Best Champion Dual-Fuel Generators

Dual fuel power generators give their users freedom of choosing two types of fuel for their units - gasoline (or for short "gas") and LPG (Liquid Propane Gas, or just "propane", which may be very important, especially in emergencies when gas is sometimes rather hard to find.

Champion Power Equipment company is known for a broad range of dual-fuel generators, ranging from small inverter generators being able to provide 1.5-2 kW to large 8-10 kW units, being able to power large RVs and even smaller homes.

Updated: October 4, 2022.

On This Page:

Champion Dual-Fuel Generators Intro Fuel Types and Capacity Power Output - How Much Power Is Needed? Inverter Generator or Classic Generator? Receptacles Parallel Ready Generators Recoil Cord vs. Electric Start vs. Remote Start Generator Noise Levels Generator Size and Weight Best Dual-Fuel Champion Generators Reviews Dual-Fuel Champion Generators Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Few Final Words

 

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Champion Dual-Fuel Generators Intro

Champion manufactures a broad range of dual-fuel power generators that are able to run on both gas and propane - almost all Champion gas-only generators have a version that is able to run on both gas and propane.

The following comparison table lists some of the most popular dual-fuel champion power generators with their most important features and specifications:

Regardless if the generators are powered by gas or propane, they must be operated outside, at a certain distance from the nearest windows/doors, preferably down the wind - it is a good practice to have the Owner's Guide/manual stored with the unit in order to read it from time to time, especially maintenance procedures and potential safety issues.

When looking for a new power generator, having a dual-fuel unit can come in handy in many situations. Also, always choose according to your own needs and preferences, taking into account the following:

Fuel Types and Tank Capacity

Dual-fuel power generators can be run on gas and on propane.

Most of the units accept ordinary gas with up to 10% ethanol, but this should be checked in the Owner's Guide for each model.

However, gas, especially with ethanol added can't be stored for a longer time, and powering any internal combustion engine with stale gas can cause many issues.

On the other hand, propane can be stored for a much longer period of time with no issues. Also, propane burns much cleaner, decreasing engine wear and prolonging the engine's operating life.

When the power generators are using propane, their output power slightly decreases - this is a typical occurrence for all dual-fuel power generators, not just Champion dual-fuel power generators.

Gas fuel tanks are usually dimensioned to allow the units to operate usually from 7 to 14h @25% load, although larger units sometimes have gas tanks large enough to operate up to 14h @50% load.

Propane is usually stored in 20 pounds (~9.06 kg) tanks, with the runtime depending on the generator size and output.

But, if more propane is required, go for more 20 lbs tanks and/or go for 40 lbs or even larger propane tanks.

Power Output - How Much Power Is Needed?

First of all, power generators come with two power ratings - Running Power and Starting Power.

Running Power is the output in Watts that the unit can provide continuously while Starting Power is the output power that the unit can provide for a very short time.

Starting Power is obviously larger than Running Power and is required to prevent issues with load spikes - when an appliance or tool with an electric motor starts, it draws more Amps than normal. Without some extra power from the power generators, such devices would cause an overload of the generator which would have to protect itself (tripped fuses, for example).

When planning for the maximum Running/Starting Power, check our Appliances Wattage Charts article and always leave some extra power for reserve - just in case.

Small inverter power generators in the range of ~2 kW are small enough to require very little storage area, but they are strong enough to power a refrigerator, a TV, and a few more smaller appliances. However, most of them are able to power only one 1.5kW microwave or similar appliance with almost no other loads.

Larger units are more expensive and they require more storage area. But, depending on their size, they can be used to power several 1+ kW tools and appliances, including modern, highly efficient AC units. 

Inverter Generator or Classic Generator?

Inverter generators feature more complex electronics, but they also feature very low THD (Total Harmonic Distortions) allowing them to power sensitive loads directly. Also, they allow the engine to run at variable speeds, increasing fuel efficiency.

Classic generators feature less complex electronics and have their engines run at a constant speed, usually 3000 RPM for 50 Hz and 3600 RPM for 60 Hz.

Also, they feature higher THD levels and they are not always suitable to power sensitive loads directly.

Classic generators are usually larger units. 

Receptacles

The list of receptacles is a very important detail of each power generator.

The most common receptacles are AC 120V 20A 5-20R, AC 120V 30A TT-30R, AC 120V 30A L5-30R, AC 120V/240V 30A L14-30R, AC 120V/240V 50A 14-30R, DC 12V Automotive (Cigarette Lighter Adapter Port), and DC USB 5V.

Before getting a new power generator, be sure that the model You like has receptacles that You need.

However, if required, there are also many adapters that help the user to connect different plugs and receptacles, although that should be avoided as much as possible.

Parallel Ready Generators

Parallel ready power generators allow the users to connect in parallel two compatible power generators.

Such operation not only enables the users to power larger loads, but parallel kits also often provide additional receptacles that are not directly available on the power generators.

Recoil Cord vs. Electric Start vs. Remote Start

Power generators feature several engine start systems, including:

- manual recoil starting system is the default engine start system in smaller units and a backup engine start system in larger units,

- electric engine starting system found in power generators is very similar to the engine starting systems found in cars - a built-in battery provide the energy required for the engine starter to spin the engine and when the engine starts, the battery is quickly fully recharged.

