powered generator, the WGen9500DF Dual Fuel portable generator is, no doubt, one of the best choices available to you.
- Electric start key fob
- Transfer switch ready
- On-the-fly fuel change
- RV ready
- Only two AC outlets
02.
A-iPower SUA12000ED Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 10800/8100 (Propane), 12000/9000 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 214 Pounds
- Outlets: 4 x GFCI 120V 20A NEMA5-20R, 1 x 120V 30A NEMA L5-30R, 1 x 120/240V 30A NEMA L-14-30R, 1 x 12V8.3A Multifunction Port USB Ready
- Noise Level: 78 dBA
- Tank Volume: 6.6 Gallons
- Warranty: 2 Year Residential/1 Year Commercial
A-iPower has been one of the leading manufacturers of generators over the past few decades. The A-iPower SUA12000ED is a dual fuel portable generator that produces up to 10,800 peak watts and 8100 running watts when fueled with propane (12000/9000 on Gasoline) and is a dependable power source for construction job sites or as back-up power for your home during emergencies.
The SUA12000ED is powered by A-iPower’s 459cc/16HP OHV engine and has an average runtime of up to 10 hours at 50% load with a 20 lbs Propane tank (8.5 hours on Gasoline).
The switch-on-demand technology which allows you to conveniently switch between fuel types, combined with the high output alternator designed and manufactured by Senci, assures greater peak wattage when starting appliances and motor-driven tools.
The A-iPower SUA12000ED dual fuel portable generator also features a one-touch button for an electric start (battery included) and the Intelli-Start technology ensures your battery is fully charged when you need it.
It comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a voltmeter and low oil alert light. The generator has an easy-to-reach, ergonomically angled control panel which conveniently provides easy, user-friendly access and visibility to the panel.
So if you are looking for a heavy-duty dual-fuel generator to power your home, the A-iPower SUA12000ED is one of the best in the market.
- One-touch Electric Start
- Intelli-Start Technology
- High-output Alternator
- Switch-on-demand
- On the louder side
03.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel 13000 Watt Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 11400/9025 (Propane), 13000/10500 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 224 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) 120V 20A Household , (1) 120/240V 30A Twist Lock, (1) 120/ 30A Twist Lock, (1) 120/240V 50A Heavy Duty
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Tank Volume: 8.3 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
DuroMax is a modern generator manufacturer that focuses on innovation and quality and is known for its reliability and outstanding customer service. Among their long list of dual-fuel high-wattage generators, the DuroMax XP13000EH is by far the most popular.
This generator produces up to 12,350 peak watts and 9975 running watts when fueled with propane (13000/10500 on Gasoline) that can power your home, RV, or worksite.
The DuroMax XP13000EH is one of the most economically efficient generators as it comes with Low Oil Shutoff technology that protects your investment by automatically shutting down when oil is low. It comes with Idle Control that lowers the RPMs of the generator when not in use, saving fuel and reducing noise.
Also, the Front Fuel Switch allows you to easily set the fuel to gasoline or propane, and can also be used to run the fuel out of the carburetor for storage.
The DuroMax XP13000EH is powered by a powerful 500cc OHV Engine that can power high voltage appliances and heavy-duty power tools and runs for up to 6.5 hours on a Propane tank at half load (8.5 hours on Gasoline).
The generator comes with a Surge-Arrest technology that keeps it safe from power surges. It also comes with a Low Oil Alert and a Digital Multi Meter that displays Voltage, Frequency, and Hours Run.
The Push Button Start and No-Flat tires make the generator user-friendly and portable. Besides, all DuroMax generators are approved for operation in all 50 states by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) making them some of the best propane generators you can get your hands on.
- Push Button Start
- Idle Control
- Low Oil Shutoff
- On the heavier side
04.
DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel 4850 Watt Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 4,608/3658 (Propane), 4850/3850 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 122 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) 120V 20A GFCI, (1) 120/240V 30A Twist Lock,
- Noise Level: 68 dBA
- Tank Volume: 3.96 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
DuroMax also offers generators in the lower wattage ranges that still offer plenty of power to handle heavy loads from lights and refrigerators to home air conditioners and high amperage power tools. Among them, the most popular is the DuroMax XP4850EH dual fuel portable generator. With a 210cc OHV engine, this generator is a workhorse that packs a punch.
The DuroMax XP4850EH generator produces up to 4608 peak watts and 3658 running watts when fueled with propane (4850/3850 on Gasoline) and runs for up to 8.92 hours on a 20 lbs Propane tank at half load (10.42 hours on Gasoline).
