Top 7 Best Portable Dual Fuel Generator For Food Trucks

Top 7 Best Portable Dual Fuel Generator For Food Trucks

The best portable dual-fuel generators for food trucks include models like the AIVOLT 11250W Generator, the Westinghouse iGen12000DFc Generator, and the DuroStar DS13000MXT Generator, chosen for their robust power output, fuel flexibility, and reliable operation.

Equipping your food truck with the right generator is crucial for maintaining consistent power to essential appliances, ensuring uninterrupted service and customer satisfaction, even when off the grid. These units offer the versatility to run on gasoline or propane, providing flexibility based on fuel availability and cost.

After extensive hands-on testing and comparison, we’ve narrowed down the field to seven top contenders. Our evaluation focused on key performance metrics such as starting and running wattage, fuel efficiency, noise levels, and durability to meet the demanding needs of mobile food businesses. Continue reading to discover which generator will best power your culinary ventures.

3 Standout Picks: Food Trucks, Quiet Power, and Tri-Fuel Versatility

Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.

7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs

The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

#1
AIVOLT 11250W Generator
AIVOLT 11250W Generator
Food Trucks★4.1
  • 11,250 starting watts dual fuel
  • 50A RV/Food Truck outlet
  • CO auto shutoff
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#2
Westinghouse iGen12000DFc Generator
Westinghouse iGen12000DFc Generator
Quiet Power★4.4
  • 12,000W peak dual fuel
  • Low noise level (64 dBA)
  • Safe for electronics
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#3
DuroStar DS13000MXT Generator
DuroStar DS13000MXT Generator
Tri-Fuel Versatility★4.3
  • 13,000 watts tri-fuel
  • Runs on NG, propane, gas
  • CO Alert safety
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#4
Westinghouse WGen11500DFc Generator
Westinghouse WGen11500DFc Generator
Large Home Backup★4.6
  • 14,500 peak watts dual fuel
  • Low THD for electronics
  • Remote electric start
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#5
DuroStar DS13000MX Generator
DuroStar DS13000MX Generator
Heavy Duty Use★4.3
  • 13,000 watts dual fuel
  • CO Alert safety
  • Remote electric start
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#6
WEN DF680iX Generator
WEN DF680iX Generator
EV Charging★4.4
  • 6800 surge watts dual fuel
  • Quiet inverter operation
  • CO Watchdog sensor
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#7
WEN DF480iX Generator
WEN DF480iX Generator
Lightweight Power★4.5
  • 4800 surge watts dual fuel
  • Quiet operation (62 dB)
  • Clean power output
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7 Models Reviewed in Depth

#1. AIVOLT 11250W Generator

AIVOLT 11250W Generator
Food Truck
Ready
50A Outlet
High Capacity
CO Auto
Shutoff
Food Trucks
93
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.5
Food Truck Use
9.8
Safety Features
9.2
Noise Level
8.5
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You’ll find the AIVOLT 11250W generator to be an excellent fit for food trucks, boasting a powerful 11,250 starting watts and a dedicated 50A RV-ready outlet designed for such applications. Its dual-fuel capability offers flexibility, and the CO auto shutoff provides essential safety for enclosed spaces. The inclusion of a remote start adds significant convenience, allowing you to manage power without constantly being by the unit.

While it’s well-suited for food trucks, its 221-pound weight means it’s not the most portable option if you need to move it frequently. If your primary need is a robust, high-output generator with specific features for mobile businesses like food trucks, and you value safety and convenience, this AIVOLT is a top-tier choice. Consider it the workhorse you need for your mobile operation.

Pros

  • Ideal 50A outlet for food trucks
  • High starting watts (11,250W)
  • Convenient remote start included

Cons

  • Heavy at 221 pounds
  • Noise level is average (60 dBA)
  • Propane running watts are slightly lower

Specifications

Fuel Type
Dual Fuel
Starting Wattage
11250 watts
Running Wattage
9000 watts
Engine Displacement
459 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
221 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#2. Westinghouse iGen12000DFc Generator

Westinghouse iGen12000DFc Generator
Quiet
Operation
Clean Power
Electronics Safe
Dual Fuel
Versatile
Quiet Power
92
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.4
Noise Level
9.5
Electronics Safety
9.3
Runtime
8.9
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You’ll find the Westinghouse iGen12000DFc to be a remarkable blend of power and quiet operation, delivering 9,000 running watts on gasoline and only 64 dBA of noise. This makes it ideal for situations where noise is a concern, such as residential areas or sensitive work environments. The inverter technology ensures clean power with less than 3% THD, safeguarding your valuable electronics.

While it boasts impressive features, its 187.4-pound weight means it’s not the most portable option for frequent moves. If you need a powerful, exceptionally quiet generator that can handle sensitive electronics and offers dual-fuel flexibility, this Westinghouse is a top contender. Consider it if your priority is minimizing noise while maintaining substantial power output for your food truck or home backup needs.

