6 Best Propane Generators Review [Buyers Guide 2022]

All the best propane generators provide an electric solution whenever there is a power outage. However, the availability of gasoline to power the generator often becomes a challenge hence limiting your power options. But, that is not always the case when you have a generator that uses propane.

Propane is quite lighter than gasoline, and its storage is easy. It also burns less and guarantees to keep your generator running for an extended period, unlike when using gasoline. Therefore, checking on the type of fuel your inverter generator uses before committing to buy is a crucial part of the process.

However, with so many propane portable inverter generators on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be a complex adventure. There are several aspects to put into consideration to ensure that the choice you make is convenient.

In this blog, we’ll review the best propane generators on the market and share a brief buyer’s guide to help you in your decision-making.

Table Showing Some of the Best Propane Generators

6 Best Propane Generators Review

1. Champion 3400-Watt Dual -Lightweight generator

If you are looking for the best propane inverter generator, this champion 3400-watt dual fuel will make the difference. It is designed as an RV-ready dual fuel generator, and it runs on propane.

It comes with both an electric and recoil start system making it easy to operate. The generator has 3-position electric start switch and cold start technology. Therefore, even during cold weather, you will not experience stress when starting the generator like with other brands.

The generator is powered by a 192cc 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine. It also has an air-cooled system to ensure that it doesn’t overheat even when fully loaded. For safety purposes, the engine is also protected under an iron cast sleeve.

Its runtime is super reliable as it can run up to 14.5 hours at 25% load on 20-pound propane. Therefore, when you invest in this, you are sure that you will not experience darkness again. The generator is super convenient with exceptional noise levels.

The generator can provide you with up to 3060 starting wattages and 2790 continuous watts. This ensures that it can power all your appliances with minimal power interruptions. It is tp rated as one of the best dual fuel inverter generators.

2. DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt- Reliable runtime

Duromax XP1200EH is the perfect solution for all your electrical power needs. It is rated at12000 starting wattage and 9500 running watts on gasoline and 14000 starting watts, and 9025 running watts on propane. Therefore, you are guaranteed that it will ensure to run your small appliances to keep your home comfortable.

The generator can run multiple appliances, tools, and larger appliances like A/C systems for your RV or camper’s adventure. Therefore, when you have this inverter generator, you will experience life as normal even when there is a power outage.

Although the generator is a little heavy at 260lbs, it has large wheels and collapsible handles that make portability super easy. The wheels guarantee that the generator can pass through any terrain, and you will not even notice the excess weight.

It has a large fuel tank of 8.3 gallons and a 457cc engine that produces up to 18 horsepower. Therefore, when you power the generator on, you are guaranteed super clean and reliable power.

3. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen- Easy to operate

The Westinghouse outdoor power equipment is your ultimate solution for all your power needs, especially when there is a power outage. At 50% load, the generator gives you up to 9 hours of continuous run time.

This indicates that you will enjoy a power supply all night and your appliances will run smoothly even when on a camping adventure. Additionally, it has a reliable starting and running wattage to ensure that it can support multiple appliances simultaneously.

It features both electric and recoil start systems with a remote key fob for better experiences. With this inverter generator, you are also guaranteed that you can comfortably hold meetings or even sleep while the generator is running.

Its low noise levels give you the freedom to focus on other things as if the generator is not running.One may read this article and find out why are inverter generators so quiet?

When it comes to portability, this generator has two large wheels for easy mobility, even through tough terrains.

This also ensures that although the generator is heavy, it doesn’t limit your options of getting power when you go for an adventure.

4. Champion Power Equipment 76533 4750/3800-Watt- Lightweight

This champion generator is a little advanced over the previous as it has 3800 running watts while the previous runs at 3400 watts. The generator runs on dual fuel, which means you are always sorted regardless of what type of fuel you have.

With this generator, you will enjoy its large engine performance whenever you go. It can run multiple appliances at the same time without compromising the quality of service to the other.

In other words, if you are looking for a generator that will run your lights, refrigerator, lights, and other appliances all at the same time, then this champion generator will get the job done.

The control panel of this device is strategically positioned. This means you can effectively operate the generator even without any advanced training. Its noise levels are also friendly, allowing you to enjoy peaceful operations and attend to other duties.

