We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Propane Generators 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,244
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
265 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
10.0
Chosen by1,244
Power Output (Wattage)
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
265 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.
#2

Generac Guardian 10kW Home Standby Generator - Automatic Whole House Backup Power for Storms, Emergencies, and Outages, WiFi Enabled, Runs on Natural Gas or Liquid Propane, Quiet Operation

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level

Most important from
422 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers flawless, automatic backup power, firing up within seconds and running smoothly through multiple outages without any issues.
Noise Level
It operates surprisingly quietly, even while powering major household appliances like central A/C, water heater, and stove simultaneously.

The Generac Guardian 10kW Home Standby Generator is designed to provide reliable backup power for your entire home, making it a strong choice for those preparing for storms or outages. It delivers a solid 10,000 watts of clean, stable power which is enough to keep essential appliances running smoothly. It operates quietly, especially during its self-test mode, which helps save fuel and reduces noise disturbance—a big plus if you want peace and quiet around your home.

This model runs on either natural gas or liquid propane, offering flexible fuel options that can fit various household setups. The generator features an electronic ignition system for easy and reliable starting, so you won’t have to worry about manual effort when power goes out. With its Wi-Fi connectivity, you can monitor its status remotely, giving you peace of mind even when you’re away.

Since it is designed to be a permanent home standby unit and weighs 338 pounds, it is not portable. However, it excels in durability and low maintenance thanks to its purpose-built engine. Installation requires a certified electrician, so it’s not a simple plug-and-play device but rather a solid investment for long-term home protection. This generator offers powerful, quiet, and efficient backup energy with smart features, ideal for keeping your home running smoothly during emergencies.

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level

Most important from
422 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers flawless, automatic backup power, firing up within seconds and running smoothly through multiple outages without any issues.
Noise Level
It operates surprisingly quietly, even while powering major household appliances like central A/C, water heater, and stove simultaneously.
#3

WEN 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start (DF1100T)

Rating
8.5
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
1978 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers solid power output suitable for heavy-duty appliances and multiple devices during outages.
Run Time
The dual-fuel capability offers great flexibility, with propane providing cleaner burns and gasoline delivering longer run times.
Portability
Wheels and handles provide decent mobility despite the unit’s substantial weight, ideal for stationary or occasional transport.
Noise Level
The unit runs quieter than expected, and noise can be further reduced with a dedicated enclosure.
Fuel Efficiency
The dual-fuel capability offers great flexibility, with propane providing cleaner burns and gasoline delivering longer run times.
Starting Mechanism
Electric start and smooth engine performance make powering up effortless, even on the first try.

The WEN 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a strong choice for those needing reliable power at home or outdoors. It delivers up to 8,300 running watts on gasoline and 7,500 watts on propane, which is enough to handle heavy-duty appliances or multiple devices during an outage. The generator offers flexibility with easy switching between gasoline and propane, plus it supports both 120V and 240V outputs, making it compatible with various power needs including emergency transfer switches.

Starting the generator is hassle-free thanks to its electric start system, so you don't have to rely on a pull cord. It has a large 6.6-gallon tank that provides up to 8.5 hours of run time at half load when using gasoline, which is decent for extended use. However, keep in mind it weighs 214 pounds, so while it comes with wheels for mobility, it’s not very lightweight or compact for frequent transport.

Fuel efficiency is reasonable, especially with propane as a cleaner-burning option, though the propane run time is lower than gasoline. The generator includes multiple outlets for different plug types, covering a wide range of device connections, and even comes with a propane hose and oil to get started right away. The two-year warranty adds some peace of mind. This WEN model suits users looking for a powerful, flexible dual-fuel generator with electric start and versatile outlets. It is better suited for stationary use or occasional transport rather than frequent moving, and while it provides solid run time and power, noise and weight could be considerations depending on your needs.

Rating
8.5
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
1978 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers solid power output suitable for heavy-duty appliances and multiple devices during outages.
Run Time
The dual-fuel capability offers great flexibility, with propane providing cleaner burns and gasoline delivering longer run times.
Portability
Wheels and handles provide decent mobility despite the unit’s substantial weight, ideal for stationary or occasional transport.
Noise Level
The unit runs quieter than expected, and noise can be further reduced with a dedicated enclosure.
Fuel Efficiency
The dual-fuel capability offers great flexibility, with propane providing cleaner burns and gasoline delivering longer run times.
Starting Mechanism
Electric start and smooth engine performance make powering up effortless, even on the first try.

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.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now