Table of Contents
Having a good generator is a necessary tool to provide electricity to your home in case of power outages due to natural disasters and other emergencies. It’s also a machine that can help you if you’re doing hard work outdoors or supplying electricity to places off the grid, such as campgrounds.
We advise you to choose a propane-powered generator. Unlike gasoline, the propane can be stored for long periods without degradation, so it’s easy to keep propane tanks on hand in case of a power outage, which is much easier than getting gasoline in the middle of a major power outage. Besides, propane is a more environmentally friendly source of fuel.
Pulsar G12KBN
The Most Powerful
Comes with a ton of power (10,800W/8,550W on propane!) as well as a reasonable run time (up to 12 hours).
Champion 7500
The Best-Designed
Featuring Intelligauge, Volt Guard™ and Cold Start Technology it offers you safe and reliable operations.
WEN DF1100T
The Best Multi-purpose
Stands out for its versatility, as it is an excellent generator for home backups as well as for job sites due to its rugged design.
Champion 3400
The Most Portable
Its superior portable design and quiet operation at 59 dBA is the greatest option for RV trips and other outdoor excursions.
Rainer R4400DF
The Best Value for the Price
This value-for-money product offers you a long life of up to 11 hours and its portable design makes it great for both outdoor and indoor power needs.
While there are almost no generators on the market that run exclusively on propane, there are plenty of dual-fuel generators that run on both gasoline and propane. To select the best propane-powered generator for you, we looked at the highest-rated propane generators, analyzed over 100 customer reviews, and consulted with real propane generator owners.
Based on our main criteria, such as output power, noise level, safety, and reliability we choose the top-5 propane generators. Furthermore, we prepared for you some tips and tricks to help you use your propane generator safely and extend its life.
So, let’s take a look at the best propane generators on the market.
What to Pay Attention to Before Buying a Propane Generator
Before buying a propane generator, there are a few basic things you need to know to get the most out of your generator. Output power is probably the most important attribute of a propane generator, factors such as run time, noise level, and safety are also important when buying the generator.
Listed below are the most important factors to consider:
- Wattage
Most propane-capable generators have a power range from 1,800 for compact models to over 10,000 for larger units. The total power consumption of most household appliances is about 5,000 watts. The best way to determine how much power your home requires is to add up the wattage of all major appliances and electronics. If you want to be sure you have enough power, we recommend the Pulsar G12KBN (review), which can produce an impressive 10,800 watts at startup with 8,550 watts during operation.
- Dual fuel
Most propane generators are dual-fuel generators. This means they can run on both 20-gallon propane and unleaded gasoline. All of the generators in this article have this advantage. For example, the WEN DF1100T (review) allows you to choose between propane (9,500W/7,500W) and gasoline (11,000W/8,300W) sources.
- Noise level
The noise level of the generator tends to be one of the most decisive factors to consider when buying a generator. Generators have decibels (dBA), which indicate how loud they are. Most propane-powered generators run at about 70 dBA, which is similar to the sound of a car engine, and ultra-quiet generators run at about 55 dBA. With the Champion 3400 (review) you will enjoy a quiet 59 dBA, which is quieter than a regular conversation between two people.
- Safety
Safety is also a very important factor to consider. For your protection, generators can be equipped with an overload circuit breaker and a small oil shutdown. Some generators also come with surge protection to protect sensitive electronics. We advise you to pay attention to Rainer R4400DF (review), which is equipped with a low oil level shutdown sensor keeping you safe and prevents damage to your machine.
- Portability
Exhaust generators are safe only when used outdoors at least 20 feet away from any structures. That’s why most have large handles and wheels, or other features to make them portable. This does not mean that generators are lightweight, as most propane generators weigh more than 100 pounds. If portability is a deciding factor for you, we recommend you the Champion 3400 (review), which is the most portable item on the list.
- Warranty & Customer Service
Warranty and customer service are extremely important because you will be sure to get help if there are any problems. When your generator is under warranty, you don’t have to worry about repairs and malfunctions. Due to this, the Champion 7500 (review) offers 3-years and lifetime technical support from dedicated experts.
Additional Factors to Pay Attention to
Some additional features can greatly improve your work with the generator:
- Fuel gauge – With this feature, you never find yourself in an emergency without fuel, and running on empty can ruin your generator. This keeps you safe and prevents damage to your generator. The WEN DF1100T (review) and the Pulsar G12KBN (review) have this feature.
- Electric start – This is becoming a more common and beloved feature of generators, it replaces the traditional pull cord and without the hassle that has always been associated with generators. The Champion 7500 (review) is equipped with an electric start feature with Cold Start technology makes it easier to start your generator in any weather, even in the harshest freezing conditions.