Pros

  • Very quiet operation at 64 dBA
  • High running watts (9000W gasoline)
  • Dual fuel flexibility

Cons

  • Heavy at 187.4 pounds
  • Propane running watts slightly lower
  • Requires assembly for wheels/handle

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline, LPG
Starting Wattage
12000 watts
Running Wattage
9000 watts
Engine Displacement
457 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
187.4 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#3. DuroStar DS13000MXT Generator

DuroStar DS13000MXT Generator
Tri Fuel
Max Versatility
13000 Watts
Peak Power
CO Alert
Safety
Tri-Fuel Versatility
91
OVERALL
SCORE
Fuel Options
9.8
Power Output
9.5
Safety Features
9.2
Portability
7.5
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You’ll be impressed by the DuroStar DS13000MXT’s unmatched fuel flexibility, offering the choice of gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This tri-fuel capability provides exceptional adaptability for various situations and fuel availability. With 13,000 peak watts, it delivers ample power for demanding applications, and the integrated CO Alert system ensures safety by automatically shutting down the unit if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected.

However, like its dual-fuel counterpart, this generator is quite heavy at 220 pounds, making portability a significant consideration. If you require the ultimate in fuel choice and high power output for a stationary setup, this DuroStar is an outstanding option. It’s less suitable if frequent movement is a primary requirement for your food truck or other mobile operations.

Pros

  • Tri-fuel capability (gas, propane, NG)
  • High power output (13,000W peak)
  • CO Alert safety feature

Cons

  • Heavy at 220 pounds
  • Natural gas runtime not specified
  • Less portable than smaller units

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas
Starting Wattage
13000 watts
Running Wattage
10500 watts
Engine Displacement
500 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
220 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#4. Westinghouse WGen11500DFc Generator

Westinghouse WGen11500DFc Generator
14500 Peak
Wattage Output
Low THD
Electronics Safe
Remote Start
Convenience
Large Home Backup
90
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.6
Electronics Safety
9.3
Runtime
8.8
Portability
7.8
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You’ll find the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc to be a powerhouse, offering a substantial 14,500 peak watts on gasoline and still a robust 13,500 on propane. Its low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is a significant plus, ensuring your sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs are safe. The convenience of remote electric start adds a touch of modern luxury, allowing you to power up without leaving your comfort zone.

However, with 230 pounds to move, this generator isn’t designed for frequent relocation; think of it more as a stationary backup. If you need reliable, high-output power for a larger home or a commercial setup where portability isn’t the top priority, this Westinghouse is a stellar choice. Skip it if you’re looking for something easily portable for daily use on a food truck.

Pros

  • Exceptional 14,500 peak watt output
  • Safe for sensitive electronics (low THD)
  • Convenient remote start included

Cons

  • Heavy at 230 pounds
  • Propane runtime is shorter
  • Less portable than smaller units

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline, Propane
Starting Wattage
14500 watts
Running Wattage
11500 watts
Engine Displacement
550 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
230 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#5. DuroStar DS13000MX Generator

DuroStar DS13000MX Generator
Dual Fuel
Power Flexibility
CO Alert
Safety System
13000 Watts
Peak Power
Heavy Duty Use
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
9.5
Fuel Flexibility
9.0
Safety Features
9.2
Portability
7.5
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You’ll appreciate the sheer power and versatility of the DuroStar DS13000MX, especially its ability to run on both gasoline and propane. With 13,000 peak watts, it’s more than capable of handling demanding loads, making it a solid choice for food trucks or home backup. The CO Alert system adds a crucial layer of safety, automatically shutting down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected.

While its power output is impressive, its 220-pound weight means portability might be a challenge for some users, requiring a dedicated setup or assistance. If you need a robust generator for stationary or semi-permanent use where maximum power and fuel flexibility are key, this DuroStar is an excellent option. However, if frequent relocation is a primary concern, you might want to consider lighter alternatives.

Pros

  • Massive 13,000 peak watt output
  • Dual fuel capability (gas/propane)
  • Integrated CO Alert safety feature

Cons

  • Heavy at 220 pounds
  • Propane runtime not specified
  • May be overkill for smaller needs

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline and Propane
Starting Wattage
13000 watts
Running Wattage
10500 watts
Engine Displacement
500 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
220 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#6. WEN DF680iX Generator

WEN DF680iX Generator
Quiet
Inverter Operation
CO Watchdog
Safety Sensor
EV Charging
Level 2 Capable
EV Charging
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Power Output
8.5
Noise Level
9.0
Portability
8.8
Features
8.2
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You’ll appreciate the WEN DF680iX for its impressive quietness, operating at a mere 64 decibels, making it far less intrusive than traditional generators. Its ability to provide clean power with under 1.2% THD is crucial for sensitive electronics, and the unique feature of offering Level 2 EV charging is a standout for those needing mobile power solutions. The fuel shutoff feature is also a thoughtful addition for long-term engine health.

