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10 Best Generator For Food Truck 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

GENMAX Portable Generator, 9000W Super Quiet Gas Powered Engine with Parallel Capability, Remote/Electric Start, Digital Display,EPA Compliant,CO Alarm Ideal for Home Backup Power (GM9000iE)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,347
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
2090 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
It managed to run a compressor, chop saw, and circular saw continuously for 6 hours on a single tank of gas, demonstrating its reliability and efficiency.
Fuel Type
The generator performed exactly as expected, running a small air conditioner, lights, and phone charger for over 6 hours on just one gallon of gas.
Noise Level
The quiet operation is impressive; you can have a conversation next to it without raising your voice, quieter than an air compressor or chop saw.
Portability and Size
Perfect size for extended use at events, running all night without needing a refuel.

The GENMAX GM9000iE portable generator is a solid choice for food truck owners seeking reliable power. With a powerful 458cc engine, it delivers 9000 peak watts and 7600 running watts, which is sufficient for running multiple appliances, from refrigerators to cooking equipment. Its clean electricity output (less than 3% THD) ensures that sensitive electronics like laptops won't be damaged, making it quite versatile for a food truck environment.

One of its standout features is the low noise level of just 62 dBA at a quarter load, which is impressive for a generator of this size. This characteristic helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere for both the operator and customers nearby. Additionally, the remote start capability enhances convenience, allowing for easy operation from a distance, especially useful in busy setups.

Portability is another strong point, as the GM9000iE comes with a robust steel handle and two wheels for easier movement. However, weighing 259 pounds, it might still be a bit cumbersome for one person to maneuver alone. The generator's dimensions are relatively large, so space availability in a food truck should be considered when planning its placement. The parallel capability is a bonus, allowing for doubling the power output when connecting two units, which can be a great option for larger food trucks needing more power. The control panel is user-friendly with multiple outlet options, ensuring compatibility with various devices.

On the downside, while the generator is efficient, the weight and size may limit some food truck operators, especially those with tighter spaces. Additionally, although it has a CO detection feature for safety, some users may prefer more advanced safety features depending on their specific needs. The GENMAX GM9000iE is a powerful, quiet, and portable generator that should meet the energy demands of most food trucks, with some consideration needed for its weight and space requirements.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,347
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
2090 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
It managed to run a compressor, chop saw, and circular saw continuously for 6 hours on a single tank of gas, demonstrating its reliability and efficiency.
Fuel Type
The generator performed exactly as expected, running a small air conditioner, lights, and phone charger for over 6 hours on just one gallon of gas.
Noise Level
The quiet operation is impressive; you can have a conversation next to it without raising your voice, quieter than an air compressor or chop saw.
Portability and Size
Perfect size for extended use at events, running all night without needing a refuel.
#2

Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
24465 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Plentiful power is more than enough to power an entire home.
Fuel Type
Running on propane exclusively offers great flexibility.
Noise Level
Surprisingly quiet compared to other generators.
Portability and Size
Easy to store when not in use.
Run Time
Fuel efficiency is outstanding, and it runs for hours without needing frequent refueling.
Starting Mechanism
Remote start feature adds convenience for on/off cycling.

The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a robust option for food truck operators needing reliable power. Its high power output of 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts on gasoline ensures you can run multiple appliances simultaneously without issues. It also offers the flexibility of dual fuel capability, allowing you to use either gasoline or propane, which can be convenient in different situations.

Additionally, it has a long run time of up to 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon tank, which is beneficial for long vending hours. At 210 pounds, it is relatively heavy, impacting its portability, but it includes a remote start with a key fob and electric start, simplifying its operation.

The generator includes multiple outlets, including 120V and 240V options, and is transfer switch ready, adding to its versatility. Safety features such as automatic low oil shutdown and rubber-covered outlets are noteworthy advantages. This generator is especially suitable for food truck owners needing high power and flexibility but might not be ideal for those prioritizing lightweight and ultra-quiet operations.

