Buying guide for best tri-fuel generator
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When your primary source of power fails, as may happen after even a minor wind, rain or snow storm, you need a backup solution up and running fast. Perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, fish and eggs, will spoil in about four hours in a powerless refrigerator. That is why you want to have the best tri-fuel generator on hand year-round for emergency situations.
BestReviews is known for its expertise in product knowledge and market research. Our team is constantly working to create up-to-date lists of the very best items on the market. And more importantly, we can help you decide which of those products is best for you.
When shopping for a tri-fuel generator, for instance, you want to consider criteria such as power output, fuel efficiency, portability, starting ease, noise level and safety features. Champion's 8,125-watt Electric-start Tri-fuel Generator is a reliable model with an easy push start and a four-mode Intelligauge along with carbon monoxide protection and free lifetime technical support. These features and more make it our overall top pick for the best tri-fuel generator.
Which tri-fuel generator is best?
Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield
Best of the Best
Noise Level: NA | Weight and Portability: 197 lb | Power Output: 8,125 starting watts and 6,500 running watts | Fuel Compatibility (gasoline, propane, natural gas): Yes | Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.5 gal
We were so impressed by the power, convenience and safety features offered in the Champion 8,125-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Generator that we deemed it the "Best of the Best."
The convenient fuel dial makes it easy to quickly change sources while the push-button ignition switch gets you up and running in seconds. This model has three covered outlets (one 120/240V 30A locking outlet, and two 120V 20A GFCI outlets). The built-in automatic shutoff helps keep both you and your appliances safe.
Made by a trusted brand, this generator weighs 197 pounds and delivers 8,125 watts of starting power. If you need a reliable option, this is the model you should consider.
Champion 4000-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel RV-ready Portable Generator with CO Shield
Best Bang for the Buck
Noise Level: 68 dBA | Weight and Portability: 128 lb | Power Output: 5,000 starting watts and 4,000 running watts | Fuel Compatibility (gasoline, propane, natural gas): Yes | Fuel Tank Capacity: 5 gal
The Champion 4,000-watt Tri-fuel Portable Generator is the little sibling to our "Best of the Best” pick. Though it only offers 4,000 running watts, that's still enough to power several kitchen appliances at once. And the natural gas and propane hoses are included with purchase, so your tri-fuel generator is ready to go as soon as it arrives and you unpack it.
The four-mode Intelligauge lets you track voltage, frequency, session runtime and total runtime at a glance. The unit also monitors for safe-usage situations and alerts you (via an LED) of a CO shutoff or fault.
Because this Champion offers so much for such a reasonable price, we have chosen it as our top pick for value. You can have peace of mind throughout the year without depleting your bank account.
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Convenient Remote Start
Noise Level: NA | Weight and Portability: 217.3 lb | Power Output: 12,500 starting watts and 9,500 running watts | Fuel Compatibility (gasoline, propane, natural gas): Yes | Fuel Tank Capacity: 6.6 gal
When the weather gets bad, it’s not only inconvenient to leave the comfort of your home to start your tri-fuel generator, but it can be dangerous. To help keep you safe, this Westinghouse Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator offers remote operation, so you can stay warm without trudging through the wind, rain and snow.
It features a four-stroke engine that delivers 9,500 running watts. The 6.6-gallon fuel tank keeps the power coming for up to 12 hours. This model will shut down automatically for either low oil or high carbon monoxide, and the four outlets have rubber covers for added safety.
Although this model is large and heavy, we think it's a top choice for the conveniences it offers, such as remote starting and automatic shutoff. The power is also enough to keep several appliances running while you wait out the storm in comfort.
DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator
Noise Level: NA | Weight and Portability: 156.32 lb | Power Output: 9,200 peak watts and 7,800 rated watts | Fuel Compatibility (gasoline, propane, natural gas): Yes | Fuel Tank Capacity: NA
If you need to run high-power appliances, such as an electric range or a hot tub, from a generator, the DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator is up to the task. It delivers 7,800 running watts and has a 50-amp outlet to let you keep the largest, most power-hungry appliances running in adverse conditions.
