The first thing that comes to many people when selecting a generator is what type of fuel is best to burn. Generators run on various fuel sources like gasoline, natural gas, solar energy, diesel, and propane. Each generator type and fuel source has its advantages and disadvantages. So, it is suggested to select any generator wisely.
If we talk about propane, then it is the best option of all. Propane and propane generators have various benefits. Propane keeps the environment clean. It is easier to access during natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. Also, you can store as many propane tanks as possible for a more extended period.
If you need a propane generator, go through our below-mentioned list to select one that meets your needs.
Table of Contents
Propane Inverter Generator Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
Champion RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator |
| |||
DuroMax XP2000EH Inverter Generator |
| |||
Westinghouse WGen7500DF Portable Generator |
| |||
DuroMax XP4850EH Portable Generator |
| |||
Pulsar PG7750B Portable Generator |
| |||
Firman H03652 Portable Generator |
| |||
Sportsman GEN4000LPC Generator |
|
1. Champion RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator – Best Propane Inverter Generator for RV
Fuel Source: If you are looking for the best propane inverter generator, you have a Champion 100263. It is an RV-ready dual-fuel generator that can run on propane.
Start System: It is featured with both the electric and recoil start systems. There is a 3-position electric start switch with a battery included. The unit also comes with a cold start technology that ensures an easy start in cold weather conditions.
Sound Level: Champion 100263 operates at 59 dB (A).
Engine: It is powered by a 192cc 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine with an air-cooled cooling system. Also, it is protected under a cast iron sleeve.
Starting and Continuous Watts: 3060 are the starting watts, and 2790 are the continuous watts.
Eco-Mode: An Eco-Mode allows the engine to change its speed based on the load applied. It ensures longer engine life, more fuel savings, and quieter operation.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: On a 20-pound propane tank, the generator can run up to 14.5 hours at 25% load.
Control Panel: Its control panel has a fuel selector knob through which you can select propane. Also, we have an electric start switch, an economy switch, and a battery switch. Three light indicators are also there (Low-oil, Overload, and Output Ready). A low-oil indicator shows that the oil level is on the lower side, the overload indicator tells that the generator is being overloaded, and the Output Ready indicator tells that the unit is ready to use.
If we talk about power outlets, we have a 12V DC outlet, two 120V 20A household outlets, and a 120V 30A RV-ready outlet.
THD Rating: With less than a 3% THD rating (Total Harmonic Distortion), you can safely power your sensitive electronics.
Parallel Capable: Champion 100263 is also parallel capable. It means you can link another Champion inverter generator with the help of a parallel connection kit to double the power.
Safety Features: Low-oil shutoff sensor senses lower oil levels and shuts off the engine automatically. Also, there is overload protection to keep the engine free from damages caused by overloading.
Weight and Warranty: The weight of this unit is 95.7 pounds. Also, it has a 3-year limited warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a reliable generator that produces impressive and clean power output. It is relatively quiet, RV-ready, and compact, and highly portable. Also, its 3-year warranty is a plus.
Cons: There is no USB charging port.
2. DuroMax XP2000EH Inverter Generator –Lightweight Propane Inverter Generator
Fuel Source: Another inverter generator in our list that can run on propane is the DuroMax XP2000EH.
Start System: It comes with a pull start system.
Sound Level: The operational sound of this generator is 61 dB (A).
Engine: It features an 80cc, 4-cycle engine.
Starting and Continuous Watts: DuroMax XP2000EH produces 1900 peak watts and 1520 rated watts.
Eco-Mode: You have an Eco-Mode that saves your fuel as well as money. The idle control feature lowers down the speed of the generator when not in use.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: The unit can run up to 20 hours on a 20-pound propane tank.
Control Panel: Its control panel has two GFCI 120V AC outlets, parallel connection ports, an eco-mode switch, and an engine switch. Also, there is a fuel selector knob and three light indicators (low-oil, output, and overload).
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a circuit breaker. It shuts off the electric power when it senses an imbalance between outgoing and incoming current.
THD Rating: DuroMax XP2000EHprovides clean and stable power so that you can easily power your sensitive electronics.
Parallel Capable: Connect another XP2000EH unit to generate more power at the time of need. But you have to buy the parallel kit separately.
Safety Features: Low oil shutoff and overload protection are included in the safety features.
Weight and Warranty: Its weight is 53 pounds.
My Opinion:
Pros: The best thing about this generator is the runtime. It is quite easy to use and transport, light in weight, and operates at lower decibels.
