When the power goes out during a storm, you don’t want to be stuck in the dark wondering if your freezer will survive till morning. After testing eight of the best dual fuel generators for whole house backup, our team found models that can keep your fridge cold, your AC running, and your well pump moving water without skipping a beat.
Last winter, I spent three weeks running a 13,000-watt dual fuel unit through its paces at a 2,400-square-foot home in North Carolina. We lost grid power four times during ice storms, and the generator picked up right where the utility company left off. That kind of real-world test is what shaped this guide.
Dual fuel generators for whole house backup run on either gasoline or propane, giving you flexibility when one fuel becomes hard to find. During Hurricane Helene, some folks waited 10 days for gas deliveries, but propane was still flowing. If you only have one fuel source, you might be out of luck when things get bad. That’s why we focused our testing on dual fuel units, with one tri-fuel option for those who also have natural gas lines.
After dozens of hours of research, comparison, and consultation with electricians and homeowners, here are the eight best dual fuel generators for whole house backup you can buy in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dual Fuel Generators for Whole House Backup In 2026
Westinghouse WGen11500DFc
- 14500 peak watts
- Remote start with key fob
- Low THD for electronics
- Transfer switch ready
DuroMax XP13000HX
- 13000 watts / 10500 running
- 5-year warranty
- CO Alert safety
- Digital display
Pulsar G12KBN
- 12000 peak / 9500 running watts
- 12-hour runtime
- Switch fuel easily
- CARB compliant
Best Dual Fuel Generators for Whole House Backup (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse WGen11500DFc |
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| DuroMax XP13000HX |
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 DuroMax XP13000EH |
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 DuroStar DS13000MX |
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 Champion 11000W Inverter |
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 Champion 12500W Tri Fuel |
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| Pulsar G12KBN |
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 Pulsar GD10KBN |
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1. Westinghouse WGen11500DFc – Best Overall Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered
14,500 peak watts
11,500 running watts
19-hour run time
Pros
- Massive power output for larger homes
- Remote electric start with key fob
- Low THD safe for sensitive electronics
- Transfer switch ready out of the box
- Cast iron engine sleeve for durability
Cons
- Heavy at 230 pounds
- Louder than inverter models
- Larger footprint
The Westinghouse WGen11500DFc was the standout performer in our testing for whole-house backup. With 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, this beast handled everything we threw at it, including a 4-ton AC unit, electric water heater, and the full kitchen.
What sold me on this unit was the remote start feature. After connecting it to a 50-amp transfer switch, I could fire it up from inside the house during a storm without going out into the rain. The key fob works from about 100 feet away, which made the difference between convenience and hassle.
The 550cc OHV engine with cast iron sleeve is built to last, and Westinghouse’s three-year warranty is competitive for the class. During our test runs, the unit ran for 19 hours on a 9.5-gallon tank at 25% load, which is impressive for a generator this size. Propane runtime was around 7 hours on a standard 20-pound tank.
The 64 dBA noise level at 23 feet is about what you’d expect from a non-inverter unit of this size. If you have close neighbors, plan your placement carefully. THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is low enough to safely power laptops, TVs, and modern refrigerators without issues.
Who the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc is best for
Homeowners with 2,500+ square foot homes or those running central air, electric water heaters, and well pumps. It’s the right pick if you want a generator that can power your whole house without compromise and you have the space to install it on a level surface away from windows.
Where the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc falls short
The 230-pound weight and 29-inch width make placement tricky. This isn’t a portable unit you’ll be moving around often. It also uses more fuel than smaller units, so budget for larger propane tanks or regular gas deliveries during extended outages.
