You deserve a reliable and efficient source of power for your home and outdoor needs. That’s why propane generators are a great choice for you. They can handle unexpected outages and adventurous trips with ease. You can enjoy uninterrupted power during storms, thanks to their long shelf life and easy storage.

Propane generators are not perfect, though. They also have some drawbacks that you should know before buying one. They may be quieter and produce fewer emissions than other generators, but they also require regular maintenance and fuel cost calculations. 

In this guide, we’ll help you understand the pros and cons of propane generators, and how to use them for camping trips, backup power for homes, and even as a sustainable choice for the environment.

Best Propane Generators 2023

Before we dive into propane generators distinguishing features, let’s look at some of the best propane generators in the market. These products offer a diverse range of features and use cases, ranging from propane generators for home use to backup generators for your camping trips. 

ECOFLOW 1800W DUAL FUEL SMART GENERATOR - Best Fuel Efficiency

The EcoFlow Smart Generator stands out as a fantastic, versatile backup power solution. With dual fuel support, it offers higher efficiency, ease of use, and fewer emissions with either LPG (Propane) or gas. The EcoFlow doesn’t have to be connected to the grid, since you can connect it with your Delta Pro power kits for easy charging. 

If you’ve already invested in EcoFlow power solutions, the Smart Generator is the best next step for you to take. This Smart generator provides unparalleled flexibility as it retains portability whilst maximizing efficiency, allowing it to work in all scenarios.

Features:

• Charge your DELTA Pro/Max or Power Kits automatically and efficiently
• Stay safe with 5 alert methods, including carbon monoxide alerts
• Generate up to 5.4kWh with gasoline or 20kWh with LPG for up to 12.5 hours
• Save fuel, reduce noise, and lower emissions with the EcoFlow Smart Generator
• Use AC appliances while recharging your batteries
• Start the Smart Generator with an electric button, an app, or a manual starter grip

PULSAR 8000W PORTABLE DUAL FUEL GENERATOR - Best Reliability During Outages

The Pulsar PG10000BRCO sets a new standard of excellence in providing reliable power during emergencies. Its dual-fuel feature lets you run on gasoline or liquid propane gas, ensuring you'll never be left in the dark, even in the face of natural disasters or disrupted power lines. 

The Pulsar eliminates all the deficiencies of propane fuel and retains all its good qualities by running on gasoline as well. It can deliver an impressive peak wattage, making it shine as a backup power solution. This dual-fuel generator is easy on the eyes and packs a punch for its compact size, fitting in any garage, shed, or backyard for seamless operation. 

Features:

• Enjoy ample power supply with 10,000-Watt peak/8,000-Watt rated (gasoline) and 9,000-Watt peak/7,200-Watt rated (LPG)
• Protect and prolong your engine with a durable powder-coated steel frame and air-cooling system
• Start your generator easily with Remote, Electric, or Recoil options
• Plug in multiple devices with four 120-Volt GFCI AC outlets, one 120v/240v 50A RV outlet, and one 120/240v twist-lock outlet (L14-30R)
• Move and store your generator with fold-down handles and 12" never-flat wheels
• Monitor your generator’s performance with a digital meter showing voltage, frequency, run time, total hours, and maintenance data

PULSAR HD6580B 5500W PORTABLE DUAL FUEL GENERATOR – Best Portability

The Pulsar HD6580B Dual Fuel Portable Generator delivers reliability and performance, keeping your home bright during unexpected power disruptions. 

This Home Depot Exclusive offers convenience with its dual fuel capability. This allows it to switch seamlessly between gasoline and liquid propane fuel sources to protect you from power loss, especially those caused by natural disasters or utility issues.

You can rely on the HD6580B’s output for emergency backup power whenever you need it. Its dual-fuel capability adds more value — ensuring a constant run-time even when you run out of a particular fuel source. 

The best part is, you can take it with you on all your adventures with its 12” never flat wheels, making it the perfect fit for camping trips as well as a backup home power solution.

