8 Best Tri-Fuel Generators (November 2026)
The best tri-fuel generators include the Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel for broad home backup, the Westinghouse 13500W Tri-Fuel for managed household loads, and the Westinghouse 12500W Tri-Fuel for essential home circuits.
On this page (6 sections)
The Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel is the best tri fuel generator for most home backup plans that need substantial output and flexible connections. Choose one of the inverters if lower THD is a priority, or a larger open-frame model when your load calculation calls for it.
The right choice starts with the fuel you'll use most, the appliances that must stay on and a safe way to connect them. The peak number in a product name cannot answer those questions.
For a broader overview, read portable generators explained. Our dual-fuel generator guide explains the gasoline-and-propane setup if you don't need natural gas.
Our picks at a glance
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Check itWestinghouse 8200W Tri-Fuel Inverter
Best for RV backup flexibility - 5
Check itWestinghouse 12000W Tri-Fuel Inverter
Best for electronics-heavy home backup - 6
Best for demanding household backupCheck it - 7
Check itWEN 14500W Tri-Fuel (TF-1450X)
Best for propane-first home backup - 8
Best for extensive home circuitsCheck it
How we chose tri-fuel generators
We compared usable output, fuel flexibility and connection options, then weighed starting methods, power quality, runtime and handling. The recommendations favor complete home backup plans over the largest peak-watt number.
Scores reflect how each model fits this range of needs, rather than output alone. A lower-ranked inverter can still be the better buy for an RV user or a household with a smaller load plan.
Runtime figures need context because tank size and load differ. We also separate confirmed fuel-specific wattages from gasoline ratings, so you can identify where another capacity check is needed.
| Product | Best for | Running watts (gasoline) | Fuel choices | Starting | Our score |
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| Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel | broad home backup | 11,500 W | Gasoline, propane, natural gas | Push-button and remote | 9.2 |
| Westinghouse 13500W Tri-Fuel | managed household loads | 10,500 W | Gasoline, propane, natural gas | Push-button, remote and recoil | 9.1 |
| Westinghouse 12500W Tri-Fuel | essential home circuits | 9,500 W | 8.9 | ||
| Westinghouse 8200W Tri-Fuel Inverter | RV backup flexibility | 6,600 W | 8.3 | ||
| Westinghouse 12000W Tri-Fuel Inverter | electronics-heavy home backup | 9,000 W | 7.9 | ||
| Westinghouse 18000W Tri-Fuel | demanding household backup | 14,500 W | Gasoline, propane, natural gas | 7.6 | |
| WEN 14500W Tri-Fuel (TF-1450X) | propane-first home backup | 11,500 W | 7.4 | ||
| Westinghouse 28000W Tri-Fuel | extensive home circuits | 20,000 W | Gasoline, propane, natural gas | 7.0 |
The best tri-fuel generators for different needs
Choose the smallest model that comfortably covers your planned loads on your main fuel. Each pick below has a distinct role, from selected circuits and RV use to extensive household backup.
Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel: Best for broad home backup
- 11,500 running watts on gasoline
- Less than 5% THD
- Remote and push-button start
- CO sensor
A strong fit for homes that need several essential circuits and room for motor startup loads. Its 30A and 50A outlets support compatible home connection equipment.
Pros
- Substantial continuous gasoline output
- Pressure lubrication and reusable oil screen
- Remote start and CO sensor
Cons
- 230 lb requires a moving plan
- Transfer switch sold separately
Choose this model for a home backup plan that needs 11,500 running watts on gasoline and room for motor startup demands. Its 30A and 50A outlets give an electrician options for matching compatible transfer equipment.
Push-button and remote starting make startup easier once the generator is safely positioned. It also supports the separately sold Westinghouse WATS200 automatic transfer switch, which requires a properly planned installation.
The 550cc engine uses pressure lubrication and a reusable oil screen. Output has less than 5% THD, while Westinghouse specifies up to 19 hours at 25% load from the 9.5-gallon gasoline tank.
Skip it if you only need a refrigerator, a few lights and charging outlets. Its 230 lb weight also makes it a poor choice for frequent loading into a vehicle.
Before buying for natural gas, confirm its capacity on that fuel against your appliances. Use our generator size guide to turn those appliances into a written load plan.
Westinghouse 13500W Tri-Fuel: Best for managed household loads
- 10,500 running watts on gasoline
- Remote, push-button and recoil start
- 9.5-gallon gasoline tank
- CO sensor
Suits households with a defined essential-load plan that fits below the top pick's output. Recoil starting adds a manual option alongside electric starting.