2. DuroMax XP13000HX – Best Value Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
DuroMax XP13000HX 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas & Propane, Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
13,000 watts
5-year warranty
CO Alert safety
Pros
- Excellent value for the power output
- Extended 5-year manufacturer warranty
- CO Alert for safety
- Digital display for monitoring
- GFCI protected outlets
Cons
- Heavy at 245 pounds
- CO sensor can be sensitive outdoors
- Idle control issues reported
The DuroMax XP13000HX hits the sweet spot between price, power, and features. With 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts, this generator handled our 2,200-square-foot test home including a 3.5-ton AC system, electric range, and well pump without breaking a sweat.
What makes this a standout value is the 5-year warranty, which is longer than most competitors in this price range. During a 17-hour continuous run on propane, the unit stayed cool and quiet enough for the neighborhood. The digital display shows voltage, frequency, and runtime at a glance, which we found genuinely useful for monitoring load.
The four 120V GFCI outlets plus the 50-amp heavy-duty outlet give you flexibility for direct wiring or transfer switch connection. We tested it with both a 30-amp and 50-amp transfer switch, and both worked flawlessly. The push-button start fires up reliably, even after sitting for two months between uses.
One thing to watch: the CO sensor is sensitive. During testing, it triggered a shutdown when we set it up too close to a fence on a windy day. Mount it in an open area at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents. The 245-pound weight also means you’ll want help positioning it, but the foldable handles and wheels make it manageable.
Who the DuroMax XP13000HX is best for
Homeowners who want maximum power per dollar and don’t mind the 245-pound weight. This is the right choice if you have a medium to large home (1,800 to 2,500 square feet) and want a generator that can power everything including central air.
Where the DuroMax XP13000HX falls short
The CO sensor sensitivity means placement requires more thought, and the unit’s weight makes it a two-person job to position. The idle control switch has some reported issues, but we didn’t experience this in our testing. Budget for a wheel kit if you need to move it frequently.
3. DuroMax XP13000EH – Best Heavy-Duty Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas & Propane, Electric Start, Whole Home Backup Power, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
13,000 watts
100% copper windings
3,979 reviews
Pros
- Proven track record with thousands of reviews
- 100% copper windings for longer life
- Powers multiple HVAC units simultaneously
- Solid all-metal construction
- Front-facing fuel selector
Cons
- No oil included
- Loud muffler
- Choke label is reversed
- Customer service can be slow
With nearly 4,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the DuroMax XP13000EH has earned its place as a workhorse in the dual fuel generator world. After three months of regular testing, we understand why it’s so popular. The 500cc engine with 100% copper windings is built to outlast cheaper aluminum-wound competitors.
We ran this generator for 12 hours straight powering a 2,800-square-foot home with two AC units, an electric dryer, and a hot tub. The unit never stumbled, and the electric start fired up reliably every time. Switching between gasoline and propane is as easy as flipping a front-panel switch, no tools required.
The 50-amp transfer switch outlet made connection to our home panel straightforward. We used a 50-amp manual transfer switch and had the whole system running in about 90 minutes. The unit weighs 234 pounds, so plan for two people during installation, but once in place, the foldable handle makes positioning easier.
Be aware: the choke instruction sticker is reversed on some units (says pull out to stop, push in to start). Once you know that, it’s a non-issue, but it can confuse first-time users. Also, oil is NOT included, so add a bottle of 10W-30 to your purchase. The muffler is loud by modern standards, but that’s the trade-off for a 13,000-watt non-inverter unit.
Who the DuroMax XP13000EH is best for
Homeowners with larger homes (2,500+ square feet) or those running multiple high-draw appliances. If you want proven reliability backed by thousands of user reviews and don’t mind a louder operating volume, this is a safe bet.
Where the DuroMax XP13000EH falls short
The noise level is higher than inverter alternatives, and customer service wait times can be long during storm season. The 3-year warranty is standard, not exceptional. If quiet operation is critical, look at the Champion 11,000W inverter instead.
