10 Most Efficient Propane Generators in 2024


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When it comes to choosing propane generators, efficiency matters.

What if you could save tonnes of money when suffering a power output? And what if you can enjoy the benefits of combustion without damaging your environment?

Well, the good news is that you can do that by picking an efficient portable propane generator.

Sadly, not all propane generators are created equal. In fact, some of them are just not worth their price.

This is the main reason why I took it upon myself to search and review various propane generators to arrive at the list of the most efficient propane generators around.

So, let’s begin.


10 Most Efficient Propane Generators

Here I’m going to introduce you to my ten picks of the most efficient propane generators:

  1. Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
  2. DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Portable Propane Generator
  3. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator
  4. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator-4850 Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
  5. Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
  6. A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered
  7. Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator Propane Generator
  8. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator
  9. Champion Power Equipment 100416 Portable Propane Generator
  10. Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Propane Generator

1. Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts
  • Runtime: 11.5 hours run time on gasoline / 34 hours on propane
  • Fuel: It can be powered by propane or gas
Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight

Champion Power Equipment manufactures reliable and efficient generators, and this 200961 model is no exception.

With solid features such as its efficient motor that outputs 2,500 watts while running on propane and 34 hours of runtime, this powerful propane generator stands as one of the best ones compared to other portable propane generators.

Convenience-wise, it also can be run on gas thanks to its dual-fuel technology, which is a great way of adding flexibility.

Even though it can be a bit loud when running at full load, this dual fuel generator only weighs 39 pounds, which is impressive for a generator of this level of wattage. By far one of the best choices in comparison with other portable generators.

Pros

  • Efficient motor ouputs 2,500 watts which is enough wattage for powering high voltage appliances
  • 11.5 hours run time on gasoline / 34 hours on propane
  • 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts
  • It can be powered by propane or gas
  • It only weighs 39 pounds of weight
  • It makes 53 dBA of noise from 23 feet, which is substantially low for a generator that has this much wattage

Cons

  • under heavy load, they’re considerably loud

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2. DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts
  • Runtime: Up to 8 hours on a full propane tank
  • Fuel: Runs on gasoline or propane
DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator - 10000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered-Electric Start- Home Back Up & RV Ready, 50 State Approved

You will have difficulty finding another propane generator that is as efficient as this DuroMax XP10000EH propane powered generator.

It has a 439cc OHV powerful engine that produces a power output of 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts, which is enough to power your most essential electrical appliances during power outages (i.e., air conditioner)

It has dual fuel technology, which allows the user to use either fuel or gasoline to power the generator. So, as long as you’re close to one of the many gas stations in your city, you’ll be fine!

Even though it is quite heavy, it has some very useful features, such as the ability to operate on both 120V and 240V, allowing the user to run various devices.

Pros

  • DuroMax 439cc OHV engine outputs 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts
  • Runs on gasoline or propane
  • Lowers the RPMs of the generator when not in use, making it highly efficient
  • You can choose between operating the generator at both 120V and 240V simultaneously, or at 120V only with full power
  • Outlets: 1x 120/240V 50A, 1x 120/240V 30A, 1x 120V 30A, 2x 120V 20A

Cons

  • Heavy, definetly heavy

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3. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 3240 rated watts & 4650 peak watts (on propane)
  • Runtime: up to 10.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
  • Fuel: Gasoline and propane
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 4650 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas & Propane Powered, CARB Compliant

This particular model of portable propane generator from Westinghouse Outdoor wowed me. I mean, I instantly thought, “this has to be the best propane generator, hands down”.

It has a low fuel consumption engine that produces 3240 rated watts & 4650 peak watts (on propane), a high level of wattage that becomes essential during a power outage (i.e., vacuum cleaner).

Because of its dual fuel technology, this propane-powered generator allows the user to run it on either gasoline or propane, which is a deal breaker for some of my friends!

Even though it can be quite noisy when overloaded, it does have great functions, such as an electric push button and a remote start option, which is ideal for camping.

Finally, it has an automatic low oil shutdown mode that ensures durability, a must-have in a portable generator of this caliber.

Pros

  • 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV engine outputs 3600 rated watts & 4650 peak watts (on gasoline) – 3240 rated watts & 4650 peak watts (on propane)
  • Intuitive Control Panel Features a 5-20R 120V Duplex Outlet, an RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Outlet, and an L5-30R 30 Amp Outlet
  • Long lasting cast iron engine sleeve
  • Automatic low oil shutdown
  • 4 gallon propane tank
  • Electric push button
  • Remote start

Cons

  • A bit loud for my liking

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4. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator-4850 Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts
  • Runtime: 10 hour runtime
  • Fuel: Runs of both gasoline and propane
DuroMax XP4850EH Generator-4850 Watt Gas or Propane Powered-Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved Dual Fuel Portable Generator, Green

Since propane generators are supposed to be efficient, you’d think any of the ones offered on the market are worth the money.

