What are the best dual fuel generators for RVs under $1000?
Let me just start by answering the question. The DUROMAX XP10000EH dual fuel portable generator for RV is currently occupying our #1 spot.
But, before you go thru our top 10 choices below, I have to admit right off the bat that not all the models are shown below are under 1000$. 2 of them are a little bit more expensive but we think they compensate for their higher power and reliability, so we had to include them. That being said, we focused solely on the ones which were built to fulfill the recreational vehicle (RVs) owner’s needs.
Before you ask, the answer is yes. All the models below will run your air conditioner and much more. However, some of the models are quieter than others. Some are more powerful than others. Check out our frequently asked question (FAQ) section for more information.
1. DUROMAX XP10000EH Gas Powered Portable Generator - Dual Fuel Portable Generator for RVs
Watt Electric Start Gas Powered Portable Generator
POWERFUL DUROMAX ENGINE: The XP10000EH is powered by a Duromax 18HP, 440cc OHV Engine.
POWERING EVERYONE EVERYWHERE: Like all DuroMax generators, the XP10000EH is EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 States.
DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY: The ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility to fuel choice.
MAXIMUM DUROMAX POWER: With Duromax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
PLENTY OF POWER: With 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts, this unit is well equipped to handle heavy loads and high amperage power tools.
Pros:
- Gas or Propane powered
- Intuitive control panel features
- EPA, CARB and CSA compliant
- Push Button Electric Start
- Easy Maintenance
- Remote Start Key Fob
Cons:
- A bit over $1000
2. Champion 3400-Watt - Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
Our 3400-watt inverter with electric start features Dual Fuel, allowing the 192cc engine to run on either gasoline or propane. Enjoy a quiet 59 dBA for up to 7.5 hours on gasoline or 14.5 hours on propane, and increase your power with the optional Parallel Kit which includes a 50-amp RV Ready outlet.
Key Features
• Dual Fuel – Runs on GAS or PROPANE straight out of the box
• Quiet, Lightweight and Portable – Operates at 59 dBA and weighs less than 99 lb. with wheel kit, great for RVs, campsites, cabins and more
• Touch Start – Push-button electric start and battery maintenance Smart Charger (battery included)
• Parallel Ready – Connect with another Champion inverter for increased power
• Clean Power (<3% THD) – Clean electricity for powering sensitive electronics
• Runs up to 7.5 hrs. on a full tank of gas or 14.5 hrs. on a 20 lb. propane tank
• Economy Mode – Quieter operation, more fuel savings, longer engine life
• Quick Touch Panel – Easily access all controls in one convenient area
• Propane hose included
Pros:
- 4 stroke
- Single Cylinder
- Cast Iron Sleeve for Durability
- Electric and Recoil Start
- Low Oil Shut-Off
- Air Cooled
- Amazon's choice
Cons:
- Poor design
- Poor quality wheels
3. WEN DF475T 4750-Watt - Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Remember when you could run your generator off either gas or propane?
Remember when you could run your generator off either gas or propane? Whether we’re providing your home electricity during a crisis or charging your family’s cellphones at the campgrounds, WEN has been reliably lighting up lives since 1951. Now, with the WEN 4750-Watt Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator, you’ll be able to create power from two different sources.
Simply select your preferred method, either gasoline or LPG, and power on the generator using the electric start. Propane provides the generator with 4350 surge and 3500 running watts while gasoline creates up to 4750 surge and 3800 running watts. Our packed panel features two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, and a voltage selector to switch between 120V and 240V depending on the task at hand.
- Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
- Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
- Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
- 4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time
- 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
Pros:
- Extremely Powerful
- Perfect for tailgating and camping
- Almost 5 star rating on Amazon
- Awesome control panel
- Voltage selector
Cons:
- Wheels could be better quality
- Very heavy (105.8 pounds)
4. DuroMax XP12000EH - Dual Fuel 12000 Watt Generator
Description
Be ready for anything with DuroMax’s XP12000EH, 12, 000-watt Dual Fuel portable generator. Nicknamed the “BEAST”, this unit provides the power normally found in home standby units but in a portable package. Offering power and versatility, the XP12000EH is perfect for powering your home’s essential appliances and even central A/C through any power outage, storm, or emergency event.