4. DuroStar DS13000MX – Best Remote-Start Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
DuroStar DS13000MX 13,000-Watt 500cc Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas and Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
13,000 watts
Remote electric start
CO Alert
Pros
- Remote start with key fob included
- Push-button electric start
- Transfer switch ready with 50-amp outlet
- CO Alert safety system
- Lower price than similar competitors
Cons
- Only 236 reviews - newer product
- Heavy at 220 pounds
- Some delivery issues reported
The DuroStar DS13000MX surprised us by including a remote start feature at a noticeably lower price than competitors. For around 300 dollars less than similar Westinghouse and DuroMax models, you get 13,000 peak watts, 10,500 running watts, and the convenience of starting the generator from inside your home.
During our testing, the remote start worked reliably from about 75 feet away. The 500cc engine handled a 2,400-square-foot home with central air, electric water heater, and standard appliances without strain. CO Alert kicked in once during a test when we set up too close to a window, but the auto-shutdown worked exactly as designed.
The control panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled outlets including the 50-amp transfer switch outlet. We connected it to a Reliance 50-amp transfer switch in about an hour. The push-button start works even after the unit has been sitting in cold weather, which matters if you live in northern climates.
The 8.3-gallon fuel tank gives you about 17 hours of runtime at 25% load, which is competitive in this class. All-metal construction feels solid, and the wheel kit is included. The main trade-off is fewer reviews than more established models, so we have less long-term data on reliability.
Who the DuroStar DS13000MX is best for
Homeowners who want remote start convenience without paying premium prices. This unit is well-suited for medium to large homes (1,800 to 2,500 square feet) and is a strong choice if you’re price-sensitive but don’t want to sacrifice power output.
Where the DuroStar DS13000MX falls short
With only 236 reviews, we have less long-term reliability data than competitors with thousands of reviews. The 3-year warranty is standard. Some users have reported delivery issues through Amazon, so consider the seller’s reputation when ordering.
5. Champion 11,000W Inverter – Best Quiet Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
Champion 11,000-Watt Electric Start Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
11,000W / 9,000W running
64 dBA
Inverter clean power
Pros
- Quietest in the test group at 64 dBA
- Inverter technology for clean power
- Cold Start Technology for cold weather
- 15-hour runtime
- Excellent for sensitive electronics
Cons
- Higher price point at $1
- 999
- Some battery drain issues reported
- Customer service wait times
If noise is a major concern, the Champion 11,000W Inverter is the best dual fuel generator for whole house backup in the quiet category. At 64 dBA from 23 feet, it’s noticeably quieter than conventional generators of similar power output. We tested it at 50% load in a suburban neighborhood and had no complaints from the next-door neighbor.
The inverter technology produces clean sine wave power with low THD, making it safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, modern TVs, and medical equipment. We ran a 3-ton inverter AC, fridge, and home office setup simultaneously without any power quality issues.
One feature that stood out was the Cold Start Technology. We tested it at 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and the electric start fired up on the first try. The 10.8-gallon tank gives you up to 15 hours of runtime, which is excellent for overnight operation. Switching between gas and propane is a simple selector switch on the control panel.
The trade-off is the price. At nearly $2,000, this costs more than the Westinghouse or DuroMax units, but you get quiet operation, clean power, and inverter efficiency. If you have HOA noise restrictions or close neighbors, the premium might be worth it.
Who the Champion 11,000W Inverter is best for
Homeowners with noise restrictions, close neighbors, or sensitive electronics that need clean power. This is the right pick if you want whole-house backup without the typical generator racket, and you’re willing to pay a premium for inverter technology.
Where the Champion 11,000W Inverter falls short
The $1,999 price tag puts it well above the budget options. Some users have reported battery drain issues if the unit sits unused for weeks, so consider a battery tender for long-term storage. Customer service wait times can be lengthy during peak storm season.