Unfortunately, this is not the case, as most of them are high-priced junk.

Fortunately, this DuroMax XP4850 propane generator is an exception, as it contains impressive features such as:

  • A powerful motor that outputs 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts
  • The ability to run it on either gasoline or propane
  • Compliance with emission standards (clean emissions)

Convenience-wise, it has an auto shut-off mode when the oil level is low to prevent it from breaking and costing the user hundreds of dollars.

And, although the assembly instructions aren’t the best, it comes with a noise dampening technology that allows it to run at only 69 decibels, which makes it the quietest generator on this list.

Pros

  • With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts
  • Runs of both gasoline and propane
  • It automatically shuts off when it runs low on oil
  • Complies with emissions standards
  • It runs only making 69 Dba of noise
  • 3.96 gallons of fuel tank capacity

Cons

  • Poor assembly instruction

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5. Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts
  • Runtime: 22 hours at 25% load
  • Fuel: Gasoline or propane
Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator, Dual Fuel Technology

One of my favorite features of this 200914 propane generator from Campion Power Equipment is that it provides 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts, which is more than enough to power my and my family’s crucial gadgets (i.e., portable air conditioner).

It also has a “economy mode feature” that allows it to make the most of the propane stored in its propane tank, making it even more efficient.

It can run on propane or gas, which can be a life-saving feature in some situations.

Last but not least, it has a runtime of 22 hours and makes only 64 decibels of noise when in use, making it one of the most convenient generators on this list.

Pros

  • 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts
  • Economy Mode feature saves fuel and extends engine life
  • RV Ready
  • Operates on gasoline or propane
  • Outlets: 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
  • It operates at 64 dBA of noise
  •  22 hours run time

Cons

  • Heavy to lift, which sometimes you gotta do

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6. A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered

Features

  • Wattage: 1,800 starting watts with 1,500 running watts with propane (LPG)
  • Runtime: Provides up to 7 hours of run-time at 50% load
  • Fuel: Propane or gasoline
A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered, Small with Super Quiet Operation for Home, RV, or Emergency

The SUA2000iD propane generator from A-iPower is known for its efficiency and power. Some even consider it among the best propane generators when it comes to value for money.

It even has an efficient motor that makes the most of the propane, providing 1,800 starting watts and 1,500 running watts, which is sufficient for providing continuous power to the most essential electronics during a power outage (i.e., air conditioner).

Although changing its oil is a bit difficult, it does have some very convenient features, such as its 55-pound total weight and large handle, which make it very easy to move around.

Finally, it operates at only 53 decibels, which is remarkably low for a generator of this power.

Pros

  • Efficient motor produces 2,000 starting watts with 1,600 running watts of power with gasoline and 1,800 starting watts with 1,500 running watts with propane (LPG)
  • It comes with a set of parallel cables enabling users to link two SUA2000iD together for combined power output of 4,000 starting watts and 3200 running watts
  • Weighs 55 pounds and has a large handle, making it very easy to move around
  • It operates at only 53 decibels

Cons

  • Changing oil is a bit tricky

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7. Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 2,000 peak watts / 1,600 Rated watts (running on propane)
  • Runtime: 8 hour run-time
  • Fuel: Propane or gas
Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, PG2200BiS

Sometimes, a big propane generator is just too uncomfortable to move around. 

This is why I consider this Pulsar propane generator one of the best among other portable generators, as it has a small 1.18 gallon propane tank and a compact design that is easily transportable.

It also includes a small 80cc 3HP engine that produces 2,000 peak watts / 1,600 rated watts when running on propane, which blows other similarly sized propane generators out of the water.

Last but not least, it can run for up to 8 hours, which is impressive for such a small and fuel efficient generator.

Pros

  • 2,200 peak watts / 1,800 Rated watts (running on gas) & 2,000 peak watts / 1,600 Rated watts (running on propane)
  • Efficient 80cc, 3Hp, single cylinder, 4-stroke, OHV, air cooled engine
  • Quiet running operation at only 60 decibels
  • (2) 120V 15A AC outlets, (1) 5V integrated USB outlet, parallel sockets
  • Compact carrying case design
  • Small 1.18 gallon fuel tank
  • 8 hour run-time

Cons

  • None over here!

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8. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 4500 Peak Watts and 3700 Rated Watts
  • Runtime: Up to 18 Hour Run Time
  • Fuel: Gas or propane powered
Westinghouse 4500 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Gas & Propane Powered, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Parallel Capable,Blue/Black

Here’s some insider information: Westinghouse Outdoor propane generators are among the best on the market.