Features:

• Enjoy various appliances and devices with 6,580-Watt peak/5,500-Watt rated (gasoline) and 5,922-Watt peak/4,950-Watt rated (LPG)
• Plug in multiple devices with four 120-Volt AC outlets, one 120/240v twist-lock outlet, and one 30 Amp RV outlet
• Transport and store your generator easily with fold-down handles and 12″ never-flat wheels
• Stay safe and informed with the 3 in 1 digital meter, low oil indicator, and low oil shutdown
• Run your generator for up to 11 hours on gasoline with the generous 5.2 Gal. fuel tank
• Protect your powerful 274 cc engine with a durable powder-coated steel frame
• Switch fuel sources swiftly even while the generator is running with the patented Switch & Go technology

Advantages Of Propane Generators

Let’s start with the advantages you can yield by switching to propane generators. While there are several benefits to these emerging power solutions, we can start by focusing on just five key factors:

• Clean and Environmentally Friendly
• Long Shelf Life
• Stable Fuel Prices and Fuel Availability
• Quieter Operation
• Lower Maintenance Requirements And Reduced Engine Wear

Clean and Environmentally Friendly

Since propane is a natural gas rather than a fossil fuel, its generators stand out as a cleaner and more environmentally friendly choice due to their lower emission rate during combustion. This cleaner burn contributes to improved air quality and a reduced carbon footprint since the byproducts of complete propane combustion are just CO2 gas.

Long Shelf Life

Another noteworthy advantage of propane generators is propane's longer shelf life. Unlike other fuels that can degrade over time, propane has a much simpler chemical composition and is much less prone to deterioration and contamination. This makes it a much more suitable candidate for backup power solutions

Stable Fuel Prices and Fuel Availability

Propane also has the advantage of boasting relatively stable prices compared to fluctuating gasoline or diesel prices. As it’s widely available through various sources, you can always ensure easy fuel access during emergencies or power disruptions. 

Propane isn’t a traditional fossil fuel and can be produced naturally, however, so you can rest easy knowing you’ll have a stable source of fuel for years to come. 

Quieter Operation

Propane generators operate with less noise compared to traditional fuel generators. This quiet operation is beneficial for both users and your neighbors, making it a suitable choice for residential areas and events where noise levels matter.

Lower Maintenance Requirements And Reduced Engine Wear

Propane's clean combustion leads to reduced carbon deposits in the engine, resulting in less wear and tear over time. This translates to lower maintenance requirements, reducing your overall costs and making propane generators a practical and hassle-free option for backup power.

Less Risk Of Fuel Contamination and Safer Storage

Propane generators bring an extra layer of peace of mind with their reduced risk of fuel contamination. Propane's unique properties make it less likely to mix with water or impurities, ensuring that your fuel stays clean and your generator keeps running smoothly. 

The containers used for storing propane are designed to keep everything tightly sealed, which means you won't have to worry about leaks or evaporation during transport or storage. This not only helps your generator last longer but also adds a reassuring sense of safety to your whole fuel setup.

Disadvantages Of Propane Generators

Of course, there are always two sides to the coin. Propane generators have certain disadvantages that you need to be wary of before making the investment. Most of these disadvantages revolve around the nature of propane fuel, as it doesn’t pack the same punch per unit volume as traditional fuel sources do. 

Limited Power Output Due To Low Energy Density

It's worth noting that propane generators can come up a bit short in terms of power output when you put them side by side with alternatives like diesel or gasoline generators. This could potentially mean that they're not the best fit for situations where you need a lot of power, which is something to consider when planning for various scenarios. 

We’d recommend not relying on propane generators for heavy-duty appliances unless the generator offers dual-fuel or similar features to help carry the load. 

The main reason for this issue is propane’s energy density, as it actually contains less energy per unit volume. This can lead to situations where your generator might need more fuel to run for the same amount of time, affecting the generator's efficiency as well as its running time.

Limited Portability

When it comes to portability, propane generators might not be as nimble as smaller gasoline or portable solar options. This all comes back to its energy density and notable fuel requirements. 

Since you usually need more propane fuel to back the same punch, you’ll have to carry more fuel on your excursions. This can make them a bit bulkier and potentially less suitable for situations where space and mobility are key.

Complex Fueling Process And Storage

Something to keep in mind is that refueling a propane generator can be a bit more complicated compared to the straightforward process of filling it up with gasoline. You'll need to deal with connecting hoses and ensuring proper ventilation, which might be a little inconvenient for some users. 