Cons: It is not made for high altitude.
Propane Conventional Generator Reviews
3. Westinghouse WGen7500DF Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator for Home
Fuel Option: The best conventional generator that runs on propane is the Westinghouse WGen7500DF. It is a dual fuel unit that supports propane.
Peak and Rated Watts: It produces 8550 starting and 6750 running watts.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Westinghouse runs for about 9 hours at 50% load.
Start System: It features a push-button electric start system with a remote key fob. From a distance of up to 109 yards, you can turn the generator on and off. Also, we have a recoil backup.
Control Panel: There are four 120V 20A GFCI outlets, one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, and 5V DC USB ports. All these outlets are covered with rubber caps. Also, there is a fuel selector knob, engine switch, electric start button, and an ST switch outlet. The smart switch outlet is used for connecting the Westinghouse ST switch to the control panel that is sold separately. Moreover, we have a VFT meter that displays volts, frequency in hertz, and the generator’s lifetime run hours.
Engine: It has a 420cc Westinghouse OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve.
Safety Features: We have overload protection, a low-oil shutdown, and a spark arrestor. This spark arrestor prevents the spark from coming out of the muffler.
Weight and Warranty: If we focus on its weight, then it is 194 pounds. Also, it has a warranty of 3 years.
Sound Level: Its operational sound is less than 74 dB (A).
My Opinion:
Pros: It produces a higher power output and has a large fuel tank. It offers a good runtime, comes with multiple starting options, and features a 3-year limited warranty.
Cons: It is not suitable for RV use.
4. DuroMax XP4850EH Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator under $470
Fuel Option: It is a dual-fuel generator that can run on propane.
Start System: DuroMax XP4850EH features both the electric and recoil start systems.
Peak and Rated Watts: If we talk about power output, then the unit generates 4608 peak watts and 3658 running watts.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: It will run up to 8.92 hours at 50% load. Its runtime is slightly lower than the Westinghouse WGen7500DF.
Control Panel: The control panel features two 120V 20A outlets, one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, and 12V DC charging outlets. Also, we have an engine switch, a fuel selector knob, a voltmeter, a voltage selector, and circuit breakers.
The voltage selector switch is powered by DuroMax MX2 technology that allows you to run the generator at 120V or 120V and 240V at the same time.
Engine: The XP4850EH comes with a 212cc, 7HP OHV engine.
Safety Features: There is a low-oil shutoff sensor along with a surge arrester. This surge arrester is responsible for protecting electrical equipment from over-voltage transients.
Weight and Warranty: The weight of this generator is 130 pounds and its warranty period is of 3 years.
Sound Level: The noise level it produces is 69 dB (A).
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a budget-friendly option, easy to use, and provides long-lasting power. It also has a 3-year warranty and offers easy maintenance.
Cons: The wheels that come with this unit are not durable.
5. Pulsar PG7750B Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator for Food Truck
Fuel Option: Another dual-fuel generator is on our list that runs on propane.
Peak and Rated Watts: It gives 7500 peak watts and 6000 rated watts.
Engine: Pulsar PG7750B comes with a 420cc single-cylinder OHV engine.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: A propane tank of 20 pounds can give up to an 8-hour runtime at 50% load. This runtime is lower than the two conventional generators mentioned above.
Start System: You can either start the generator manually or with the help of an electric switch.
Control Panel: The control panel of Pulsar PG7750B has a fuel selector switch powered by Switch and Go Technology. This technology allows for easy switching between gas and propane. You don’t need to shut off the engine to do this. Also, there is an engine switch, an hour meter like the VFT meter, and a low-oil indicator.
Now come to the power outlets where we have a 12V DC outlet, four 120V household outlets, one 120V twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240V twist-lock outlet.
Weight and Warranty: Its warranty period is of 2 years, and it weighs 205 pounds.
Sound Level: Pulsar PG7750B has a decibel rating of 75 dB (A).
Safety Features: Low-oil shutdown with a light indicator and overload protection
My Opinion:
Pros: It is also an affordable option for families. It offers decent runtime, has seven power outlets altogether, and is easy to transport.
Cons: It is a louder unit with a 75 dB (A) noise level.
6. Firman H03652 Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator for the Money
Weight and Warranty: The weight of Firman H03652 is 128 pounds.
Fuel Option: It is a dual-fuel unit that can either run on gas or propane so you can run it only on propane.
Engine: Firman H03652 comes with a 208cc Max Pro Series Firman engine.
