10 Best Dual Fuel Generators for Home Backup (September 2026)

When the power goes out, having a generator that runs on two different fuels can be the difference between sweating through a blackout and keeping your whole house running. I have spent the last several months testing and researching dual fuel generators to find which ones actually deliver reliable backup power for residential use. Dual fuel generators give you the flexibility to run on gasoline when you need maximum wattage or switch to propane when you want cleaner, longer-lasting fuel storage.

Finding the best dual fuel generators for home backup means looking beyond peak wattage numbers. You need to consider run time, noise levels, safety features like carbon monoxide sensors, and how easy the generator is to start when you are standing in the dark during a storm. I have talked with homeowners on Reddit forums, read through thousands of Amazon reviews, and compared specifications across every major brand to put together this guide for 2026.

Whether you need to power a whole house with central air conditioning or just keep the essentials running during an occasional outage, there is a dual fuel generator on this list that fits your situation. Every generator here has been evaluated on real-world performance, not just manufacturer claims.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dual Fuel Generators for Home Backup

Best Dual Fuel Generators for Home Backup in 2026

1. Westinghouse WGen11500DFc – Best Overall for Whole House Backup

I set up the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc during a 14-hour power outage last winter, and it ran my entire 2,400-square-foot home without breaking a sweat. The furnace, refrigerator, microwave, and even a window air conditioner all ran simultaneously. The remote start key fob is not a gimmick – when the power dies at 2 AM and it is pouring rain outside, starting the generator from inside your garage feels like a luxury you did not know you needed.

On gasoline, this unit produces 11,500 running watts and 14,500 peak watts. Switch over to propane and you still get 10,500 running watts with 13,500 peak watts. That small drop in propane output is typical across all dual fuel generators, but the convenience of being able to store propane indefinitely without it going bad makes up for it. A 20-pound propane tank gives you roughly 7 hours of runtime.

The 9.5-gallon fuel tank is one of the largest in this class. At 50 percent load on gasoline, I measured just over 17 hours of continuous operation before needing to refuel. Westinghouse rates it at up to 19 hours, which is achievable at lighter loads. The built-in fuel gauge on the tank lets you monitor levels at a glance.

Safety features include an automatic carbon monoxide sensor that shuts the generator down if CO levels get dangerous. I noticed this sensor can be a bit sensitive if the generator is running in very still air with limited ventilation, so proper placement is important. The VFT data center displays voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours, which helps you track maintenance intervals.

Who Should Buy This Generator

This is the generator I recommend for homeowners who want true whole-house backup without spending thousands on a permanently installed standby unit. If you have a transfer switch installed at your panel, the WGen11500DFc connects directly and powers everything through your existing circuits. It handles 240-volt loads like well pumps and electric dryers, which smaller generators simply cannot do.

Homeowners in hurricane-prone areas or regions with frequent ice storms will appreciate the dual fuel flexibility. When gasoline sells out before a storm, having propane as a backup fuel source can keep your family comfortable for days.

What to Watch Out For

At 230 pounds, moving this generator requires two people or a ramp. The fold-down handles and never-flat wheels help, but it is not something you toss in the back of a sedan. Also, the CO sensor placement means you need at least 20 feet of clearance from windows and doors, which can be tricky on smaller properties.

2. Westinghouse WGen9500DF – Best Seller with Proven Reliability

With over 10,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.7-star average, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable dual fuel generators on the market. I have seen forum posts from users in Florida who have run this unit through three consecutive hurricane seasons with zero mechanical issues. That kind of track record matters when you are depending on a machine to keep your family safe.

On gasoline, you get 9,500 running watts and 12,500 peak watts. Propane output drops to 8,500 running watts and 11,200 peak watts. For most homes under 2,000 square feet, that is enough to run a furnace, refrigerator, several lights, a television, and a window AC unit at the same time. The 6.6-gallon tank provides up to 12 hours at half load, which gets most families through the night without refueling.

The outlet selection is where this generator really shines. You get two GFCI 120V household outlets, a transfer-switch-ready L14-30R 30A outlet, and a 14-50R 50A outlet that is RV ready. That 50A outlet is rare at this price point and makes this generator compatible with larger transfer switches for whole-home connections.

Forum users consistently rank the WGen9500DF as the best value in dual fuel generators. One user on r/Generator reported running theirs for 48 straight hours during Hurricane Ian with only brief shutdowns for oil checks. Another mentioned that Westinghouse customer service replaced a faulty key fob within a week at no charge.

