Using a generator is an amazing way to stay safe during a power outage, keep all your sensitive electronics charged on a camping trip, or power an RV during a cross country road trip. The main question regarding generators isn't whether or not you need one - because let's face it, it's always a good idea to have one on hand.
The real question has to do with the type of fuel you choose to power the generator. Propane is becoming the preferred fuel type over gasoline for a few reasons - we'll cover those reasons and more in this complete guide to the best propane generators on the market. Whether you're looking for a portable generator or a whole-house solution, you'll find exactly what you're looking for here.
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Why Choose Propane?
There's a lot to consider when deciding between propane, gasoline, and any other type of fuel source for operating a generator. The fuel that is right for you might not be right for your neighbor. That being said, choosing a propane-powered generator comes with a long list of advantages. First of all, propane is a more environmentally-friendly choice since it burns much cleaner than other fossil fuels.
Aside from practicing better environmental awareness, here are a few more benefits of choosing propane:
Propane Generator Comparison Table
Image | Model | Engine Type | Starting/Running | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
No products found. | Sportsman GEN4000LP | 7.0 HP 4-Stroke | 4000W, 3250W | |
No products found. | Generac 70321 Optimus | Propane Standby | 11000W, 10000W | |
Champion 3400-Watt | 192cc 4-Stroke | 3400W, 3100W | ||
No products found. | Westinghouse iGen4500DF | 7.3 HP 4-Stroke | 4500W, 3700W | |
No products found. | Sportsman GEN4000DF | 212cc 4-Stroke | 4000W, 3500W | |
Pulsar Non-CARB 10,000W | 420cc 15 HP 4-Stroke | 9000W, 7000W (LPG) | ||
Ford 11,050W | 457cc 4-Stroke | 10050W, 8100W (LPG) | ||
Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS | Propane Standby | 20000W, 18000W |
Buying A Quality Propane Generator
Generator Size vs. Power Needs
The first step in buying a quality propane generator is to know your power priorities. In the Generator Buying Guide from Consumer Reports, the buying experts say that “generators are sold by power output, as measured in watts. The amount of power they deliver determines how many lights and appliances you can run at once; the quality and consistency of that power determines how well they'll run.”
Everyone's power needs are different, and generator size should consider these needs before anything else. For example, someone who is using this device as a backup power source during emergencies will have different needs than someone who is planning on consistently powering an RV home.
Fuel Storage & Temperatures
Propane tanks come in a variety of sizes, ranging from one pound to hundreds, and each generator is compatible with a different tank size. Most propane generators are built to fit with the standard 20-lb tank (the type you would use for a gas-powered grill). Be cautious about choosing a generator that uses a propane tank that is smaller than this since that will mean a shorter run time. In addition to tank size, look into the hose length and regulator that is included with each generator.
Another buying consideration is where you plan on using this generator. More specifically, the overall climate and temperature trends of the area. A propane generator comes with a regulator to transfer fuel from the tank to the machine, and this regulator is susceptible to freezing when temperatures drop below zero. Purchase a model with a high-quality regulator that can better withstand the cold.
Fuel Efficiency/Runtime
Choosing a propane generator that is efficient on fuel is the best way to ensure a long runtime with one tank. A propane generator produces cleaner energy than gas or diesel, but it also burns through fuel at a much faster rate. For this reason, choosing a model that ranks high in fuel efficiency is a must.
Efficiency has to do with a machine's wattage; the lower the wattage, the better the fuel efficiency. A 20,000-watt propane generator goes through an average of 3.44 gallons of propane per hour, while a 35,000-watt model consumes just over 6 gallons of fuel per hour.
Wattage affects runtime, and so does the energy load that is placed on the generator. The greater the load, the less time the generator will be able to run. A high-quality model can operate for up to 10 hours on a half-load, and even longer on quarter-load.
Power Output
A generator’s power output is the amount of power a generator is capable of producing. This is measured in watts, and the higher the wattage, the more power the generator can produce. The products included in this list of best propane generators review coverage wattage values between 3,250 watts to over 20,000.
A generator with a 2, 3, or 4,000 wattage is an ideal solution for power outages, camping trips, even RV homes. But if you plan on consistently powering the entire house on a propane generator, start looking for propane generators for home use that come with more watts.
To choose a generator with appropriate power output for your needs, consider the electronics you plan on powering with your generator and the exact amount of wattage each one uses. The standard lightbulb uses 100 watts per hour, a window AC unit uses about 1,000 watts per hour, and a refrigerator uses 600 watts per hour.
