The 10 Most Efficient Natural Gas Generator Of 2024, Researched By Us

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator

Westinghouse offers a great family camping experience with its 12500-watt dual-fuel home backup portable generator. With two GFCI 120V, 5–20R standard household receptacles and one transfer switch ready 120V L14-30R, this generator has all the outlets you'll need to make your stay comfortable. The included RV ready 120/240V 14–50R outlet is perfect for hooking up your RV as well, so you can spend more time exploring. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane

The DuroMax XP12000EH generator can power your home with up to 12,000 watts of continuous power with its 120/240-volt dual voltage system. The generator is equipped with DuroMax MX2 technology which provides the maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles. Choose between operating the generator at both 120v and 240v simultaneously, or at 120v only with full power. Read Review

3. Best Reliable: Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is the quietest and most fuel-efficient inverter generator on the market. This powerful inverter generator runs up to 18 hours on a 3.4-gallon gas tank and produces only 52 dBA at full power. The “Economy Mode” function can reduce noise output by as much as 30%, and provides fuel efficiency. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Trust the Volt Guard Surge Protector for your power needs. This Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads, even if the generator is hooked up to a long extension cord. With 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts on propane, Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Generator will keep your home powered and safe from outages. Read Review

5. Best Performance: DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator is a perfect addition to your home and when you're tailgating. This portable generator features 4 outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including 2 120V household outlets, 1 120V 30A twist locking outlet, and 1 12V DC outlet. Read Review

Natural gas is a primary source of electricity generation in the United States. Natural gas can be burned to produce heat, which can then be used to run an engine or turbine and generate electricity. Natural gas combined-cycle plants are among the most efficient and popular methods for using natural gas to generate electricity.

Combined-cycle plants use exhaust from combustion processes and another heat source, such as a boiler, to produce electricity more efficiently. In addition to natural gas, combined-cycle plants often use cogeneration — where waste heat from one process is used for another method — to increase efficiency. Combined-cycle plants can recover heat usually wasted during traditional combustion processes, increasing the total amount of energy produced from natural gas while reducing operational costs by decreasing expenses related to weaken heat recovery. Here are some considerations when evaluating the suitability of a natural gas combined cycle facility as your organization’s most efficient natural gas generator.

After spending hours researching and assessing, We have identified the most efficient natural gas generator as Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. We've put up a buying guide and additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.8
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
  • Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
  • Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
  • Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
  • 9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
  • All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
TOP Choice #2 DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane
Our Score:
9.7
DuroMax
  • Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
  • Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
  • Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
  • Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.
  • With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7
  • Engine Type: 4-Stroke
  • Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
  • Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
  • With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8
TOP Choice #3 Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Our Score:
9.6
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
  • Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and Up to 18 Hour Run Time on a 3. 4 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
  • 3700 Rated Watts and 4500 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start.Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and moreRemote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operateAll Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
  • Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
  • Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 Amp Outlet and Two USB Outlets – Great Choice for Travel Trailers or Home Use – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
  • All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
  • Remote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operate
  • Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more
4 Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.5
Champion Power Equipment
  • Gasoline Starting Amps at 120V: 78.1A.Gasoline Starting Amps at 240V:35.1A.Gasoline Running Amps at 120V:62.5A.Gasoline Running Amps at 240V:31.3A
  • POWERFUL: At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts on propane, trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads
  • ELECTRIC START: Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch, battery included
  • CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
  • INTELLIGAUGE: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals
  • DUAL FUEL: Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
5 DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.3
DuroStar

Power Panel – The power panel includes a selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household outlets and 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter for measuring voltage output

Powerful Engine – The DuroStar 208cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools

Low Oil Shutoff – Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low

Complies with Emissions Standards – All DuroStar generators are both approved by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) and follow strict guidelines to ensure our generators are as environmentally friendly as possible

Plenty of Power – With 4,000 peak watts and 3,300 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads, from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools

  • Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty
  • Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
  • Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
  • 4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time
  • Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
  • The 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start is protected by a durable powder coated frame
  • A 8 gallon fuel tank gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline
  • (4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC output provide ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices
  • Includes propane hose & backed by a 1 Year limited
  • Convenient drop-down handles and 10” never-flat wheels for added mobility and easy storage
  • Complete with low oil shut-off, 3-in-1 digital meter, and automatic voltage Regulation for less worry and hassle
  • Dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gasoline & LPG fuel sources; great for emergency situations or natural disaster as LPG may be more readily available and easy to store
  • 12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated watts (LPG)
  • Front-Facing Fuel Interface: Switch between fuel types easily and effortlessly with our front facing fuel interface, now with quick connects. The flexible fuel line allows you to hook up your generator to propane tanks of all sizes, while the long, oversized 3/4 in. 5 meter hose will easily accommodate your generator and gas line setup.
  • Advanced Computer Interface: We’ve upgraded this generator with the latest computer system and a large LED display so you can view the gas gauge, load gauge, as well as the voltage, frequency, and time at a glance.
  • Powerful 500cc OHV Engine: At the heart of this generator resides a robust DuroMax engine designed to provide you with the most power.
  • Complies with Emission Standards: All DuroMax generators are both approved by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) and follow strict guidelines to ensure our generators are as environmentally friendly as possible.
  • CO Alert: Protect your family from dangerous engine fumes. DuroMax offers the safest generators on the market with our CO Alert technology, which turns off the generator automatically when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.
  • Fully Loaded Power Panel: This generator comes equipped with a variety of outlets to suit your needs, 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.
  • Push Button Start and Remote Start: Turn on your generator with a simple push of a button, or use the remote to conveniently start your generator from a distance.
  • Home Power Backup Ready: With 13,000 watts of POWER, the XP13000HXT will power your lights, appliances, AC system and other household essentials with ease during a storm or power outage. It comes equipped with a 50 amp plug that hooks up directly to your home via a transfer switch.
  • 100% Copper Windings: We utilize the highest quality materials to build our generators. Compared to aluminum windings that degrade quickly, copper is an excellent heat conductor and allows you to put out the same amount of power for longer, extending the life of your generator and ensuring it lasts you for years.
  • Tri Fuel Technology: This generator runs on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Gasoline is a tried-and-true fuel option that’s readily available. Propane is a cleaner burning fuel that is cost effective, fuel efficient, and has a long shelf life. Natural gas has the benefit of providing you with unlimited fuel supply and hooks up directly to your home’s gas line, so you don’t have to worry about storing tanks and spills.
9 Champion Power Equipment Ready Portable Generator
Our Score:
8.8
Champion Power Equipment