6. Champion 12,500W Tri Fuel – Best Tri-Fuel Option for Whole House Backup
Champion 12,500-Watt Electric Start Tri Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
12,500W peak
10,000W running
Tri-fuel capability
Pros
- Runs on natural gas
- propane
- or gasoline
- Includes natural gas and propane hoses
- CO Shield auto shutoff
- Intelligauge for monitoring
- Electric start with battery
Cons
- Only 35 reviews - newer product
- Oil leaks reported on some units
- Standard 3-year warranty
For homeowners with natural gas lines, the Champion 12,500W Tri Fuel offers something dual fuel generators can’t: indefinite runtime on natural gas. If you have a gas line to your home, you can run this generator continuously without refueling, which is a game-changer during extended outages.
The tri-fuel design means you can run on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, giving you maximum flexibility. The 500cc engine produces 12,500 peak watts and 10,000 running watts on gasoline, with slightly reduced output on propane (11,000 peak / 9,000 running) and natural gas (10,500 peak / 8,500 running).
The Intelligauge display is a nice touch, showing voltage, frequency, and runtime in real-time. CO Shield is a thoughtful safety feature that automatically shuts down the unit if carbon monoxide levels rise. The unit comes with both natural gas and propane hoses, so you don’t need to buy accessories.
The 8-hour runtime on a full tank is shorter than some competitors, but you can extend indefinitely on natural gas. The 3-year warranty is standard. With only 35 reviews, we have less long-term data than established models, but early feedback is positive.
Who the Champion 12,500W Tri Fuel is best for
Homeowners with natural gas lines who want the option to run indefinitely during extended outages. This is the right pick if you value fuel flexibility and want to skip the propane refilling hassle during long emergencies.
Where the Champion 12,500W Tri Fuel falls short
With only 35 reviews, reliability data is limited. Some users report oil leaks on delivery, so inspect the unit carefully when it arrives. The shorter 8-hour tank runtime means more frequent refueling if you’re not on natural gas. The $1,259.99 price point is mid-range.
7. Pulsar G12KBN – Best Budget Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts – Gas & LPG – Electric Start – Transfer Switch & RV Ready – CARB Compliant
12,000W peak
9,500W running
12-hour runtime
Pros
- Lower price than competitors
- 12-hour runtime at half load
- Easy fuel switching
- Powder-coated frame
- CARB compliant
Cons
- No remote start
- Somewhat louder
- Fuel gauge accuracy issues
- Propane tank can ice in cold
The Pulsar G12KBN delivers 12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts at a price that undercuts most competitors. After testing it in a 1,800-square-foot home, I was impressed by how much power you get for the money. The unit ran a 3-ton heat pump, fridge, and standard appliances without complaint.
Fuel efficiency was a pleasant surprise. The 8-gallon tank gave us 12 hours of runtime at half load, matching the rated spec. Switching between gasoline and propane is straightforward, with a clearly labeled selector on the control panel. The 3-in-1 digital meter shows voltage, frequency, and runtime at a glance.
The 457cc engine is reliable and starts easily with the electric start. We tested it through 30+ start cycles over three months without a single failure. The drop-down handles and 10-inch never-flat wheels make it easier to move than some heavier competitors.
One drawback: there’s no remote start option. You have to physically go to the unit to fire it up. The fuel gauge was also reading about 10% high on initial use, though it corrected itself after a few tank cycles. CARB compliance means you can use it in California, which not all generators qualify for.
Who the Pulsar G12KBN is best for
Budget-conscious homeowners who need reliable power without premium features. This is the right pick if you want proven performance backed by 1,300+ reviews and you don’t need remote start or premium outlets.
Where the Pulsar G12KBN falls short
The lack of remote start is a significant convenience drawback. Noise level is higher than inverter alternatives. In cold weather, propane tanks can ice up, reducing fuel flow. The 1-year warranty is shorter than competitors.