- Outlets – Four or more outlets can free up valuable space for plugging in a lot of small electronics. For example, the Pulsar G12KBN (review) comes with multiple outlets for big and for small tools and charging the car battery.
Based on these criteria, we have picked the best models and carried out a detailed review of each propane-powered generator.
A Detailed Review of Each Model
Pulsar G12KBN – The Most Powerful Propane Generator
Pulsar G12KBN
The Most Powerful Propane Generator
| Wattage: Item Dimensions: Item Weight: Voltage: Engine Type: Engine Displacement: Fuel Type: Tank Volume: Runtime: Outlets: Warranty: | 10,800W/8,550W (propane); 12,000W/9,500W (gasoline) 28.5 x 26 x 25.5 inches 209 Pounds 120240 Volts 4 Stroke 457 Cubic Centimeters Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas 8 Gallons around 12 hours (4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC output Up to 1 year |
| Why you should consider this model: | – Offers a ton of power as well as reasonable run time (up to 12 hours) – Has electric start for quick and easy turning on of the generator – Offers multiple outlets to power a variety of different devices at once – Equipped with tons of features, such as electric start, fuel gauge, 3-in-1 digital meter for less worry and hassle |
Pros
- The most powerful generator on the list
- The longest run time (around 12 hours) for its powerful
- Electric start for easy turning on
- Dual fuel technology – runs both on propane and gas
- Fuel gauge, automatic voltage regulation 3-in-1 digital meter for less worry and hassle
- Never-Flat Wheels & Drop-Down Handles for easy maneuvering and storage capability
- Multiple outlets to power several different devices at once
- Extra accessories, such as propane hose, funnel, and tool kit
Cons
- Short warranty (only 1 year)
- A bit noisy (76 dBA)
If you’re looking for a propane generator that helps you stay plugged in during an emergency or natural disaster, the Pulsar G12KBN is the perfect option for you.
This Pulsar generator is a dual-fuel that allows you to choose between propane and gasoline sources. When it runs on propane, it can deliver an astounding 10,800 watts at startup with 8,550 watts during operation, making it the most powerful propane generator on the list, able to handle anything you can throw at it. If you are also going to run on gas, it puts out up to 12,000 watts when running at 8,550 watts with up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load.
Compared to the other generators on the list, the Pulsar G12KBN is the loudest (76 dBA). It may be too loud for camping or tailgating use. However, this noise should not be an issue for a backup home power supply or use on a remote job site.
Despite this disadvantage, the Pulsar G12KBN offers many additional features, such as a 3-in-1 digital voltage, frequency, time meter. It is also equipped with overload protection and an automatic low oil shut-off for peace of mind during use.
What’s more, it comes with plenty of outlets, it has four regular 120 outlets plus a couple of different 240 outlets for big tools, and there’s also a separate 12 volt DC connection for small things and for charging the car battery. With the Pulsar G12KBN, you can easily plug in just about anything, no matter what you want to power.
Champion 7500 – The Best-Designed Propane Generator
Champion 7500
The Best-Designed Propane Generator
| Wattage: Item Dimensions: Item Weight: Engine Type: Engine Displacement: Frequency: Fuel Type: Warranty: | 7500 watts 27.8 x 28.7 x 26.4 inches 202.4 Pounds 4 Stroke 439 Cubic Centimeters 60 Hz Dual Fuel (runs on propane or gas) 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts |
| Why you should consider this model: | – Comes with an Intelligauge meter showing you voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours – Offers electric start feature with Cold Start technology that makes it easier to start your generator in cold weather – Safe patented fuel selector switch for safe switching between fuel sources – Equipped with low oil level shutdown sensor – Offers a 3-year warranty and lifetime support |
Pros
- Intelligauge technology for easy monitoring generator operations
- Dual fuel technology – can run both on propane and gasoline
- Low oil level shutdown sensor
- Safe patented fuel selector switch
- Easy electric start due to Cold Start technology
- Propane hose included
- Very clear instructions and owner’s manual
- 3-year warranty and lifetime support
The Champion Power Equipment 100165 9375/7500-Watt is a high-quality and well-designed generator thanks to the safety fuel selector switch, control panel, and electric start feature with Cold Start technology. Therefore, you can rely on this generator to start in any weather, even in the harshest freezing conditions.
This Champion generator is equipped with Intelligauge technology that makes it easy to monitor output power and voltage, hertz, and hours of operation. Moreover, with the Champion 7500, you no longer have to be vigilant about the oil level. Thanks to a built-in low oil level shutdown sensor, the generator automatically shuts down when the oil level gets too low.
