8 Best Tri Fuel Generators (November 2026)
The best tri fuel generators include the DuroMax XP13000HXT for whole-home backup, the Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup for high output and cleaner power, and the DuroStar DS13000MXT for simple high-output controls.
On this page (3 sections)
The best tri fuel generator for most whole-home backup needs is the DuroMax XP13000HXT. It combines 13,000 watts, gasoline, propane and natural gas operation, remote start, CO Alert and a transfer switch-ready 50A outlet.
That mix suits households that want one machine for storm outages and planned backup work. The 13,000-watt rating gives headroom for larger appliances, while the 50A outlet supports a transfer switch-ready setup when installed correctly.
Fuel flexibility is the main reason to choose a tri fuel generator. Gasoline, propane and natural gas each suit a different situation, and switching helps when one supply runs low.
Gasoline may provide the highest output on some models. propane stores differently, so it can be easier to keep in tanks for later use.
Natural gas can support longer backup use when a suitable connection is available. That removes some need to store fuel at home, but it depends on the gas connection and local rules.
Remote start adds convenience. You can start the unit from a distance with the remote control, or use push button start at the front panel.
CO Alert is a safety feature worth weighing. It shuts the generator down when harmful carbon monoxide is detected, which matters when the unit runs near a home.
The 500cc OHV engine and 4-stroke design sit behind the output figures. In daily use, the engine has to handle motor loads, not just lights and small electronics.
The 240-pound weight and 30 x 30 x 26 in footprint shape how you will use it. The wheel and handle kit helps with moving, but this is still a generator for a planned outdoor spot.
The included parts help with set-up. The box includes an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, wheel and handle kit, 15-foot natural gas hose, propane regulator, remote control and owner's manual.
Set-up still needs care. Check the oil, connect the right fuel hardware, and confirm that the outlet and transfer equipment match your home.
Regular oil checks, following the manual for service intervals, and storing the unit dry can help keep it ready between outages.
The trade-off is size versus output. A smaller generator is easier to store and move, but it may not cover the same whole-home loads.
For a basic explanation, read our guide to what is a tri fuel generator. For fuel versus battery backup, see Which Is Better Solar Generator Or Gas Generator?.
Use this pick when high output, fuel choice and remote start matter most. Use a lighter model when storage space or simple essential loads matter more.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for high output and cleaner powerWestinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itWestinghouse 8200 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter
Best for sensitive electronics - 5
Best for clearly matched fuel outputsCheck it - 6
Best for automatic voltage regulationCheck it - 7
Check itChampion 8125-Watt Electric Start Tri Fuel Portable
Best for moderate backup loads - 8
Best for maximum rated outputCheck it
The best tri fuel generators for different backup needs
The DuroMax XP13000HXT is the strongest overall match for high-output home backup. Westinghouse offers the cleaner-power inverter option, while Champion and Generac suit buyers with more moderate loads.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked fuel choices, output, starting controls, safety features, outlet types, portability and the needs of home, RV and jobsite users.
DuroMax XP13000HXT: Best for whole-home backup
- 13,000 watts
- 500cc OHV engine
- Gasoline, propane and natural gas
- Push-button and remote start
- CO Alert
The XP13000HXT offers high output, 3 fuel choices, remote start and a transfer switch-ready 50A outlet for large home backup loads.
Pros
- 13,000-watt output
- Remote start
- CO Alert
- Natural gas hose and propane regulator included
Cons
- 240-pound weight
- Large 30 x 30 x 26 in footprint
The DuroMax XP13000HXT is the best tri fuel generator for buyers who want a strong mix of output and daily usability. Its 13,000 watts come from a 500cc OHV engine, and it runs on gasoline, propane or natural gas.
The front-facing interface lets you change fuel type, while push-button and remote start give you 2 ways to start the unit. The transfer switch-ready 50A outlet makes it a candidate for larger home backup setups.
CO Alert adds automatic protection against harmful carbon monoxide levels. The generator measures 30 x 30 x 26 in and weighs 240 lb, so plan the storage and moving path before installation.
The box includes the generator, oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, wheel and handle kit, 15-ft natural gas hose, propane regulator, remote control and owner's manual.
Choose it for high-output home backup with remote start. Its weight and footprint make it better for a planned generator location than frequent hand carrying.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup: Best for high output and cleaner power
- 14,500 peak and 11,500 running watts
- 550cc engine
- Less than 5% THD
- Up to 19 hours at 25% load on gasoline
- Remote electric start
This Westinghouse model pairs high home-backup output with less than 5% THD, 50A and 30A outlets, remote start and a 9.5-gallon tank.