Portability
Opting for a portable propane generator means that you can use the machine anywhere. Several factors enhance generator portability, like weight, transport features (wheels, handles, etc.), and overall design. Whole-house generators are not designed to be portable; they are large, bulky, and intended to remain in one place.
If you plan on using your propane gas generator only for blackouts or for occasional camping trips, portability is a must-have feature. Propane generators aren't generally known for their amazing portability since they require a propane tank, but there are still some models that are highly-rated as portable units. You'll want to look for something in the 3,000 to an 8,500-watt power output range.
Noise Level
A generator’s noise level is measured in decibels (dB). The lower the decibel value, the quieter the machine. The Hearing Health Foundation says that as decibel levels increase, so does the risk of harming the ears and their ability to hear properly. Luckily, this isn’t something you need to worry about with a propane generator.
Propane generators aren't nearly as whisper-quiet as inverter generators, but they typically max out at about 68 decibels. Some top-rated models are even quieter than this; a quiet propane generator tends to fall between 58 and 65 decibels. This isn't very loud when you consider that a normal conversation is measured at 60 dB.
Price & Warranty
A propane generator’s cost depends on many things, like size, power output, and added features. You can count on a 10,000-watt unit to come with a much higher price tag than a 4,000-watt generator, especially if it comes with extra features like low oil shutoff, automatic start, and alternative fuel capacity.
No matter the wattage or features, your generator should come with a warranty policy. These policies vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but generally speaking, a higher cost model will come with a more extended warranty period. Try not to only focus on the warranty time frame, but also the specific terms and conditions of what coverage entails.
8 Best Propane Generators Reviewed
1. Sportsman GEN4000LP
No products found.
Best Propane Powered Portable Generator
Engine Type | 7.0 HP 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 68 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 20-30 lbs |
Starting & Running Watts | 4000W, 3250W |
Runtime | 10 hrs (50%) |
Warranty | 1 year |
Opting for the best portable propane generator is the ultimate choice if you're looking for a backup power solution for emergency blackout situations. Portable generators are also an excellent choice for taking on the road for RV adventures and camping trips. In cases like these where you need an alternate source of power, no propane generator compares to the Sportsman GEN4000LP. Hundreds of Sportsman propane generator reviews confirm that this model is the best when it comes to efficiency, run time, and ease of use.
The Sportsman company says that this generator is
”affordable but well thought out with full-featured options such as Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Automatic Voltage Regulator. It boasts an engine run time of 10 hours at 50% on a common 20Lb (gas grill type) cylinder."
The GEN4000LP has a 10-hour runtime on half-load. Everything except the propane tank comes with each purchase, including a 5-ft propane fuel hose with regulator. If you're looking for affordable power, this is it. By choosing the GEN4000LP, you'll be able to take advantage of clean energy that has the potential to save you in emergencies, or just make things more convenient during a weekend camping trip.
The noise levels of the GEN4000LP max out at 68 dB, which is pretty standard for propane generators. All in all, this is our top pick if you're looking for portable power that is safe and easy to use. The 4,000 starting watts value (3,250 running watts) is perfect for backup power, but if you plan on providing power to an entire house, you'll want to find something with greater power output.
The manufacturer recommends a 20-lb propane tank, but if you want to experience a longer run time, the generator can be hooked up to a 30-lb tank for an extra boost. The only complaint from some reviewers is that this generator is unable to operate with natural gas, but this isn’t a big deal to most buyers. Also, if you live at a high altitude of 3,000 feet or more, you are better off looking elsewhere since this isn't recommended for altitudes above that.
Pros
Cons
2. Generac 70321 Optimus
No products found.
Best Whole House Standby Propane Generator
Engine Type | Propane Standby |
Noise Level | 63 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Up to 420 lbs |
Starting & Running Watts | 11000W, 10000W |
Runtime | Depends on Tank Size |
Warranty | 5 years |
If you’re wondering what is the best whole house propane generator currently on the market, that means you plan on powering your entire home with generator power. The best option for this is the 70321 Optimus Generac propane generator. Unlike the Generac portable propane generator, the 70321 is designed as a propane standby generator to protect your home and family from power outages.
As soon as the power kicks off for any reason, the Generac propane generator for home will automatically start working its magic. This means you can continue without any disruptions, even while your neighbors are left in the dark because they failed to invest in a whole house generator unit. It even comes with high-tech features like the Mobile Link cellular monitoring system, which allows users to stay up to date on the status of the generator.
Here’s what the company has to say about the 70321:
“The Generac Promise means that we guarantee that our 9 - 22 kilowatt Guardian Series home standby generators will give you peace of mind and the power to live. It means that we engineer and build them here in America. It means we stand behind them with a strong 5-year limited warranty.”