Pros
- Three starting methods
- Pressure lubrication and reusable oil screen
- 30A and 50A connection options
Cons
- Same 230 lb weight as the top pick
- Transfer switch sold separately
Choose the 13500W model when 10,500 running watts on gasoline covers your household plan with a useful margin. Its push-button, remote and recoil starting options suit buyers who want a manual starting alternative.
The 500cc engine has pressure lubrication and a reusable oil screen. Westinghouse specifies up to 19 hours at 25% load on a 9.5-gallon gasoline tank.
Its 30A and 50A outlets support compatible home connection equipment, and it can pair with the separately sold WATS200 automatic transfer switch. Decide which connection route you need before ordering cables or transfer hardware.
This model makes sense when you can schedule large appliances rather than run every load together. For example, you might leave an optional appliance off while another motor starts.
Skip it if you want a lighter alternative to the top pick: both weigh 230 lb. Also confirm propane or natural gas output before making either fuel the basis of your backup plan.
Westinghouse 12500W Tri-Fuel: Best for essential home circuits
- 9,500 running watts on gasoline
- 8,500 running watts on propane
- 7,500 running watts on natural gas
- CO shutdown
A practical choice for selected home circuits when its fuel-specific capacity covers your appliances. Remote, electric and recoil starting give you several ways to get running.
Pros
- Output figures for all three fuels
- 30A and 50A outlets
- Digital hour meter
Cons
- 215 lb requires planned handling
- Lower output on gaseous fuels
The 12500W model suits selected essential circuits because its output is clear across all three fuels. It supplies 9,500 running watts on gasoline, 8,500 on propane and 7,500 on natural gas.
That makes it easier to plan a smaller set of appliances that stays within capacity even when you switch fuels. Build that plan around refrigeration, needed pumps, lights and communications before adding convenience loads.
Remote, electric and recoil starting provide several startup options. Westinghouse specifies up to 12 hours of gasoline runtime from the 6.6-gallon tank, but don't assume that duration at your own load.
At 215 lb, it still needs a clear route from storage to its outdoor operating spot. The lower weight than the first two picks does not make it a carry-by-hand generator.
Skip it if your essential natural gas loads already approach its continuous limit. Our Westinghouse 12500 tri-fuel review takes a closer look at this model.
Westinghouse 8200W Tri-Fuel Inverter: Best for RV backup flexibility
- 6,600 running watts on gasoline
- Less than 3% THD
- 120V TT-30R RV outlet
- CO sensor
Fits buyers who want an inverter for selected home loads and a dedicated RV connection. It is the lightest model here, though it still needs wheels and a suitable moving route.
Pros
- Dedicated RV outlet
- Low THD for electronics
- Lower weight than the other picks
Cons
- Lowest continuous output here
- Still heavy for vehicle loading
Choose the smaller inverter for selected home loads and RV use, especially when power quality matters more than maximum capacity. Its dedicated 120V TT-30R RV outlet is useful alongside the 120/240V 50A home backup outlet.
Running output is 6,600 watts on gasoline, 5,940 on propane and 5,280 on natural gas. Keep those limits in mind if an RV air conditioner or household pump will start while other appliances are running.
It produces less than 3% THD. Westinghouse specifies about 60 dBA at 25% load and up to 17 hours at that load on the 3.9-gallon gasoline tank.
At 134.5 lb, it is the lightest pick here, but lifting it into a truck still needs a plan. Wheels help on suitable ground; they don't solve steps or vehicle loading.
Skip it for a backup plan built around several large electric appliances. The 50A receptacle accepts a compatible connection, but cannot increase the generator's total output.
Westinghouse 12000W Tri-Fuel Inverter: Best for electronics-heavy home backup
- 9,000 running watts on gasoline
- Less than 3% THD
- Eco Mode
- Output and remaining-runtime display
Choose it for a larger inverter-based backup plan with electronics and household appliances. Its display helps you track output, fuel level and remaining runtime.
Pros
- More output than the smaller inverter
- 30A twist-lock and 50A outlets
- Remote start
Cons
- 191 lb limits easy transport
- Less continuous output than the leading open-frame picks
Choose this larger inverter when you want more appliance capacity with low THD than the smaller inverter offers. Its display shows power output, fuel level and remaining runtime, helping you manage changing loads.
