Homeowners looking for reliable, flexible backup power often turn to tri-fuel generators that can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This article reviews top options that specifically support natural gas as a fueling choice, highlighting performance, features, and safety. Whether you need whole-home protection during outages or a portable unit for remote work sites, these models offer robust power, transfer-switch readiness, and advanced safety features to keep essential loads running when the grid goes down.
Summary Table Of Chosen Products
- Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator — Gas, Propane, Natural Gas — Remote Start — Transfer Switch Ready
- WEN 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator — Gas, Propane, Natural Gas — Electric Start — CO Watchdog
- DuroStar DS13000MXT 13,000-Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator — Gas, Propane, Natural Gas — Remote Start
- Westinghouse 18000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator — Gas, Propane, Natural Gas — CO Sensor
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel — Gas, Propane
Across the lineup, you’ll find models designed for whole-home protection or serious portability, with features like CO shutdown sensors, transfer-switch readiness, key fob remote start, and multiple outlets for critical circuits. This guide focuses on units that perform well with natural gas as a primary fuel source, including run times, power output, and safety safeguards to assist in selecting the right unit for your needs.
Product Snapshot And Quick Reference
- Popular for large homes and longer outages
- Tri-fuel flexibility minimizes fuel storage constraints
- Remote start and transfer-switch compatibility for seamless backup power
Selected Products
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
Powerful backup capability with 12,000 peak watts on natural gas and 9,500 running watts, ideal for mid-size homes during prolonged outages. This model is built around a heavy-duty 550cc 4-stroke OHV Westinghouse engine, featuring a durable cast-iron sleeve for longevity. It offers up to 19 hours of runtime on a 9.5-gallon tank or up to 7 hours on a 20-pound propane tank, making it a strong candidate for extended outages. The unit is transfer-switch ready, enabling smooth integration with home electrical systems. Its tri-fuel design ensures you can switch fuel sources as needed, depending on availability and cost. A built-in fuel gauge helps monitor remaining capacity for planning purposes. Safety features include automatic low-oil shutdown to protect the engine during operation.
In terms of practicality, the Westinghouse generator pairs well with larger loads such as cooling systems, sump pumps, and essential circuits. The remote electric start adds convenience for quick recovery after a power interruption. While heavier than compact units, its performance and fuel flexibility make it a top pick for homes seeking dependable tri-fuel operation with natural gas as a primary option.
WEN 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
WEN offers a versatile tri-fuel unit suitable for transfer-switch installations. It delivers 14,500 surge watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, with slightly reduced outputs on propane and natural gas. The model supports 120V and 240V operation, aligning with common home electrical setups and transfer-switch readiness. A notable safety feature is the CO Watchdog Sensor, which automatically shuts down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected, safeguarding occupants during outages. The transition between fuel sources is straightforward via a selection dial, enabling rapid adaptation to fuel availability. This generator is designed for robust emergency coverage across a range of home sizes and configurations.
For homeowners prioritizing safety, ease of use, and compatibility with transfer switches, the WEN unit provides a balanced option between power output and fuel flexibility. Its CO protection and simple fuel-switching mechanism address common concerns during prolonged outages and in homes with sensitive electronics.
DuroStar DS13000MXT Tri-Fuel Portable Generator
The DS13000MXT provides 13,000 watts of tri-fuel power with a 500cc engine and remote electric start, making it suitable for whole-home backup and high-demand loads. It emphasizes user-friendly operation with a CO Alert safety feature to reduce exposure to harmful fumes in enclosed spaces. The generator is designed to work with transfer switches, enabling quick integration into a home’s electrical system during outages. The tri-fuel capability allows runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, giving flexibility when fuel supply fluctuates. With a focus on safety, performance, and ready-to-connect power, the DS13000MXT is positioned as a dependable choice for emergency readiness and RV or job-site use where power reliability is essential.
Users evaluating this model should consider runtime expectations under typical load, the availability of natural gas supply in their area, and how the unit’s outlets align with the home’s critical circuit requirements. The inclusion of a remote start and ready-outlets supports a streamlined setup for routine backup scenarios.
Westinghouse 18000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
This model boosts peak output to 18,000 watts on gasoline with 13,000 running watts and scales down to 16,000 peak and 13,000 running watts on propane, and 14,400 peak/11,600 running watts on natural gas. It includes remote start and a key fob for convenient operation, plus a digital hour meter and a broad selection of outlets to support a transfer switch and RV readiness. The large 10.57-gallon fuel tank provides extended runtime, while the CO sensor and dual GFCI outlets add safety for both indoor and outdoor use. A rugged 713cc V-twin engine provides the torque to sustain the most demanding loads, including central air, sump pumps, and refrigeration, during outages.
Potential buyers should assess their home’s total critical load and whether the generator’s output and voltage configurations meet their transfer-switch requirements. The combination of high peak watts, integrated safety features, and an automatic low-oil shutdown makes this unit suitable for longer outages and larger properties needing reliable backup power.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator
This dual-fuel option is ideal for homeowners who want 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, with a compelling 13,500 peak and 10,500 running watts on propane. The unit offers a 19-hour runtime at a 9.5-gallon tank and can deliver up to 7 hours on propane. It is designed with transfer-switch readiness and a robust 9.5-gallon tank for extended outages. The dual-fuel design allows quick fuel flexibility to address supply changes and fuel costs. This unit provides a balance of power, portability, and long runtimes for mid-to-large homes that require dependable tri-fuel performance.
When selecting a dual-fuel unit, consider fuel storage habits and local fuel availability, as well as the unit’s ability to support the most critical circuits via a transfer switch. This model’s versatility makes it a strong candidate for users who want a flexible, all-purpose backup solution with natural gas compatibility.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations And Comparisons
- Fuel flexibility: Tri-fuel capability helps you maintain power during fuel shortages. Confirm compatibility with gasoline, propane, and natural gas lines in your area.
- Power output: Evaluate peak watts and running watts to ensure the generator can sustain essential loads like cooling, sump pumps, and refrigeration. Consider both whole-home and targeted-load needs.
- Transfer-switch readiness: If you plan to connect to a home electrical system, verify transfer switch compatibility and whether an interlock kit is required.
- Safety features: Look for CO shutdown sensors, low-oil shutdown, and rubber-protected outlets. An inverter option can reduce noise and improve fuel efficiency for electronics-sensitive loads.
- Run time and fuel capacity: Longer runtimes reduce refueling frequency during outages. Compare gallons of fuel tank capacity and expected hours at a typical load.
- Remote start and convenience: Remote electric start, key fob, and easy fuel switching enhance usability, particularly during urgent outages or in adverse weather.
- Outlets and configuration: Ensure the generator provides the necessary outlets (for example, 120/240V, 50A transfer-ready outlets, RV connectivity) to support your home or job-site needs.
- Maintenance and warranty: Check serviceability, maintenance intervals, and warranty terms to protect your investment over time.
- Dimensions and portability: For portable models, consider the weight, wheels, and handles, especially if you must move the generator during outages or for storage.