The MX2 Technology that the generator comes with allows you to get the maximum power from each of its 120-volt receptacles. You can choose between operating the generator at both 120v and 240v simultaneously, or at 120V only with full power.
The DuroMax XP4850EH comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging ports for charging external batteries.
With features like Surge-Arrest, which protects your generators from power surges, and Low Oil Shutoff that automatically shuts off the generator when it senses that the oil is low, the DuroMax XP4850EH is one of the best low-maintenance generators you can find.
The generator also complies with Emissions Standards and is approved by both the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board). So if you are looking for a mid-range propane generator, the DuroMax XP4850EH is an ideal choice.
- Push Button Start
- Surge Arrest
- Low Oil Shutoff
- Low Noise
- No RV Ready 30 amp port
05.
Champion 100263 Dual Fuel 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 3060/2790 (Propane), 3400/3100 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 95.7 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) 120V 20A Household , (1) 120/240V 30A RV (TT-30R), (1) 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter
- Noise Level: 59 dBA
- Tank Volume: 1.6 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
Champion has been a market leader in power generation equipment since 2003 and has earned a reputation for producing the market’s finest portable generators. Now, if larger generators don’t fit your purpose, or if you’re looking for a low noise generator to power your RV, the Champion Power Equipment 100263 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is one of the best propane generators available today that fits the bill.
The Champion Power Equipment 100263 Inverter Generator is powered by a 192cc engine that produces up to 3060 peak watts and 2790 running watts when fueled with propane (3400/3100 on Gasoline) and will run for 14.5 hours at 25% load when using a 20lbs propane tank (7.5 hours on Gasoline). It comes with a convenient Electric start with 3-Position Ignition Switch (battery included) and Cold Start Technology that ensures a quick start in cold weather.
The Champion Model 100263 Generator is also user-friendly and can be used right out of the box. The generator comes fully assembled with a foldaway handle for easy storage and built-in handles and never-flat tires for portability. You can easily switch fuels with a quick turn of the fuel selector dial. It also comes with a Quick Touch Panel that allows you to access all your controls in one spot.
Champion’s Inverter Technology includes a smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, provide quieter operation, extended engine life, and better fuel economy.
An optional Parallel Kit provides a quick clip-on connection that allows you to increase output by connecting up to two inverters, making it the perfect combination of versatility and convenience.
- Electric start key fob
- Cold Start Technology
- Economy Mode
- No Fuel or Power Meter
06.
All Power America APGG12000GLC Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 7250 (Propane), 9000 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 95.7 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) AC Duplex 120V, (1) 120V Twist Lock, (1) 12V DC
- Noise Level: 76 dBA
- Tank Volume: 8 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
All Power America is a global manufacturer and distributor of outdoor equipment that was founded in 2005. Over the past decade, they have been able to build up a reputation for themselves by producing some unique products including propane generators and so have a loyal customer base.
Among the list of dual fuel generators in All Power America’s roster, the APGG12000GL generator stands out as the best. The All Power America APGG12000GL is equipped with a powerful 459cc OHV air-cooled engine that can produce up to 9500 peak watts and 7250 running watts when fueled with propane (12000/9000 on Gasoline) and runs for up to 10 hours at half load.
The All Power America APGG12000GL generator comes with an electric start feature in addition to the recoil start. The generator also comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes an hour meter and oil indicator lamp.
The automatic Low Oil Level Shut Down protects the engine from damage while the Quick Manual Switch allows you to easily switch over the fuel to gasoline or propane while the generator has no load.
The All Power America APGG12000GL generator also comes with an Electric Key Start for your convenience. The Never-Flat Tyres and Locking Fold-Down Handles allow easy portability and storage. Besides the generator is also EPA and C.A.R.B. compliant making it a trustworthy choice.
- Electric Key Start
- Quick Manual Switch
- Low Oil Level Shutoff
- Locking Fold-down Handles
- Only two AC outlets
07.
All Power America APG3590CN 10000 Watt, Propane, Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 10000/7500 (Propane)
- Dry Unit Weight: 208 Pounds
- Outlets: (4) 120V 20A Household , (1) 120/240V 30A Twist Lock, (1) 120/ 30A Twist Lock, (1) 12V DC
- Noise Level: 75 dBA
- Tank Volume: N/A
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
Now, if you want to go green, and avoid the use of gasoline, the All Power America APG3590CN generator is your best choice as it runs solely on propane. This propane-powered generator provides clean, reliable power for electrical outages and remote projects at home or on a job site.