It supplies 9,000 running watts on gasoline, 8,100 on propane and 7,200 on natural gas. Output has less than 3% THD, and the panel includes both a 50A outlet and a 30A twist-lock outlet.
Westinghouse specifies sound as low as 64 dBA and up to 19 hours at 25% load from the 7.9-gallon gasoline tank. Those are reference figures, so plan fuel use around your actual appliances.
This model fits a household that wants inverter operation without dropping to the smallest capacity here. Its 191 lb weight still favors rolling between storage and an outdoor location rather than frequent transport.
Skip it if your continuous demand exceeds its rating on your chosen fuel. Also skip it if a dedicated TT-30R RV outlet is central to your connection plan.
Westinghouse 18000W Tri-Fuel: Best for demanding household backup
- 14,500 running watts on gasoline
- Less than 5% THD
- Full-pressure lubrication with oil filter
- CO sensor
Fits households whose calculated loads exceed the smaller open-frame options. Its size calls for a clear outdoor route, suitable storage and a planned electrical connection.
Pros
- High continuous gasoline output
- Automotive-style oil filter
- Remote start
Cons
- 348.3 lb complicates handling
- Large storage footprint
Choose the 18000W model when a detailed load calculation calls for more capacity than the leading smaller models. It delivers 14,500 running watts on gasoline and supports propane and natural gas operation.
Its 713cc engine uses full-pressure lubrication with an automotive-style oil filter. Less than 5% THD and remote starting accompany the 30A and 50A connection options.
Westinghouse specifies up to 16 hours at 25% load on its 10.5-gallon gasoline tank. Higher loads require a different refueling plan, so don't base overnight operation on that figure alone.
The practical hurdle is handling: it weighs 348.3 lb and measures 30.3 x 34.9 x 34.3 in. Check gates, storage access and the full route to its safe outdoor location before delivery.
Skip it if rotating a few optional loads would let a smaller generator cover your needs. Our generator transfer switch guide explains the connection planning this size of backup setup needs.
WEN 14500W Tri-Fuel (TF-1450X): Best for propane-first home backup
- 11,500 running watts on gasoline
- 10,300 running watts on propane
- 8,750 running watts on natural gas
- CO Watchdog shutdown
A useful option when propane is your main stored fuel and its continuous output fits your load plan. It includes an LPG hose and a natural gas quick-connect adapter.
Pros
- Clear output figures across fuels
- Key-operated electric start with recoil backup
- 30A and 50A transfer-switch-ready outlets
Cons
- Output falls when switching away from gasoline
- Do not assume an adapter completes a natural gas installation
Choose the WEN when propane is your main stored fuel and its fuel-specific capacity fits your household. It provides 11,500 running watts on gasoline, 10,300 on propane and 8,750 on natural gas.
Key-operated electric start and recoil backup suit buyers who prefer to start at the generator. The onboard meter tracks voltage, frequency, total runtime and session runtime for operation and maintenance planning.
WEN includes a 6-foot LPG hose and a natural gas quick-connect adapter. Have the natural gas connection checked for compatible fittings and adequate delivery rather than assuming the adapter completes the installation.
The 8.2-gallon gasoline tank supports up to 12 hours at half load, according to WEN. That figure uses a different load basis from the quarter-load figures attached to several other picks.
Skip it if remote starting is a requirement or your natural gas loads exceed its capacity. The fuel selector simplifies selection, but follow the manual's procedure for changing fuels.
Westinghouse 28000W Tri-Fuel: Best for extensive home circuits
- 20,000 running watts on gasoline
- 17.2-gallon gas tank
- 125A 240V terminal block
- CO sensor
For extensive backup plans that justify a large generator and an electrician-designed connection. Its terminal block offers a connection route beyond the individual receptacles.
Pros
- Highest gasoline output here
- Terminal block for professional connection
- Full-pressure lubrication with oil filter
Cons
- 557 lb needs substantial handling provisions
- Installation and fuel supply need advance planning
Choose the largest model only when extensive household loads justify its size and connection needs. Its 20,000 running watts on gasoline are the highest in this group.
It has two 50A outlets, two 30A twist-lock outlets and a 125A 240V terminal block. A licensed electrician can plan a terminal-block connection with suitable transfer equipment for access beyond an individual receptacle's limits.
