A tri fuel generator runs on gasoline, propane or natural gas, and this tri fuel generator review compares eleven current models on the numbers that matter: how much power each one keeps on each fuel. That last part is where most buyers get caught out. Every tri fuel generator is weaker on natural gas than the big number on the box suggests.
We have not run these generators ourselves. This is a review of published specifications, set side by side so the differences are easy to see. You will find a full comparison table, a ranking by natural gas output, six picks for different needs, and a plain account of what each one does well and where it falls short.
All figures come from the makers’ own Amazon listings and websites, checked in October 2026.
Tri fuel generators at a glance
Three fuels, three power ratings, one generator
Specs come from current Amazon listings and manufacturer websites for Champion, Generac, Westinghouse, WEN and Pulsar models, checked in October 2026.
Quick answer
For most homes, the Westinghouse 12500 Tri-Fuel is the balanced choice, with 9,500 running watts on gasoline, 8,500 on propane and 7,500 on natural gas. If natural gas output matters most, the Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel keeps 9,500 running watts on it. If you want quiet, clean power, look at the Westinghouse iGen12000TFc or the Champion 11,000-Watt Tri Fuel inverter. On average these generators keep about 80% of their gasoline output when they run on natural gas, so size on that figure.
How we reviewed these generators
We did not test these generators. We compared the specifications each maker publishes on its Amazon listing and website: running and peak watts on all three fuels, engine size, weight, noise where stated, outlets, starting method and warranty. Our picks are judgments based on those published figures, not on hands-on use. We do not show prices or star ratings, because both change constantly.
In this guide
- What Is a Tri Fuel Generator?
- The Full Comparison
- How Much Power Survives on Natural Gas?
- Open Frame or Inverter?
- Six Tri Fuel Generators Reviewed
- What You Need Besides the Generator
- How to Choose a Tri Fuel Generator
- Common Mistakes With Tri Fuel Generators (and the Fix)
- Pro Tips for Tri Fuel Owners
- Real-Life Scenarios: Which One Fits?
- Tri Fuel Generator Review: FAQ
- Your Tri Fuel Buying Checklist
What Is a Tri Fuel Generator?
A tri fuel generator has one engine and three ways to feed it.
- Gasoline from its own tank. This gives the most power.
- Propane from a cylinder or tank, through a hose and regulator.
- Natural gas from your home’s gas line, through a hose to a gas outlet.
You choose the fuel with a dial or switch. Most models include the propane hose, and many include a natural gas hose as well.
Why would anyone want three fuels? Because fuel is what fails in a long emergency. Gas stations close. Cylinders run out. With a tri fuel generator you always have another option, and on natural gas you may not need to refuel at all.
If two fuels are enough for you, our guide to dual-fuel generators covers the simpler choice.
The Full Comparison
Here are all eleven models, sorted by natural gas output.
| Model | Type | Gasoline | Propane | Natural gas | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champion 8500-Watt Tri Fuel inverter | Inverter | 6,500 | 5,850 | 5,265 | 151 lb |
| Westinghouse iGen8200TFc | Inverter | 6,600 | 5,940 | 5,280 | 134.5 lb |
| Champion 8125-Watt Tri Fuel | Open frame | 6,500 | 6,000 | 5,500 | 197 lb |
| Pulsar PGD105TiSCO | Inverter | 8,500 | 8,000 | 6,800 | 247 lb |
| Generac GP9500E Tri Fuel, fuel injected | Open frame | 9,500 | 8,550 | 7,000 | 227 lb |
| Westinghouse iGen12000TFc | Inverter | 9,000 | 8,100 | 7,200 | 191 lb |
| Champion 11,000-Watt Tri Fuel inverter | Inverter | 9,000 | 8,100 | 7,290 | 212 lb |
| Westinghouse 12500 Tri-Fuel | Open frame | 9,500 | 8,500 | 7,500 | 215 lb |
| Champion 12,500-Watt Tri Fuel | Open frame | 10,000 | 9,000 | 8,000 | 231 lb |
| WEN TF-1450X | Open frame | 11,500 | 10,300 | 8,750 | Not listed |
| Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel | Open frame | 11,500 | 10,500 | 9,500 | 230 lb |
One more large model deserves a mention. The Champion 15,000-Watt Tri Fuel lists 12,000 running watts on gasoline and weighs 331 pounds, but its listing highlights do not give propane or natural gas figures, so it is not in the table.
Key insight: ignore the number in the product name. It is the peak wattage on gasoline. The figure you will live with is the running wattage on the fuel you will actually burn.
How Much Power Survives on Natural Gas?
Natural gas is the weakest of the three fuels in every one of these machines. But some hold on to more of their power than others.
| Model | Running watts on gasoline | Running watts on natural gas | Share kept |
|---|---|---|---|
| Champion 8125-Watt Tri Fuel | 6,500 | 5,500 | 85% |
| Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel | 11,500 | 9,500 | 83% |
| Champion 8500-Watt Tri Fuel inverter | 6,500 | 5,265 | 81% |
| Champion 11,000-Watt Tri Fuel inverter | 9,000 | 7,290 | 81% |
| Westinghouse iGen8200TFc | 6,600 | 5,280 | 80% |
| Westinghouse iGen12000TFc | 9,000 | 7,200 | 80% |
| Champion 12,500-Watt Tri Fuel | 10,000 | 8,000 | 80% |
| Pulsar PGD105TiSCO | 8,500 | 6,800 | 80% |
| Westinghouse 12500 Tri-Fuel | 9,500 | 7,500 | 79% |
| WEN TF-1450X | 11,500 | 8,750 | 76% |
| Generac GP9500E Tri Fuel, fuel injected | 9,500 | 7,000 | 74% |
The spread runs from 74% to 85%. On a 9,500-watt generator, that is the difference between 7,000 and about 8,000 running watts on natural gas. If natural gas will be your main fuel, this table matters more than the gasoline rating.