Pros
- 14,500 peak watts
- Less than 5% THD
- Up to 19-hour gasoline runtime at 25% load
- CO sensor
Cons
- 230-pound open-frame design
- Transfer switch sold separately
The Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup generator is the best tri fuel generator here for buyers who want high output and lower-THD power. It produces 11,500 running and 14,500 peak watts on gasoline, with propane and natural gas as additional fuel choices.
Its 550cc engine has pressure lubrication and a reusable oil screen. Westinghouse specifies less than 5% THD, which makes this model a better fit for phones, computers and TVs than a generator without a stated lower-THD design.
The 9.5-gallon gasoline tank can run up to 19 hours at 25% load. Push-button and remote start make operation easier, while the CO sensor and automatic low-oil shutdown add safety features.
The 50A and 30A outlets can pair with an interlock kit, manual transfer switch or the Westinghouse WATS200 automatic transfer switch. The WATS200 is sold separately.
Choose it for large residential loads and extended gasoline runtime. Its 230-pound open-frame body still needs a stable storage area and a clear path for moving.
DuroStar DS13000MXT: Best for simple high-output controls
- 13,000 peak watts
- 10,500 running watts
- 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine
- Fuel selection knob
- CO Alert
The DS13000MXT gives you 13,000 peak watts, electric and recoil starting, a fuel selection knob and a transfer switch-ready 50A outlet.
Pros
- 13,000 peak watts
- 10,500 running watts
- Electric and recoil start
- Natural gas hose included
Cons
- 230-pound class generator
- No remote-start feature stated in the product data
The DuroStar DS13000MXT is a strong choice if you want 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts with a simple fuel selection knob. Its 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine can use gasoline, propane or natural gas.
The fully loaded power panel includes push-button start, electric and recoil ignition, and a transfer switch-ready 50A outlet. CO Alert automatically shuts the generator down when harmful fumes are detected.
This model measures 30.5 x 27.3 x 26 in. It includes an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, wheel and handle kit, 15-ft natural gas hose, propane regulator and remote control.
The DS13000MXT fits buyers who need a large output but prefer a direct control panel. Its 230-pound weight means portability refers to wheels and handles, not easy lifting.
Choose it for high-output home backup and a straightforward fuel control. Compare its 10,500 running watts with your largest motor loads before buying.
Westinghouse 8200 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter: Best for sensitive electronics
- 8,200 peak and 6,600 running watts
- Less than 3% THD
- About 60 dBA at 25% load
- Remote start
- Parallel capable
The iGen8200TFc is the inverter choice for buyers who want tri-fuel flexibility, low THD, quieter operation and a 50A home-backup outlet.
Pros
- Less than 3% THD
- Fully enclosed design
- About 60 dBA at 25% load
- RV-ready TT-30R outlet
Cons
- Lower output than the open-frame 13,000-watt models
- Natural gas output is 5,280 running watts
The Westinghouse 8200 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter is the best tri fuel generator for sensitive electronics, quieter operation and lower weight. Its inverter system produces 6,600 running and 8,200 peak watts on gasoline, with lower output on propane and natural gas.
The product data specifies less than 3% THD and about 60 dBA at 25% load. Inverter technology adjusts engine speed to power demand, which can reduce fuel use and noise compared with traditional open-frame designs.
Fuel-specific output is 6,600 running watts on gasoline, 5,940 on propane and 5,280 on natural gas. The fully enclosed generator weighs 134.5 lb and measures 27 x 20.9 x 21.7 in.
It includes a 50A home-backup outlet, an RV-ready TT-30R outlet, a 20A GFCI duplex outlet, remote start, a digital display and a CO sensor. Parallel capability gives you another option when compatible equipment is available.
Choose it for electronics, RV use or a more compact generator body. Its lower output may not cover the same whole-home loads as the larger open-frame picks.
WEN: Best for clearly matched fuel outputs
- 14,500 gasoline surge watts
- 11,500 gasoline running watts
- 120V and 240V operation
- 8.2-gallon tank
- Electric start
WEN makes the output change by fuel easy to compare, with a selection dial, 120V and 240V operation, an 8.2-gallon tank and transfer-switch-ready outlets.