The All Power America APG3590CN propane generator is powered by a 15 HP 420cc OHV engine that can produce up to 10000 peak watts and 7500 running watts and runs for up to 8.5 hours at half load while operating at a 75dBA noise frequency. It comes with an Electric Start with recoil backup for hassle-free use.
The All Power America APG3590CN propane generator also has additional features like Low Oil Shutdown and comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a voltmeter, hours meter, and pilot lamp. The generator also comes with a Propane Fuel Hose, Battery, and Flat-Free Wheel Kit for easy usage and portability.
The generator is EPA and CETL certified but is Non-C.A.R.B. compliant and not available to ship to California. So if you stay outside California and are looking for a greener power source than gasoline-fueled generators, then the All Power America APG3590CN is the best propane generator you can get.
- Propane Only
- Electric start key
- Low Oil Shutdown
- Includes Propane Hose
- Flat Free Wheel Kit
- Non-C.A.R.B. compliant
08.
Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty, 12000 Watt, Portable, Dual Fuel Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 10800/8550 (Propane), 12000/9500 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 209 Pounds
- Outlets: (4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC
- Noise Level: 76 dBA
- Tank Volume: 8 Gallons
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited
Pulsar is one of the fastest-growing brands in the industry, providing quality innovation at affordable prices. The brand offers a comprehensive assortment of portable generators that are known for their reliability and ingenuity. One of the most popular among them is the Pulsar G10KBN Portable Dual-Fuel Generator.
The Pulsar G12KBN is powered by a 457cc, Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air Cooled, OHV Engine that can produce up to 9000 peak watts and 7000 running watts when fueled with propane (10000/8000 on Gasoline) and gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load. It also has an Electric Start that makes the generator quite user-friendly.
The Pulsar G12KBN generator comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a 3-in-1 Digital Meter that displays Voltage, Frequency and Hours Run, and Automatic Voltage Regulation for hassle-free usage.
Additionally, the power panel also includes an oil alert lamp and a Low Oil Shut-off feature that automatically shuts off the generator when it senses that the oil is low.
The Pulsar G12KBN generator also comes with a durable frame, convenient Drop-Down Handles, and 10-inch Never-Flat Wheels for easy portability and storage.
Besides, the generator is C.A.R.B. compliant and covered by a 1-year limited warranty making it trustworthy. So if you are looking for a heavy-duty dual fuel generator that is affordable, the Pulsar G12KBN is a great choice.
- Electric Push Start
- Automatic Voltage Regulation
- Low Oil Shut-off
- Drop-down Handles
- On the louder side
09.
Pulsar PG7750B Dual Fuel 7750W Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output: 6250/5950 (Propane), 7750/6250 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 205 Pounds
- Outlets: (4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC
- Noise Level: 72 dBA
- Tank Volume: 6.5 Gallons
- Warranty: 2 Year Limited
If you are looking for a generator that offers the convenience of portability and the power to perform, the Pulsar 7750 Dual Fuel Generator is a strong candidate. It is durable and powerful enough to provide you with back-up power when you most need it, be it at your home, job site, or project.
Equipped with a 420cc OHV engine, the Pulsar 7750 Dual Fuel generator produces up to 6250 peak watts and 5950 running watts when fueled with propane (7750/6250 on Gasoline) and runs for up to 13 hours at half load. Its patented Switch & Go technology allows you to switch from Propane to Gasoline or Gasoline to Propane while the generator is running making it one of the most efficient generators you can get your hands on.
The fully-featured Power Panel of the Pulsar 7750 Dual Fuel Generator has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a 3-in-1 Digital Meter that displays Voltage, Frequency and Hours Run, and Circuit Breakers.
The Pulsar 7750 Dual Fuel Generator comes with an Electric Push start in addition to a Recoil back-up for your convenience. It also features a strong powder coat steel frame, no-flat tires, and a fold-down locking handle for easy portability and storage.
The generator also features a Low Oil Indicator with Low Oil Shutdown. Besides, the longer run-time and the cutting edge technology are reason enough to get this unit which makes an outstanding addition to anyone’s assortment of portable power.
- Electric Push Start
- Switch & Go
- Low Oil Shutdown
- Fold-down Locking Handle
- On the noisier side
10.
Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Portable Generator
- Fuel: Propane or Gasoline
- Peak/Running Output:10800/8550 (Propane), 12000/9500 (Gasoline)
- Dry Unit Weight: 196 Pounds
- Outlets: (2) 5-20R 120V 20A GFCI Household, (1) L5-30R 120V 30A, (1) L14-30R 120V 30A, and (1) 14-50R 120/240V 50A, (2) Grounding Ports
- Noise Level: 72 dBA
- Tank Volume: 6.6 Gallons
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
Rainier is a modern outdoor power equipment manufacturer that offers reliable products at an affordable price. The R12000DF is the best among Rainier’s list of generators. It is a dual fuel portable generator that is ideal for your home, job site, or RV as a source of reliable energy.