You can also easily transport this unit to the job or camp site. This Dual Fuel generator runs on either gasoline or propane, which provides the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. While gasoline is a tried and true fuel option, liquid propane lasts longer, costs less, has a longer storage life and won’t gum up or damage the carburetor. The XP12000EH features a user-friendly, keyed electric start, and is also equipped with an optional recoil start.
This powerhouse generator is powered by a 457cc, 18HP DuroMax OHV Engine that feeds the fully loaded power panel allowing the user to pull up to the maximum 12, 000 watts of power. Its panel includes two 120V/20AMP outlets, one 120v/30AMP twist lock outlet, a 120/240V 30AMP outlet, and a 50-amp heavy duty outlet to power the most demanding needs. The panel also features a volt meter, circuit breakers, low oil indicator, idle control, and DuroMax’s unique MX2 switch, which doubles your 120-volt amperage for heavy loads.
With it you can get maximum power from each 120-volt receptacle and have the option of operating at both 120 and 240 volts simultaneously. The units heavy-duty all-metal frame has fully-isolated motor mounts, and an oversized noise reducing muffler with a built-in spark arrestor allowing for smooth and quiet operation. This XP12000EH is easy to transport over any terrain with the included handle kit and runs on rugged and durable solid-fill tires. Like all DuroMax generators, this unit is built with all copper windings, that will last for years, and is covered by a 3-year factory.
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax 18HP, 457cc OHV engine.
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
- Plenty of power: with 12, 000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
Pros:
- 8.3 Fal Fuel Tank
- 50 AMP Outlet
- All Metal Construction
- MX2 Power Boost
- All copper windings
- Powerful 500CC Engine
Cons:
- So many features, it feels like you are paying for some stuff you don't need
- A bit more expensive than its competitors
5. Duromax XP4400EH - Dual Fuel 4400 Watt Electric Start Generator for RVs
Description
From operating your appliances during a power outage to powering your RV on a road trip, the DuroMax XP4400EH Duel-fuel portable generator is there when you need it. Epa & carb approved for use in all 50 States, The XP4400EH offers the freedom & flexibility of fuel choice. With its 4 gallon fuel tank, This unit will run 9 hours on a single tank of gas or even longer on propane. Enjoy safe, reliable power whenever & wherever you need it.
Compared to gasoline, liquid propane lasts longer, costs less, has a longer storage life & won’t gum up the carburetor. The generator flexible line allows you to hookup to any size propane tank. The XP4400EH features a keyed electric start & easy recoil pull start. This unit is durable enough for construction sites & Super portable, perfect for tailgating or camping.
The power panel features AV meter, circuit breakers, low oil indicator, & DuroMax’ S exclusive MX2 RV switch that harnesses the generators full power, by combining the two 15-amp 120V circuits into one 30-amp circuit – doubling 120V power for heavier loads like commercial power tools, electric pumps, small air conditioners, & Your RV’s demanding power needs. Engine noise is reduced by a super quiet muffler & cushioned 4 pt.
Motor mounts, allowing for relatively quiet usage in public areas like campgrounds, parking lots, & parks. Idle control automatically lowers the RPM when the generator is not in use, reducing noise & saving fuel. No-flat, semi-solid tires make for smooth & easy transportation. Like all DuroMax generators, the XP4400EH is built with all copper windings, which will last for years, & is covered by a 3-year factory.
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP4400EH is powered by a DuroMax 7HP, 208cc OHV engine.
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
- Plenty of power: with 4, 400 starting watts and 3, 500 running watts, This unit provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP4400EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
Pros:
- Same advantages as the other Duromax
- Reduced operating cost
- Longer shelf life
- Cleaner Burning
- Flexible
Cons:
- Again, many many features, it feels like you are paying for some stuff you don't need
- A bit more expensive than its competitors
6. Westinghouse iGen4500 - Super Quiet Fuel Generator for RVs
Westinghouse iGen4500 Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator
3700 Rated Watts & 4500 Peak Watts
The Westinghouse iGen4500 stands in a class of its own with 3,700 running watts and 4,500 starting watts. It has remote start and push-button electric start for ease of use. The LED Display cycles through remaining run time, power output, fuel level, and voltage. The RV-Ready outlet (TT-30R) makes it easy to plug in your travel trailer. Whether you’re using it to power your recreational activity or your household essentials during a power outage, you can rely on the Westinghouse iGen4500.
