Imagine a sudden blackout. The lights go out, the fridge stops humming, and your home feels suddenly dark and quiet. That’s when you realize how much you rely on electricity! When storms hit or the power grid flickers, many homeowners rush to find a reliable backup power source. While many options exist, choosing the right portable generator can feel overwhelming. You worry about fuel storage, running time, and whether it will actually power your essential appliances when you need it most.
Natural gas portable generators offer a fantastic solution because they connect directly to your home’s gas line. No more trips to the gas station or worrying about stale gasoline! However, knowing which model fits your needs—how much power you need and the best features—is key to avoiding buyer’s remorse. This detailed guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know about sizing, installation, and the top benefits of going natural gas for your emergency power.
Top Natural Gas Portable Generator Recommendations
- Perfect as a backup power source for larger homes or a dependable source of portable power
- 14,500 peak watts, 11,500 running watts (gasoline); 13,500 peak watts, 10,500 running watts (propane); 12,000 peak watts, 9,500 running watts (natural gas)
- Powered by a heavy duty 550cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed with a durable cast iron sleeve; Runs for up to 19 hours on a 9.5 gal. fuel tank with built-in fuel gauge; up to 7 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
- 12500 Peak Watts, 9500 Running Watts (Gasoline); 11200 Peak Watts, 8500 Running Watts (Propane); 9500 Peak Watts, 7500 Running Watts (Natural Gas); Remote Start with Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank with Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown, and Digital Hour Meter
- Switch between gasoline (14500 surge watts, 11500 running watts), propane (12500 surge watts, 10300 running watts), and natural gas (10500 surge watts, 8750 running watts) with a simple turn of the selection dial
- Operates at 120V and 240V, making it perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
- Electric start powers the 500c 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
- INVERTER BENEFITS, HOME BACKUP POWER: The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc is a tri fuel generator with all the benefits of an inverter, but also with home backup power and a 50A outlet; Gasoline: 6600 running/8200 peak watts, Propane: 5940 running/7380 peak watts, Natural Gas: 5280 running/6560 peak watts
- SAVE FUEL, SAVE MONEY, LESS NOISE: Inverter technology adjusts engine speed to meet power demand, significantly cutting fuel use compared to traditional generators. That's less refills and fuel runs–saving time, money, and hassle. It's also much quieter than open frames, around 60 dBA at 25% load
- TRANSFER SWITCH OR INTERLOCK KIT READY: One 120/240V 14–50R 50A outlet for home backup can run your air conditioner, refrigerator, sump pump, and more–all at once; One RV ready 120V TT-30R 30A outlet; One GFCI 120V 5–20R 20A standard duplex outlet
- Power Your Entire Home - With 13,000 watts of power, the DS13000MXT Tri Fuel generator will keep your whole home running during a storm or power outage, while protecting your family from harmful fumes with CO Alert.
- Tri Fuel Technology - DuroStar Tri Fuel Technology allows your generator to run on either gasoline, propane, or natural gas, offering the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
- Fully Loaded Power Panel - The DS13000MXT comes with a push button start, a fuel selection knob, and a wide variety of outlets (including a transfer switch-ready 50 amp outlet).
- Your 4000-watt portable generator operates on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, plus natural gas and propane hoses are included so the unit is ready to run on any fuel right out of the box
- Power up the 224cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch, battery included
- Track voltage, frequency, session run time, and total run time, plus the UL-recognized sensor uses an LED to indicate CO shutoff or fault
- 13500 Peak Watts, 10500 Running Watts (Gasoline); 12500 Peak Watts, 9500 Running Watts (Propane); 10000 Peak Watts, 8500 Running Watts (Natural Gas); Remote Start with Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 19 Hours of Run Time on a 9.5 Gallon Fuel Tank with Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R 20A Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R 30A, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R 50A; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Powered by a Heavy Duty 500cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown, and Digital Hour Meter
- THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: The Westinghouse iGen11000TFc is a tri fuel generator with all the benefits of an inverter, but also with whole home backup power and a 50A outlet; 9000 running /11000 peak watts (gasoline); 8100 running/10000 peak watts (propane); 7200 running/8800 peak watts (natural gas)
- SAVE FUEL, SAVE MONEY, LESS NOISE: Inverter technology adjusts engine speed to meet power demand, significantly cutting fuel use compared to traditional generators. That's less refills and fuel runs–saving time, money, and hassle. It's also much quieter than open frames
- TRANSFER SWITCH OR INTERLOCK KIT READY: Features one 120/240V 14–50R 50A outlet for home or RV and one 120V/240 L14-30R 30A twist lock, both outlets are transfer switch or interlock kit ready for home backup; includes one GFCI 120V 5–20R 20A duplex household outlet; all have rubber covers
Choosing Your Natural Gas Portable Generator: A Smart Buyer’s Guide
Natural gas portable generators offer a fantastic way to keep your power on during outages. They connect directly to your home’s gas line, meaning you never have to worry about running out of fuel! This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important parts:
1. Power Output (Wattage)
- Starting Watts: This is the big surge of power needed to start large appliances like refrigerators or well pumps.
