Best Tri-fuel Generators

Flexibility and versatility are key factors to consider when choosing the right generator, especially during periods of power shortages or outages. Tri-fuel generators, which can run on 3 different types of fuel like propane, gasoline, and natural gas, provide a practical solution to this issue. A tri-fuel generator can help you save time, frustration, and money by enabling you to switch between fuels based on price and availability.
Oftentimes, it is a challenge to find the best tri-fuel portable generator due to the small number of options available on the market. In order to assist you to make a wise decision when buying a generator that suits your needs, we will be taking an in-depth look at the 3 best tri-fuel generators currently available on the market. We will also be emphasizing their features and advantages.

Winco HPS12000HE

The Winco HPS12000HE is a Tri-Fuel generator with the capability to run on gasoline, natural gas, and LP gas, and it is the only one of its kind that does not void the engine warranty. It comes with a commercial-grade Honda GX630 V-Twin OHV engine with cast iron cylinder sleeves and a 3-year warranty. The generator end features 100% copper windings, dampers, skewed rotors for less than 5% harmonic distortion, and capacitor excitation. The generator has surge watts of 12,000 and continuous watts of 10,800, and it runs on gasoline, natural gas, and LP gas. It has a 15-gallon steel fuel tank with a fuel gauge and a sturdy 1 ¼”-14 gauge tubular steel cradle. The generator comes with an electric start, vibration isolation for smooth operation, and a four-wheel dolly kit for easy movement and storage. Optional accessories include a generator cover, low-pressure fuel solenoid kit, 60-amp manual transfer switch kit, plug-in line voltage monitor, and 60-amp (NEMA 14-60P) plug. The HPS12000HE has a net weight of 425 pounds, and its dimensions with the dolly kit are 44.7” x 36” x 33”.

This generator is designed for heavy-duty use and is suitable for both industrial and home users. It is powered by a Honda GX630 engine, which is known for its reliability and durability.

The Winco HPS12000HE generator is ideal for backup power in case of power outages, as well as for construction sites, events, and other outdoor activities where reliable power is required. It features a large fuel tank that can hold up to 15 gallons of fuel, providing up to 9 hours of continuous operation at half load.

This generator is not a very popular model, and it is not widely available in most online and offline stores. The generator is also quite expensive, costing several thousand dollars, which may make it unsuitable for most users. Additionally, finding a dealer that sells the Winco HPS12000HE can be challenging.

However, it is essential to note that the Winco HPS12000HE is an industrial-grade generator that is built to withstand heavy use in demanding environments. It is designed for use by professionals who require a reliable and powerful source of backup power. This generator is perfect for use in construction sites, industrial plants, and other similar environments. Therefore, if you are a professional who needs a reliable source of backup power, the Winco HPS12000HE may be an excellent investment. However, if you are a home user or require a generator for occasional use, this generator may not be the best fit for you due to its high price point.

Specifications:

• Starting Wattage: 12,000 watts
• Running Wattage: 10,800 watts
• Engine: Honda GX630
• Horsepower: 20.0 HP
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, and Natural gas
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 15 gallons
• Run Time (at full load): 9hrs
• Gas Consumption:100% load 1.67 Gallons/Hour
• Propane Consumption 100% load 2.20 Gallons/Hour
• NG Consumption 100% load 200 Cubic Feet/Hour
• Noise Level: 78 dB at 23 feet
• Outlets: 2x NEMA 5-20R 20A 125V GFCI duplex, 1x NEMA L14-30 30A 120/240V twist lock, 1x NEMA L14-20 20A 120/240V twist lock, 1x NEMA L5-30 30A 125V twist lock
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 44.7” x 36” x 33”
• Weight: 425 lbs.

Pros:

• High maximum output of 12,000 watts, making it suitable for powering large appliances and heavy-duty equipment
• Tri-fuel capability, allowing it to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas
• Electric start and remote start options for convenience
• Durable construction with a heavy-duty steel frame and solid rubber tires for portability
• Large fuel tank capacity of 15 gallons, providing extended run time
• Automatic voltage regulation and circuit breaker protection for added safety

Cons:

• Expensive price point, making it less accessible to budget-conscious consumers
• Heavy weight and large size may make it difficult to move or transport without additional equipment
• Loud operating noise, which may not be suitable for residential areas or noise-sensitive environments
• Limited availability and difficulty finding a dealer for purchase and maintenance

Champion Power Equipment 100416

The Champion Power Equipment 100416 is a portable generator that can run on three different types of fuel: gasoline, propane, and natural gas. It has a wattage output of 8000 watts and is powered by a 459cc Champion engine. It includes an electric start, Cold Start Technology for quick cold-weather starts, and CO Shield technology to monitor and shut off the engine in case of elevated levels of carbon monoxide gas. It comes with a 25-foot natural gas hose kit and a 6-foot propane hose with a built-in regulator. The generator is EPA-certified and CARB-compliant and comes with a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support.

The Champion Power Equipment 100416 also features Cold Start Technology, which makes it easier to start the generator in cold weather conditions. This is a useful feature, especially for those who live in areas where temperatures can drop below freezing. The 459cc Champion engine is powerful and can provide 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts when using gasoline. When using propane, the generator can provide 9,000 starting watts and 7,200 running watts. When using natural gas, the generator can provide 8,750 starting watts and 7,000 running watts.