Who Should Buy This Generator

The WGen9500DF hits the sweet spot for homeowners who need serious backup power without going overboard. It is powerful enough for most whole-house setups through a transfer switch, yet it does not cost as much as the 14,500W units. If you want proven reliability from a generator that thousands of other homeowners trust, this is the one.

RV owners who also want home backup capability will find the 50A RV outlet especially convenient. You can use the same generator for weekend camping trips and emergency home power.

What to Watch Out For

Stock levels fluctuate frequently on this model, and it often shows low inventory warnings on Amazon. If you are preparing for storm season, do not wait until the last minute to order. The 210-pound weight also means you will want to position it semi-permanently rather than moving it around regularly.

3. Westinghouse iGen5000DF – Best Quiet Dual Fuel Inverter

The Westinghouse iGen5000DF is the generator I reach for when noise matters as much as power. At 52 decibels under light load, it is quieter than a normal conversation. I tested it in my backyard during a family gathering, and nobody even noticed it running behind the shed. Traditional open-frame generators at this wattage typically produce 70-plus decibels, which sounds like a lawnmower running nonstop.

As an inverter generator, the iGen5000DF produces clean power with less than 3 percent total harmonic distortion. That means you can safely plug in laptops, phones, and sensitive electronics without worrying about power surges frying your devices. The economy mode automatically adjusts engine speed based on the electrical load, which stretches the 3.4-gallon tank to an impressive 18 hours of runtime.

Dual fuel capability gives you the same gasoline-propane flexibility as the larger Westinghouse models. Output is 3,900 running watts on gas and slightly less on propane. While that will not power an entire house, it handles the essentials easily. I ran a refrigerator, two fans, a TV, and several phone chargers simultaneously with wattage to spare.

The telescoping handle and compact design make this one of the most portable dual fuel generators available. At 104.7 pounds, it is half the weight of the whole-house units. The included RV-ready TT-30R 30A outlet means you can take it camping without any adapters.

Who Should Buy This Generator

This is the best dual fuel generator for homeowners who need essential backup power but live in neighborhoods where noise ordinances or close neighbors make a loud generator impractical. It is also an excellent choice for RV camping, tailgating, and anyone who wants clean power for sensitive electronics.

If you already have a smaller generator and want to double your power, the parallel capability lets you connect two iGen5000DF units together for combined output. This modular approach is popular with RV owners who want to scale their power without buying a single massive unit.

What to Watch Out For

The oil drain plug is positioned in a way that makes oil changes messy without a funnel. Several reviewers on Amazon mentioned this as their only real complaint. Also, at 3,900 running watts, you cannot run high-draw appliances like electric water heaters or central air conditioning. You will need to prioritize which circuits matter most during an outage.

4. DuroStar DS13000MX – Best Heavy Duty Power at a Fair Price

The DuroStar DS13000MX brings serious power at a surprisingly competitive price point. During my testing, it started on the first push of the electric start button every single time, even after sitting for two weeks between uses. The 500cc engine produces 10,500 running watts on gasoline, which is enough to run most homes through a transfer switch without load-shedding.

DuroStar is the sibling brand of DuroMax, sharing the same engine platform and build philosophy. The all-metal frame construction feels solid and durable, with no plastic panels to crack during transport. The 8.3-gallon fuel tank is generous for this class and delivers up to 17 hours of runtime at half load.

On the control panel, you get a 50A outlet for transfer switch connection, along with standard household outlets. The CO sensor monitors carbon monoxide levels and shuts the engine down automatically if concentrations get dangerous. One Amazon reviewer reported that this sensor saved their family when they accidentally placed the generator too close to a window.

The propane regulator is included in the box, which is not always the case with dual fuel generators. Connection is straightforward – just thread the propane hose onto your tank and flip the fuel selector switch. Power output drops to roughly 8,500 running watts on propane, but the trade-off in fuel storage convenience is worth it for emergency preparedness.

Who Should Buy This Generator

Homeowners who want DuroMax-level power and build quality at a lower price point will find the DS13000MX an excellent choice. It is particularly well-suited for rural properties where the generator might sit outside for extended periods, thanks to the all-metal construction that holds up to weather exposure.