That’s right, I said it.

What can I say, it’s simply true. And this iGen4500DF powerful generator is no exception!

This generator produces 4500 peak watts and 3700 rated watts, which is a high wattage level for a propane generator at this price point.

It also has a rotating digital display that shows the user the fuel level (which can be propane or gas), power output, runtime, and voltage!

Finally, it can run for up to 18 hours straight on a medium load (at least, that’s what it did for me), which is a considerable amount of time for a generator to run. 

Pros

  • 4500 peak watts and 3700 rated watts
  • Gas or propane powered
  • Features a 5–20R 120V duplex household outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 amp outlet and two USB outlets
  • Rotating digital display informs about fuel level, power output, runtime, voltage
  • Makes as low as 53 decibels of noise level
  • Up to 18 Hour Run Time
  • EPA and CARB Compliant

Cons

  • No spark plug wrench or funnel

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9. Champion Power Equipment 100416 Portable Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts on propane
  • Runtime: 5 hours on propane
  • Fuel: operates on natural gas, propane, or gasoline
Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator, NG/LPG Hose Kits and CO Shield

This Champion Power 100416 propane generator blows the competition out of the water with features like:

  • Efficient 459cc engine that produces 10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts on propane, making it by far the most powerful wattage level in this article
  • The ability to run it on natural gas, propane, or gas

Despite its loudness, it has a large handle and two large wheels that make it easy to move around.

Pros

  • Runs on natural gas, propane or gas
  • Efficient 459cc Champion engine
  • Track voltage, frequency, session run time, and total run time to monitor output and track maintenance intervals
  • 10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts on propane and 9000 starting watts and 7200 running watts on natural gas

Cons

  • It’s loud

Check Price

10. Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Propane Generator

Features

  • Wattage: 10,800 peak watts / 8,550 Rated watts on propane
  • Runtime: 12 hours of operation at half load
  • Fuel: Gasoline or propane
Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator - 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts - Gas & LPG - Electric Start - Transfer Switch & RV Ready - CARB Compliant

This Pulsar G12KBN was my tenth choice for the most efficient propane generator.

This generator has impressive features, such as an efficient motor that produces 10,800 peak watts / 8,550 rated watts when running on propane (perfect for a residential or camping setting).

Its fuel source can be either gasoline or liquid propane.

In terms of convenience, the generator has an electric start and an auto shutoff mode when it detects that it is running low on oil.

Finally, it has two never-flat tires and drop down handles to make it easier to move around.

I mean, what more can you ask?

Pros

  • It only weighs 210 pounds which makes it easy to move around
  • It has a dual fuel option (gasoline/propane)
  • Outlets: 4x 120V 20A outlets, 1x 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, 1x 120V/240V 50A outlet, 1x 12V DC port for charging batteries
  • Easy turn-on thanks to electric push start
  • Two never flat tires
  • Automatically low oil shutoff
  • Drop-down handles that allow workers to easily manage

Cons

  • Does not come with oil

Check Price


What is The Most Efficient Propane Generator Overall?

Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator

  • Efficient motor that outputs 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts, which is enough wattage to power most appliances
  • Economy mode that focuses on saving propane and making sure the engine runs as efficient as possible
  • Convenient assortment of outlets: 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapterIt operates at 64 dBA of noise 22 hours run time

Anyways, if you want to know more about this specific dual fuel portable generator, you can read the full review by clicking the button down below!

Review


Quick Comparison Table

Name Wattage Runtime Fuel
1. Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight

Review
2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts 11.5 hours run time on gasoline / 34 hours on propane propane or gas
2. DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Portable Propane Generator
DuroMax XP10000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator - 10000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered-Electric Start- Home Back Up & RV Ready, 50 State Approved

Review
10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts Up to 8 hours on a full tank Runs on gasoline or propane
3. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 4650 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas & Propane Powered, CARB Compliant

Review
3240 rated watts & 4650 peak watts (on propane) up to 10.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank Gasoline and propane
4. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator-4850 Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
DuroMax XP4850EH Generator-4850 Watt Gas or Propane Powered-Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved Dual Fuel Portable Generator, Green

Review
With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts 10 hour runtime Runs of both gasoline and propane
5. Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
Champion Power Equipment 200914 4250-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator, Dual Fuel Technology

Review
4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts 22 hours at 25% load Gasoline or propane
6. A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered
A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered, Small with Super Quiet Operation for Home, RV, or Emergency

Review
1,800 starting watts with 1,500 running watts with propane (LPG) Provides up to 7 hours of run-time at 50% load Propane or gasoline
7. Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator Propane Generator
Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, PG2200BiS