Pros
- Specific output for each fuel
- 14,500 gasoline surge watts
- 120V/240V operation
- NG quick-connect adapter included
Cons
- No remote-start feature stated in the product data
- Large 28.8 x 28.3 x 25.8 in footprint
The WEN TF-1450 is the best tri fuel generator for buyers who want output for each fuel stated clearly. On gasoline, it produces 14,500 surge and 11,500 running watts.
Propane produces 12,500 surge and 10,300 running watts, while natural gas produces 10,500 surge and 8,750 running watts. That drop by fuel matters, because the fuel you use sets the load you can run.
A fuel selection dial, electric start and 120V/240V operation keep the controls practical. The dial switches between gasoline, propane and natural gas so you know which figure applies.
Its 8.2-gallon tank provides up to 12 hours at half load. That suits an overnight outage or a workday, but higher loads will use fuel faster.
The panel includes four 120V 5-20R outlets, a 120V/240V L14-30R outlet, a 120V/240V 14-50R outlet and a 12V DC automotive outlet. The mix covers household outlets, transfer switch-ready connections and 12V devices.
The box includes a wheel kit, oil, 6-ft LPG hose and NG quick-connect adapter. Those parts support set-up on propane or natural gas, so check your connection before the first run.
The 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine has electric start with recoil backup. The onboard data meter shows voltage, frequency, total runtime and session runtime, which helps with load checks and maintenance timing.
Choose it when matching output to your available fuel matters. The 28.8 x 28.3 x 25.8 in body needs a dedicated storage area, and the wheel kit helps move it once placed.
Check oil before use, store fuel safely, and plan refueling before the tank runs low during an outage.
Generac: Best for automatic voltage regulation
- 12,500 starting watts
- 9,500 running watts
- AVR
- COsense technology
- Electric start
Generac combines tri-fuel operation with automatic voltage regulation, COsense, a 7.5-gallon tank and 120V/240V outlets for home or jobsite use.
Pros
- Automatic voltage regulation
- 12,500 starting watts
- COsense shutdown
- Natural gas conversion kit included
Cons
- 9,500 running watts on gasoline
- No remote-start feature stated in the product data
The Generac is the best tri fuel generator for buyers who want automatic voltage regulation and clear safety controls. It produces 9,500 running and 12,500 starting watts on gasoline, with gasoline, liquid propane and natural gas operation.
AVR helps stabilize voltage for connected equipment. COsense monitors carbon monoxide and shuts the generator down before levels reach a dangerous threshold, while low-oil shutdown adds another automatic protection feature.
Its 7.5-gallon tank can run up to 9.5 hours at 50% load or up to 14 hours at 25% load on gasoline. A natural gas line can support virtually unlimited runtime when the connection is suitable.
The control panel has 2 120V 20A GFCI duplex outlets, a 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet and a 120V/240V 50A outlet. The box includes engine oil, an LP hose with regulator, a 12V battery and a wheel kit.
Choose it for residential backup, jobsite use and AVR. Its 9,500 running watts make load planning especially important if you want to run several large appliances together.
Champion 8125-Watt Electric Start Tri Fuel Portable: Best for moderate backup loads
- 8,125 gasoline starting watts
- 6,500 gasoline running watts
- 389cc engine
- Electric start
- CO Shield auto shutoff
Champion is a practical middle-output choice with electric start, 3 fuel choices, CO Shield, included hoses and a 197-pound weight.
Pros
- Lowest weight among the open-frame picks here
- Electric start
- Gas, propane and natural gas operation
- Natural gas hose included
Cons
- 6,500 gasoline running watts
- Lower output than the 9,500-watt and larger models
The Champion 8125-Watt Electric Start Tri Fuel Portable is the best tri fuel generator for moderate backup loads and buyers who want a lighter open-frame option. It produces 8,125 starting and 6,500 running watts on gasoline.
On propane, output is 7,500 starting and 6,000 running watts. On natural gas, it produces 6,875 starting and 5,500 running watts.
The 389cc engine starts with a rocker switch.
CO Shield provides automatic carbon monoxide shutoff. The digital Intelligauge tracks voltage, frequency, session runtime and total runtime, which can help you monitor operation and maintenance intervals.
Champion includes engine oil, a propane hose, oil funnel, natural gas hose with NPT adapter and wheel kit. The generator weighs 197 lb and measures 28.7 x 27.5 x 26.1 in.
Choose it for essential circuits, RV use or a smaller home backup load. It is not the right match if your plan requires the output of a 13,000-watt or larger generator.