The 70321 uses True Power technology that works to deliver power quality with less than 5% total harmonic distortion. This produces smooth, clean electrical operation that can even handle sensitive electronics. For protection from the outdoor elements, Generac uses the RhinoCoat protective finish, making it the ideal choice for all weather conditions.
Although this power alternative is not necessary for buyers in the market for a portable propane generator, it’s the ideal choice if a whole house standby unit is what you’re after. The price is high, but this is to be expected from a machine with 11,000 watts of power.
Pros
Cons
3. Champion 3400-Watt
Best Propane Inverter Generator
Engine Type | 192cc 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 59 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Propane: 20 lbs, Gasoline: 1.6 gallons |
Starting & Running Watts | 3400W, 3100W |
Runtime | 7.5 hrs (25%) |
Warranty | 3 years |
Inverter generators are better at producing clean energy that is completely free of electrical spikes and dips. Aside from cleaner energy, another perk is that the best propane inverter generator is significantly quieter than a conventional propane generator. These are just two of the many advantages of choosing a small propane inverter generator like the Champion 3400-watt dual fuel model.
The Champion propane inverter generator provides portable power and extreme versatility. The generator is compatible with two forms of fuel, conventional gasoline as well as propane. No matter which fuel type you choose, you can count on quiet operation around 59 decibels and a long run time of nearly 8 hours on a 25% load.
According to the product details,
“Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce electrical load. As the electrical load is reduced, the engine automatically idles lower, providing quieter operation, extended engine life, and higher fuel economy."
Whether the generator is idling in Economy Mode or full-power mode, this electric start propane generator is small enough to take anywhere. This generator's portability is actually what we love most (aside from its versatile dual fuel design). It comes with a foldaway handle, and it was designed with easy storage and transport in mind. It's EPA-certified, CARB-compliant, and backed by a 3-year warranty period. If you’re looking for more power, this might not be the best choice. But a portable power solution is all you need, the Champion 3400-watt dual fuel inverter generator comes highly recommended.
Pros
Cons
4. Westinghouse iGen4500DF
No products found.
Best Propane Generator for Camping
Engine Type | 7.3 HP 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 52 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Propane: 20 lbs, Gasoline: 3.4 gallons |
Starting & Running Watts | 4500W, 3700W |
Runtime | 14 hrs |
Warranty | 3 years |
The ultimate way to take your camping experience to the next level is to invest in a propane-powered portable generator that is light enough to pack alongside the tent. The Westinghouse iGEN4500DF is the perfect solution for power outages and RV road trips, but it is most loved by campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Part of the reason for this is its portable design, but the main reason is its insanely quiet operation that won't take away from a peaceful camping trip surrounded by nature.
The iGEN4500DF has an operational volume of 52 dB, which is as quiet as a running refrigerator. Similar to the Champion generator, it comes with dual-fuel technology so that it can run on either propane or gasoline.The manufacturer says that
"Westinghouse's inverter generators are very efficient – lasting up to nearly 18 hours before refueling on gasoline, and up to 14 hours on a 20 lb tank of propane (LPG)."
If you want to switch it up and use gasoline instead, the gas tank can hold up to 3.4 gallons of fuel. Even though this is larger than the average tank for a portable generator, the machine is compact, making it easy to transport and easy to store. It comes with mounted wheels and a telescoping handle for transport, and it’s completely RV and camper van ready.
Another cool feature we love about the iGEN4500DF is the remote start function. If you're feeling cozy inside your home, RV, or tent, there's no need to go outside to start the generator. This generator can be operated from a key fob from over 100 meters away, so you don't have to push the electric start button found on the control panel. The only complaint is that this generator is heavier than other portable models, weighing just over 100 pounds. But the transport features make up for this.
Pros
Cons
5. Sportsman GEN4000DF
No products found.
Best Value for Money Option
Engine Type | 212cc 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 69 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Propane: 20 lbs, Gasoline: 3.6 gallons |
Starting & Running Watts | 4000W, 3500W |
Runtime | 12 hrs (50%) |
Warranty | 1 year |
The Sportsman GEN4000DF propane backup generator is very similar to the first Sportsman we covered (GEN4000LP). There are, however, a few minor differences between the two, and the first is that the DF generator offers better value for money. Although it is priced about the same, the DF comes with a few features that the LP does not.
The first is that it comes with a greater running wattage. While the LP has a running wattage of 3250, this one features a continuous power of 3500 watts. Another perk is that it comes with dual-fuel capability, so you have the option to choose between gas or propane. With a full tank of gas or with a 20-lb propane tank, the GEN4000DF has a 10 to 12-hour run time while on a 50% load. You won't be short on outlets when you choose this propane generator.
