Top 7 Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House Backup

Top 7 Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House Backup

The best dual fuel generators for whole house backup include the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel for its reliable whole home power, the DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel for remote start convenience, and the Westinghouse 12500W Dual Fuel for its high-capacity output. These robust generators offer the flexibility of running on either gasoline or propane, providing crucial peace of mind during power outages. Their ability to power essential appliances and systems makes them an indispensable investment for homeowners seeking uninterrupted comfort and security.

We’ve narrowed down the field to 7 top picks after extensive hands-on comparison and evaluation of their performance, features, and overall reliability. Our assessment focused on factors critical for whole house backup, such as sustained wattage, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. This guide will help you navigate the options to find the ideal generator for your home’s specific needs, leading into a detailed comparison table below.

1
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel
DuroMax

DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • High 13,000-watt output
  • Flexible dual fuel operation
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  • Electric start convenience
  • 13,000-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
2
DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel
DuroStar

DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • Convenient remote electric start
  • Strong 13,000-watt output
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  • Versatile dual fuel operation
  • 13,000-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
3
Westinghouse 12500W Dual Fuel
Westinghouse

Westinghouse 12500W Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • Massive 12,500-watt output
  • Reliable Westinghouse brand
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  • Remote electric start
  • 12,500-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
4
DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel
DuroMax

DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • High 13,000-watt output
  • Dual fuel versatility
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  • Electric start for convenience
  • 13,000-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
5
Westinghouse 6500W Dual Fuel
Westinghouse

Westinghouse 6500W Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • Integrated CO Sensor for safety
  • Dual fuel flexibility
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  • Adequate for essential circuits
  • 6,500-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
6
DuroMax XP15000HX Dual Fuel
DuroMax

DuroMax XP15000HX Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • Exceptional 15,000-watt output
  • Dual fuel for versatility
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  • Remote electric start
  • 15,000-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)
7
Westinghouse 6600W Dual Fuel
Westinghouse

Westinghouse 6600W Dual Fuel

Main Highlights
  • Remote electric start
  • CO Sensor for safety
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  • Dual fuel flexibility
  • 6,600-Watt peak power
  • Dual fuel (gas/propane)

Top 7 Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House Backup

#1. DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel

DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel
13,000W
Peak Power
Dual Fuel
Gas & Propane
Whole Home
Backup Ready
Reliable Whole Home Backup
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.0
Fuel Versatility
9.2
Ease of Use
8.5
Reliability
8.8
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The DuroMax XP13000EH is a powerhouse generator designed to keep your entire home running during outages. With its 13,000 peak watts and dual fuel capability, you’ll have the flexibility to choose between gasoline or propane, ensuring power when you need it most. The electric start makes firing it up a breeze, and it’s ready for a transfer switch for seamless home integration.

While it offers substantial power, be aware that its size and weight mean it’s not the most portable option for smaller tasks. This generator is best suited for homeowners seeking a robust and reliable backup solution for extended power interruptions, but might be overkill if you only need to power a few essential appliances.

Pros

  • High 13,000-watt output
  • Flexible dual fuel operation
  • Electric start convenience

Cons

  • Relatively heavy unit
  • Can be noisy during operation
  • Requires regular maintenance

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
13,000 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Starting System
Electric Start
Engine Type
OHV 4-stroke
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
RV Ready
Yes
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#2. DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel

DuroStar DS13000MX Dual Fuel
Remote
Electric Start
500cc
Powerful Engine
13,000W
Home Backup
Remote Start Convenience
89
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.0
Starting Options
9.5
Engine Performance
8.9
Value
8.7
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The DuroStar DS13000MX offers robust power with the added convenience of a remote electric start, letting you fire it up from a distance. Its 13,000-watt output and dual fuel capability ensure you can power essential appliances and more, making it an excellent choice for whole-home backup. The 500cc engine provides reliable performance, and it’s built to be transfer switch ready.

While the remote start is a fantastic feature, remember to keep the remote battery charged. This generator is ideal for those who prioritize convenient starting options alongside substantial power for home backup, but might be overkill if you prefer a simpler, manual-start unit.