Peak and Rated Watts: If we talk about its power output, then the unit generates 4100 starting watts and 3300 running watts.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: It can run up to 10.5 hours on a 20-pound propane tank at a 50% load.
Start System: There is only a recoil start system available.
Control Panel: The control panel of this generator features two 120V 20A outlets, one 120V 30A outlet, and one 120V 30A RV-ready outlet. Also, we have a fuel selector and a 4-in-1 data center (low-oil, Time, Volts, and Frequency).
Safety Features: You have a spark arrestor, low-oil shutdown, and a Volt Lock automatic voltage regulator that ensures stable and clean power output.
Sound Level: Its operational sound is less than all the mentioned conventional generators. It operates at 67 dB (A).
My Opinion:
Pros: The Firman H03652 has a fuel-efficient engine that gives a good runtime on propane. It also operates quietly and comes with a 5-foot propane hose.
Cons: Sometimes, it becomes hard to start the generator on propane.
7. Sportsman GEN4000LPC Generator – Best Propane Generator under $500
Fuel Option: It is a single-fuel generator that is propane powered.
Peak and Rated Watts: The output power it can produce is 4000 peak watts and 3250 rated watts.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: 10-hour runtime you will get on a 20-pound LPG tank.
Start System: You can turn on the generator with the help of a recoil start system.
Control Panel: There is a 12V DC outlet, two 120V household outlets, and one 120V RV-ready outlet.
Engine: It has a 7HP 4-stroke OHV engine.
Safety Features: Safety features include an automatic voltage regulator and a low-oil shutdown sensor.
Weight and Warranty: The weight of GEN4000LPC is 80 pounds.
Sound Level: It operates at less than 68 dB (A).
My Opinion:
Pros: There is overload protection for each outlet. It also offers a good runtime and operates without making much noise.
Cons: Only has a recoil start system. Also, there is no holder to place the LPG tank.
Another economical option is solar energy, if you think solar power would be better for your environment, then do check our buying guide on solar-powered generators.
Pro Tip: Do you know that tri-fuel generators support all popular fuel types? Check these generators here.
Buyer’s Guide
What to look at when buying the best propane generator? Here we are going to discuss all those important features that you must not miss out on at the time of purchase.
Wattage and Power Needs
The most important thing to consider before buying a generator is its wattage and your power needs. You must buy a propane generator that will meet your power needs. You must look for a generator that will meet your running wattage needs and not starting wattage requirements. This way, you can save some money on initial purchase cost; repair, and maintenance costs in the long run. Let’s look at a power demand chart to understand the starting and running power needs concept.
Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
Refrigerator | 1400 | 300 |
1/2 HP Furnace | 2350 | 875 |
TV | 400 | 400 |
Lights | 200 | 200 |
AC | 1800 | 1200 |
Total | 6150 | 2975 |
The data above explains that to run all the applications simultaneously, you need 2975 watts of power. However, to start them all at one time, you need 6150 watts. You can manage this by adding load one by one on the generator. In this example, a generator with a running wattage of 3200 watts will be perfect. We suggest that you keep an extra cushion of 200-300 running watts when selecting your generator. A smaller generator is not only cheap to buy; running and maintenance costs are also low. You can use the above specimen to calculate power needs for your camping, RV, or work generators.
Inverter vs. Conventional Generator
First, decide whether you want an inverter generator or a conventional one. Inverter units produce clean and stable power with little or no harmonic distortion, whereas most conventional generators fail to provide clean power. Inverter generators are lightweight and compact and make less noise, whereas conventional generators are more significant in size and make noise accordingly. Also, inverter generators have smaller fuel tanks. On the other hand, conventional generators are significant, but here we are talking about propane generators, so fuel tanks will not be considered different. But inverter units are more fuel-efficient so you will get a reasonable runtime.
In a nutshell, if you need more power and your only aim is to power your home or RV appliances, then use a conventional one. Or, if you are looking for a propane generator to power your campsites and tailgate parties, then go for a compact inverter generator.
Start System
Make sure you will buy a generator with an electric start system to turn on the unit without any effort quickly. Recoil start generators are now a past thing, but still, some generators feature only a recoil start systems or add this system as a second option.
Some units come with a remote start function that gives additional comfort and relief.
Power Outlets
Before selecting a generator, make sure your unit has all the power outlets that you need. Two household outlets are standard, but four will allow you to plug other small electronics as well. Also, an RV-ready outlet is a must to use your generator with an RV anytime. Also, a 12V DC outlet will be a plus.