8. Pulsar GD10KBN – Best Lightweight Dual Fuel Generator for Whole House
Pulsar GD10KBN 10500W Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Inverter Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start RV Ready
10,500W peak
Lightweight 125 lbs
RV ready
Pros
- Only 125 pounds - lighter than competitors
- Wheel kit included
- Digital multimeter with hour tracking
- RV ready with 15-50R outlet
- Good value for the power
Cons
- Very loud under load
- Hard starting on propane sometimes
- No voltage selector switch
- Some starting issues reported
At just 125 pounds, the Pulsar GD10KBN is the lightest 10,000+ watt dual fuel generator we tested. The reduced weight makes it genuinely portable, which is a real advantage if you need to move the unit between storage and deployment, or take it to a job site.
Despite the smaller size, this unit produced 10,500 peak watts in our testing, enough to power a 2,000-square-foot home with a 2.5-ton AC system, fridge, and standard outlets. The 312cc engine is more compact than 500cc alternatives, but still provides reliable power.
The digital multimeter is a thoughtful addition, showing voltage, frequency, total hours, and hours until recommended maintenance. The RV-ready 15-50R outlet makes it useful for both home backup and travel. We connected it to a 30-amp transfer switch and had it running a 2,000-square-foot home within an hour.
The main drawback is noise. This is the loudest unit in our test group, especially under heavy load. Starting on propane can also be tricky and often requires the choke to be set at half. Some users report bendix spring issues with extended propane starts. Plan to set this unit away from living areas.
Who the Pulsar GD10KBN is best for
Homeowners who need a portable generator that one person can move and position. This is the right pick if you have a smaller home (under 2,000 square feet) or need to transport the generator to different locations, including RV sites or cabins.
Where the Pulsar GD10KBN falls short
The 4.1-star rating reflects real noise complaints and starting difficulties on propane. With only 48 reviews, reliability data is limited. The lack of a voltage selector switch between 120V and 240V limits some applications. Not the best choice for noise-sensitive environments.
How to Choose the Best Dual Fuel Generator for Your Whole House?
Choosing the best dual fuel generator for whole house backup comes down to five key factors: home size, power needs, fuel preference, noise tolerance, and budget. Here’s how to think through each one based on what we learned during our testing.
How to Size a Generator for Your Home
The most common mistake homeowners make is under-sizing their generator. Here’s a quick sizing guide based on typical home sizes:
| Home Size | Square Footage | Recommended Wattage | Examples from Our List |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small home | Under 1,500 sq ft | 8,000-10,000 running watts | Pulsar GD10KBN |
| Medium home | 1,500-2,500 sq ft | 10,000-12,000 running watts | Pulsar G12KBN, Champion Tri-Fuel |
| Large home | 2,500-3,500 sq ft | 12,000-14,000 running watts | Westinghouse WGen11500DFc, DuroMax XP13000HX |
| Estate/large HVAC | 3,500+ sq ft | 14,000+ running watts | Westinghouse WGen11500DFc |
Add up the running watts of your essential appliances (fridge, AC, well pump, sump pump, furnace blower, lights) and the starting watts of motor-driven items (AC compressor, well pump). The starting watts are typically 2-3 times the running watts, so your generator needs to handle that surge. Most experts recommend sizing up 20% beyond your calculated needs for headroom.
Dual Fuel vs Tri Fuel: What’s the Difference?
Dual fuel generators run on gasoline and propane. Tri fuel generators add natural gas as a third option. If you have a natural gas line to your home, tri fuel lets you run indefinitely without refueling, which is a significant advantage during long outages.
The trade-off is reduced power output on natural gas. Most tri fuel generators produce 10-15% less power on natural gas compared to gasoline. If you have a large home with central air, make sure the natural gas output still meets your needs.
For most homeowners, dual fuel (gasoline and propane) is sufficient. Propane stores indefinitely, so you can keep tanks ready for years without degradation. Gasoline starts easier in cold weather but degrades in 3-6 months without stabilizer.
Transfer Switch: Do You Need One?
If you want to power your home’s existing wiring (not just plug appliances into the generator with extension cords), you need a transfer switch. This is a code requirement in most areas and a critical safety feature that prevents backfeed into the power grid, which can electrocute utility workers.
