Imagine this: you’re miles away from the nearest plug, nestled in a beautiful, quiet spot with your travel trailer. The sun is setting, and you want to power up the lights, maybe a fan, or even your coffee maker. But what if your generator runs out of its usual fuel? That’s where a dual fuel generator for your travel trailer shines, offering incredible flexibility and peace of mind.
Choosing the perfect dual fuel generator can feel like a puzzle. You want power, reliability, and the freedom to use either gasoline or propane. But the sheer number of models, each with different wattage, noise levels, and features, can be overwhelming. It’s easy to get stuck wondering which one will truly meet your needs without breaking the bank or adding unnecessary weight to your adventures.
This post is here to clear up all the confusion. We’ll dive into what makes a dual fuel generator so great for travel trailers, helping you understand the key things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident about picking a generator that keeps your trailer powered up, no matter where your wanderlust takes you. Let’s get started on finding your perfect power companion!
Top Dual Fuel Generator For Travel Trailer Recommendations
- 4650 Peak Watts & 3600 Rated Watts (Gasoline); 4650 Peak Watts & 3240 Rated Watts (Propane); 4 Gallon Fuel Tank (with Fuel Gauge); Up To 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
- 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
- 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 Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- Gasoline: 5300 Running Watts & 6500 Peak Watts; Propane: 4800 Running Watts & 5800 Peak Watts; 4.7 Gallon Fuel Tank with Fuel Gauge; Up to 14.5 Hours of Run Time with 120/240V Volt Selector Switch
- Features One 5–20R 120V 20V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30A Receptacle, and One Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R 30A Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with Oil, an Oil Funnel, Propane Hose, Tool Kit, Wheel Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- Powered by a 274 CC 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 Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 3600 Rated Watts and 4650 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 3240 Rated Watts and 4650 Peak Watts (Propane); 4 Gallon Fuel Tank (with Fuel Gauge); Electric Push Button and Remote Start
- Intuitive Control Panel Features a 5-20R 120V Duplex Outlet, an RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Outlet, and an L5-30R 30 Amp Outlet
- Dual fuel operation easily switches from gas to propane without shutting off unit
- Plug-and-Play. Comes With Oil, Oil Funnel, Tool Kit, and User's Manual; Minimal Assembly Required (Wheel Installation and Battery Hookup)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 5000 Peak Watts and 3900 Rated Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas or Propane Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start
- 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
- Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
- 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
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- Delivers 3800 starting watts and 3300 running watts with gasoline, and 3500 starting watts and 3100 running watts with propane.
- Operates at just 59 dBA at 25% load in Eco Mode and will not disturb your neighbors.
- Runs 8 hours at 25% load on its 1.3‑gallon gas tank, or up to 24 hours with a standard 20‑lb propane tank, with Eco mode for further extended runtime.
- Features overload, short circuit,CO sensor and low oil shut off protection. Certified to ANSI/PGMA G300, ANSI/UL2201 and EPA standards.
- Includes a 120V 30A L5-30R twist-lock outlet, a 120V 20A 5–20R duplex household outlet, a 12V 8A DC port and dual 5V 2.1A USB ports.
- Dual-fuel design runs on both gasoline (2800 surge watts, 2250 rated watts) and propane (2800 surge watts, 2000 rated watts)
- Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smartphones, tablets and laptops
- The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor helps protect both you and your family by automatically turning off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected
- Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
- Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and a three-year warranty
- 224cc dual-fuel engine runs on both gasoline (6800 surge watts, 5100 rated watts) and propane (6000 surge watts, 4500 rated watts)
- Bonded-neutral 240V configuration provides low-power Level 2 charging for battery and hybrid electric vehicles
- The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor helps protect both you and your family by automatically turning off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected
- Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
- Includes fuel shut-off to help limit maintenance, onboard wheels, a telescoping pull handle, one L14-30R 120V/240V receptacle, two three-prong 120V receptacles, one TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a voltage selector switch, a tool-free LPG quick-connector, a six-foot-long LPG regulator hose, and a three-year warranty
- 5000 Peak Watts and 3900 Rated Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas or Propane Powered –Recoil Start
- 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 with Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
- Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
- 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
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Your Guide to the Best Dual Fuel Generators for Your Travel Trailer
Taking your travel trailer on an adventure means you want power wherever you go. A dual fuel generator is a fantastic choice for this. It lets you use both gasoline and propane. This gives you flexibility and peace of mind. Let’s explore what makes a great dual fuel generator for your travels.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a dual fuel generator, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This is how much power the generator can give. You need enough watts to run your trailer’s essentials like the air conditioner, microwave, and lights. Check your trailer’s power needs. Aim for a generator with a “running wattage” and a “starting wattage” that meets or exceeds your highest demand.