DuroMax XP15000HXT: Best for maximum rated output
- 15,000 watts
- 670cc engine
- Gasoline, propane and natural gas
- Remote and push-button start
- CO Alert
The XP15000HXT has the highest stated output here, with a 670cc engine, 50A outlet, remote start, digital display and CO Alert.
Pros
- Highest 15,000-watt output
- 670cc engine
- Remote and push-button start
- 100% copper windings
Cons
- 362-pound weight
- 36 x 33.2 x 32 in footprint
The DuroMax XP15000HXT is the best tri fuel generator for buyers who want the highest stated output in this group. Its 15,000-watt rating comes from a 670cc 4-stroke engine, and it runs on gasoline, propane or natural gas.
The control panel includes 4 120V 20A GFCI outlets, a 120V 30A twist-lock, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock and a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet. Remote and push-button start make the large generator easier to operate from a distance.
A digital control center displays gas level, load, voltage, frequency and running time. CO Alert automatically shuts the generator down when harmful fumes are detected, and 100% copper windings are part of the design.
The XP15000HXT measures 36 x 33.2 x 32 in and weighs 362 lb. It includes a wheel and handle kit, 15-ft natural gas hose, propane regulator, remote control, oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set and owner's manual.
Choose it when maximum output matters more than weight and storage space. Measure doorways, storage areas and the route to the operating position before selecting this 362-pound unit.
How do you choose the best tri fuel generator?
The best tri fuel generator depends on the loads you need to run, the fuel connection available and how often you expect to move the unit. Start with running watts, then account for the higher starting demand from motors, pumps and air conditioners.
How much power do tri fuel generators provide?
The products here range from the Champion's 6,500 gasoline running watts to the DuroMax XP15000HXT's 15,000-watt rating. The right number is not always the largest one.
Make a list of refrigerators, sump pumps, air conditioners, lights, electronics and tools you may need during an outage. Add their running watts, then account for the largest starting surge.
A generator should have room above that total.
Fuel can change output. WEN, for example, provides separate gasoline, propane and natural gas figures.
The Westinghouse inverter also produces different output levels by fuel, so use the number for the fuel you actually plan to use.
Is a tri fuel inverter generator better?
A tri fuel inverter generator is usually the better fit for sensitive electronics, quieter operation or RV use. The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc specifies less than 3% THD, a fully enclosed design, about 60 dBA at 25% load and an RV-ready outlet.
A traditional open-frame unit can make more sense when you need the highest output for whole-home loads. The larger models in this guide offer 9,500 to 15,000 watts or more depending on the model and fuel.
Compare our guide to the best tri fuel inverter generators if low THD, noise and portability are your main priorities. For other multi-fuel designs, see the best multi fuel inverter generators.
Which fuel should you use?
Gasoline often provides the highest listed output, but it needs safe storage and regular fuel care. Propane can be stored in tanks, while natural gas can be useful for long outages when a suitable household connection is available.
Do not assume every model produces the same output on all 3 fuels. Check the fuel-specific figures and use the correct hose, regulator or adapter for the generator.
Do you need remote start?
Remote start is useful when the generator is installed outside and you want to start it without walking to the control panel. The DuroMax XP13000HXT, both DuroMax models here and the Westinghouse inverter include remote-start features or remote controls in their product data.
Electric start can still be enough if you can safely reach the generator. The WEN, Generac and Champion models provide electric start, but their product data does not state remote start.
If remote operation is your priority, compare the best tri fuel generator with remote start before choosing.
How do you connect a tri fuel generator to a house?
A transfer switch or approved interlock kit connects selected home circuits to a portable generator. Several models here have transfer switch-ready 30A or 50A outlets, but the generator outlet alone does not make a household connection safe.
Have a qualified electrician match the generator, inlet, transfer equipment and electrical panel. Never connect a portable generator directly to a wall outlet, and never operate it indoors, in a garage or near doors and windows.
For more fuel-generator setup guidance, read Fuel Generators: The Complete Buying Guide.
What size tri fuel generator is easier to move?
The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc is the lightest product here at 134.5 lb. Champion weighs 197 lb, Generac measures 219 lb, and the largest DuroMax weighs 362 lb.
That range changes what portable means in practice. A 134.5-pound inverter is still heavy, but it is easier to load and store than a 362-pound open-frame unit.
Wheels and handles help across a suitable surface. They reduce lifting for short moves on smooth ground, but they do not make a heavy unit easy to lift into a truck or camper.
Think about the route before you buy. Measure doorways, check steps and ramps, and confirm where the generator will sit in use and in storage.