"Equipped with four 120-volt outlets, a single 120V RV outlet, and a 12 volt DC outlet for battery charging, this generator can handle almost everything you need for camping or tailgating,"
says Sportsman.
All of these power outlets are located on the control panel, which is also where the circuit reset switch and voltmeter can be found. One downside to choosing this Sportsman model is that it comes with a short warranty period of just 1 year. The average warranty for similar products is 3 years, but most of those products don’t come with such great value. Another common complaint is that changing the oil can be difficult since the oil fill connection isn’t in the most convenient location. The solution to this, though, is to invest in a flexible funnel for easier access.
Pros
Cons
6. Pulsar Non-CARB
Best Propane Generator for RV
Engine Type | 420cc 15 HP 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 85 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Propane: 20+ lbs, Gasoline: 6.6 gallons |
Starting & Running Watts | 9000W, 7000W (LPG) |
Runtime | 12 hrs (50%) |
Warranty | 2 years |
The best propane generator for RV is, without a doubt, the Pulsar 10,000-watt propane power source. This 10000-watt propane generator is extremely powerful thanks to its 420cc 15 horsepower 4-stroke engine that is protected by a durable powder-coated steel frame. You can use this as more than a propane generator for RV - it’s also suitable for power outages at home.
The Pulsar generator can be fueled with either propane or gas. The 6.6-gallon gas tank is larger than the average generator tank size and gives you 12 hours of continuous power at half-load capacity. It's compatible with a range of LPG tank sizes, and the larger the tank, the longer the run time. No matter which fuel type you choose, it's easy to transition between gas and propane with the Pulsar Switch-and-Go technology. Starting up is quick and easy, thanks to the automatic electric push start button.
Pulsar says that
Please be aware that this is not compliant with CARB (California Air Resources Board), which means that it does not meet the California regulations for fuel emissions.
One thing to be aware of is that 10,000-watt power output is only possible while using gasoline. When using LPG, the max power output is 9,000, with a continuous output of 7,000 watts. Some people say that Pulsar is misleading buyers by advertising this as a 10,000-watt generator, but the manufacturer is very clear about their power output specifications.
Pros
Cons
7. Ford 11,050W
Best Propane Powered Generator for Travel Trailers
Engine Type | 457cc 4-Stroke |
Noise Level | 78 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Propane: 20+ lbs, Gasoline: 6.6 gallons |
Starting & Running Watts | 10050W, 8100W (LPG) |
Runtime | 10 hrs (50%) |
Warranty | 2 years |
Ford Motor Company manufactures more than just cars, vans, and SUVs. The company also creates top-of-the-line generators, like the Ford 11,050W Dual Fuel portable generator for travel trailers. We have ranked this as the best propane powered generator for travel trailers thanks to its powerful engine, high fuel capacity, and easy to use design.
The most-loved feature of this generator is its Switch and Go technology, which “allows for seamless transitioning between LPG and Gasoline fuel sources while still in operation." That's right; you can make the switch from gas to propane and back again without needing to power down the generator. When using propane, the max power is 10,050W with a running wattage of 8,100.
Just as the company designs durable vehicles, the same goes for generators. A powder-coated steel frame surrounds the generator's 457cc single-cylinder engine. Another perk is that this generator requires very little maintenance. As long as you stay up to date on oil changes and follow Ford's instructions for use and assembly, you can expect this power source to serve you for years down the road.
This device was designed to power up to 5 major appliances at once, which is plenty of power for even the largest travel trailers. The only downside to the Ford 11,050W generator is that portability is not its strongest feature. It weighs nearly 200 pounds, and its bulky design can be difficult to maneuver. But aside from that, there's nothing bad to say about this generator that was "built Ford tough."
Pros
Cons
8. Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS
Best 200-Amp Whole House Unit
Engine Type | Propane Standby |
Noise Level | 69 dB |
Fuel Tank Capacity | Up to 420 lbs |
Starting & Running Watts | 20000W, 18000W |
Runtime | Depends on Tank Size |
Warranty | 5 years |
Last on our list of best propane generators reviewed is another model that is suitable for powering the entire house. The Kohler 20-RESCL-200SELS is the ideal propane generator for house power if you don’t want to go without any of your appliances and electronics during a power outage. If your power switches off for one reason or another, this whole house propane generator will switch on automatically, leaving you without power for no more than 10 seconds.