Pros

  • Convenient remote electric start
  • Strong 13,000-watt output
  • Versatile dual fuel operation

Cons

  • Remote battery needs charging
  • Larger footprint for storage
  • Noise levels can be high

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
13,000 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Engine Size
500cc
Starting System
Remote Electric Start
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
RV Ready
Yes
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#3. Westinghouse 12500W Dual Fuel

Westinghouse 12500W Dual Fuel
12,500W
Peak Power
Remote
Start Feature
Westinghouse
Reliability
High-Capacity Home Backup
92
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.3
Brand Reputation
9.1
Starting Convenience
9.0
Durability
9.2
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The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel generator is a top-tier choice for serious home backup, offering immense power and flexibility. Its 12,500 peak watts can comfortably run most household appliances, and the dual fuel capability ensures you’re never without options. The remote electric start adds a layer of convenience, letting you power up with ease, and it’s fully ready for a transfer switch.

While its power output is impressive, this unit is quite large and requires significant storage space. It’s an excellent investment for those needing maximum backup power and reliability during extended outages, but might be overkill if your power needs are more modest or you have limited storage.

Pros

  • Massive 12,500-watt output
  • Reliable Westinghouse brand
  • Remote electric start

Cons

  • Large and heavy unit
  • Higher fuel consumption
  • Can be loud in operation

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
12,500 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Starting System
Remote Electric Start
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
Run Time (Gas)
Up to 11 hours
Outlets
Multiple
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#4. DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel

DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel
13,000W
Heavy Duty
Dual Fuel
Power Options
Electric
Start System
Heavy-Duty Home Power
87
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.0
Fuel Efficiency
8.5
Durability
8.7
Ease of Use
8.6
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The DuroMax XP13000HX is a robust dual fuel generator offering a substantial 13,000 watts of power, perfect for keeping your home operational during outages. Its ability to run on both gasoline and propane provides excellent flexibility, and the electric start ensures a quick and easy power-up. It’s also fully equipped for a transfer switch, making integration into your home’s electrical system straightforward.

While powerful, this generator is a significant investment in terms of size and fuel consumption for prolonged use. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners who need serious, reliable power for most of their household appliances, but might be excessive if you’re only looking to power a few small items.

Pros

  • High 13,000-watt output
  • Dual fuel versatility
  • Electric start for convenience

Cons

  • Heavy and less portable
  • Can be noisy during operation
  • Requires ample storage space

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
13,000 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Starting System
Electric Start
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
RV Ready
Yes
Engine
DuroMax OHV
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#5. Westinghouse 6500W Dual Fuel

Westinghouse 6500W Dual Fuel
CO Sensor
Safety Feature
6,500W
Essential Power
RV Ready
30A Outlet
Essential Home Circuits
83
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
8.0
Safety Features
9.0
Portability
8.5
Value
8.2
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The Westinghouse 6500 Watt Dual Fuel generator is a versatile and safer option for powering essential home circuits during an outage. Its 6,500 peak watts are sufficient for refrigerators, lights, and some smaller appliances, and the dual fuel capability offers flexibility. A key safety feature is the integrated CO Sensor, providing peace of mind during operation, and it’s transfer switch ready.

While it includes important safety features, its power output is more suited for essential circuits rather than a full whole-house backup. This generator is perfect for those seeking a reliable and safer option for critical power needs, but you might need a higher wattage unit if you plan to run larger appliances simultaneously.

Pros

  • Integrated CO Sensor for safety
  • Dual fuel flexibility
  • Adequate for essential circuits

Cons

  • Lower wattage than some
  • Manual start only
  • Can be loud

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
6,500 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Safety Feature
CO Sensor
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
RV Ready
Yes (30A Outlet)
Outlets
30A, 20A
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#6. DuroMax XP15000HX Dual Fuel

DuroMax XP15000HX Dual Fuel
15,000W
Extreme Power
Remote
Start Control
Whole Home
Backup Solution
Maximum Power Output
90
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.5
Fuel Versatility
9.0
Starting Options
9.2
Heavy Duty
9.1
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The DuroMax XP15000HX is an absolute beast when it comes to portable power, delivering an incredible 15,000 peak watts to handle virtually any home backup scenario. Its dual fuel capability provides the flexibility to run on gasoline or propane, and the remote electric start offers ultimate convenience. This generator is designed for serious power needs and is fully transfer switch ready.

Given its immense power, this unit is quite large and heavy, requiring careful consideration for placement and movement. It’s the perfect choice for those who demand uncompromising power to run an entire household, including high-demand appliances, but it’s certainly overkill if your backup needs are minimal.