Its 9 hours of run time is also something worth your time. Having the assurance that the generator can guarantee to power your appliances although the night while at camping adventure makes it worth every penny.

5.DuroMax XP4850EH Generator- Easy to use

If you are looking for a generator that will power all your appliances and maintain high performance, then this DuroMax XP4850EH generator is all you need. It runs on both gas and propane, enhancing your ability to operate the generator and provide you with all the power you need.

Its fuel tank is large to ensure that you can get reliable run time with one full tank. When loaded at 50%, the generator can guarantee to give you up to 9-hours of run time. It has both an electric and recoil start system, making it easy for you to operate the generator.

Additionally, with the different start systems, you are guaranteed that when one system fails, the other will take over hence guarantee that you will not at any given time stay without power.

Its noise levels are convenient, and it will not prevent you from attending to your other matters while it’s running.

With noise levels at 69dB, the generator will allow you to experience greatness. However, the generator is a little heavy as it weighs about 130 pounds, but it comes with wheels, and reliable carry handles for easy and effective portability.

6. Firman H03652 4550/3650 -Portable generator

Last on the list is this firman H03652 generator. It has amazing features that make it worth your consideration when shopping for an inverter generator.

With this generator, you are guaranteed high starting and running wattage to ensure it can support whatever appliances you intend to run.

The generator comes with wheels that enhance portability, allowing you to take the generator with you whenever you go comfortably.

The large wheels cancel perfectly with the weight of the generator. Therefore, you will not have to carry the weight on your shoulders as you transit to your camping spot. It also features ergonomic carry handles that are quite comfortable.

It has a large fuel tank that can accommodate up to 5-gallon when full. This gives you up to 14 hours of run time depending on your load and the type of appliances you are using.

The generator has multiple outlet ports that guarantee you can connect several appliances directly to the generator and experience greatness.

The manufacturers cover this generator with a reliable 3-year warranty against defects. Therefore, when you buy it, you have the freedom of experiencing its full potential without fear.

Buyer’s Guide For the Best Propane Generators

Knowing what to look for when shopping for the best propane generator is quite critical. You need to know which features your generator should have and how they influence its performance. Here are a few features that you must not overlook while making your decision.

Wattage and Power Needs

Before you buy, it is essential to evaluate the generator’s wattage and your power needs. The last thing you want is to settle for a generator that will not supply you with the amount of power you require power or rather put your appliances at risk due to overpowering.

Your propane generator has to meet your power needs for it to be effective and helpful. However, even as you check on your generator’s wattage and power, you need to ensure that you invest in one that meets your running wattage requirements over the starting wattage.

When you get one with the right wattage supply, you are sure that it will keep your appliances running with minimal risks.

Using a propane generator that produces the right number of wattages guarantees you save money in repairs and maintenance. Therefore, before choosing, you should start by evaluating your appliances and understanding the amount of power required to operate.

Also, if you intend to run more than one appliance simultaneously, you need to ensure that you get a propane generator that can comfortably support that.

Power Outlets

Different appliances require different outlets; therefore, it is essential to ensure that your propane generator of choice has at least all the essential outlets.

Getting a generator with the standard two household outlets can be convenient, but getting one with four household outlets can be suitable. This will guarantee that you have enough space to plug in even the small electronics without eliminating others.

Also, even if you may not use your generator with an AR, your generator should contain an AR outlet for easy usage in the future. You also need to ensure that you buy a generator with a 12V DC outlet to guarantee that you can easily run heavy appliances too.

Power outlets determine the type of appliances you can load to the generator at a given time. Since generators are made differently with an expectation to operate different appliances, checking to ensure that the one you get meets the standards of running your expected appliances should not be optional.

Noise Level

Generators, in general, are known to be noisy. However, inverters are designed with a low noise rating compared to conventional generators. Therefore, when buying an inverter generator, you must look for one with low noise levels for a better experience.

The generator’s noise can be irritating, especially during the night or when you want to concentrate on something. If the noise is too loud, it can even cause some health issues and permanently impair your hearing.

However, when you get one with the lowest noise levels, you are guaranteed that you can enjoy attending to other matters while the generator is running, and it will not affect your focus.

Start System

You need to ensure that your generator of choice has an electric start system. In the past, generators used to have a recoil start system. However, with the technological advancement, today manufacturers are designing generators that have electric start systems.