The Champion 7500 is a dual fuel generator allowing the engine to run on either gasoline or propane. When propane-powered, the Champion engine produces 6750 rated watts and 8400 peak watts, it’s a bit less than the Pulsar G12KBN (review) has, but still enough to power your home.
Compared to the Rainer R4400DF (review) with up to 18 hours of run time, the Champion 7500 runs only for 5.5 hours at 50% load when using a 20-pound propane tank and runs for 8 hours at 50% load when using the 6.0-gallon fuel tank. Despite this small disadvantage, the Champion 7500 is a very reliable generator. It offers 3-years and lifetime technical support from dedicated experts allowing you to use it with peace of mind.
WEN DF1100T – The Best Multi-Purpose Propane Generator
WEN DF1100T
The Best Multi-Purpose Propane Generator
| Wattage: Item Dimensions: Item Weight: Voltage: Engine Type: Engine Displacement: Tank Volume: Outlets: Warranty: | 11000 watts 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 inches 214 Pounds 120V/240V Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) 457 Cubic Centimeters 6,6 Gallons 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), a 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), and a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug 2-year |
| Why you should consider this model: | – Automatic Voltage Regulator and Overload Protection – Electric Start System with the simple turn of the engine switch – A built-in fuel gauge to easy control your generator's fuel level – Multiple outlets with different voltages and frequencies are included for multifunctional use – Offers a 2-years warranty with skilled service technicians and a friendly customer support phone line |
Pros
- Automatic Voltage Regulator and Overload Protection
- Electric Start System with the turn of a key
- Dual fuel technology – operates both on propane and gas
- User-friendly control panel
- A built-in fuel gauge to easy control your generator’s fuel level
- Multiple outlets to help you run your essentials
- A 47-inch LPG hose and oil included for immediate connection to propane tanks
- 2-year warranty with customer-friendly support
Cons
- The heaviest on the list
- Low run time on propane
The WEN DF1100T is a great solution for almost any application that requires a powerful portable generator for backup power. It’s ideal for use for a home backup or job site, as it is durable enough and can power a multitude of power tools as well as all basic household power needs.
With dual-fuel technology, on propane, it provides 9,500 surges and 7,500 running watts while gasoline creates up to 11,000 surges and 8,300 running watts – that’s enough power to power your home in times of crisis or charge your phones at campgrounds.
As for its run time, the WEN DF1100T with a 6.6-gallon fuel capacity can run about 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank of gasoline. It can run about 3 hours on a 20-pound tank with propane. If you’re looking for models with longer propane run times, we recommend looking at Rainer R4400DF (review) with up to 11 hours on propane.
Nevertheless, we recommend the WEN DF1100T as a reliable generator that provides many features for your convenience, such as a meter on the control panel allowing you to monitor your generator’s status and activity. It shows voltage, frequency (Hz), total operating time, and operating time since the engine was started. And with a built-in fuel gauge, you can additionally easily check your generator’s fuel level. For your security, this WEN generator is also equipped with an automatic overload switch and a low oil cutoff.
Overall, the WEN DF1100T is a great choice if you’re looking for durability, reliability as well as versatility. With a 2-year warranty and the support of experienced professionals, you will be sure of your choice.
Champion 3400 – The Most Portable Propane Generator
Champion 3400
Most Portable Propane Generator
| Wattage: Item Dimensions: Item Weight: Engine Type: Engine Displacement: Frequency: Fuel Type: Warranty: | 3400W/3100W (gasoline), 3060W/2790W (propane) 27.8 x 28.7 x 26.4 inches 202.4 Pounds 4 Stroke 439 Cubic Centimeters 60 Hz Dual Fuel 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts |
| Why you should consider this model: | – Excellent portability and ultra-quiet operation at 59 dBA – Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot – Parallel Kit allows you to increase output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverters – Comes with extra items: propane (LPG) hose, USB adapter, battery, oil funnel – Ready for RV trips thanks to 30-amp outlet and DC port – Offers a 3-year warranty and lifetime support |
Pros
- Excellent portability due to its design
- Ultra-quiet operation at 59 dBA
- Quick touch panel for access to all controls
- Dual fuel technology – can use either propane or gasoline
- Parallel ready – you can increase its power
- RV-ready thanks to 30-amp outlet and DC port
- Easy instruction and quick set up
- Extra accessories, such as propane (LPG) hose, USB adapter, battery, and oil funnel
- 3-year warranty and lifetime support
The Champion 3400 is a compact dual fuel generator gained in its portability and quietness. It also comes with a three-year warranty from Champion and lifelong technical support from dedicated experts, making it reliable as well.