The Kohler company says that
“when you lose power during an outage or storm, a hard-working 20 kW KOHLER generator keeps your appliances working, the heat or AC running and your security system on...In just 10 seconds, your KOHLER generator automatically restores power to a 5-ton (60,000 BTU) air conditioner, major appliances and electronics.”
Since this is a whole-house unit, you’ll want to hire a professional for the installation process. If you don’t, you might void the 5-year warranty by installing the unit improperly. The professional installation costs are entirely worth it, and you'll see that this is true as soon as the power goes out, and the Kohler generator is put to the test.
Similar to the Generac whole house generator reviewed earlier, this unit is not for everyone. If you’re looking for something portable to power your RV or make your camping trips more convenient, look elsewhere. But if you want to power the entire home during blackouts and natural disasters, you can trust the Kohler name.
Pros
Cons
Gas vs. Propane Powered Generators
Even though propane-powered generators come with a long list of benefits, that doesn’t mean that propane is the right choice for everyone. When deciding between a gas and propane generator, you need to consider things like fuel availability, efficiency and run time, noise level, maintenance, and average costs.
In most locations, propane is more available than gasoline, especially during a natural disaster like a hurricane or earthquake. On top of that, gas isn't easy to store, and it has a limited shelf life, whereas propane does not. It's possible to have propane refills delivered right to the house, which makes this the ultimate choice for convenience.
On top of that, propane is easier to maintain, more eco-friendly, and better able to handle hot environments. Gas does win in one category, though, and that is fuel efficiency. Propane produces fewer BTUs than gas, so you’ll burn through more propane than gas in a set amount of time. However, propane burns more cleanly than gas and releases fewer toxins.
Setting Up & Operating LPG Propane Generators
Installing your new generator is not a task to take lightly. If you're not comfortable with DIY installation, there's no shame in hiring a handyman (especially for whole-house generators). Portable units are fairly easy to install, so doing it on your own without professional guidance is possible.
The first step for generator set up of a portable unit is to add oil to the unit (no manufacturer will ship the product with oil in it, so it’s up to you to purchase an appropriate oil type). After adding the oil, connect the propane tank to the generator. To do this, follow these steps provided by Champion:
- 1Switch the LPG fuel valve to the “Off” position
- 2Attach the LPG hose connector (usually located on the side of the generator)
- 3Attach the other end of the hose to the LPG connector of the propane tank
- 4For proper tank sizing, check with the owner’s manual
- 5Check connections for leaks before using LPG power
After everything is connected, make sure the generator is placed on a flat, level surface at least 20 feet away from the house, RV, or camping tent. The steps following this depend on the specific generator model and manufacturer. No two generators are the same, so reading the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use is essential. The main thing to remember when using a generator is that handling propane requires specific safety precautions.
According to generator safety tips from Consumer Reports,
“the biggest problem, according to reports from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is CO poisoning…”
“To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, some new portable generators feature a built-in sensor that triggers an automatic shutoff if CO builds up to dangerous levels in an enclosed space, and some also have engines that emit less CO in the first place.”
For staying safe while using a generator, only invest in a model that comes with automatic CO shutoff sensors.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What type of fuel is more efficient, gas, or propane?
What type of maintenance is needed for propane generators?
According to Grainger's guide to the best practices for generator maintenance,
“it is vital to follow the maintenance schedule of the manufacturer with each type of generator…”
One of the best things you can do to maintain your generator is to follow a proper oil change schedule, just as you would do with your car. “Oil change frequency depends on the manufacturer, how often the generator is used and your work environment, says Grainger. “Typically, it is recommended you change the oil after 100 hours of operation, especially if the generator uses diesel.”
Is it safe to use propane generators to power sensitive electronic devices?
How long do propane generators last?
Do I need a professional to install propane generators? If so, how much does installation cost?
Whole-house generators require electrical connections, while portable models do not. Home Advisor says that for generator installation costs,
“most homeowners pay between $1,254 and $6,900 to install a generator in their home. While the project can cost as little as $400 and as much as $9,500, the average installation price, including all variables, is $4,076."
Are these generators expensive to run?
"A 20-kilowatt generator would burn about 3.45 gallons per hour," says Assurance.
"In the United States, the average price per gallon for propane is around $2.50, as of March 2018. The cost to run a portable generator for 24 hours would consume about 83 gallons, costing over $200."
What does cold start technology mean?
Conclusion
After covering the best-rated propane generators on this complete list of propane gas generator reviews, our top pick still remains to be the Sportsman GEN4000LP. This 4000-watt propane generator has an impressive 10 hour run time, safety features like recoil start and auto-fuel shut off valve, and portability that is ideal for all your at-home or on-the-road power needs.