One of the standout features of the Champion Power Equipment 100416 is its CO Shield technology, which is a carbon monoxide auto shutoff system. This is an important safety feature, especially for those who plan to use the generator indoors or in an enclosed space. The CO Shield technology is designed to detect unsafe levels of carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas that is produced by the engine exhaust. If the system detects elevated levels of carbon monoxide, it will automatically shut off the engine. However, it’s important to note that the CO Shield is not a substitute for an indoor carbon monoxide alarm or for safe operation. Generators should always be used outdoors, far away from occupied buildings with engine exhaust pointed away from people and buildings.

Overall, the Champion Power Equipment 100416 is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient generator that can handle a variety of power needs. Its durability, portability, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice users alike. With its powerful performance and long-lasting durability, the 100416 is an investment that is sure to provide years of reliable service.

Specifications:

• Starting Watts: 10,000 watts
• Running Watts: 8,000 watts
• AC Load: 120/240V
• Phase: Single
• Frequency: 60Hz
• Engine: 459cc Champion OHV
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.5 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 1.2 quarts (recommended 10W-30)
• Run Time: up to 12.5 hours at 50% load on gasoline
• Noise Level: 74 dBA at 23 feet
• Outlets: One 120/240V 30A locking outlet, one 120/240V 50A outlet, four 120V 20A GFCI outlets
• Starting Method: Electric and recoil start
• Product Weight: 207 lbs
• Dimensions: 27.6 x 28.2 x 26 inches
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty, free lifetime technical support

Pros:

• Affordable tri-fuel generator
• Provides 8000 watts of power, suitable for powering most household appliances and tools
• The electric start feature makes it easy to start the generator
• Comes with a lot of features such as low oil shut-off, overload protection, and a digital display
• Relatively lightweight and portable for an 8000-watt generator

Cons:

• Noise level is not the lowest, rating at 74 dBA at 23 feet distance
• The wheels and handle are not very sturdy and may require reinforcement
• The generator may consume more propane or natural gas compared to gasoline, resulting in higher fuel costs over time (true for every tri-fuel generator)

DuroMax XP13000HXT

The DuroMax XP13000HXT is a powerful generator with a 13000 peak wattage and 10500 constant wattage output. It features tri-fuel technology, meaning it can run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, providing the user with the flexibility to choose their fuel source. With a powerful 500cc OHV engine, the generator is capable of powering essential household appliances, including AC systems, during power outages or in emergency situations.

The XP13000HXT has a variety of outlets, including 4 120V 20A GFCI outlets, 1 120V 30A twist lock, 1 120/240V 30A twist lock, and 1 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet. The generator also features CO Alert technology, which turns off the generator automatically when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected, protecting the user from dangerous engine fumes. The front-facing fuel interface allows for easy switching between fuel types, while the advanced computer interface and large LED display provide an easy way to view important information such as fuel and load gauges.

The XP13000HXT is designed for safe and easy operation, with a user-friendly electric start and recoil start backup, high-leverage handles, and solid-fill tires that will never run flat. It also has an oversized noise-reducing muffler with a built-in spark arrestor for safe use in mandated camping areas and job sites. The generator comes with a 1-year factory warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, and it is ready to use out of the box within minutes.

The DuroMax XP13000HXT generator is designed to be a reliable source of backup power for your home or small business. With its powerful engine, tri-fuel capability, and user-friendly interface, it is well-suited to handle a wide range of applications. Whether you need to power your home during an outage or run power tools on a job site, this generator is up to the task. Additionally, its CO Alert technology and compliance with EPA and CARB emission standards ensure that it is safe and environmentally friendly. Overall, the DuroMax XP13000HXT is a versatile and dependable generator that is sure to meet your power needs.

Specifications:

• Maximum power output: 13,000 watts
• Running power output: 10,500 watts
• Engine type: 500cc OHV Duromax
• Fuel type: Gasoline, propane, natural gas
• Tank size: 8.3 gallons
• Runtime at 50% load: 8.5 hours on gasoline, 6.5 hours on propane
• Starting method: Push-button
• Noise level: 74 dBA
• Outlets: (2) 120V 20A GFCI outlets, (1) 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet, (1) 120/240V 14-50R outlet
• Safety features: Low oil shutdown, circuit breaker protection, voltage regulation, idle control
• Dimensions: 30″ L x 29″ W x 26″ H
• Weight: 246 pounds
• Warranty: 5-years

Pros:

• Tri-fuel capability allows the generator to run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, providing flexibility and convenience
• A powerful engine and large fuel tank allow for extended use and reliable power output
• Multiple outlet options including 120V, 240V, and 120/240V twist-lock outlets provide versatility in use
• Electric start and remote start capability make starting the generator easy and convenient
• Comes with a variety of safety features such as automatic low oil shutoff and circuit breaker protection

Cons:

• A bit heavier than other tri-fuel generators
• The noisy operation may be a concern for some users
• Higher price point compared to Champion 100416

Conclusion

Tri-fuel portable generators, which can run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, are not as widely available in the market as dual-fuel or gasoline generators. One reason for this may be the lower demand for these generators due to their higher initial cost and more complex maintenance requirements. However, tri-fuel generators offer the advantage of fuel versatility, which can be particularly useful during emergencies or in remote areas where different fuel sources may not be readily available.

For those who already own a dual-fuel or gasoline generator and want the flexibility of running it on propane or natural gas, a conversion kit can be installed. The conversion kit typically includes a regulator, gaskets, and hoses. This can be a more cost-efficient option than purchasing a new tri-fuel generator. However, it is important to exercise caution and ensure that the conversion is done properly, either by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully or by having a professional perform the installation. It is also important to note that some generator brands may void the warranty if the generator is modified to become a tri-fuel.