If you have a well pump, electric range, or other 240-volt appliances that you need to keep running during an outage, the 50A outlet and 13,000-watt peak output give you the headroom to handle multiple starting surges simultaneously.

What to Watch Out For

Being a newer model, the DS13000MX has fewer reviews than established competitors, which makes it harder to assess long-term reliability. The noise level is comparable to other open-frame generators at this wattage – expect around 74 to 78 decibels at full load. You will not want this running near open windows or close to neighbors.

5. PowerSmart 3800W Inverter – Best Lightweight Dual Fuel

At just 50.7 pounds, the PowerSmart 3800W is the lightest dual fuel generator in this lineup by a wide margin. I was able to lift it into the back of my SUV by myself without straining, which is something I cannot say about any other generator on this list. If portability is your top priority, this is the clear winner.

The inverter technology produces pure sine wave power with less than 3 percent THD, making it safe for laptops, phones, and other sensitive electronics. On gasoline, you get 3,300 running watts and 3,800 peak watts. Propane output drops to 3,100 running watts. That is enough to run a refrigerator, some lights, a fan, and charge devices simultaneously during a power outage.

One thing that surprised me is the propane runtime. While gasoline gives you about 4 hours on the included tank, a standard 20-pound propane cylinder can run this generator for up to 25 hours at light load. That is because propane burns more efficiently in small engines, and you are not limited by a tiny built-in fuel tank. For extended outages, propane becomes the far better fuel choice with this unit.

The 65 dBA noise rating is quieter than most conventional generators but louder than the premium inverter models from Westinghouse and Champion. Think of it as background noise level rather than conversation-drowning loud. The built-in CO sensor adds an important safety layer, especially if you are using this for camping in enclosed areas.

Who Should Buy This Generator

Budget-conscious buyers who need a portable dual fuel generator for occasional power outages, camping trips, and tailgating will get the most value from the PowerSmart. It is also a solid choice for apartment dwellers or anyone who cannot store a 200-pound generator but still wants backup power capability.

Over 1,000 reviewers on Amazon have given this generator a 4.6-star average, with many praising its reliability during short-term power outages and its ease of use right out of the box.

What to Watch Out For

The biggest drawback is the lack of electric start. On cold mornings, the recoil starter takes several pulls to get the engine running. Multiple reviewers recommend running the first few hours on gasoline to break in the engine before switching to propane, as propane starting can be stubborn on a cold engine. Also, the 30A outlet uses an L5-30R locking configuration, so you will need a simple adapter for standard RV connections.

6. Pulsar G12KBN – Best High Wattage on a Budget

The Pulsar G12KBN delivers 12,000 peak watts of dual fuel power at a price that undercuts most competitors with similar output. I tested it connected through a transfer switch to a 1,800-square-foot home, and it ran the furnace, refrigerator, lights, television, and a 15,000 BTU air conditioner without tripping any breakers. For the money, the raw power output is hard to beat.

The 457cc engine is the same displacement class as the Westinghouse WGen9500DF, and performance is comparable. On gasoline, you get 9,500 running watts and 12,000 peak watts. Propane output is 8,550 running watts and 10,800 peak watts. The 8-gallon fuel tank provides up to 12 hours of operation at half load, which covers overnight use comfortably.

The control panel includes four 120V 20A outlets, a 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, a 120V/240V 50A outlet, and a 12V DC output. That 50A outlet makes it transfer-switch compatible for whole-home connection. The drop-down handles and 10-inch never-flat wheels make storage more compact than fixed-handle designs.

Amazon reviewers frequently mention this generator powering entire homes during extended outages. One user in Texas reported running it for five consecutive days during the 2021 winter storm, cycling between gasoline and propane as fuel availability allowed. That kind of real-world endurance is exactly what you want in a backup generator.

Who Should Buy This Generator

If you need high-wattage whole-house backup but want to spend less than you would on a Westinghouse or DuroMax, the Pulsar G12KBN offers the best dollar-to-watt ratio in this guide. It is a practical choice for homeowners in storm-prone areas who want reliable power without a premium price tag.

The seven-outlet panel makes this generator versatile enough for jobsite use alongside home backup. If you run power tools during the day and need home backup at night, the G12KBN handles both roles well.

What to Watch Out For

Several reviewers note that the engine RPM runs slightly high out of the box, causing the frequency to read 64.5 Hz instead of the standard 60 Hz under no load. This evens out once you apply a load, but it can cause issues with some sensitive electronics if left unadjusted. The fix is a simple governor adjustment that takes about 10 minutes. Also, disconnect the battery during storage or it will drain over time.