- 3700 Rated Watts and 4500 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start
- Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30 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 “Efficiency Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
- Three Year and Free Lifetime Technical Support at 1-855-944-3571 – EPA, USFS, and CARB Compliant (Legal for Sale in California)
Pros:
- Very quiet: Operates as low as 53dBA
- Up to 18 hour run time
- 3.4 Fal Fuel Tank (It's quite huge)
- TT-30R Outlet provides 30 amp service ideal for Recreational Vehicles (RVs)
Cons:
- The wheels are again a bit questionable
- Very heavy (100 pounds)
7. Champion 7500-Watt - Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
The Champion’s ultra-powerful 7500-watt generator with electric start features Dual Fuel, allowing the 439cc engine to run on either gasoline or propane. Featuring Intelligauge, Volt Guard and Cold Start Technology, it provides up to 8 hours of run time on gasoline or 5.5 hours on propane.
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric start – Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included
- Intelligauge – Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals.1.5 Inch dia. tubular steel frame for protection and durability
- Powerful – At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts on propane, trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads
- Champion Support – Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Pros:
- High Quality Design
- Extremely powerful and reliable
- Durable
- Almost perfect score on amazon
Cons:
- Not cheap
- Kind of noisy compared to other models
8. Champion 3800-Watt - Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start
Champion’s 3800-watt RV Ready generator with electric start features Dual Fuel, allowing the 224cc engine to run on either gasoline or propane. Featuring Intelligauge, Volt Guard and Cold Start Technology, it provides up to 9 hours of run time on gasoline or 10.5 hours on propane.
Key Features
• Dual Fuel – Runs on GAS or PROPANE straight out of the box
• Touch Start – Battery included for push-button electric start
• Safety Fuel Selector Switch
• Gasoline Fuel Tank and Propane Inlet
• Propane hose included
• Gasoline Fuel Tank – 3.4 Gallon (12.9 L)
• Portable – Folding handle with never-flat tires
• Runs up to 9 hrs. on a full tank of gas*
• Noise Level – 68 dBA from 23 ft.
Pros:
- Amazon's choice
- Great rebate and awesome price
- Lightweight compared to other units
- Reputable model and company
Cons:
- Can be a little bit noisy
- Not as cool a design as some other models
9. WEN 56380i 3800-Watt - Portable Fuel Powered Inverter Generator
Description
Remember when you had clean and quiet portable power? The WEN 3,800 Watt Inverter Generator produces clean energy free of voltage spikes and drops without making all of the noise of a regular generator. Generate up to 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts of power.
Our 212cc 4-stroke air-cooled OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 57 decibels at quarter load, about as quiet as a window air conditioner or the average conversation. This limits its invasiveness while hunting, camping, tailgating and restoring back-up power. The WEN 3800W Inverter Generator is also equipped with fuel shutoff.
This feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing the generator to use up the remaining fuel from the carburetor before automatically shutting down. This helps fight the build-up and blockages caused by stagnant fuel inside of the carburetor, minimizing maintenance while prolonging the unit’s lifespan.
Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, this generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe enough to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets and other vulnerable electronics. The lightweight design along with the built-in wheels and folding handle make for easy portability while the ultra-efficient 2.2-gallon tank provides over 8.5 hours of half-load run time.
Our fully-packed panel comes equipped with two 3-prong 120V standard household receptacles, one AC 120V 30A NEMA TT-30R twist lock receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, one 5V USB port and an easy-to-read digital fuel and load display. Maximize fuel economy by engaging the Eco-Mode switch. This feature allows the generator’s engine to automatically adjust its fuel consumption as items are plugged into and unplugged from the panel, preventing the usage of unnecessary gasoline.
The oil access cover makes for easy oil changes. Need more energy? Easily link up two WEN inverter generators using a WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit (sold separately) in order to share wattage between multiple units. Low-oil and low-fuel automatic shutdown, indication lights, and overload protection safeguard both your generator and your electronics from damage.
This included spark arrestor allows for legal use in national parks and campgrounds. And because this is a WEN Product, your inverter generator comes backed by a 2-year warranty, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer helpline. Remember when your generator powered your electronics safely and quietly? Remember WEN.
- Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise; EPA III and CARB Compliant
- 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours
- Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
- Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops
- Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, one 5V USB port, a digital load and fuel display, and a two-year warranty
Pros:
- RV Ready
- Limited maintenance
- Electric start
- Clean Power
- Super quiet
- Portable Design
Cons:
- Noisy (57 dBA)
- Doesn't run as long as the other model. 8.5 hours half-load run time
10. All Power America APGG10000GL 10000 Watt - Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Description
All power’s APGG10000GL offer the most cost effective generators among its competitors, in addition to some extra features. It has a continuous 8000W power supply with gas & 7500W power with propane, & runs 11 hours at 1/2 load.
The unit has an engine volume of 76dB. & it includes hour meter & wheel kit for your convenience. Its push electric start feature would be a great help, & a battery comes with the generator. 2 AC duplex 120V outlets, 1-120V twist lock outlet, 1-120/240V twist lock outlet, 1-12v DC EPA approved.
- Important note: all shipments require a working phone Number to schedule delivery and proper Address for the unit to be shipped out, or your order may be delayed or cancelled
- 10000 watt peak power, 8000 watt rated power(GAS); 8500 watt peak power, 7000 watt rated power(LPG)
- 15 HP 420cc OHV air cooled engine. Runs 11 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Fuel Capacity: 8 gallons; Operating Noise level: 76 dB; Electric start button & recoil start
- 4x AC Duplex 120V outlets; 1x 120v twist-lock outlet; 1x 120/240V twist-lock outlet; 1x 12V DC
- Include hour meter, maintenance free battery and flat free wheel kit
- EPA certified. Non C.A.R.B. Compliant, not available to ship to California
Pros:
- Anti-Corrosive materiall
- Flat free Wheels
- RV Ready
Cons:
- Not lightweight at all
- On the expensive side considering other model's price
We pick 10 of them, you pick 1
What's the best portable generator for cold weather?
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
What generator size do I need for RV?
The short answer is it is relative to how much wattage you are planning to need for all your stuff to run.
Since the air conditioner is usually the biggest sucker, the consensus is that we generally settle on a model that will accommodate said air conditioner without any problem.
I found a very nice little chart on steadypower’s site to help you better gauge what size is the right size for you.
| Size of Air Conditioner | Approximate Starting Watts | Approximate Running Watts |
| 13,500 btu | 2800-3000W | 1500-2000W |
| 15,000 btu | 3300-3500W | 1300-1800W |
Item | Approximate Starting Watts | Approximate Running Watts |
| KITCHEN ITEMS: | ||
| RV Fridge | 600W | 180W |
| Coffee Maker (4 cups) | 600W | 600W |
| Slow Cooker | 170-270W | 170-270W |
| Microwave (650W) | 1000W | 1000W |
| Electric Grill (Counter-top) | 1700W | 1700W |
| ENTERTAINMENT ITEMS: | ||
| Small Flat TV | 120-200W | 120-200W |
| Small Tube TV | 300W | 300W |
| DVD Player | 350W | 350W |
| Satellite Receiver | 250W | 250W |
| Radio | 50-200W | 50-200W |
| Laptop Computer | 250W | 250W |
| OTHER ITEMS: | ||
| Hair Dryer (1600W) | 1900W | 1800W |
| Radiant Heater | 1300W | 1300W |
| Portable Fan | 120W | 40W |
| Lights | See Light Bulb | See Light Bulb |
How many watts to run a RV air conditioner?
It can go anywhere from 1000 to 1300 watts for a 5000 BTU air conditioner up to 3200-3600 watts for a 15000 BTU to start up.
Once you get it running. It drops down to around 300 to 450 watts for a 5000 BTU air conditioner up to 1200-1750 watts for a 15000 BTU unit.
Every single unit we have selected above will be able to handle up to 15000 BTU. If you need a smaller portable one, check out our top 10 best portable generators for 2020 by clicking here.
Are propane generators quieter than gas powered?
Although there are some exceptions, propane powered generators are generally considered quieter than the gas generators. The big difference however is that currently, propane is half the price of gas for a gallon. It also is much cleaner and will have a positive effect on the future of your generator. Most of the models showed above will support both gas and propane.
Can I refuel a generator while it's running?
This is a big no no. Iv’e seen this a few times and you are literally playing with fire. Never add gas or propane to your generator while it’s running and I would add when it’s still hot as well.
I generally let it cool off for a good 15-20 min before adding new gas to it. If you think this is not necessary, a quick google search for RV generator explosion should change your mind.
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