- Fuel Type Flexibility: The main draw is dual fuel. Make sure it easily switches between gasoline and propane. Some generators might be better with one fuel over the other.
- Noise Level: Generators can be loud. Look for models with decibel (dB) ratings. Lower is better. Many RVers prefer generators under 60 dB. This keeps your campsite peaceful.
- Portability: You’ll be moving this generator. Check its weight and if it has wheels or a handle. This makes it easier to set up and store.
- Inverter Technology: This is a big plus. Inverter generators produce clean power. This is safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and phones. They are also usually quieter and more fuel-efficient.
- Runtime: How long can the generator run on a full tank of gas or a propane cylinder? This is important for longer trips or when you need power for extended periods.
- Outlets: Make sure the generator has the right kinds of outlets for your needs. RVs often use a 30-amp outlet.
Important Materials
The materials used in a generator affect its strength and how long it lasts.
- Engine: The engine is the heart of the generator. Look for engines made with durable metal parts. These engines handle tough use.
- Frame: A sturdy metal frame protects the generator. It also helps reduce vibrations. Steel is a common and strong material for frames.
- Fuel Tank: For gasoline, the fuel tank should be made of a material that won’t rust. Many use coated steel or high-quality plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a dual fuel generator better or worse.
- Engine Quality: A well-built engine runs smoothly. It starts easily and lasts a long time. Brands known for reliable engines usually offer higher quality.
- Build Construction: Good construction means everything fits together well. There are no loose parts. This leads to less vibration and noise.
- Fuel Efficiency: A generator that uses less fuel is better. It saves you money and means you refuel less often. Inverter technology often improves fuel efficiency.
- Ease of Use: How simple is it to start, switch fuels, and maintain? A user-friendly design makes your experience much better.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty: Trusted brands often use better parts. They also offer good warranties. This protects your investment. A longer warranty period shows the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
- Overload Protection: This feature stops the generator from being damaged if you try to power too many things at once. It’s a crucial quality indicator.
User Experience and Use Cases
A dual fuel generator offers a great user experience for travel trailer owners.
- Camping: Power your RV lights, charge your devices, and run your small appliances. You can even power your air conditioner in warmer weather.
- Boondocking: Go off-grid with confidence. You won’t have to worry about running out of power.
- Backup Power: It’s a reliable backup for your home during power outages. You can keep essential appliances running.
- Job Sites: Some professionals use these generators for power on remote job sites.
- Tailgating and Events: Bring power to your outdoor events. Run speakers, lights, and cooking equipment.
The ability to use propane is a big advantage. Propane stores longer than gasoline and burns cleaner. This means less engine wear and tear. Gasoline is readily available, giving you options when propane tanks are empty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when buying a dual fuel generator for an RV?
A: The most important thing is ensuring the generator has enough wattage to power your RV’s essential appliances, especially the air conditioner.
Q: How do I know how many watts I need?
A: Check the labels on your RV appliances. Add up their running watts and look for the highest starting (surge) watts. Choose a generator that exceeds these numbers.
Q: Is propane or gasoline better for my generator?
A: Both have pros and cons. Propane stores longer and burns cleaner. Gasoline is widely available. Dual fuel generators let you choose based on your situation.
Q: Are inverter generators quieter than traditional generators?
A: Yes, inverter generators are generally much quieter. They also produce cleaner power, which is safer for electronics.
Q: How long can a dual fuel generator run on a single tank or cylinder?
A: This varies greatly by model and fuel type. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for estimated runtime at different load levels.
Q: Can I run my dual fuel generator inside my travel trailer?
A: Absolutely not. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. Always run them outside and away from windows and doors.
Q: What is “starting wattage” or “surge wattage”?
A: Starting wattage is the extra power needed for a short time when an appliance first turns on, like a refrigerator compressor.
Q: How much maintenance do dual fuel generators require?
A: Regular maintenance includes checking oil levels, cleaning air filters, and testing them periodically. Propane generators might need less frequent engine cleaning.
Q: Can I connect two smaller dual fuel generators together for more power?
A: Some models are “parallel capable,” meaning you can link them with a special cord to increase your total wattage. Check your generator’s manual.
Q: Where should I store my dual fuel generator when not in use?
A: Store it in a dry, protected area, like a shed or garage, away from extreme temperatures and moisture.