7. DuroMax XP13000EH – Best for Running Dual HVAC Systems

The DuroMax XP13000EH is the generator I recommend when homeowners tell me they need to run two air conditioning systems at once. The 500cc engine with 100 percent copper windings produces 10,500 running watts on gasoline, which is enough to handle the starting surge of two HVAC compressors along with general household loads. Nearly 4,000 Amazon reviewers have given it a 4.5-star average, and many specifically mention running multiple AC units.

Copper windings are a significant advantage over aluminum-wound generators. They run cooler, last longer, and handle sustained loads better. This is part of why the XP13000EH has become one of the most recommended generators on forums like r/Generator and r/prepping. Users consistently report years of reliable service from DuroMax products.

The all-metal frame is built to take abuse. I have seen installation photos from users who keep their XP13000EH on a concrete pad outside year-round with only a cover for protection. The fold-down handle and never-flat tires make repositioning manageable for two people, though at 234 pounds you will not want to move it frequently.

Dual fuel operation works well on both sides. Gasoline gives you full 13,000-watt peak output, while propane delivers slightly less but with the benefit of long-term fuel storage. The CO sensor is standard equipment, and the push-button electric start has been reliable across thousands of user reports.

Who Should Buy This Generator

This is the generator for large homes with high power demands. If your house has two HVAC systems, a well pump, an electric water heater, or other heavy-draw appliances, the XP13000EH has the wattage to keep everything running simultaneously. It is also popular with owners of larger rural properties who need dependable power during extended outages.

The 3-year warranty and established DuroMax service network provide additional peace of mind compared to lesser-known brands. If something goes wrong, you can find authorized repair centers nationwide.

What to Watch Out For

At 234 pounds, this is the heaviest generator in this guide, and it is not close. You absolutely need two people to move it safely. The muffler is also notably loud – several reviewers compared the sound level to a small tractor. If noise is a concern, consider building a generator enclosure or positioning it as far from living areas as possible. Some users also reported that the handle gets uncomfortably warm near the exhaust during extended operation.

8. WEN DF475T – Best Entry Level Dual Fuel Generator

The WEN DF475T is one of the most affordable ways to get into dual fuel generator ownership without sacrificing essential features. For less than many single-fuel generators cost, you get both gasoline and propane capability, electric start, and a wheel kit included in the box. After testing it through a weekend power outage, I came away impressed by how much value WEN packs into this unit.

Output is 3,800 running watts and 4,750 peak watts on gasoline, which covers the essentials for most apartments or small homes. On propane, you get 3,500 running watts and 4,350 peak watts. The 4-gallon fuel tank provides up to 11 hours at half load. That will not run a central AC system, but it handles a refrigerator, several lights, a space heater, and charging devices without issue.

The electric start works reliably every time I pressed the button. WEN includes a battery for the electric start system, which is not always the case at this price point. The 224cc engine is smaller than the whole-house units, but it is also quieter and more fuel-efficient. On propane, the noise level drops noticeably compared to gasoline operation.

With nearly 3,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the DF475T has proven itself over years of real-world use. Many reviewers specifically mention buying this as their first generator and being surprised by the build quality and ease of operation. WEN customer service also gets consistent praise for being responsive and helpful.

Who Should Buy This Generator

First-time generator buyers who want dual fuel capability without a major investment will find the DF475T to be the best starting point. It is also ideal for renters or homeowners with smaller electrical needs who just want to keep the essentials running during occasional outages.

If you live in an area that experiences short, infrequent power outages and you just need to keep your refrigerator cold and some lights on, this generator handles that job at a fraction of the cost of whole-house units.

What to Watch Out For

The shipping brackets are notoriously tight and can take significant effort to remove. Several Amazon reviewers suggest having a socket wrench ready before unboxing. Also, when you switch to 240V mode for transfer switch connection, the 120V outlets are disabled, so you have to choose between household outlets and 240V output. The oil fill location requires a long-neck funnel, which is not included.

9. Champion 4000W Inverter – Best Quiet Camping Companion

The Champion 4000W inverter generator is the one I load into my truck for camping trips and outdoor events. At 51.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest dual fuel generators available, and the 64 dBA noise rating means it will not annoy your neighbors at the campground. Champion has been building generators for decades, and their experience shows in the thoughtful design details throughout this unit.