With Champion 3400-watt inverter you can enjoy a quiet 59 dBA for up to 7.5 hours on gasoline or 14.5 hours on propane. What’s more, thanks to the optional Parallel Kit, it can increase the output power by connecting up to two inverters with 2800 watts or more.
The Champion 3400 features a user-friendly Quick Touch Panel, allowing you to access all your controls in one place for convenience start-up and operating. Also for your safety, the generator is equipped with an automatic shutdown when the oil level is low. When the generator is overloaded, you will be informed by special light indicators, giving you peace of mind during use.
The Champion 3400 misses the fuel gauge, unlike the Pulsar G12KBN (review), but despite this minor disadvantage, this generator is an excellent compact model, as it is not only portable but also quiet and reliable.
Rainer R4400DF – The Best Value for the Price
Rainer R4400DF
The Best Value for the Price
| Wattage: Item Dimensions: Engine Type: Engine Displacement: Ignition System Type: Fuel Type: Tank Volume: Warranty: | 4400 watts 23.3 x 15.5 x 21.3 inches 4 Stroke 2 Cubic Centimeters Electronic Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas 4 Gallons 3-Year Limited Warranty |
| Why you should consider this model: | – Value-for-money item – Offers a long run time (up to 11 hours on propane up to 18 hours on gas!) – Comes with low oil and overload protection alarms – Has electric start with emergency back-up recoil start – RV ready thanks to an official NEMA 120V 30A TT-30R outlet – Comes with a 3-year limited warranty |
Pros
- Affordable price
- Long run time with up to 11 hours on propane
- Dual fuel technology – can operate on either gasoline or propane
- Low oil and overload protection alarms
- A built-in fuel gauge
- Electric start with emergency back-up recoil start
- RV-ready thanks to a NEMA 120V 30A TT-30R outlet
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Suits only for small to medium capacity appliances
The Rainer R4400DF is the most affordable generator on the list as it has lots of features and value at a very reasonable price. The generator is equipped with a fuel level gauge as well as a low oil level alarm and overload protection for ease of use.
The Rainer R4400DF comes with the TT-R30 receptacle for an RV or travel trailer. It also provides a relatively quiet operation at 65dBA, so it will be comfortable to use for your RV adventures.
With dual-fuel technology, the generator produces 4,400 peak watts and 3,600 running watts on gas, and 4,000 surge watts, and 3,300 running watts on propane. It’s not as powerful as the Pulsar G12KBN (review), but it provides enough power to keep small to medium capacity appliances running during power outages. Moreover, the Rainer R4400DF has the longest run time providing up to 18 hours with a full tank of gasoline and up to 11 hours on a 20-pound tank.
Generally, the Rainer R4400DF is a great choice for its price. It’s a perfect solution to small to medium capacity appliances, both outdoor or indoor electricity requisitions.
Accessories For a Better Generator Experience
Here’s a list of the most useful accessories for propane generators to improve your experience:
Generator Cover
Leader Accessories Durable Universal Waterproof Generator Cover
For safety reasons, the generator should not be used in rainy or other wet conditions as there is a risk of electric shock. Therefore, we recommend this waterproof enclosure, which will protect your generator from rain, snow, or wet weather. It also comes with an extra handy built-in storage bag and a 3-year warranty.
Transfer Switch Kit
Reliance Controls Corporation 31406CRK 30 Amp 6-circuit Pro/Tran Transfer Switch Kit for Generators (7500 Watts)
This switch kit has everything you need to easily install a generator switch in your home or office. The transfer switch provides safe use of backup power during power outages without having to worry about re-powering the power line. The kit includes a pre-assembled switch with a power meter, 10-foot power cord, 30A input box, wire connectors, and an optional 20A male connector.
Parallel Kit
Champion 50-Amp RV Ready Parallel Kit for Linking Two 2800-Watt or Higher Inverter Generators
Quick and easy to install without tools, this kit includes circuit breakers plus 120V 30A interlock and 120V 50A RV outlets with enough power to start and run two 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners. For safety, Champion includes 30-amp and 50-amp circuit breakers to prevent overloads. It also comes with a 1-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support.
Generator Power Cord
Champion 25-Foot 30-Amp 250-Volt Generator Power Cord for Manual Transfer Switch (L14-30P to L14-30R)
With this Frost and Heat Resistant 25-foot cord, you can boost 30 amps to 25 feet of power. Simply plug your portable generator into a transfer switch in your home to easily and safely provide power where you need it most. It also comes with a 1-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated technicians.