This compact tri-fuel generator has a rugged build. It’s lightweight and features a wheel kit and a retractable handle to facilitate portability. We also love the intuitive, user-friendly control panel that places everything you need to access in one convenient location.
Since this generator supports larger appliances, is lightweight, user-friendly and has an abundance of features, we've picked it as one of the best models you can buy to keep your home or RV powered using gasoline, propane or natural gas.
Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Noise Level: 58 dB | Weight and Portability: 243 lb | Power Output: 9,500 peak watts and 7,600 running watts | Fuel Compatibility (gasoline, propane, natural gas): Yes | Fuel Tank Capacity: NA
The Pulsar 9500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a solid choice for individuals who need a machine that isn't loud. This tri-fuel generator is best for people in a quiet neighborhood or someone who will use it for camping. The overall sound is only about as loud as a conversation.
But the quiet running doesn't mean any sacrifice in power or features. It still offers 7,600 running watts and can keep the power on for up to nine hours. The electric start and automatic shutoff are appreciated, while the four outlets offer versatility.
This model is a great choice for anyone who has the budget for a feature-packed generator that runs so softly you might not even notice the sound.
How we analyzed the best tri-fuel generator
To help you find the best tri-fuel generator, we compiled a list of features that the best models should have. These features encompassed everything from easy starting to safety. We then evaluated dozens of models to understand how well they could be expected to perform in each of these areas.
To be certain our results were unbiased, BestReviews also took into consideration customer reviews. All of this information was compiled and evaluated to give us our list of the best tri-fuel generators.
Key features to consider
Power output
Wattage
Every electric appliance requires power to operate. This power is expressed in watts. For example, a typical refrigerator may require as much as 800 watts to run, while a standard hair dryer might require as much as 1,800 watts.
Likewise, every tri-fuel generator has a power rating expressed in watts. If you purchase a model with 2,600 watts (or more), it could power both the refrigerator and the hair dryer. To find a generator with sufficient power for your needs, add up the wattage of every appliance you plan to run simultaneously and choose a generator that can handle that load. It is also important to remember that the three different fuel types usually offer different levels of power, with gasoline providing the greatest amount.
To make things even more complicated, there are two types of watts you need to understand when purchasing a tri-fuel generator: running watts and starting/surge watts.
- Running Watts: This is the maximum continuous power a generator can provide. It must meet or exceed the combined wattage of all the appliances you’ll be running simultaneously.
- Starting/Surge Watts: An appliance with a motor, such as a refrigerator, requires an extra boost of power whenever it starts up. This brief power draw is called the starting watts or surge watts. Tri-fuel generators have two power ratings. The higher rating represents the surge watts, while the lower one indicates the running watts.
Power outlets
Tri-fuel generators feature several outlets. Some outlets accept plugs for standard 120-volt appliances, while others may accommodate 240-volt appliances. You may even find outlets suitable for RVs, heavy-duty equipment and USB charging ports. The best generator for you is the one that has an appropriate array of outlets.
Our top picks: Power output
- Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This model features 8,125 starting watts, making it a solid choice for a range of applications. It also has three outlets (with five receptacles), which give you the flexibility to handle a number of appliances.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric Start Tri-fuel RV-Ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: This Champion is best for essential needs as it only has 4,000 running watts with three outlets.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: Not only does this model have standard and GFCI outlets with an RV ready and a transfer switch-ready outlet, but it has 9,500 running watts, giving you impressive flexibility.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: With 7,800 running watts and four outlet options, this versatile generator is a solid model for typical needs.
- Pulsar 9500-Watt Tri-fuel Gasoline Propane Natural Gas Portable Inverter Generator: This model is another mid-level option. It gives you four outlets with 7,600 running watts.
Fuel options and efficiency
Fuel flexibility
Every tri-fuel generator can run on gasoline, propane or natural gas. Having three options not only gives you flexibility, but it might be the key that keeps your power up and running throughout emergencies when fuel options might be limited.