- remote start systems feature an electric starting system with the remote fob and personally, it is an excellent thing to have.

Don't call me lazy, but imagine that You are in your bed in your tent or RV, and in order to make a cup of coffee for breakfast or anything similar, You have to get out of your bed, go to the power generator, and start it manually.

Now, imagine that You are still in the bed and You start your generator using a remote control fob ... 

Generator Noise Levels

Noise levels are very important when the power generator is run in an urban environment or close to the people and animals in general.

For the power generator to be considered very quiet, it should have noise levels below 52-53 dB @25% load measured from the 20-23 feet distance.

Note: this is a very tough requirement, especially for larger units.

Larger Champion dual-fuel power generators are not the quietest units on the market, but they are also far from being the loudest - additional shielding and sound protection would increase the price and weight of the units.

For more about this topic, feel free to check our Best Portable Quietest Generators article. 

Generator Size and Weight

Dual fuel Champion generators range in weight from ~50 pounds to 200+ pounds units.

While smaller units can be carried using their built-in handles, larger units feature handles combined with wheels, allowing the users to transport them to shorter distances and even load them into the cars/trucks.

Note: whatever You do with the power generators, stay safe! 50 pounds don't feel heavy at first, but if such unit has to be carried to longer distances, it will probably be felt the day after in the form of sore muscles. 

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Best Dual-Fuel Champion Generators Reviews

The actual list of the dual-fuel Champion power generators is quite long - here are the most popular units with their short reviews.

Champion 100402 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

Champion 100402 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a compact and relatively lightweight dual-fuel inverter generator, powered by a 4-stroke 80cc engine, featuring a recoil starting system.

When the unit is powered by gasoline, Champion 100402 is able to provide 1600 Running and 2000 Starting watts and when the unit is powered by LPG, Champion 100402 is able to provide 1440 Running and 1800 Starting Watts.

This perhaps doesn't sound very impressive, but Champion 100402 feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 20.5 x 12.6 x 16.9 inches (~52 x 32 x 43 cm) and it weighs only 47.6 pounds (~21.6 kg) with an empty fuel tank.

Fuel tank capacity is 1.1 gallons (~4.2 liters) and insure runtime of up to 11h @25% (400W) load.

Champion 100402 comes with a duplex 120V 20A 5-20R receptacles and one 12V 8A DC port.

If more power is needed, it is possible to double the output with the optional ParaLINK Parallel Kit (obviously, it is not included) with an RV outlet and 30 amps of power.

Champion 100402 power generator is a true inverter generator featuring very low THD levels (<3%) and is able to power even very sensitive tools and appliances.

The unit features fully enclosed construction, featuring very low noise levels of only 53 dB @25% load.

Champion 100402 is an EPA-certified and CARB compliant generator that comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 100402 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Champion 100263 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Champion 100263 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator is powered by 192cc 4-stroke engine providing 3100 Running Watts and 3400 Starting Watts when being powered by gas and 2790 Running Watts and 3060 Starting Watts when being powered by propane.

Champion 100263 features both an electric start (starting battery included) and a manual recoil start system.

Physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches (~63.8 x 44 x 46.5 cm) and it weighs 95.7 pounds (~43.4 kg) dry.

Fuel tank capacity is 1.6 gallons (~6.1 liters) and it ensures runtime of 7.5h hours @25% (775W).

When the unit is powered by standard 20 pounds propane tank, the runtime is 14.5h @25% (~700 W).

The list of receptacles includes one 120V 30A TT-30R and two 120V 20A 5-20R receptacles. Also, Champion 100263 comes with a 12V automotive port.

Champion 100263 is a parallel ready unit, allowing the users to practically double output power using two units.

Noise levels are 59 dB @25%.

Champion 100263 comes with a foldable handle and a pair of small wheels, allowing the user to easily transport the unit to shorter distances.

If required, the unit also features a pair of top handles, allowing two adults to load and unload the unit in and out of a car/truck or similar.

Champion 100263 features very low THD levels (<3%) and can be used to directly power sensitive loads.

Champion 100263 is an EPA-certified and CARB compliant generator that comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 100263 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator

Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator is an open frame power generator powered by 224cc 4-stroke engine ensuring 3800 Running Watts and 4750 Starting Watts when being powered with gas and 3420 Running Watts and 4275 Starting Watts when the unit is powered by propane.

The unit comes with an electric start system and a classic manual recoil start system (backup system).

Physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches (~66.8 x 63 x 58 cm) and it weighs 119 pounds (~53.9 kg) dry.

Fuel tank capacity is 3.4 gallons (~13 liters) and ensures runtime of 9h @50% (1900W) load. When the unit is powered by propane, the expected runtime is 10.5h @50% (~1700W) load.

The list of receptacles includes one 120V 30A RV outlet (TT-30R), one 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R), and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R) - the Champion 76533 power generator doesn't feature DC ports.

Noise levels are at 68 dB @25% measured at the distance of 23 feet (~7 m) - noise levels of an average vacuum cleaner.