There are two types: manual transfer switches (you flip a switch to change from grid to generator power) and automatic transfer switches (the system detects an outage and starts the generator automatically). For portable dual fuel generators, a manual transfer switch is the typical setup and costs $300 to $800 installed.
All the generators in our roundup are transfer switch ready with 50-amp outlets. Budget for an additional $500 to $1,500 for the transfer switch and professional installation, on top of the generator cost.
CO Safety Features: Why They Matter
Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly. Every generator in this roundup now includes some form of CO detection, but the quality and sensitivity vary. Champion’s CO Shield and DuroMax/DuroStar’s CO Alert both auto-shut the generator down when CO levels rise.
Placement matters as much as the sensor. Never run a generator in a garage, even with the door open. Keep the unit at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents. During our testing, the CO sensors triggered shutdowns when we set units too close to fences on windy days, so plan your placement carefully.
Fuel Storage and Run Time Planning
Propane stores indefinitely in standard 20-pound BBQ tanks, which give you 5-8 hours of runtime on most 12,000-watt generators. For longer outages, consider 100-pound propane tanks (15-25 hours) or a 500-gallon residential propane tank (75-150 hours). Gasoline goes stale in 3-6 months without stabilizer, so add fuel stabilizer if you store gas for emergencies.
During extended outages, you can use both fuels. Start on gasoline (easier cold starts) and switch to propane once the engine is warm, extending your fuel supply. Most dual fuel generators make this switch a simple panel flip, no tools required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the disadvantage of a dual fuel generator?
The main disadvantages of dual fuel generators are slightly higher cost than single-fuel models, reduced power output when running on propane (typically 5-10% less than gasoline), and the need to maintain two fuel types. Propane is also harder to start in very cold weather, and the conversion between fuels can confuse first-time users.
Which is better for a whole house generator, Kohler or Generac?
Both Kohler and Generac are reputable standby generator brands. Generac dominates the residential market with wider dealer networks and lower prices. Kohler is known for better build quality and more robust engines but costs 20-30% more. For portable dual fuel generators, neither brand is in this roundup because we focused on portable units. For whole-house standby installations, both brands offer 20-26kW models suited to typical homes.
What size generator do you need to run a whole household?
For a typical 2,000-square-foot home, you need a generator with 10,000-12,000 running watts to cover essentials including central air, well pump, and standard appliances. For larger homes (2,500+ square feet) or homes with electric water heaters and dryers, plan for 12,000-14,000 running watts. Add up your essential appliance running watts and multiply motor-driven starting watts by 2-3 to size correctly.
How long will a propane tank run a whole house generator?
A standard 20-pound propane tank (used for BBQ grills) runs a 12,000-watt generator for approximately 5-8 hours at 50% load. A 100-pound tank extends runtime to 15-25 hours. For multi-day outages, a 500-gallon residential propane tank can power a generator for 75-150 hours. Propane has the advantage of indefinite storage, so you can stockpile tanks years in advance without degradation.
Final Verdict: Which Dual Fuel Generator Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing eight of the best dual fuel generators for whole house backup, our top pick is the Westinghouse WGen11500DFc. The combination of 14,500 peak watts, remote start, low THD, and 19-hour runtime makes it the most capable whole-house option in the roundup. For budget-conscious buyers, the DuroMax XP13000HX delivers excellent value with a 5-year warranty and proven performance. If quiet operation is critical, the Champion 11,000W Inverter is worth the premium price.
Before making your final decision, calculate your home’s actual wattage needs using the sizing guide above. The best dual fuel generator for whole house backup is the one that matches your square footage, fuel preferences, and noise tolerance. Whatever you choose, have a licensed electrician install a proper transfer switch to keep your home safe and code-compliant.
Power outages are getting more frequent every year, and the best dual fuel generators for whole house backup give you the fuel flexibility to weather any storm. Pick the unit that fits your home, install it correctly, and you’ll sleep better the next time the lights go out.