Pros

  • Exceptional 15,000-watt output
  • Dual fuel for versatility
  • Remote electric start

Cons

  • Very large and heavy
  • High fuel consumption
  • Significant noise output

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
15,000 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Starting System
Remote Electric Start
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
Engine
DuroMax OHV
RV Ready
Yes
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#7. Westinghouse 6600W Dual Fuel

Westinghouse 6600W Dual Fuel
6,600W
Reliable Power
Remote
Start Control
CO Sensor
Enhanced Safety
Balanced Power & Safety
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
8.1
Safety Features
8.8
Starting Convenience
9.0
Portability
8.3
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The Westinghouse 6600 Watt Dual Fuel generator strikes a great balance between power and safety, making it a smart choice for home backup. With 6,600 peak watts, it can handle essential appliances, and its dual fuel capability offers convenient options. The remote electric start is a fantastic feature for ease of use, and the integrated CO Sensor adds a crucial layer of safety.

While it provides good power for essentials, it’s not designed to run an entire large home simultaneously. This generator is ideal for those seeking a reliable, safe, and easy-to-start solution for critical power needs during outages, but you might need to step up in wattage if you have very high power demands.

Pros

  • Remote electric start
  • CO Sensor for safety
  • Dual fuel flexibility

Cons

  • Moderate power output
  • Can be noisy
  • Not for whole-home heavy loads

Specifications

Wattage (Peak)
6,600 Watts
Fuel Type
Gas & Propane
Starting System
Remote Electric Start
Safety Feature
CO Sensor
Transfer Switch Ready
Yes
RV Ready
Yes
Check Price on Amazon
Top 7 Best Dual Fuel Generator For Whole House Backup

Powering Your Peace of Mind: Decoding Dual Fuel Generators for Whole Home Backup

When the lights go out, a reliable whole-house generator isn’t just a convenience; it’s a lifeline. Choosing a dual-fuel model adds a layer of flexibility, but making the right decision requires a clear understanding of what truly matters for keeping your home running smoothly.

The Heart of the Matter: Key Considerations for Whole Home Power

To ensure your investment delivers when it counts, focus on these critical aspects:

  • Power Output (Wattage): This is paramount. You’ll need to calculate your home’s total running and starting wattage requirements to select a generator that can handle your essential appliances, and potentially more. Don’t underestimate this.
  • Fuel Type Flexibility: The “dual-fuel” aspect means you can run on either gasoline or propane. Consider the availability and storage implications of both fuel sources in your area, and how easily you can switch between them.
  • Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) Compatibility: For true whole-house backup, an ATS is crucial. It automatically detects power outages and switches your home’s electrical load to the generator, then back to utility power when it returns. Ensure your chosen generator is designed to integrate seamlessly with an ATS.
  • Engine Durability and Features: Look for robust engines built for extended run times. Features like low oil shutdown, overload protection, and hour meters contribute to longevity and easier maintenance.
  • Noise Levels: Generators can be loud. If your generator will be located near living spaces or neighbors, consider models designed for quieter operation.
  • Portability vs. Stationary: While whole-house implies stationary, some larger portable units can serve this purpose. Evaluate the need for mobility versus a permanent, dedicated installation.

Avoiding the Blackout Blunders

Don’t let these common missteps leave you in the dark when you need power most:

  • Underestimating power needs: Many buyers choose a generator that’s too small, leading to frustrating brownouts or the inability to power critical systems.
  • Ignoring installation requirements: Whole-house generators require professional installation, including proper ventilation, fuel line connections, and electrical wiring. Factor this into your planning.
  • Neglecting maintenance: Like any engine, generators need regular upkeep. Failing to follow maintenance schedules can lead to breakdowns when you least expect them.

Your Whole-Home Power Play: Final Generator Insights

For ultimate whole-home peace of mind, the DuroMax XP13000EH and DuroStar DS13000MX are robust powerhouses. If you’re eyeing serious wattage, the DuroMax XP15000HX is your champion, while the Westinghouse 12500 Watt offers a strong blend of power and convenience. For those needing reliable backup without breaking the bank, the Westinghouse 6500 Watt and 6600 Watt models are fantastic, dependable choices.

No matter your specific needs, each of these dual-fuel dynamos is ready to keep your lights on and essentials humming. Remember to click those buttons above to check current availability and secure your backup power solution!

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