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
24465 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Plentiful power is more than enough to power an entire home.
Fuel Type
Running on propane exclusively offers great flexibility.
Noise Level
Surprisingly quiet compared to other generators.
Portability and Size
Easy to store when not in use.
Run Time
Fuel efficiency is outstanding, and it runs for hours without needing frequent refueling.
Starting Mechanism
Remote start feature adds convenience for on/off cycling.
#3

Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered, Low THD - Safe for Electronics, Parallel Capable, CO Sensor

Rating
9.7
Fuel Type
Noise Level
Portability and Size

Most important from
565 reviews

Fuel Type
Switching between propane and gasoline is seamless, making it versatile and convenient for various fuel availability scenarios.
Noise Level
Despite being noisier than some competitors, its robust build and reliable performance make it worth the price.
Portability and Size
It's heavy but the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Run Time
The generator performs flawlessly, running continuously for several days during power outages without any issues.
Starting Mechanism
The remote electric start is incredibly handy, allowing operation without needing to step outside.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator stands out as a powerful option for food trucks, delivering 9000 running watts on gasoline and 8100 on propane. This generator is a solid choice for those needing reliable power for cooking equipment and appliances, thanks to its low total harmonic distortion (THD), which protects sensitive electronics.

One of its key strengths is its versatility in fuel options, allowing users to switch between gasoline and propane. This feature can be particularly beneficial in outdoor settings where access to fuel may vary. The generator also boasts an impressive run time of up to 17 hours, ensuring long periods of operation without frequent refueling, which is essential during busy service hours.

The generator is designed for ease of use with a remote electric start, which is a handy feature for food truck operators who may want to start it without leaving their station. Additionally, the digital display provides valuable real-time information about fuel levels and power usage, making it user-friendly. However, at 187.4 pounds, this generator is relatively heavy, which may pose challenges in terms of portability, especially in a confined food truck environment. While it is designed to be transportable, lifting and relocating it could be cumbersome. Lastly, while it comes with various safety features, including a carbon monoxide sensor, ensuring compliance with local safety standards is crucial for food truck operations.

Rating
9.7
Fuel Type
Noise Level
Portability and Size

Most important from
565 reviews

Fuel Type
Switching between propane and gasoline is seamless, making it versatile and convenient for various fuel availability scenarios.
Noise Level
Despite being noisier than some competitors, its robust build and reliable performance make it worth the price.
Portability and Size
It's heavy but the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Run Time
The generator performs flawlessly, running continuously for several days during power outages without any issues.
Starting Mechanism
The remote electric start is incredibly handy, allowing operation without needing to step outside.

Buying Guide for the Best Generator For Food Truck

Choosing the right generator for your food truck is crucial to ensure that all your appliances and equipment run smoothly. A generator provides the necessary power to keep your food truck operational, especially when you are at locations without direct access to electricity. When selecting a generator, you need to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your power needs, is reliable, and fits within the space constraints of your food truck.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is important because it determines whether the generator can handle the combined power requirements of all your appliances. To navigate this, calculate the total wattage of all the equipment you plan to run simultaneously. Generators typically come in different wattage ranges: low (up to 2000 watts), medium (2000-5000 watts), and high (5000+ watts). Choose a generator with a wattage that exceeds your total requirement to ensure smooth operation and to accommodate any additional equipment you might add in the future.
Fuel TypeGenerators can run on various types of fuel, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas. The fuel type affects the generator's efficiency, cost of operation, and availability of fuel. Gasoline generators are common and easy to refuel but can be less efficient and more expensive to run. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and durable but can be noisier. Propane generators are cleaner and quieter but require a propane supply. Choose a fuel type based on availability, cost, and your preference for efficiency and noise levels.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a generator, measured in decibels (dB), is important for maintaining a pleasant environment for your customers and complying with local noise regulations. Generators can be categorized into low noise (below 60 dB), moderate noise (60-75 dB), and high noise (above 75 dB). For a food truck, a quieter generator is generally preferable to avoid disturbing customers and nearby businesses. Look for generators labeled as 'quiet' or 'silent' if noise is a significant concern.
Portability and SizePortability and size are crucial for a food truck where space is limited. A compact and lightweight generator is easier to transport and store. Generators can range from small, portable units to larger, more stationary models. Consider the available space in your food truck and how often you will need to move the generator. Choose a generator that fits comfortably within your space constraints and is easy to maneuver if necessary.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is important for ensuring that your food truck can run continuously during business hours without frequent refueling. Generators with longer run times are more convenient and reduce downtime. Run times can vary from a few hours to over 10 hours. Choose a generator with a run time that matches your operating hours to minimize interruptions.
Starting MechanismThe starting mechanism of a generator can be manual (pull-start) or electric (push-button or remote start). This affects the ease of starting the generator. Manual start generators are typically more affordable but require more effort to start. Electric start generators are more convenient and easier to use, especially if you need to start the generator frequently. Choose a starting mechanism based on your preference for convenience and ease of use.

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