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10 Best Propane Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt 500cc Tri Fuel Gas Propane Natural Gas Portable Generator with CO Alert, Black/Blue

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,155
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
2275 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This unit can power an entire house, including the AC, by managing the interior load effectively.
Portability
Despite its weight, the handles and wheels make it easy to maneuver.
Noise Level
The generator's noise level is manageable, considering it houses a powerful 500cc motor.
Fuel Efficiency
Installing soft start units on AC outdoor units helps reduce startup power spikes, making the generator more efficient.
Starting Mechanism
Starting the generator with the remote is reliable, even with a slight delay in turnover.

The DuroMax XP13000HXT is a powerful tri-fuel generator that can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, making it a versatile choice for both residential and commercial use. With a peak wattage of 13,000 watts and a running wattage of 10,500 watts, it’s capable of keeping your entire home powered during outages or emergencies. One of its standout features is the CO Alert system that protects users from harmful carbon monoxide fumes, enhancing safety during operation.

Portability is a strong point, as it comes with a wheel and handle kit, allowing you to move it around with relative ease, despite its hefty weight of 240 pounds. The generator also boasts a push button and remote start, which simplifies operation. Users appreciate the digital display that provides essential information at a glance, and the array of outputs, including a 50-amp outlet for larger appliances.

The XP13000HXT does have some drawbacks. The noise level is rated at 74 dB, which may be considered loud for some users, particularly in residential areas. The runtime of around 8 hours on a half-gallon tank might require more frequent refueling if used continuously, depending on the load. Additionally, while the tri-fuel capability offers flexibility, not every user may need all three fuel types, and it may complicate the setup for those who prefer simplicity.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,155
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
2275 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This unit can power an entire house, including the AC, by managing the interior load effectively.
Portability
Despite its weight, the handles and wheels make it easy to maneuver.
Noise Level
The generator's noise level is manageable, considering it houses a powerful 500cc motor.
Fuel Efficiency
Installing soft start units on AC outdoor units helps reduce startup power spikes, making the generator more efficient.
Starting Mechanism
Starting the generator with the remote is reliable, even with a slight delay in turnover.
#2

Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas Powered

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
213 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers ample power to run an entire large home, including heavy appliances like a 5-ton AC and 220-volt dryers without issue.
Portability
Despite its size and weight, the solid never-flat wheels and sturdy frame make moving it manageable.
Noise Level
Noise levels are noticeable but acceptable considering its power output and intended outdoor use.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is promising, especially when using propane or natural gas, helping to reduce carbon buildup and maintenance.
Starting Mechanism
The electric and remote start system works seamlessly, providing a nearly automatic, hassle-free startup experience.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a powerhouse designed mainly for larger homes needing reliable backup power. It offers impressive wattage, delivering up to 28,000 peak watts on gasoline and 25,200 peak watts when running on propane, which is excellent for running multiple heavy appliances or essential home systems during an outage. With a large 17.2-gallon fuel tank, it can run up to 13 hours at 25% load, giving you substantial runtime for extended outages. It supports three fuel types—gasoline, propane, and natural gas—making it versatile and convenient depending on what fuel you have access to.

The generator includes electric and remote start, simplifying the startup process, which is a big help if you want to avoid manual pulls. Portability-wise, it weighs 557 pounds but features large never-flat wheels and foldable handles to assist with moving it around, although it won’t be as easy to transport as smaller units. Generators of this size tend to produce noticeable noise and are best suited for outdoor use rather than quiet environments. The built-in sensors, automatic idle control, and voltage regulation help protect your devices and improve fuel efficiency, while the low total harmonic distortion means it can safely power sensitive electronics like computers and TVs.

A potential downside is its size and weight, which may be cumbersome for some users, and it requires professional installation for the hardwired whole-home backup option. For those seeking a robust, reliable, and flexible generator for backup power in a larger home and who do not mind the bulk, this model represents a strong contender.