The Rainier R12000DF dual fuel generator is equipped with a heavy-duty 457cc engine that produces up to 10800 peak watts and 8550 running watts when fueled with propane (12000/9500 on Gasoline) and runs for up to 17 hours or even longer when alternating between fuel sources.
The Rainier R12000DF comes ready for home and you can plug it straight into your manual transfer switch at home with the official NEMA 120/240V 30A L14-30R transfer switch ready outlet. It also comes with an easy-to-use, one-touch Electric Start Switch and back-up recoil start for hassle-free use.
The Rainier R12000DF dual fuel generator comes with a fully-featured Power Panel that has a wide selection of outlets for maximum capacity and also includes a VTF Data Center that displays Voltage, Frequency, and Lifetime Hours. Additionally, the power panel also includes Low Oil and Overload Protection Alarms.
The generator is approved for operation in all 50 states as it is EPA and CARB compliant. Besides, it includes a wheel kit with two 10 inch wheels, and Two Foam Grip handles for your convenience, making it an easy choice.
- Electric Push Start
- Fuel Selector Switch
- Overload Protection Alarm
- Only two AC outlets
A Guide To Help You Buy The Best Propane Generators
Now that you’ve gone through our list of 10 Best Propane Generators, how do you choose that ONE generator that suits your needs the best? Here are some questions and answers that will arm you with the knowledge to help find your perfect match!
What Is A Propane Generator?
A Propane Generator is a mechanical device used to produce electricity. It works exactly like other generators, the only difference being the fuel source. In propane generators, electricity is created by converting motorized power from the combustion of propane into electrical energy.
However, few generators run solely on propane, like the All Power America APG3590CN 10000 Watt Propane Generator. But there are plenty of dual-fuel generators in the market that run on either propane or gasoline that you can choose from.
Why Choose A Propane Generator?
There are many reasons for choosing a propane generator. For starters, propane is significantly cheaper than gasoline as a fuel source to power your generator. Propane also has a longer shelf life compared to gasoline.
Gasoline goes stale and will ruin the carburetor of your generator after a few months. On the other hand, propane will last for up to a year and you don’t have to worry about it damaging your generator since it is not left inside the fuel tank.
Propane generators are also environmentally friendly. You’ll still need to keep the generator outside, but propane is nonetheless a cleaner fuel than gasoline. The only downside of running a generator on propane is that it will give you lower peak and continuous power outputs compared to gasoline. But hey, you’ll be doing the planet a favor.
How Do You Intend On Using It?
How you intend on using your generator determines the features and specifications you should be looking for when choosing a model.
If you plan to use the generator to power your house during a blackout, the output wattage and runtime required would be quite different from what would be required for powering a campsite or RV.
You would also need to consider how long you will need the generator to work continuously in the most extreme situations and how much power would be required in these cases.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Propane Generator
Wattage
The first and most obvious factor you need to consider before purchasing a propane generator is the wattage output. There are dual generators available in the market that offer outputs ranging from as low as 1500 watts to as high as 12000 watts. So you will have to start by calculating how much power you need.
If your power consumption needs are higher, you’ll need a powerful generator with a higher wattage. For example, if you need to power the lights, refrigerator, and motor pump in your home, you will require a model that offers somewhere around 5000 watts or more.
On the other hand, an output of around 3000 watts would suffice, if you need to power an RV or a campsite.
Now, since there are no generators out there that run solely on propane, you will have to purchase a dual fuel generator that runs on both propane and gasoline. But the highest recorded wattage output of these generators will be when it runs on gasoline.
As such, you will have to look specifically for the peak and running wattages when the generator runs on propane before choosing.
Electric Start
Getting the generator to work should be a hassle-free business. So how easy it is to start the unit is to start, will significantly affect the user experience. Propane generators normally have two types of starters – electric or recoil.
An electric starter is convenient since you can start the unit with the push of a button or the turn of a key. On the other hand, the recoil models work with a ripcord, similar to that of a lawnmower or a chainsaw. This takes a lot of effort as it might take a few pulls before the generator turns on.
The best generators, however, are those that come with both the electric starter and a back-up recoil starter. That’s because, if ever a situation occurs the electric start doesn’t work due to a drained battery, then the back-up recoil starter can come in real handy.