Champion 76533 power generator comes with a pair of wheels and a folding handle, allowing a single user to transport the unit to shorter distances.

Champion 76533 is an EPA-certified and CARB compliant generator that comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Champion 100231 6900/5500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Champion 100231 6900/5500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an open-frame power generator featuring a 4-stroke 389cc engine ensuring 5500 Running Watts and 6900 Starting Watts when running on gas and 5000 Running Watts and 6250 Starting Watts when running on propane.

The engine features a recoil-only starting mechanism, keeping the unit as simple as possible and at a rather affordable price.

Physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 27.0 x 27.7 x 24.4 inches (~68.6 x 70.4 x 62 cm) and it weighs 162.5 pounds (~73.6 kg) dry.

Fuel tank capacity is 6.0 gallons (~22.8 liters) which is enough for 9h of constant operation @50% (2750W) load. When the unit is powered by a 20 lbs propane tank, runtime is 6.5 hours @50% (2500W) load.

The list of receptacles includes one 120/240V 30A Locking (L14-30R) and two GFCI 120V 20A Duplex (5-20R) ports.

Noise levels are 74 dB @23 feet distance, which is a little bit more than the noise of an average vacuum cleaner.

Champion 100231 is an EPA-certified and CARB compliant generator that comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 100231 6900/5500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Champion 100165 9375/7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Champion 100165 9375/7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is large and powerful portable dual-fuel power generator, powered by 439cc 4-stroke engine providing 7500 Running Watts and 9375 Starting Watts when using gas and 6750 Running Watts and 8400 Starting Watts when burning propane.

The engine features both electric and recoil starting systems.

The physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 27.8 x 28.7 x 26.4 inches (~70.6 x 73 x 67 cm) and it weighs 202.4 pounds (~91.7 kg) dry.

Gas tank capacity is 6 gallons (~22.8 liters) and ensures 8h of operation @50% (3750W) load.

When the unit is powered by typical 20 lbs propane tank, the expected runtime is 5.5h @50% (3375W) load.

The list of receptacles includes one 120/240V 30A Locking (L14-30R), one 120V 30A Locking (L5-30R), and two GFCI 120V 20A Duplex (5-20R) ports.

Noise levels are 74 dB @23 feet distance, which is a little bit more than the noise of an average vacuum cleaner.

Champion 100231 is an EPA-certified and CARB compliant generator that comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 100165 9375/7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window). 

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Dual-Fuel Champion Generators Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding dual-fuel Champion generators and power generators in general.

Are Champion generators dual-fuel generators?

Some but not all of Champion's power generators are dual-fuel power generators.

Can Champion dual fuel generator run on natural gas?

No, Champion dual-fuel power generators run on gasoline (gas) and LPG (propane). 

Theoretically, it is possible to use various non-OEM conversion kits that would make Champion dual-fuel generators run on natural gas, but that is not officially supported.

If You are looking for a power generator that can be run on natural gas, consider one of the Champion tri-fuel generators.

How to use a dual fuel generator?

Dual-fuel generators are used just like any other generator, except that they can run on an LPG as well.

So, attach the propane hose to the generator, set the fuel selector to propane/LPG, and start the unit. If You don't want to run it using LPG, set the fuel selector to the gasoline and start the unit.

Is it cheaper to run a generator on gas or propane?

Generally, propane is cheaper in terms of $$ per kWh produced. And since the engine wear is decreased when the unit runs on propane, savings are even higher.

How long will a dual fuel generator run on propane?

Propane runtime depends on the output power and the size of the propane tank. If You need a longer runtime, consider getting a larger propane tank(s).

Just be aware of the maintenance intervals of your generator.

Are dual fuel generators worth it?

If You run a power generator rarely, perhaps they are not worth the price difference. However, if You want to store the fuel for a longer period of time and/or run a power generator frequently, then yes, dual-fuel power generators are more than worth it.

How long do Champion generators last?

It depends on the usage, fuel quality, maintenance, and similar. When the unit is maintained properly, it may easily last much longer than its warranty period.

What type of gas should I put in my generator?

Most dual fuel generators accept regular gasoline with up to 10% ethanol added. 

However, just to be sure, before filling the fuel tank, check the exact allowed/recommended gas type in the Owner's Guide of the unit that You have.

Does Champion generator charge its own battery?

Power generators that feature electric start practically always charge their battery while the engine is running.

Only when the generator is stored for a longer period of time, it is recommended to either periodically recharge the battery, or to attach a good battery maintainer during storage.

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Few Final Words

Dual fuel Champion generators are versatile and relatively easy to use and maintain power generators.

Regardless if You need them just in emergencies and blackouts or You operate them on a daily basis, keep in mind that power generators burn fossil fuels and release fumes that contain very deadly Carbon Monoxide which is tasteless and transparent - even if your power generator features Carbon Monoxide detector, never, but really never operate them indoors, regardless of how "good" ventilation is!

If any of these units fit your needs, be sure that You will get a good unit at an affordable price - and yes, there are units that are lighter, or quieter or ... But, such units are usually more expensive units or they are lacking some other feature that is available on some of these units.