The 999cc engine uses full-pressure lubrication and an automotive-style oil filter. It also has remote starting, less than 5% THD and a 17.2-gallon gasoline tank.
At 557 lb, moving it is part of the installation plan. Check the surface, slope, gate width and storage location, including whether you can deploy it during an outage without powered lifting equipment.
Skip it for a modest essential-circuit plan or a property without a practical outdoor operating location. Confirm output on propane or natural gas before buying it to run primarily on either fuel.
How to choose a tri-fuel generator for your home
Choose by main fuel, continuous load and connection method, in that order. Once those fit, compare inverter operation, starting features and the effort needed to move and maintain the machine.
Which fuel will your tri-fuel generator use most?
Make your main fuel choice before comparing capacity. A generator sized around gasoline output may need fewer connected appliances when running on propane or natural gas.
Gasoline suits buyers who want a self-contained fuel supply, but it needs approved containers and a storage rotation plan. Follow the engine manual's fuel guidance rather than leaving old fuel in the tank until the next outage.
Propane offers a separate stored supply without gasoline aging in the carburetor. Cylinder size, outdoor temperature and demand affect fuel delivery, so select the cylinder and regulator arrangement required by the generator.
Natural gas can reduce trips to refill stored fuel, but it depends on an available utility supply. Have a qualified gas professional confirm the line, hose, regulator and connection can meet the generator's needs.
Keep an alternative fuel ready if fuel flexibility is your reason for buying. Our guide to propane generator runtime explains how load and cylinder supply affect operating time.
Build a load list around essentials
Add the running watts of appliances that must operate together, then account for motor startup demands. Peak watts cover brief surges, so they cannot replace the continuous rating in your calculation.
Start with the loads that protect food, provide needed heat circulation or keep water out of the basement. Add lights, communications and optional appliances afterward.
For example, a refrigerator, freezer, sump pump and gas furnace blower may have separate motors that start without warning. Their running total alone will not show the hardest moment for the generator.
Use appliance labels and manuals instead of guessing from appliance names. Our what size generator do I need guide explains how to organize those figures.
Write down which loads can wait if capacity is tight. Scheduling a microwave or other optional appliance around motor loads can reduce the size you need, provided essential equipment still has startup room.
Match the connection to your actual power plan
A compatible transfer switch or approved interlock arrangement lets you supply selected home circuits while preventing backfeeding. Have a qualified electrician match the generator, inlet, cable and transfer equipment.
An outlet's amperage is a connection limit, not a promise that the generator supplies that much power. The generator's output, receptacle rating, cable and home connection all constrain the usable setup.
Also ask about balancing 120V loads across the generator's two legs. A large total rating does not mean every watt is available through one household receptacle or one side of the system.
If you only need cord-connected appliances, use outdoor-rated cords sized for the load and length. Avoid damaged cords, loose plugs and routes through standing water.
Read whether you need a generator transfer switch before buying for home circuits. Never connect generator output to a household wall outlet.
Decide whether inverter operation earns its place
Choose an inverter when lower THD and load-following engine speed suit your equipment and use pattern. The two inverter picks here have less than 3% THD.
The 14500W, 18000W and 28000W Westinghouse open-frame picks specify less than 5% THD. Don't apply that figure to the other open-frame models, and check any sensitive equipment's power requirements.
Sound figures also need matching conditions before they support a fair comparison. Load, distance and surroundings affect what you hear, so avoid treating separate minimum noise claims as a measured gap.
Our inverter vs regular generator guide explains the practical tradeoffs. For this roundup, the main choice is inverter features versus the higher continuous output available from several open-frame options.
Check the route from storage to operation
Choose a generator you can deploy safely during an outage, including in darkness. Measure doorways and gates, and look for steps, soft ground or slopes along the route.
Allow room to reach the fuel controls, oil fill and service points. A machine that fits tightly in storage may still be awkward to move out or maintain.
Wheels and handles help with movement, but these are heavy machines. Plan help or appropriate moving equipment before you need it, especially for the largest models.
Set up your generator before an outage
Prepare the location, fuel supply and electrical connection before relying on the generator. A calm first setup gives you time to learn the controls and resolve fit problems.
Choose a safe outdoor operating spot
Run the generator outdoors, away from doors, windows, vents and occupied areas, following its manual's placement requirements. Never use a home, garage, crawl space or partly enclosed area as the operating location.
A CO shutdown sensor is a backup feature, not permission to move the generator closer to people. Keep working CO alarms inside the home.