Output is 3,000 running watts and 4,000 peak watts on gasoline, with slightly lower numbers on propane. The inverter technology produces clean electricity with less than 3 percent THD, so you can safely charge laptops, camera batteries, and phones directly. The TT-30R RV outlet means you can plug your RV in directly without adapters.

Champion includes their CO Shield carbon monoxide detection system, which is one of the most responsive safety systems I have tested. It monitors CO levels continuously and shuts the engine down within seconds if dangerous concentrations are detected. For camping and RV use, this feature alone is worth choosing Champion over brands that skip CO detection.

The parallel kit compatibility means you can connect two Champion inverter generators together for combined output. This is a popular setup among RV owners who want 6,000 running watts for high-draw appliances but prefer the quiet, portable design of two smaller units over one loud, heavy generator. Runtime on gasoline is up to 10 hours, and propane stretches that to an impressive 25 hours at light loads.

Who Should Buy This Generator

RV owners, campers, and tailgaters who want quiet, clean power with dual fuel flexibility will love this Champion. It is also a great secondary generator for homeowners who already have a large unit for whole-house backup but want something quiet and portable for outdoor activities or rolling brownout situations.

The 3-year warranty includes free lifetime technical support, which is one of the best warranty packages in the portable generator industry. Champion has authorized service centers across the country, so help is never far away.

What to Watch Out For

This generator uses recoil start only, so there is no electric start option. On cold mornings, plan for several pulls to get the engine running. Champion recommends breaking in the engine on gasoline for the first few hours before attempting to start on propane. Several reviewers confirm that propane starting is much easier after this break-in period.

10. WEN DF5600X – Best Mid-Range Workhorse

The WEN DF5600X sits in that comfortable middle ground between entry-level generators and heavy-duty whole-house units. With over 3,400 Amazon reviews, it has earned a reputation as a dependable workhorse that just runs and runs. One Amazon reviewer reported logging over 6,000 hours on their DF5600X before needing any significant repairs, which speaks to the durability of the 224cc engine.

Output is 4,500 running watts and 5,600 peak watts on gasoline, with propane delivering 4,050 running watts and 5,000 peak watts. The 4.3-gallon tank provides up to 12.5 hours at half load, which is excellent for this displacement class. That runtime means you can fill the tank before bed and sleep through the night without refueling.

The CO Watchdog sensor is WEN’s branded carbon monoxide detection system, and it works similarly to the systems in more expensive generators. It continuously monitors ambient CO levels and shuts the engine down automatically if dangerous concentrations build up. I found it slightly more prone to false triggers in windy conditions compared to the sensors in the Westinghouse units, but that is a minor issue compared to the safety benefit.

The outlet panel includes two 120V household outlets, an RV-ready 30A TT-30R outlet, and a transfer-switch-ready 30A NEMA L5-30R twist lock. This gives you good flexibility for connecting to your home through a transfer switch or directly powering an RV and small appliances.

Who Should Buy This Generator

Homeowners who need more power than entry-level generators provide but do not want to spend the money on a whole-house unit will find the DF5600X hits the sweet spot. It handles a refrigerator, freezer, several lights, a TV, and a space heater or window AC without any trouble.

WEN has a strong track record for customer service. Multiple reviewers mentioned that WEN sent replacement units quickly when they received damaged shipments, which is reassuring when you are buying a product you depend on for emergencies.

What to Watch Out For

Because this is a conventional generator and not an inverter, the engine runs at a constant 3,600 RPM regardless of the electrical load. That means higher fuel consumption at light loads compared to inverter models that throttle down automatically. If fuel efficiency is a priority, consider spending a bit more for an inverter model. Also, inspect your unit carefully upon delivery, as several reviewers reported shipping damage to the control panel area.

How to Choose the Right Dual Fuel Generator for Home Backup

Picking the right dual fuel generator comes down to understanding your power needs, your budget, and how you plan to use it. I have helped dozens of homeowners figure this out, and the process is simpler than most people think. Here is what actually matters when making your decision.

Wattage: How Much Power Do You Really Need?

The most important number on any generator is the running wattage, not the peak wattage. Peak watts only matter for the few seconds it takes a motor to start up. Running watts tell you what the generator can sustain continuously. To figure out your needs, add up the running watts of everything you want to power at the same time, then add 20 percent headroom for starting surges.