The Westinghouse inverter suits smaller spaces at 27 x 20.9 x 21.7 in, with never-flat wheels and a folding handle. Its fully enclosed design and about 60 dBA at 25% load make it a practical fit for RV and campsite use.
Champion at 197 lb is a middle option for essential loads. It is lighter than large home-backup models, but it still needs a clear moving path.
The larger DuroMax at 362 lb is built for maximum output, not frequent carrying. Its 36 x 33.2 x 32 in body needs room for fuel connections, cords and safe clearance.
If you need a smaller body for an RV or tight storage, compare the best small tri fuel generator. A smaller footprint can matter more than peak watts when space is limited.
For camping, read Is a Portable Power Station Better Than a Gas Generator for Camping? before choosing between fuel and battery power. Battery power can be quieter for small devices, while a fuel generator suits higher output and longer runtimes.
Which brand should you choose?
The best tri fuel generator brand depends on the feature you value most. DuroMax leads this group for high output and remote-start choices, Westinghouse offers both a high-output open frame and a lower-THD inverter, and WEN gives clear fuel-specific output figures.
Generac adds AVR and COsense, Champion offers a lower-output and lighter option, and DuroStar provides a high-output control panel with electric and recoil starting.
Use the brand pages for narrower comparisons: best tri fuel generator westinghouse, best tri fuel generator duromax and best tri fuel generator firman.
What is the final best tri fuel generator choice?
Pick the DuroMax XP13000HXT if you need high-output home backup, 3 fuel options, remote start and CO Alert. Its 13,000 watts, 500cc OHV engine and transfer switch-ready 50A outlet suit larger household loads.
Pick the Westinghouse iGen8200TFc if lower THD, quieter operation and a lighter inverter body matter more than maximum wattage. It offers less than 3% THD, about 60 dBA at 25% load, and 134.5 lb for easier moving.
Choose Champion for moderate essential loads. Its 8,125 starting and 6,500 running watts on gasoline, electric start, CO Shield and 197 lb weight fit buyers who do not need a 13,000-watt machine.
Choose Generac for AVR and COsense. Its 9,500 running and 12,500 starting watts on gasoline, automatic voltage regulation and 7.5-gallon tank suit home or jobsite loads that need voltage stability.
Choose WEN for clear fuel-by-fuel output figures. Its gasoline, propane and natural gas ratings are stated separately, which helps you match the generator to the fuel you can actually supply.
Choose the DuroMax XP15000HXT when maximum rated output matters most. Its 15,000-watt rating and 670cc engine come with a 362 lb weight and a large 36 x 33.2 x 32 in footprint.
The best tri fuel generator is the one whose output, fuel connection and safe installation match your actual backup plan. Check running watts, starting watts, outlet types and local connection needs before you decide.
For whole-home use, confirm the transfer switch, interlock kit or inlet with a qualified electrician. The right connection protects your home and makes the generator easier to use during an outage.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for high output and cleaner power
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tri fuel generator for most homes?
The DuroMax XP13000HXT is the best tri fuel generator for many homes because it combines 13,000 watts, gasoline, propane and natural gas operation, remote start, CO Alert and a transfer switch-ready 50A outlet.
Choose by your home's running and starting loads, then confirm the electrical connection with a qualified professional.
What is the difference between a tri fuel generator and a dual fuel generator?
A tri fuel generator can run on gasoline, propane or natural gas. A dual fuel generator normally supports only 2 of those fuel types.
The third option can matter during a long outage because you can switch between stored gasoline, propane tanks and an available natural gas connection.
Are tri fuel generators safe for sensitive electronics?
Some tri fuel generators are designed with lower total harmonic distortion, which can make them a better fit for sensitive electronics. The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc specifies less than 3% THD, while the larger Westinghouse model specifies less than 5% THD.
Always follow the generator and electronics instructions.
Can a tri fuel generator power a whole house?
A tri fuel generator can power selected home circuits or many household loads when its running and starting wattage is high enough. Models in this guide include transfer switch-ready 30A or 50A outlets.
A transfer switch, interlock kit or automatic transfer switch must be installed correctly.
Ask a qualified electrician to match the connection to your panel.
Is natural gas better than gasoline for a generator?
Natural gas can be useful for long outages because it can connect to a household gas line instead of relying on stored fuel. Gasoline can offer higher output on some models and is easier to use where no gas line is available.
Compare the output for each fuel, connection requirements and your local supply before choosing.