Review generator carbon monoxide safety and whether a generator can run in the rain before setup. Keep electrical connections dry with a suitable weather arrangement that preserves required airflow and exhaust clearance.
Complete assembly and learn the starting sequence
Follow the manual for wheel assembly, battery connection and the correct oil fill. Included oil does not mean the engine is ready to start without checking the level.
Learn the fuel valve, selector, choke if applicable, breaker and shutdown controls. Remote starting still requires a clear operating area and the proper fuel and electrical setup.
Run through the manual's startup procedure with loads disconnected, then add intended appliances in stages. Confirm that automatic motor starts fit within the plan before depending on it overnight.
Plan fuel changes and shutdowns
Follow the model's instructions whenever changing fuels; don't assume every selector supports the same switching procedure. Recalculate connected loads if the next fuel has a lower output rating.
Stop the engine and let it cool before adding gasoline. Keep fuel containers away from hot surfaces and store them in an approved location.
Remote start does not make every model an automatic home backup system. The generator, transfer equipment and installation must specifically support the automatic operation you want.
Care habits and common mistakes to avoid
Use the manual's hour-based and calendar-based service schedule to keep the generator ready. Record operating hours, oil changes and storage work so a long outage does not push maintenance past its due point.
Maintain it between outages
Check oil as directed and service the air filter, spark plug and other engine parts at the required intervals. Low-oil shutdown helps protect the engine, but does not replace routine level checks.
Keep the starting battery charged using the recommended method. Electric and remote starting depend on battery readiness, so include it in your regular checks.
For storage, follow the fuel-system procedure for the fuel you've used. Propane or natural gas operation does not remove engine oil, filter or battery care.
Inspect hoses, cords and connectors before each deployment. Replace damaged parts with compatible components rather than trying to work around leaks or poor connections.
Avoid sizing and runtime shortcuts
Don't size a generator from the peak number in its name or from gasoline capacity when you'll use natural gas. Both shortcuts can leave essential loads beyond the available continuous output.
Don't treat maximum runtime as a promise for your home. Quarter-load operation, half-load operation and a house cycling several motors use fuel differently.
Don't connect every appliance at once after startup. Add loads in a planned order, leaving room for refrigerators and pumps to cycle later.
Finally, don't buy more capacity to compensate for an unknown load list. A written plan often reveals which appliances must run together and which can wait.
Which tri-fuel generator should you choose?
Choose the Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel for a substantial home backup plan with compatible connection equipment. Pick the 13500W model when its lower capacity covers your loads, or the 12500W model for a defined essential-circuit plan.
Choose the 8200W inverter for selected loads and a dedicated RV connection. Move to the 12000W inverter when you need more continuous power while keeping inverter operation.
The WEN is worth considering for propane-first backup. Choose the 18000W or 28000W Westinghouse only when your load calculation and installation plan justify the added size.
Before ordering any tri fuel generator, write down your main fuel, essential loads and connection method. Use our generator size guide to settle the capacity before choosing convenience features.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
What is a tri-fuel generator?
A tri-fuel generator runs on gasoline, propane or natural gas, using one fuel at a time. Its continuous and startup output can change with the fuel selected.
Choose around the fuel you expect to use most, then check whether the remaining options can still support your essential loads.
Is a tri-fuel generator better than a dual-fuel generator?
A tri-fuel generator is more useful when you have a suitable natural gas supply and want gasoline or propane as alternatives. A dual-fuel generator can cover your needs if you only plan to store those two fuels.
The third option adds flexibility, but does not replace load sizing or connection planning.
Can I connect a tri-fuel generator to my house?
Yes, through compatible transfer equipment installed to prevent backfeeding into utility lines. A transfer-switch-ready outlet is only one part of that setup.
Have a qualified electrician select the inlet, cable and transfer switch or approved interlock arrangement.
Never connect generator output to a household wall outlet.
Does a tri-fuel generator make the same power on every fuel?
No, power output can fall when switching from gasoline to propane or natural gas. Size your appliances against the continuous rating for your intended fuel, not the largest number in the model name.
Keep motor startup demands within the matching peak rating, and reduce connected loads before changing your fuel plan.
Can I run a generator indoors or in a garage?
No, run a portable generator outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents, following its placement instructions. An open garage door or built-in CO sensor does not make an enclosed location safe.
Read our guide to generator carbon monoxide risks and use working CO alarms inside your home.