Safety
It would help if you also focused on the safety features of your generator. Low-oil shutoff and overload protection are quite common. Low-oil shutdown turns off the engine when the oil levels go incredibly down, and overload protection keeps the generator free from overload damages. But some units come with surge prevention to keep your sensitive electronics free from any harm.
Control Panel
A user-friendly generator will give you maximum options on the control panel. A well-equipped control panel increases the functionality of the generator. A control panel usually has a control button, display, light indicators, choke, and other operating parameters.
Portability
Look for a generator that offers maximum portability options. Features such as wheels carry handles and lifting hooks add versatility to the generator and increase portability. A lifting hook makes it easy to lift the generator with a crane.
Noise Level
All generators make some noise, and it can get pretty irritating when you have to listen to it for a night or during work. Inverters have a low noise rating compared to conventional generators. It would help if you looked for a generator with the lowest noise rating.
Price
Always try to keep things under your budget range. You would also need to buy a generator cover or other accessories for a generator. Hence, it is better to stay on budget and don’t overspend. However, you must not compromise on the generator’s quality.
Warranty and Certifications
Warranty and certifications add value to your generator. When your generator is in the warranty period, you don’t have to worry about repairs and faults. The standard warranty period is 1-3 years. Some brands offer up to 5 years of warranty. Make sure you take a look at the terms and conditions of the warranty before buying and using your generator. Certifications from EPA and other regulatory bodies ensure that your generator is safe for the environment and results in a better working experience.
Propane vs. Gas Generators
Gas generators have been the go-to generator for millions of people. However, propane generators are now becoming famous day by day. A propane generator may give you less output, but it burns cleaner than gas and keeps the surroundings and environment clean. Propane is cheaper than gas and has a longer shelf life. It is also safe to store. Gas is readily available compared to Propane, but its availability comes into question at times of natural disasters. Burning Propane will not emit toxic fumes and smell like gas; hence it is safe for kids and smell-sensitive folks.
FAQs
What are the advantages of propane generators?
- Propane generators have various benefits that are as under.
- Propane gas has a longer shelf life. You can store propane tanks for many years to come.
- During natural disasters, Propane is more comfortable to access.
- Propane is a clean-burning fuel.
- Propane is non-toxic.
- Propane generators need less maintenance.
- You can run propane generators as long as you want.
Which is the best one to use? Propane inverter generator or propane conventional generator
It depends on your needs. If you need more power output, go for a conventional generator, and if you need less power output, then inverter generators are best for you. If you are going to buy a propane generator to run at campsites or tailgates, select small and portable generators. On the other hand, to power, your house, go for a conventional generator.
How loud are propane generators?
Propane doesn’t affect the noise level, but the inverter and conventional generators do. Inverter units make less noise than conventional ones, so if you need a peaceful environment at campsites or during a power outage, go for an inverter generator; otherwise, conventional generators are there with higher decibel ratings you can place at some distance.
Is a propane generator better than a gas generator?
The answer to this question depends on several factors. If you are looking for more power, then a propane generator is not your thing. Its burning capability is less than gasoline. However, for all the environment-caring people out there, Propane is best. It burns cleaner, doesn’t emit harmful gases, and leaves low-carbon residue in the generator. It, in turn, reduces your maintenance or repair costs. When it comes to fuel availability in emergencies and storage, a propane generator is a clear winner.
How much Propane will my generator use in 1 hour?
There is no definite answer to this question. It depends on the power of your unit and the load on it. To conserve Propane, keep the running load around 50% of the total running watts.
What are the limitations of a propane-powered generator?
Arranging Propane is a bit difficult. If you can’t get propane cylinders delivered, you will have to travel miles to get hold of Propane as propane vendors are often located outside the city. The overall life of a propane generator is less than that a gasoline generator. Propane has less energy density, which means that it will not give a high power rating like gasoline or diesel generators.
Do I need a transfer switch with a propane generator?
Yes. A transfer switch connects the generator safely to your home panel. Skipping the transfer switch is an open invitation for electrical hazards.
Should I go for a propane generator or a dual fuel generator?
A dual-fuel generator is the best of both worlds (Propane and gas). It gives you versatility as you have the freedom to run the generator on two fuels. Dual-fuel generators are a bit more costly as compared to single-fuel generators.
Final Words
A propane generator will keep your home illuminated during a power outage. It will also keep you away from the hassle of storing highly flammable gasoline. You can select a propane generator from the list above and forget the tension of staying in the dark.