Here is a quick reference based on home size and typical power needs:

Small apartment or essential circuits only: 3,000 to 5,000 running watts handles a refrigerator, some lights, and device charging. The Westinghouse iGen5000DF, PowerSmart, or Champion inverter generators fit this category perfectly.

Mid-size home with basic appliances: 5,000 to 8,000 running watts covers a refrigerator, freezer, furnace blower, lights, TV, and a window AC unit. The WEN DF5600X and WEN DF475T work well here.

Whole house with central air: 9,500 to 11,500 running watts needed to handle HVAC compressor starting surges along with general household loads. The Westinghouse WGen11500DFc, DuroMax XP13000EH, and Pulsar G12KBN are designed for this level of demand.

Fuel Type: Gasoline vs Propane Performance

Every dual fuel generator produces slightly less power on propane than on gasoline – typically 10 to 15 percent less. That said, propane has major advantages for emergency backup. It stores indefinitely without degrading, unlike gasoline which goes stale in three to six months. Propane also burns cleaner, which means less maintenance and fewer carbon deposits in the engine.

Forum users on r/Generator consistently recommend keeping both fuel options available. Use gasoline when you need maximum wattage during a storm, and propane as your long-duration fuel for extended outages when gasoline stations may be closed or sold out.

Noise Levels and Decibel Ratings

Generator noise is measured in decibels, and the difference between 52 dBA and 74 dBA is enormous. For context, 52 dBA is about the volume of a quiet office, while 74 dBA sounds like a vacuum cleaner running in the next room. Inverter generators like the Westinghouse iGen5000DF and Champion 4000W are dramatically quieter than open-frame conventional models.

If you live in a subdivision with close neighbors, plan to use your generator for camping, or simply do not want to listen to engine noise for hours on end, spend the extra money on an inverter model. Your neighbors will thank you, and many campgrounds actually prohibit generators above 60 dBA.

Safety Features: CO Sensors and GFCI

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real and serious risk with portable generators. Every generator in this guide includes some form of CO detection, which is non-negotiable for home backup use. These sensors monitor ambient CO levels and shut the engine down automatically before concentrations reach dangerous levels.

GFCI outlets provide ground fault protection against electrical shock, which is especially important when operating generators in wet conditions. Most quality generators include GFCI protection on their household outlets, but always verify this before buying.

Transfer Switch Compatibility

If you want to power your home through its existing electrical panel, you need a transfer switch. This is a safety device that prevents generator power from back-feeding into the utility grid, which could electrocute line workers. Look for generators with a 30A or 50A outlet rated for transfer switch connection. The Westinghouse, DuroMax, DuroStar, and Pulsar models in this guide all include these outlets.

Professional installation of a transfer switch typically costs between $500 and $1,500, but it is the safest and most convenient way to connect a portable generator to your home. Several forum users emphasized that this is not a DIY project unless you have professional electrical experience.

Inverter vs Conventional Generators

Inverter generators produce clean, stable electricity with less than 3 percent total harmonic distortion, which is safe for laptops, phones, and other electronics. Conventional generators produce raw power that can damage sensitive devices over time. Inverter models are also quieter and more fuel-efficient because they adjust engine speed based on the electrical load.

The trade-off is that inverter generators cost more per watt and typically max out around 5,000 peak watts. For whole-house backup, a conventional open-frame generator is usually the better choice. For camping, tailgating, and essential circuits, an inverter model is worth the premium.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Fuel Generators

Final Thoughts on the Best Dual Fuel Generators for Home Backup

After testing these generators and reading through thousands of user reviews, my top recommendation for most homeowners is the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc. It delivers enough power for true whole-house backup, includes remote start for convenience, and has the build quality and warranty coverage to last for years. The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is the best alternative if you want similar features at a lower wattage and lower cost.

For homeowners on a tight budget who still want serious power, the Pulsar G12KBN and DuroStar DS13000MX both deliver over 10,000 running watts at competitive prices. If noise is a concern, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF and Champion 4000W inverter generators are dramatically quieter than any conventional model and still provide enough power for essential circuits.

The best dual fuel generators for home backup are the ones you can depend on when the lights go out. Buy one before you need it, set it up with a transfer switch, test it monthly, and keep both gasoline and propane on hand. When the next storm hits, you will be glad you did.