Automatic Shut Down
Automatic Shut Off is one factor that is considered essential in a generator as it can save your generator from damage and also prevent accidents. Some generators shut off when the oil runs out, or when the engine overheats, or if the fuel levels are too low.
Among these, the automatic low-oil shut-off is most important as it can save the generator from engine damage. Unlike low-oil indicators that just tell you that oil is low, this feature automatically shuts off the generator when it senses that the oil is low thus saving you time and hassle.
Outlets
When it comes to outlets, the more, the better. Having a variety of outlets will allow you to power various devices. Most propane generators come with two standard AC outlets.
So a generator that has four or more AC outlets will free up valuable space to connect numerous small devices as opposed to one or two large appliances. If you are planning to use your generator with an RV, then a generator that comes with an RV-ready 30 amp outlet can be hugely helpful.
Display and Indicators
Displays and indicators are crucial in keeping track of the working of your generator. Most propane generators come with a VFT display that gives you Voltage, Frequency, and Hours Run.
Some have indicators that show you the amount of fuel and oil left, while others only have a light that comes on when it starts to run low. Either way, these can come in quite handy as they will save you time and help you keep the generator in perfect condition.
Generators on the expensive side have LCD displays that give you detailed readings and various settings. Some even come with wi-fi connectivity or can be connected to an app. Although these features are interesting, they are not essential.
Run Time
Another important factor you need to consider before buying a propane generator is run time. Different generators come with different run-times depending on their engine and build. Run-times also vary depending upon the fuel used and the amount of load.
So you will need to gauge the runtime you need according to your application. For example, if you want to power your house like normal, you will need a generator with a long runtime of 8 to 12 hours at half load.
On the other hand, if you need only a few short bursts of power in the morning or evening, to power the appliances in your RV, then a generator that offers a smaller run-time would do.
However, do note that generator runtimes are often measured at half load and in the case of smaller generators, at 25% of the load. So if you are planning to use your generator at full load, the runtime will decrease significantly.
Noise
Although not a crucial factor to consider before buying a propane generator, a unit that makes less noise is certainly welcome as it would be less of a nuisance when in use.
Propane generators come with varying noise levels ranging from as low as 60 dBA, which is around the same loudness as normal conversation, to as high as 90 dBA, which is as loud as a lawnmower.
Portability
Not all generators allow the same level of portability. Some generators weigh around 100 pounds and come with a set of sturdy no-flat wheels that allow you to roll it from place to place without much difficulty.
However, there are some high-duty generators and dual fuel models that can easily weigh over 200 pounds and can be quite difficult to move even with wheels. In such cases, a cushioned handle can come in handy.
Smaller generators are more compact, but without wheels, even these can weigh you down quickly. So consider how frequently you will have to move your generator from place to place.
If it is not likely to sit in one spot outside your house or in your RV, it’s always best to get generators that come with a set of wheels.
Warranty
Additionally, you should also consider a generator that comes with a decent warranty since you are spending a few hundred dollars. The industry standard is one to three years. But the terms of the warranty vary from the generator to generator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Propane poses the same sort of threat as gasoline. One is not more dangerous than the other. But because propane tanks are equipped with safety valves, it is far less likely to spill than gasoline fuel storage containers which have no valves. Even if your propane does leak out of its tank, there is no hazard involved as propane is a “green” fuel in its unburned state and poses no environmental hazard like gasoline. Besides, unlike gasoline, you do not have to fill the fuel tank with gasoline. So there is no direct danger involved whatsoever.
Propane generators in general do report lower decibel levels compared to gasoline generators which make quite a racket. However, many factors such as model, age, and load percentage affect the noise levels. Besides, there are probably too many qualifiers such as size, power capacity, and efficiency to say definitely that propane generators are quieter than gasoline.
On average, a generator run on propane will run for about 9 hours at half load. However, the exact run-time will depend on the brand and make since different propane generators use different engines and technologies. However, with propane generators, you are not restricted by the size of the fuel tank like gasoline generators. With larger propane tanks you can keep the generator running for longer periods without having to think about refueling.
Final Words
There are hundreds of generators that run on propane available in the market today, that offer good value for your money. The ten generators that you see in our 10BestBuy® List are the cream of the crop. The 10BestBuy® team has done considerable research before compiling this list.
Each product has made it to the final list only after in-house testing and checks and through surveys of customer reviews and testimonials. So you will not regret buying any of them.
Among the top ten best propane generators that made our final cut, the Westinghouse Wgen9500df Dual Fuel 12500 Watt Portable Generator is our editor’s choice. However, the remaining nine propane generators are also the best in their own right and might be more suited to your specific needs. All you need to do now is choose one based on our Buyer’s Guide.