Many homeowners look for gas generators as their backup power solution. However, dual-fuel generators give you a more dynamic alternative. They offer multiple advantages, including more fuel options like natural gas or propane.
With two methods of powering your generator, you can be sure of power even if you run out of one source.
The best dual-fuel generators are equipped with advanced features to meet your needs and make the user experience safe. We’ll cover the five must-have features to look for, so you can pick the best generator for your situation.
1. Power Output
Power output is one of the most vital aspects of the generator since you need to ensure that it generates enough power to meet your needs, especially during emergencies. Manufacturers typically offer two numbers, measured in watts, which help you to understand how much the dual-fuel generator can produce.
The rated output tells you the amount of power it can produce at any moment, while the peak output specification refers to the maximum power a unit can handle in short bursts. Peak or surge capacity is critical since turning appliances on and off requires quick electrical surges.
The best dual fuel generators will offer peak power output between 1,000 to 12,000 watts. Some generators even specify the power output while using gasoline versus propane. Ideally, look for a dual-fuel generator that can deliver a rated output that exceeds your home consumption needs.
Make sure to consider the fuel storage capacity as well. The more capacity, the longer runtime you’ll have for extended blackouts. A backup power generator is an essential item to prepare for natural disasters and other worst-case scenarios.
2. Noise Level
Gas generators tend to be loud, so using them at home can be a nuisance. The best generators have a noise-dampening feature or a low noise output to limit the noise during operation.
Dual fuel generators usually generate between 50 and 90 decibels, with most of them falling between 65 and 75 decibels. However, gasoline will always be noisier than propane, so stick with propane if you’re looking to maintain low noise levels.
High-quality generators can reduce the volume due to the robust thick shielding and construction. Of course, dual-fuel provides the option of running on propane, allowing the machine to operate more quietly than gas.
3. Starting and Switch Types
Most generators utilize either recoil or an electric starter for their starting mechanisms. Only the more advanced devices have auto-start.
Many gas generators only provide a manual start method with a pulley system. Manual starting mechanisms mean you need to pull the cord fast and hard to kick-start the generator. It requires a lot of physical effort and may fail if the cable breaks.
The electric start is a simple push-button solution but only works when the internal battery is charged.
When caught in a natural disaster or outage, the generator must be easy to use. Make sure the generator has multiple starting types to activate your generator and power your appliances reliably.
Additionally, you’ll want to look for other features like a transfer switch or switch-and-go function. These let you change fuel sources without needing to turn off the generator, providing added convenience.
4. Fuel Monitoring
Smart generators give you real-time visibility of your generator’s performance and fuel consumption. These systems have sensors placed on critical components of the generator to measure aspects such as oil pressure, fuel flow, or coolant levels.
Fuel consumption is particularly imperative to monitor for gas and propane fuel sources. Receiving alerts when you’re low on fuel lets you know when it’s time to re-up—preferably before disaster strikes. Also, it can even monitor the rate of flow, letting you know when maintenance is needed.
5. Safety Systems
Safety should always come first. The best generators will have built-in safety systems to protect against potential damages or risks for the user.
Examples of safety technologies might include fuel alerts, engine oil alerts, carbon monoxide detectors, overload avoidance, and temperature protection.
If the device is ever low on fuel, you’ll receive a fuel alert reminding you to add more fuel, such as engine oil. If the oil is insufficient, it’ll auto-shut down to prevent damage.
The carbon monoxide alert automatically shuts down when too much CO is in the air.
Dual-fuel generators work best in low-temperature environments. Therefore, many automatically shut down to prevent the batteries from overheating.
How Does EcoFlow’s Smart Dual-Fuel Generator Perform?
The EcoFlow Smart Dual-Fuel Generator is an emergency power source that integrates with Delta Pro or Delta Max portable power stations.
With a 1600 to 1800W output and a 4-litre gasoline tank, you can produce 5.4kWh with gas or 20 kWh with LPG propane. Using the LPG alone gives you up to 12.5 hours of runtime. Or, if you use a Delta Pro/Max generator or power station, you can quickly charge it using the dual-fuel generator in just a few hours.
Gas is easily found anywhere you’d fill up your car, while propane is highly efficient, giving you the best of both worlds.
Furthermore, you can save up to 40% on fuel by pairing it with the EcoFlow DELTA Pro or DELTA Max portable power stations through its innovative direct DC-DC charging and X-Stream charging technology.
EcoFlow Dual Fuel generators have four starting types: an app start, auto start, manual start, and electric start. Multiple start options give added convenience and safety to start the device even in dire situations.
It also features real-time monitoring and control with the advanced EcoFlow app. You can easily monitor your generator remotely through your smartphone. You can control DC output levels, set the battery level for auto-start, switch onto Eco mode, and remote start or stop your unit. You also get maintenance reminders to change the oil or swap parts when needed.
EcoFlow’s smart dual-fuel generator has all the must-have features of the best generators and then some, delivering exceptional backup power when you need it most.
Conclusion
Whether preparing for an emergency or camping, dual-fuel generators are an asset.
They are a significant investment, so you’ll want to make sure you do your due diligence to buy the right generator with the best features.
An entire system like the EcoFlow ecosystem works seamlessly since all the devices integrate. Shop for the EcoFlow smart dual-fuel generator and other backup power solutions to achieve cleaner power when you need it most.