Trust the reliable 208cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a 3-way ignition switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather

Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

120V 30A locking, 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A outlets and Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your appliances and equipment safe

Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob – push-button power and convenience like never before

At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet

Electric start Model for easy operation (Battery included)

Large-capacity steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and up to an 11 hour run-time at 50% load

Generac durable OHV engine with splash lubrication provides a long engine life

Featuring power Rush advanced technology – delivers over 30% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less

10000 Starting Watts. 8000 Running Watts

Dimensions: 27.2" W x 27" D x 26.5 H | Weight: 198 lb

What to Look Through Prior to Selecting the most efficient natural gas generator?

You may be aware that purchasing something is not actually an easy action. Your everyday life will be affected if you choose the most fantastic product. What variables, though, will make this acquisition successful? Whether you're seeking for most efficient natural gas generator to meet your needs, you'll be wasting your own time.

Nevertheless, it would be preferable if you weren't so worried. We've enlisted the help of a team of professionals to investigate most efficient natural gas generator, and we've provided accurate data.

There seem to be several important considerations to make. But only a few of them are really concentrated. Here are some crucial reviews while purchasing most efficient natural gas generator:

Type

You need to decide which generator type is best for you: a portable or standby generator. This will help you decide if you just want the lights to stay on or if you need to power other electrical components such as the refrigerator, window, central air conditioner, and the fridge.

Size

Installing home generators requires space. So make sure that you consider the dimensions of all models. You can find generators in a variety of sizes, from smaller units measuring less than 3ft to more large units measuring 5ft or more. A general rule of thumb is that the generator with the highest power rating will be larger.
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.

Automatic Start

Whole home generators can automatically start when power goes out. This allows the generator to automatically start supplying power when there is no electricity from the utility. This feature is usually only available on standby generators, and not portables. These systems can provide peace of mind and may be more expensive than the security that your generator will automatically turn on without interrupting vital systems like heating and cooling.

Warranties

A warranty is usually included with the purchase of a generator. The warranty covers both labor and parts for most residential inverter and portable generators. For standby generators which can be larger investments, you will usually get a 3- to 52024 warranty period.
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.

Wattage

A generator's wattage is the measure of its ability to provide power for whatever it plugs into. This information is crucial to understand about any generator that you are considering.
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.

Fuel Source

Generators are generally powered by either gasoline, natural gas or propane.
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.

FAQs

Can I Vent The Exhaust Out Of An Enclosed Area?

No. The generator should not be used in enclosed areas or homes. The portable generators can only be run outdoors where there is adequate ventilation. As with all gasoline engines exhaust, generators contain poisonous carbon monoxide.

How Do You Safely Run A Home Generator?

A whole-home generator or standby generator must be connected to a switch. This disconnects your circuit panel and the electrical grid, allowing power to flow through the circuits from the generator.
You must manually start the power transfer for portable generators. These products have different safety requirements.

Does The Portable Generator Need To Be Grounded?

Yes. It is important that the generator be correctly grounded in order to protect your safety. The generator must be grounded properly to avoid electrocution. Grounding is a subject matter that must be adhered to by all authorities, federal and state.

Where Is The Best Place To Put Your Home Generator?

Natural gas generators do not produce as much fumes than natural gas ranges. Gasoline-powered generators can produce carbon monoxide exhaust fumes, which is why it's important to select the ideal location. These are the reasons why utility companies and local codes often have specific requirements for placement.
A generator should generally be located at least 5ft from any windows or doors. While some generators are able to be mounted as close as 18inches from the house, it is still important that the generator is at least 5ft away from any air intake areas on the property.
It is not advisable to use portable generators in an indoor environment, such as a garage. This type of generator is best placed outdoors, away from windows and doors.

What Regular Maintenance Should Be Performed On A Home Generator?

You should get basic maintenance information from the manufacturer of any generator that you buy. However, most generator models will work fine if you follow these guidelines.
Run the generator at least 30 minutes per month or perform a weekly self test
When storing a gasoline-powered generator, add fuel stabilizer.
Regular oil changes are a must for your generator.

Can I Use The Generator During Inclement Weather?

Although you can use your generator in any weather or temperature, protect it from the elements whenever it is not being used to stop it from shorting out and rusting. It is not recommended to run the generator indoors.

The figures we've presented here aren't all of them. Alternatively, we continuously update it as new information becomes available. It's advisable to keep in mind the points we discussed related to buying guide.

We always appreciate your feedback and handle it with the utmost importance. As a result, the most up-to-date data will come to your mind as soon as possible. You are supposed to contact us and give us your reviews as well as problems so that we will try to support you. Hope you have a pleasant shopping experience!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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