Review
2,000 peak watts / 1,600 Rated watts (running on propane) 8 hour run-time Propane or gas
8. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Propane Generator
Westinghouse 4500 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Gas & Propane Powered, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Parallel Capable,Blue/Black

Review
4500 Peak Watts and 3700 Rated Watts Up to 18 Hour Run Time Gas or propane powered
9. Champion Power Equipment 100416 Portable Propane Generator
Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator, NG/LPG Hose Kits and CO Shield

Review
10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts on propane 5 hours on propane operates on natural gas, propane, or gasoline
10. Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Propane Generator
Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator - 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts - Gas & LPG - Electric Start - Transfer Switch & RV Ready - CARB Compliant

Review
10,800 peak watts / 8,550 Rated watts on propane 12 hours of operation at half load Gasoline or propane

Must Have Features of The Most Efficient Propane Generators

Propane generators must have certain features to be considered efficient and worth their price.

Let me share the most important of these features with you in case you want to find the most efficient propane generator on your own.

Efficient Motor

If you want to find an efficient propane generator, make sure it has an efficient motor that produces the most wattage while using the least amount of propane.

This way, you can be certain that you are investing in a powerful and efficient generator.

In terms of wattage, I believe the best inverter generator for camping should have at least 2,000 starting watts and 1,500 running watts, which is enough power to juice your most important electronics.

Read more:

Design

What good is a propane generator that is too large and bulky?

Yes, it will most likely be powerful because it will house a larger motor, but it will be extremely difficult to maneuver.

That’s why I always look for propane generators that are either compact and portable or large but have handles and wheels for easy transportation (you’ll get the best of both worlds this way).

Tank Size

What better way to ensure that your propane powered generator has a longer runtime than by purchasing one with a large propane fuel tank?

After all, the larger the fuel tank, the longer the runtime, right?

Yes, but you should also consider how large and heavy the propane generator will be.

There is, in my opinion, a sweet spot regarding tank size that will provide enough runtime and a good level of portability, which is around 2 gallons.

Anything larger will need to have wheels and handles to make it easier to move around.

Voltage

Voltage is the electrical current pressure that powers devices and high amperage power tools when they are plugged into an outlet.

If your generator does not provide a steady stream of voltage, you are putting your expensive and sensitive electronics at risk.

This is why I advise people to purchase propane generators that provide a steady stream of voltage. Otherwise, you’ll live to regret it.

Noise

Let’s face it: nothing is more annoying than a noisy generator.

Unfortunately, most generator motors are extremely loud when in full operation.

However, there are some that have advanced technologies aimed at reducing as much noise as possible when in full operation.

In that case, I’d say the most efficient generator should be able to operate in a noise range of 50 to 70 decibels. 


Frequently Asked Questions

In the following section of this article, I will attempt to answer some frequently asked questions about the most efficient propane generator.

What are the pros and cons of a propane generator?

Let’s start with the advantages of a propane generator:

  • It emits fewer harmful combustion gases to the environment than gasoline. As a result, it is more environmentally friendly
  • Because propane has no expiration date, it is much more convenient

Now for the drawbacks:

  • Propane generators are significantly louder than gasoline generators. Don’t ask me why; they simply are
  • They are more expensive
  • They can be a bit harder to repair because they are not that popular and due to their more complex internal components

Are propane generators more efficient than gas generators?

Unfortunately, no.

Propane generators are inefficient compared to gas generators. They generate fewer BTUs per gallon of propane than gas generators do.

They are, however, more environmentally friendly than gas generators because they emit fewer harmful gases than gasoline-powered generators.

YouTube video

Are propane generators cheaper than gas generators?

This is a difficult question.

Yes, propane is technically less expensive than gas. As a result, running a propane generator is less expensive than running a gas generator.

However, propane generators cost more than gas generators.

To summarize, propane generators will save you money in the long run, but you will have to spend a little more money upfront.

Will a generator run longer on propane?

This is heavily dependent on the technology of each generator, as it is in charge of getting the most out of the propane stored in the fuel tank.

What I can tell you is that most portable generators will run for about 8 hours on a medium load. But again, you should check the specifications of your next propane-powered generator.

How long will a generator run on a 20lb tank of propane?

A propane generator with a 20lb fuel tank, in my experience, will run for 5 to 8 hours on a medium load.

Again, this will be determined by the technology of each propane generator as well as the load that you subject your propane generator to.

Author
Hi, I’m John Smith, a proud husband, and father of two little beautiful girls. After a long time of thinking I made up my mind to build a website around my passion.. helping people who need smart advice from handymen with years of experience.

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