- Gasoline: Gasoline is readily available and gives you the most power but the shortest shelf life.
- Propane: This fuel option burns cleaner and has the longest shelf life but offers overall less power than gasoline.
- Natural Gas: Natural gas may require installation and offers the least power, but it may be the best fuel source for prolonged outages.
Fuel efficiency
To get the most bang from your fuel, look for a generator with fuel efficiency features. In general, fuel efficiency is increased by adjusting the engine speed based on the power draw, so you are not wasting energy.
Runtime
The runtime is dependent on a variety of factors, including tank size, load and efficiency modes. While a longer runtime reduces the need for refueling, it can make the unit larger and more costly. Balance your needs with your budget to get the model that is a good fit for you.
Our top picks: Fuel options and efficiency
- Champion Power Equipment 8125-Watt Electric Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This Champion can deliver roughly 12 hours of gasoline runtime, making it an impressive option.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric Start Tri-fuel RV-ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: This model's smaller size lets you get up to 14 hours of operation when running at a 50% load. While this gives you a longer runtime, remember it can't power as many items as larger models.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: Customers appreciate this model’s running efficiency, as one tank can last up to 12 hours while offering a decent amount of power.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: While the manufacturer doesn't release exact specifications, such as tank size, customers tend to agree that it offers a sufficient runtime.
- Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator: This model only offers nine hours of runtime at a 50% load, which is average performance — not poor, but not impressive.
Portability and size
Weight and size
While tri-fuel generators have many desirable features, being lightweight, unfortunately, is not one of them. In fact, most models weigh around 200 pounds. They can also be rather large items — don't think you can grab one of these generators with one hand and carry it away. The heavy weight and large size, however, are not flaws. It's just the nature of the beast. When shopping for a model, make sure you get one that you can handle — either alone or with help.
Wheels and handles
The good news is that tri-fuel generator manufacturers know their products are a little cumbersome. To compensate, the best models have rugged, heavy-duty wheels and a handle. To move a tri-fuel generator, most often you will tip and roll, like a wheelbarrow. The handles should fold for convenience or be built into the frame to keep the unit compact.
Our top picks: Portability and size
- Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This model has a rugged pair of wheels, a durable frame and a foldable handle to facilitate transport.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel RV-ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: To ensure you can move this 128-pound model to wherever you need it, it features durable wheels and a folding handle for tip-and-roll convenience.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: Since this Westinghouse generator weighs more than 200 pounds, the manufacturer included large wheels and a sturdy frame with a foldable handle for easier transport.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: This model is a little lighter than expected, which is an appealing feature. At just over 150 pounds, the pull-out handle and wheels let you roll this generator into place with little effort.
- Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator: This is the only model in our short list with four wheels. Combined with the folding handle, this 243-pound model can even be wheeled across an unpaved surface.
Starting mechanism
Electric start
When you purchase a tri-fuel generator, you want to look for one with an electric start. This is a simple way to get the machine up and running. All you need to do is flip a switch or press a button, and it fires up with almost no manual effort. It's also important to look for a model with some sort of cold start technology because you don't want the unit to become unreliable or fail when the temperature is low.
Recoil start backup
Unfortunately, it’s possible that an electric starter could fail. If that happens, having a backup recoil starter ensures you will be able to get your generator running with just a tug or two. Ideally, you will never use the manual start, but imagine just having a $2,000 paperweight when you need power.
Remote start
While it might seem silly to have a remote start system on your generator, it can be extremely convenient. The best example is waking up to horrible weather and not wanting to venture into the elements to turn on your power. Additionally, a remote starter keeps the operation touchless, which gives you an extra layer of safety in wet weather.
Our top picks: Starting mechanism
- Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric Start Tri-Fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This top choice has an easy-on toggle switch that lets you start up the generator with minimal effort.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel RV-Ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: In addition to the electric-start system, this Champion has a backup recoil starter for peace of mind.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: You get it all with this generator: electric start (with key-fob operation) and a backup recoil option.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: The impressive model also offers one-touch starting, remote key-fob starting and a backup recoil system for the ultimate in convenience.
- Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator: Despite being a high-end model, this generator does not offer recoil starting. You get push-button and remote start, however, so it’s still a decent machine.
Noise level
Decibel rating
The best way to determine how suitable the noise level on a generator is is to check the manufacturer's decibel rating. This type of machine is roughly as loud as a washer, but ideally, you want to stay beneath 70 dB. The good news is that you will keep your generator outside, so it won't disturb you unless you are in a quiet area, such as a campground. You do, however, want to stay on good terms with your neighbors, so it's still best to look for the quietest model you can afford.
Noise-reduction features
While the dB output tells you all you need to know, it can be helpful to search the specifications to find a model with noise-reduction technology. These features can range from mufflers to insulated casings to minimize noise during operation.
Our top picks: Noise level
- Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This model isn't quiet. Fortunately, it's also not loud. It offers an expected operating volume for a machine of its size and power.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric-Start Tri-fuel RV-Ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: The little brother to the 8,125-watt model only runs at 68dBA, which makes it significantly quieter. The tradeoff is you only get one-third of the power.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: While the manufacturer does not offer a specific dB rating, customers warn this model is loud, but not deal-breaker volume. Just be aware that it is not the quietest option.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: The noise-reduction technology in this model makes it a suitable option for quiet operation. It’s comparable to running an air-conditioning unit.
- Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Portable Inverter Generator: This model runs at the lowest noise level of all our top picks. If quiet is your main priority, this is the generator for you.
Safety features
Automatic shutoff
While all safety features are crucial, the automatic shutoff tops our list of the most important. There are several red flags, such as low-oil and overload, which can quickly create a dangerous situation if the machine continues operating. An automatic shutoff protects you in these situations by ensuring the unit immediately turns off.
CO detection
Carbon monoxide is dangerous. It has no smell or taste, so it is impossible to detect, even when it is present in abundance. A unit with CO detection keeps you aware of levels and helps prevent the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning. Despite the importance of this feature, remember that you should never operate a tri-fuel generator in an enclosed or partially enclosed area.
Circuit breakers
Although the first reaction when a circuit breaker pops is frustration, these little safety features protect delicate circuitry and help prevent electrical fires. To have the maximum level of safety for you and all of your equipment and appliances, circuit breakers are a must-have feature.
Our top picks: Safety features
- Champion Power Equipment 8,125-Watt Electric Start Tri-fuel Portable Generator with CO Shield: This generator has all three listed safety features: automatic shutoff, CO detection and circuit breakers.
- Champion 4,000-Watt Electric Start Tri-fuel RV-ready Portable Generator with CO Shield: It's comforting to know that Champion places a priority on safety, even in its lower-priced models. This generator has all three essential safety features.
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12,500-Peak-Watt Tri-fuel Home Backup Portable Generator: Besides the expected safety features, this model also has rubber covers for the outlets and is compliant with EPA standards.
- DD Dinking DK 9,200-Watt Tri-fuel Generator: This generator has a slightly different system in place to maintain safety. The real-time display lets you know how the machine is functioning with remaining runtime, error codes and more. It also has built-in circuit breakers.
- Pulsar 9,500-Watt Tri-fuel Gasoline Propane Natural Gas Portable Inverter Generator: To keep the user and equipment safe, this generator has an automatic shutoff that turns the machine off when conditions become unsafe. It also has circuit breakers.
Our expertise
Before writing articles and product reviews for BestReviews, Allen Foster worked for a national home-repair chain. He was a specialist in the outdoor department, which included generators. Besides being trained and attending product classes taught by company reps, Allen had the opportunity to compare several brands head-to-head to learn what made each stand out. It’s this real-world, hands-on knowledge that informs his writing, giving him the ability to offer valuable purchasing insights to individuals seeking to buy the best home-improvement products for their needs.