This guarantees that you can start the generator quite easily, and it’s free from possible starting malfunction.

However, there are some generators that are designed with both recoil and electric start systems. This guarantees that you can start your generator at any moment with minimal risks or the possibility of malfunction.

Therefore, when buying, putting this into consideration will ensure that you get a device whose operation and running techniques are not complicated.

Control Panel

At the control panel of the generator, you will require to look at various operating parameters. A user-friendly generator should have at least: a display light indicator, control button, choke, and other control parameters within your reach for easy operations.

This increases the functionality of the generator and allows you to experience its full power. At the control panel, it is also essential to look at the fuel gauge indicator.

The indicator makes it easy for you to monitor how the generator is running and the amount of fuel left. This also eliminates the frustrations that come with operating a generator, and suddenly it runs out of fuel.

Safety

Safety is also another feature that is yet overlooked but has more importance. When you are on the market buying a generator, looking at various brands’ safety features enhances your chances of making the wrong decision.

Low-oil shutoff and overload protection are among the common features to look for in generator safety. The overload protection ensures to keep your generator free from overload damages while the low-oil shutoff turns the engine off when the oil level is incredibly down.

However, there are also other generators that come with surge prevention, which ensures to keep your sensitive electronics safe in case of overload or generator malfunction.

If you will be using the generator on outdoor adventures, it is also essential to look at whether all the outlet ports have rubber covers to prevent water or dust from getting in.

When you focus more on the generators’ safety features, it will be easy for you to enjoy years of exceptional performance without compromising your generator and appliances’ safety.

Portability

Before you buy, you should ensure that your generator of choice offers maximum portability options. One with features such as carry handles, wheels, and lifting hooks increases its versatility and portability. It would be best if you also put into consideration the places you will mostly be using the generator.

If you will frequently use the generator for camping adventures, getting one with wheels and carry handles will be quite helpful.

On the other hand, if you will be using the generator to power your home or office in a building, one with lifting hooks will make a great addition.

While looking for portability, you need to ensure that you weigh in all your options and only settle for one that meets your expectations.

Price

If you don’t have the time to check on any other feature before buying, then you should create time and look at the product’s price. Always ensure that you get a generator that is within your budget range to avoid overspending.

There are times where you will require to buy a generator cover and other accessories. Therefore, when you stay within your budget, getting them will not be stressful. On the other hand, you should ensure to put into consideration the quality of the generator to guarantee value for your money.

However, always remember that not all cheap products are of low quality, nor are the expensive ones the best quality. Checking out the generator’s critical features should always help you in formulating a budget.

Inverter or Conventional Generator

The last decision before you buy should focus on what type of generator you need. An inverter generator produces clean, stable, and reliable power, whereas their conventional competitors fail the clean power test.

When it comes to portability, the inverter generators have a compact, lightweight design, which allows flexibility. On the other hand, the conventional ones are significantly large, making them quite a challenge.

FAQs of the Best Propane Generator

 Are propane generators better than gas?

Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to gasoline. This, therefore, guarantees that the propane is much better for both the environment and the generator. The propane generators, however, have less efficiency compared to gas generators. They produce fewer BTUs per gallon of fuel.

 Is it cheaper to run a generator on propane or gas?

Propane costs less when compared to gasoline, but it also has a lower energy density. Therefore, when you are in an emergency, you will ultimately spend less on fuel if your generator runs on gasoline than when it runs on propane.

Will a generator run longer on propane or gas?

Propane generators cost less in terms of maintenance, and they last longer compared to gas. When you invest in a propane generator, you are guaranteed long-term benefits, unlike when using gasoline generators.

Will a 20kW generator run my house?

Yes, a 20kW generator will run your house as it can accommodate the tunes of your household appliances. However, the size of your house and the type of appliances you have will significantly influence how the generator runs the house.

How loud are propane generators?

Propane doesn’t affect the noise levels in a generator. Therefore, if you need a generator with low noise levels, you should consider getting an inverter generator over the conventional one.

Conclusion

If you invest in a propane generator, it eliminates all the risks of storing highly flammable gasoline in your house. It also ensures to keep your home comfortable during a power outage and power your needs while on a camping adventure.

From the list above, you can always pick one that meets your budget and forget how it feels to stay in the dark.