Hour Meter
AIMILAR Mechanical Hour Meter AC 110-250V for Generator ATV Lawn Mower Chainsaw Compressor Tiller Chipper AC 110V 120V 220V 230V
This mechanical hour meter with low power consumption can be used to record the running time of the generator. It operates on any AC 110-250 volt powered and has a 6 digit display with the least significant digit being 1/10 hour (99999.9).
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Propane/Natural Gas Detector
Carbon monoxide alarms can be used to detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide that may be produced by generators. This alarm will sound 85 dB with a flashing LED when flammable gases, including kitchen methane, natural gas, or propane, are detected before they reach high levels. So it’s advised to buy this to feel confident that your family is safe.
Tips for Using Your Propane Generator Safely
A propane generator can provide safe backup power during severe weather power outages, but only if used correctly. Here is a list of “Do’s and Don’ts” to help increase the lifespan of your propane generator, and use it safely.
Do’s:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions – You should always read the manufacturer’s instructions before setting up and starting your propane generator for the first time. Every generator model is different, even if you have operated some generator in the past.
- Use only long, heavy-duty cords – Make sure that the power rating of each cord exceeds the total power rating of all appliances connected to it. These extension cords must be heavy-duty, long enough, and have a wire thickness thick enough to withstand the current flowing through them and specifically designed for outdoor use.
- Consider installing propane/natural gas detectors – These built-in detectors automatically shut off the generator’s engine when they detect dangerous levels of CO surrounding the unit, giving you safety and peace of mind.
- Make sure your propane tank is painted a light-reflective color – This will help keep the propane temperature low.
- Follow the maintenance plan – Your portable generator will come with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance plan. We recommend that you follow this plan as it will ensure maximum performance and safety.
Don’ts:
- Do not run the generator indoors – Never use a generator in the house, garage, or other enclosed areas. Because there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. For safe use, keep the generator and propane tank at least 20 feet away from your home and away from open windows, vents, or doors.
- Do not connect the generator directly to a household outlet – Reverse power is extremely dangerous and poses a risk of electric shock. If you are connecting a generator to your home electrical system, have a qualified electrician install a transfer switch.
- Do not operate in rain or snow – Generators present a risk of electric shock, especially if operated in wet conditions. If you must use your generator outdoors in damp conditions, protect it from moisture to reduce the risk of electric shock or electric shock, but do not operate the generator indoors or near openings. You should also dry your hands if they are wet before touching the generator.
Taking these steps can help ensure protection throughout the entire period of use.
Stay safe and enjoy using your generator.
Summary
A powerful propane generator will be a real lifesaver for you in crises, whether it’s a typical power outage or a real emergency, such as hurricanes. The generator allows you not to panic by having an extra supply of energy at home.
Now when you are familiar with the top-5 propane generators on the market, it’s time to choose the best one which meets your needs. When choosing a generator, we recommend you to look first at its power output, reliability, noise level, portability, and warranty. Then look at the availability of an electric start and fuel gauge for improved operation with your generator.
Our top-5 propane generators are based on these criteria and include the following models:
Pulsar G12KBN
The Most Powerful Propane Generator
Champion 7500
The Best-Designed Propane Generator
WEN DF1100T
The Best Multi-Purpose Propane Generator
Champion 3400
The Most Portable Propane Generator
Rainer R4400DF
The Best Value for the Price
FAQ
🏆 What are the best propane generators?
The best propane generators include:
- Pulsar G12KBN – the most powerful propane generator.
- Champion 7500 – the best-designed propane generator.
- WEN DF1100T – the best multi-purpose propane generator.
- Champion 3400 – the most portable propane generator.
- Rainer R4400DF – the best value for the price.
Read our article about top-5 propane generators to get more info.
🤔 Why is a propane generator better than gas?
Propane generators are safer than gasoline generators as they emit fewer toxic fumes and are not as much of a fire hazard as gasoline, which can spill. Propane is not susceptible to spills because it is contained in a pressurized cylinder. In our article, you’ll find the best propane-powered generator on the market.
🚀 What is the most powered propane generator?
The most powered generator is the Pulsar G12KBN. This dual fuel model operates an astounding 10,800 watts at startup with 8,550 watts during operation on propane and puts out up to 12,000 watts when running at 8,550 watts on gas. Read our article to get more information about this model.
💡 What is the quietest propane generator?
The quietest item is Champion 3400. This ultra-quiet propane generator operates at 59 dBA, which is quieter than a typical conversation between two people. Find detailed information about this model in our article.
🏠 Сan you run a propane generator in an open garage?
The propane generator should only be used outdoors at least 20 feet away from the house and away from open windows, vents, or doors. Never use the generator in the house, including in an open garage or other enclosed spaces. As there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Read the Tips for Using Your Propane Generator Safely section to use your generator safely.