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
213 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers ample power to run an entire large home, including heavy appliances like a 5-ton AC and 220-volt dryers without issue.
Portability
Despite its size and weight, the solid never-flat wheels and sturdy frame make moving it manageable.
Noise Level
Noise levels are noticeable but acceptable considering its power output and intended outdoor use.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is promising, especially when using propane or natural gas, helping to reduce carbon buildup and maintenance.
Starting Mechanism
The electric and remote start system works seamlessly, providing a nearly automatic, hassle-free startup experience.
#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
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
920 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator ran flawlessly for 3 straight days and powered everything in the house, including home heating units.
Run Time
The ability to use both propane and gas makes keeping it fueled easy, with propane lasting approximately 9 hours and gas about 12.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move, despite its heavy weight.
Noise Level
It is noisier than a Honda but seems solid and built to last.
Starting Mechanism
Super easy to use, with various starting options and convenient connections for propane and natural gas.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerful option for those in need of a reliable energy source. With a peak wattage of 11,000 watts on gasoline and 10,000 watts on propane, it delivers robust power suitable for a variety of uses, including residential and emergency backup. Its run time of up to 17 hours on a 9.8-gallon tank is impressive, ensuring long-term usage without frequent refueling. The generator features a remote electric start, which is convenient and user-friendly, along with push button and recoil start options.

It houses a heavy-duty 452cc engine with automatic low oil shutdown and a CO sensor for safety. The inclusion of GFCI outlets and transfer switch ready outlets make it versatile for different electrical needs. While it weighs 187.4 pounds, which may limit portability despite being marketed as portable, it remains a strong choice for those seeking reliability and versatility. Fuel efficiency is good, especially with the ability to run on both gasoline and propane, providing flexibility depending on fuel availability.

The rotating digital display and various included components like the oil funnel and propane regulator make it user-friendly from the start. While its weight might be a drawback for some, the generator’s comprehensive features and robust power output make it a solid choice for those seeking reliability and versatility.

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
920 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator ran flawlessly for 3 straight days and powered everything in the house, including home heating units.
Run Time
The ability to use both propane and gas makes keeping it fueled easy, with propane lasting approximately 9 hours and gas about 12.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move, despite its heavy weight.
Noise Level
It is noisier than a Honda but seems solid and built to last.
Starting Mechanism
Super easy to use, with various starting options and convenient connections for propane and natural gas.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Generators

When choosing a propane generator, it's important to consider your specific needs and how the generator will be used. Propane generators are a great choice for backup power during emergencies, outdoor activities, or even as a primary power source in remote locations. They are known for their clean-burning fuel, which is more environmentally friendly compared to gasoline. To make an informed decision, you should understand the key specifications and how they relate to your requirements.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is crucial because it determines what appliances and devices you can run simultaneously. Generators typically range from 1,000 watts to over 10,000 watts. For small appliances and light use, a generator with 1,000 to 3,000 watts may suffice. For running multiple appliances or larger equipment, you might need 3,000 to 7,000 watts. For whole-house backup or heavy-duty use, consider generators with 7,000 watts or more. Assess your power needs by listing the wattage requirements of the devices you plan to use.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long the generator can operate on a full tank of propane. This is important for planning how long you can rely on the generator before needing to refuel. Run times can vary widely, from a few hours to over 24 hours, depending on the generator's efficiency and load. For occasional use or short power outages, a shorter run time may be acceptable. For extended use or longer outages, look for a generator with a longer run time to minimize the need for frequent refueling. Consider your typical usage scenarios to determine the appropriate run time for your needs.
PortabilityPortability is a measure of how easy it is to move the generator. This is particularly important if you plan to use the generator in different locations or need to store it when not in use. Portable generators often come with wheels and handles for easier transport. Smaller, lighter models are easier to move but may have lower power output. Larger models may offer more power but can be heavier and harder to transport. Think about where and how you will use the generator to decide on the right balance between power and portability.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the generator is during operation. This is important for comfort, especially if you will be using the generator in residential areas or during camping trips. Generators can range from very quiet (around 50 dB) to quite loud (over 80 dB). For quiet environments or close proximity to living spaces, look for generators with lower noise levels. If noise is less of a concern, you may prioritize other features over noise level. Consider where you will use the generator and how much noise is acceptable in that setting.
Fuel EfficiencyFuel efficiency measures how effectively the generator uses propane to produce electricity. This is important for cost savings and reducing the frequency of refueling. More efficient generators can run longer on the same amount of fuel. Efficiency can be influenced by the generator's design and the load it is powering. Look for models with features like eco-mode or variable engine speed, which can improve efficiency. If you plan to use the generator frequently or for long periods, a more fuel-efficient model can save you money and hassle in the long run.
Starting MechanismThe starting mechanism refers to how the generator is turned on. Common options include manual recoil start, electric start, and remote start. This is important for ease of use and convenience. Manual recoil start requires pulling a cord, which can be physically demanding. Electric start uses a push-button or key, making it easier to start the generator. Remote start allows you to start the generator from a distance, adding convenience. Consider your physical ability and preference for convenience when choosing the starting mechanism.

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