While it offers EV charging, its overall wattage might be limiting for running multiple high-draw appliances simultaneously, especially on propane. If you prioritize quiet operation, clean power, and the niche capability of EV charging, this WEN generator is a compelling choice. However, if your primary need is raw, high-wattage power for a food truck’s entire operation, you might need a larger unit.

Pros

  • Very quiet operation (64 dB)
  • Clean power for sensitive electronics
  • Unique EV charging capability

Cons

  • Lower wattage than some competitors
  • Propane surge watts are lower
  • EV charging is low-power Level 2

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline, LPG
Starting Wattage
6800 watts
Running Wattage
4500 watts
Engine Displacement
224 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
99.2 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
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#7. WEN DF480iX Generator

WEN DF480iX Generator
Lightweight
Portable
Quiet
Operation
Clean Power
Electronics Safe
Lightweight Power
78
OVERALL
SCORE
Portability
9.0
Noise Level
9.2
Power Output
7.5
Value
8.0
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You’ll appreciate the WEN DF480iX for its exceptional portability, weighing in at just 78.5 pounds, making it easy to move around. Its quiet operation at 62 decibels is another major plus, ensuring it won’t disturb your surroundings. The generator provides clean power, suitable for sensitive electronics, and the dual-fuel capability offers flexibility for your power needs.

However, its 4000 running watts might be insufficient for high-demand applications like powering an entire food truck’s equipment simultaneously. If you need a lightweight, quiet generator for lighter loads, camping, or backup power for essential devices, this WEN is a fantastic choice. It’s less ideal if your food truck requires significant continuous power.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight and portable
  • Very quiet operation
  • Clean power for electronics

Cons

  • Lower running wattage
  • Propane surge watts are lower
  • May not power all food truck equipment

Specifications

Fuel Type
Gasoline, LPG
Starting Wattage
4800 watts
Running Wattage
4000 watts
Engine Displacement
224 cubic centimeters
Item Weight
78.5 pounds
CO Sensor
Yes
Check Price on Amazon→
Top 7 Best Portable Dual Fuel Generator For Food Trucks

Powering Your Passion: Finding the Right Portable Dual Fuel Generator for Your Food Truck

Your food truck is your livelihood, and a reliable generator is the heart of its operation. When you’re serving up deliciousness on the go, you can’t afford downtime. A portable dual-fuel generator offers flexibility, allowing you to run on either gasoline or propane, ensuring you can keep the power flowing no matter what fuel is most accessible. Choosing the right one is a critical investment that deserves careful consideration.

The Engine Room: What Drives Your Food Truck’s Power

When evaluating portable dual-fuel generators, several key features will directly impact your ability to serve customers consistently and efficiently. Think of these as the essential ingredients for a smooth-running operation.

  • Fuel Flexibility: The primary advantage is the dual-fuel capability. Consider how easy it is to switch between gasoline and propane, and whether one offers a significant benefit for your typical operating environment.
  • Power Output: This is paramount. You need enough wattage to run all your essential equipment simultaneously – think refrigerators, fryers, griddles, and lighting. Overestimate slightly to ensure you have headroom.
  • Run Time: How long can the generator operate on a single tank of fuel? Longer run times mean fewer interruptions for refueling, which is crucial during busy service periods.
  • Portability and Noise: You’ll be moving this unit, so weight and size matter. Also, consider the noise level; a quieter generator can improve the customer experience and comply with local regulations.
  • Outlets and Connections: Ensure the generator has the right types and number of outlets to connect all your appliances directly, or with appropriate adapters.

Navigating the Roadblocks: Common Generator Shopping Stumbles

Even with the best intentions, some common pitfalls can lead to a less-than-ideal generator purchase. Being aware of these can save you frustration and expense down the line.

  • Underestimating Power Needs: It’s tempting to go for the smallest unit that seems like it will do the job, but underpowering your equipment can lead to strain, inefficiency, and potential damage. Always factor in the combined wattage of everything you’ll run at once.
  • Ignoring Fuel Storage and Handling: Propane tanks require safe storage and transport. Gasoline can degrade over time. Understand the practicalities of managing your chosen fuel source for your mobile business.
  • Overlooking Maintenance Requirements: Like any engine, generators need regular upkeep. Ensure you understand the maintenance schedule and have easy access to any necessary parts or service.

Powering Your Food Truck Dreams: Your Dual Fuel Champion Awaits

For those needing serious grunt and the flexibility of 50A service, the AIVOLT 11250W is your go-to. If clean power for sensitive electronics and remote start are key, the Westinghouse 12000 Peak Watt is a solid bet. For ultimate fuel versatility with tri-fuel capability, the DuroStar DS13000MXT stands out. And if you need robust power for a larger operation, the Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt or DuroStar DS13000MX deliver. For smaller setups or when noise is a concern, the WEN DF680iX and DF480iX offer excellent value.

All these generators are ready to fuel your culinary adventures. Don’t let power limitations slow you down – grab the generator that best fits your food truck’s needs. Check current availability to get cooking!

Final 3 Picks: Food Trucks, Quiet Power, and Tri-Fuel Versatility

Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.