- Running Watts: This is the steady power the generator provides continuously. Make sure the running watts meet your essential needs.
2. Fuel Connection Type
Since these run on natural gas, check the connection. Most require a specific hose or quick-connect fitting to safely link to your home’s gas supply. Ensure the connector matches your home setup.
3. Portability and Noise Level
- Weight and Wheels: Even though they are “portable,” some models are very heavy. Look for sturdy wheels and handles if you plan to move it often.
- Decibel (dB) Rating: Generators make noise. Lower dB ratings (under 70 dB) mean quieter operation, which is better for neighbors.
4. Safety Features
Safety is crucial. Good generators include an automatic low-oil shutoff and an overload protection feature. These protect the engine from damage.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The quality of the materials affects how long your generator lasts.
Engine Durability
Look for engines made by well-known brands. A durable engine means fewer repairs. Cast-iron cylinder sleeves are better than aluminum ones because they handle heat and wear much better.
Frame and Housing
The frame should be made of strong, powder-coated steel. This coating resists rust and keeps the internal parts safe from rain and dirt. The housing should protect the engine while allowing good airflow for cooling.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a generator great or just okay?
Quality Boosters:
- Inverter Technology (for some models): This provides “clean” power, which is safer for sensitive electronics like computers and TVs.
- Voltage Regulation (AVR): Automatic Voltage Regulation keeps the power steady, preventing surges that can harm appliances.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Wiring: Thin, poorly insulated wires break down quickly under heat.
- Plastic Components: Too much plastic, especially around high-heat areas, signals lower overall durability.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the generator changes what you should buy.
Home Backup Power
If you need to run your furnace, refrigerator, and a few lights during long storms, you need a model with higher running watts (usually 5,000 watts or more). Because they use natural gas, you can run them for days without refueling.
Job Site or RV Use (Smaller Models)
For smaller jobs or camping, you might look at smaller, quieter inverter models. However, check the natural gas line requirements; sometimes, very small units are better suited for propane tanks.
Always test your generator when you first buy it. Run it for 30 minutes under a small load to ensure everything works correctly before a real emergency strikes.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Gas Portable Generators
Q: Is natural gas better than propane for a generator?
A: Natural gas offers an unlimited supply if connected to your home line, so you never run out. Propane requires you to store tanks, which can run empty.
Q: Do I need a professional to install a natural gas generator?
A: Yes. Connecting the generator to your home’s gas line is a job for a licensed plumber or gas technician. This ensures a safe, leak-free connection.
Q: Will running on natural gas produce less power than gasoline?
A: Yes, usually. Natural gas has a lower energy density than gasoline. A generator might lose about 10% to 20% of its rated gasoline wattage when switched to natural gas.
Q: How often do I need to maintain these generators?
A: You should change the oil and check the air filter regularly, just like a car. Check the manufacturer’s manual, but most need an oil change every 50 to 100 hours of use.
Q: Can I run my generator in the rain?
A: You must protect the generator from direct rain and snow. Never run it in an enclosed space. Use a proper, rated generator tent or canopy for protection.
Q: What is “voltage regulation,” and why does it matter?
A: Voltage regulation (AVR) keeps the electricity output steady. Unsteady power can damage sensitive electronics like computers or modern TVs.
Q: Are natural gas generators quiet?
A: They are generally quieter than gasoline models of the same size, but they still produce noise. Look specifically for models labeled “quiet” or those with low dB ratings.
Q: What happens if my home gas line pressure is too low?
A: If the gas pressure is too low, the generator will not start or will run poorly and shut down. Check your home’s gas line capacity before buying a high-wattage unit.
Q: Can I use an extension cord with my generator?
A: Yes, but you must use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Using thin cords causes power loss and can create a fire hazard.
Q: What is the warranty usually like on these units?
A: Most reputable brands offer a decent warranty, often covering the engine for three years for residential use. Always check the specific terms before you buy.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!