This issue is exacerbated as storing larger quantities of propane can pose challenges due to the requirement for specialized tanks or cylinders. This might mean needing extra storage space and considering safety measures for proper storage.

Best Use Cases For Propane Generators

Now that you’re aware of the advantages and disadvantages of propane generators, we can start to justify the situations where they shine. Below, you can find reasonable situations where it’s perfectly feasible to invest in propane generators.

Residential Backup Power

Propane generators offer reliable power as residential backup. When the lights go out due to storms or utility issues, these generators offer a reassuring solution. Their clean nature and quieter nature ensure that your home remains comfortable and functional, powering essential appliances and keeping you connected when it matters most.

Temporary Power Needs

Propane generators also shine in situations where you’re only looking for a temporary power solution. Whether it's a bustling construction site, a pop-up event, or a mobile project, these generators can come in extremely handy. Their efficiency and ability to swiftly provide consistent power make them an invaluable asset for small events. 

From small-scale appliances to large machinery, you can rely on propane generators to keep things running smoothly as long as you have a proper parallel setup.

Environmentally Conscious Solutions

For those looking to go green, propane generators can be the first step towards making more environmentally conscious choices. With cleaner emissions and a reduced carbon footprint, they align with sustainable energy practices. Opting for propane not only provides power but also contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment, offering a balance between functionality and eco-friendliness.

Backup Power for Small Businesses

Small businesses can face critical moments during power outages that can impact operations and revenue. Propane generators offer a lifeline by providing reliable backup power. 

From keeping lights on to running essential equipment, these generators ensure that your business continues to thrive even when the grid can’t offer you support. Their versatility and dependability make them a valuable asset for sustaining your organization.

Propane Generators: How Do They Compare Against The Competition?

Finally, we can combine all these aspects to compare propane generators against other widely available power sources. That way, we’ll be able to find which situations propane generators are the best options for. 

The table below demonstrates a head-to-head comparison between propane generators and other power solutions. 

Aspect	Propane Generators	Gasoline Generators	Solar Generators
Emissions	Comparative Lower	High	None
Fuel Storage Requirements	Space Required	Low Space Required	None
Fuel Availability	Widely available	Widely available, but unsustainable	Solar-dependent
Maintenance	Comparatively Low	Moderate	Minimal
Noise Level	Quiet	Noisy	Quiet
Portability	Not Very Portable	Portable	Portable
Power Output	Moderate to high	High	Low to moderate
Initial Cost	Moderate to high	Moderate	High
Carbon Footprint	Low	High	Very low
Suitable for Off-Grid Living	Yes	No	Yes

As you can see, propane generators offer a suitable middle ground, where their emissions aren’t really a cause for concern, and they don’t display exorbitant initial prices. You can utilize these flexible generators in many situations without worrying about fuel abundance or sustainability. 

Making The Final Decision

Now that you’re armed with all the necessary insight regarding propane generators, you can move forward and look into products you’d like to buy. 

While price and features should play an important role in influencing your decision, it’s important to not overlook after-sales support and warranty. Make sure that you’re confident in whatever product you buy, and that you can get ample support in case of defects or unexpected damages. 

FAQs About Propane Generators

Have more questions about propane generators? We answer them and more below.

What Propane Generator Do You Need For An Average Sized Home?

Most homes require at least 10kWh of power to keep their general appliances running, but if you’re looking for a comprehensive backup power solution, you should aim for a power output of more than 30kWh

How Does A Propane Generator Work

Propane is highly combustible and has latent chemical energy stored inside it. In generators, a spark triggers the combustion reaction inside the engine, which converts the chemical energy into usable electrical energy. 

How Long Can A Propane Generator Run?

The generator running time mostly depends on the size. Propane has a burning time of 2-3 hours per gallon, so a 100-gallon tank is capable of running up to 50 hours.

Conclusion

You deserve the best propane generators for your power needs. Before you choose one, identify how you will use it. Different generators have different features and suit different scenarios. By assessing your situation, you will find the best propane generator for you.

At Solar Paradise, we have generators that exactly match your needs. 

Our comprehensive collection includes propane generators, dual-fuel generators, and solar generators for backup power solutions. 

Contact us today if you have any questions about our products. Our dedicated team members are ready to help you out!