The 10 Most Fuel Efficient Portable Generator Of 2024
By, Sara RyanUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
No matter the power outages or natural disasters, you can take comfort in knowing your home will be safe with this Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. It features a heavy duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV engine that provides reliable starting power and a long-lasting cast iron sleeve for added durability. With an automatic low oil shutdown and digital hour meter, this generator is dependable. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is tough, lightweight and quiet with an ultra-quiet 53 dBA at 23 feet. The generator features a powerful 2500 starting watts and 1850 running watts, giving you plenty of power for your entire household. This inverter generator is perfect for those who live in areas prone to power outages. Read Review
3. Best Portable: Westinghouse Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator
This portable inverter generator is extraordinarily quiet and fuel efficient. Extremely low noise output of 52 dBa, combined with an ultra-low emission engine, means that it is less than half as noisy as a comparably powerful conventional generator. The WESTINGHOUSE Portable Inverter Generator also uses less fuel by automatically switching to "ECO" mode when the load on the generator is light. Read Review
4. Best Quiet: WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator
The 56380i is a fuel-injected, 3800-watt portable inverter generator. With the ability to run up to 8 hours on a full tank, this RV-ready generator provides clean, quiet power and can run up to 36 hours without fuel consumption. It has an easy push-button start, is ultra-quiet and produces minimal levels of noise. Read Review
5. Best Easy To Assemble: Champion Power Equipment 200914 Open Frame Inverter Generator
This Champion Power Equipment inverter generator provides the perfect solution for home backup power. This 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion 3500-watt generator is more fuel efficient, saving fuel and extending engine life. With an Economy Mode feature, you can provide power up to 80% of the time while still enjoying longer engine life. Read Review
A generator can be your home’s best friend when the power goes out. They give you access to running water, heat, and light again. However, generators are loud, smelly, and fuel-thirsty machines that aren’t y perfect for indoor use (unless you have an oversized garage).
If you plan on using your generator inside frequently or don’t want to smell like exhaust fumes every time you fire it up, getting the most fuel-efficient portable generator might be something you’ll want to look into purchasing sooner rather than later. The best generator uses as little fuel as possible to operate efficiently. The following article will go over some of the essential details when it comes to buying a highly efficient portable generator that runs on as little gas as possible while staying cost-effective at the same time.
After nearly hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Westinghouse outdoor power equipment, Champion power equipment, Wen, Generac, Duromax, Genmax, Durostar. Among them, We think the most fuel efficient portable generator is Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. Alternatively, if you're looking for another option, you may go with the Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator.
Our article today focuses on guidelines and tips to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.
RELATED: Looking for the best portable generators for home? Check out these 12 best portable generators for home of 2024, researched by us.
Our Top Picks
Flexible wheels It creates big energy enough for your home power devices It filters oil automatically Easy to operate with remote start
It is very heavy
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
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
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
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)
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
Easy to add the fuel The inverter function saves fuel consumption Lightweight design The machine operates quieter than other traditional models
The handle is poor
QUIET OPERATION: With an ultra-quiet 53 dBA from 23 feet, enjoy 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts and up to 11.5 hours run time on gasoline, and 1665 running watts and up to 34 hours on propane
PARALLEL READY: The optional, sold-separately clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2500-watt Champion inverter to double your output power. GFCI Outlets : No
DUAL FUEL: Operate your 2500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus at only 39 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters in the industry
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
CLEAN POWER: Includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD), a 12V automotive-style outlet, plus a handy dual port USB adapter
Economy mode allows it to maximize fuel consumption Great handles Easy to transport It is compatible with emergency backup
It doesn't have wheels
Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage - Strong Enough to Run All Your Home Essentials
1800 Rated Watts and 2200 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD - Weighs Only 47.4 Lbs. - Gas Powered - Two 120V 20 Amp Outlets; Two USB Outlets
Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and 12 Hour Run Time on a 1. 2 Gallon Gas Tank - Features "Economy Mode" for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
Parallel Capable - Combine Your iGen2200 with the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT; iGen1200; iGen2200; and iGen2500 to Increase Available Wattage and Amperage (Requires Westinghouse Parallel Cord)
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
Easy to press push-button start It shuts down automatically when the fuel is low It protects your sensitive electronic devices Strong motor
The battery is not good
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise;, EPA III and CARB Compliant
Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a digital load and fuel display, and a two-year warranty
Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops
212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours
Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb.Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb
Easy to control fuel consumption Easy to charge the battery Easy to use Eco settings Easy to connect to other tools
It sometimes leaks gas
QUIET TECHNOLOGY: 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or home backup, with 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts for up to 22 hours run time on gasoline. Covered Circuit Breakers : Yes
ADVANCED DIGITAL HYBRID DESIGN: 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion 3500-watt generator, plus our Economy Mode feature saves fuel and extends engine life
PARALLEL READY: If you purchase the optional ParaLINK Parallel Kit, you can increase your power output by connecting up to two 3000-watt or higher inverter generators
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
DUAL FUEL: This RV Ready inverter operates on gasoline or propane and has a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
Made of high-quality steel Easy to carry everywhere USB ports allow you to charge electronics easily Easy to start and stop
It has no handle
Ideal for work or play - durable steel enclosure, clean inverter power and easy portability make this the ideal generator for jobsites or recreational activities
Digital smart lcd - digital wattage meter, run time remaining display, generator status, hour meter and fuel level
ULTRA-QUIET – 40% Quieter than Honda* Advanced inverter technology and enclosure design provide optimal quiet performance (* Over 5 dB(A) quieter than the EU3000is, based on independent third-party testing)
USB ports - charge mobile devices including smartphones and tablets
16% more power than Honda, Featuring power rush advanced technology.Rated AC Frequency:60 Hz
Electric start with power dial start/run/stop - three operation settings integrated into one simple-to-use dial (battery included)
Friendly design to the environment It is safe for electric devices Smoother and quieter than standard gas power loss Easy to store
Sometimes, it is hard to start
3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
Plug-and-Play: Comes With 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 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown
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
Features One 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time
Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
【Strong Power】GM3200i uses newest high speed 5.2 HP 145cc gas engine, output 3200 surging watts and 2800 running watts , this powerful inverter generator is the dream ideal product for emergency home backup power, jobsite use, tailgate or camping with your RV.
【GENMAX Support】Includes 1-year warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from experts.
【Ultra-Lightweight, Extensive use】At only 47.3 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 3000-watt inverters in the industry and has the best power-to-weight ratio. It can operate a wide variety of appliances,Compact and lightweight makes transportation easy with built-in handle.
【Super Quiet, Fuel Saving】Fully enclosed design dramatically reduces noise levels. At 23 feet distance, 57 DBA with no-load, 62 DBA with 25% load, 68DBA with full load. inverter technology provides clean, stable power for sensitive electronics, tools and appliances,Capable of running for a long time for 8 hours in the case of 1 gallon of fuel, with "economy mode" for maximum fuel efficiency.
【Strong panel with Parallel function】 LED indicators alert you when unit is low on oil, overloaded or ready-to-use. USB ports to charge mobile devices. 120v 20A duplex and 120v 30A Covered outlets provide added protection from the environment. Parallel ready to connect two GM3200i inverter generator for twice the power. (parallel kit sold separately).
What to Look For in a most fuel efficient portable generator?
Warranties
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.
Size
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.
Wattage
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.
Automatic Start
Fuel Source
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.
Type
FAQs
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a most fuel efficient portable generator, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.
Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the most fuel efficient portable generator? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.
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