Propane sits in the middle. Most of these models keep 89 to 92% of their gasoline output on propane.
Open Frame or Inverter?
Tri fuel generators now come in both styles, and the choice changes how the generator feels to live with.
| Point | Open-frame tri fuel | Tri fuel inverter |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Louder. Champion lists 74 dB(A) and up for its large open-frame models | About 60 to 64 dBA on the Westinghouse and Champion inverters |
| Power quality | Fine for appliances and tools | Less than 3% THD, safe for electronics |
| Fuel use at light load | Engine runs at full speed | Engine slows down to save fuel |
| Weight for the power | Heavier | Lighter in the mid sizes |
| Most power available | Up to 11,500 running watts | Up to 9,000 running watts |
| Cost for the power | Lower | Higher |
An inverter is the better neighbor and the better choice for a home full of electronics. An open-frame model gives you more watts for the money.
Our guide to inverter vs conventional generators explains the difference in depth.
Six Tri Fuel Generators Reviewed
Each of these had an active Amazon listing when we checked in October 2026. For each one we explain why it works, who it suits and what to watch for.
Best balance for most homes
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
A well-rounded open-frame tri fuel generator. It has strong output on all three fuels, remote start and the outlets a home backup setup needs.
- On gasoline9,500 running, 12,500 peak
- On propane8,500 running, 11,200 peak
- On natural gas7,500 running, 9,500 peak
- Engine457 cc OHV
- Fuel tank6.6 gallons
- Weight215 lb
- Why it works: 7,500 running watts on natural gas is enough for the essentials plus a well pump or a window air conditioner.
- Who it is best for: homeowners who want one generator that performs sensibly on any fuel.
- What it solves: fuel shortages. Three options mean one of them is nearly always available.
- Handy extras: a remote start key fob, a 50-amp 120/240-volt outlet, low-oil and carbon monoxide shutdown, and a 3-year limited warranty.
- Keep in mind: it is an open-frame generator, so it is loud, and at 215 pounds it needs a smooth path to its running spot.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Most power on natural gas
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The strongest natural gas performer in this review. It keeps 9,500 running watts on natural gas, which is 83% of its gasoline output.
- On gasoline11,500 running, 14,500 peak
- On propane10,500 running, 13,500 peak
- On natural gas9,500 running, 12,000 peak
- Engine550 cc OHV
- Fuel tank9.5 gallons
- Weight230 lb
- Why it works: a bigger 550 cc engine gives it room to spare when the fuel is weaker.
- Who it is best for: homes with a natural gas line that want to run most circuits through a transfer switch.
- What it solves: the natural gas penalty. You still have 9,500 running watts when other models are down to 7,000.
- Handy extras: remote electric start, a cast iron cylinder sleeve, copper windings and a 3-year limited warranty.
- Keep in mind: the listing gives up to 7 hours on a 20-pound propane cylinder, so plan on larger cylinders. It weighs 230 pounds.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Best tri fuel inverter
Westinghouse iGen12000TFc Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
A large tri fuel inverter. It delivers whole-home levels of power with clean output and far less noise than an open-frame generator.
- On gasoline9,000 running, 12,000 peak
- On propane8,100 running, 11,000 peak
- On natural gas7,200 running, 9,800 peak
- NoiseAs low as 64 dBA
- Fuel tank7.9 gallons
- Weight191 lb
- Why it works: inverter technology matches engine speed to demand, so it uses less fuel and makes less noise at light load.
- Who it is best for: homes with close neighbors, and anyone running computers and other sensitive electronics.
- What it solves: the usual trade-off between power and quiet. The listing gives a THD of 3% or less.
- Handy extras: remote start, a 50-amp and a 30-amp 120/240-volt outlet, a digital data display and a parallel-ready design.
- Keep in mind: it costs more than an open-frame generator of similar power. The quoted 19-hour run time is at a light 25% load.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Inverter with wireless start
Champion 11,000-Watt Remote Start Tri Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Champion’s large tri fuel inverter. It matches the Westinghouse on gasoline and propane and edges it on natural gas.
- On gasoline9,000 running, 11,000 starting
- On propane8,100 running, 11,000 starting
- On natural gas7,290 running, 11,000 starting
- 240-volt outlets30A locking and 37.5A
- Weight212.3 lb
- Warranty3-year limited
- Why it works: it starts and stops from a key fob up to 80 feet away, and both gas hoses are in the box.
- Who it is best for: homeowners who want inverter power on natural gas and value Champion’s lifetime technical support.
- What it solves: trips outside in bad weather. You can start it from indoors.
- Handy extras: CO Shield carbon monoxide shutoff, two GFCI household duplex outlets and engine oil included.
- Keep in mind: at 212 pounds it is about 20 pounds heavier than the Westinghouse inverter. Champion’s site lists its 11,000-watt inverters at 64 dB(A).
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Fuel injected
Generac GP9500E Tri Fuel Generator with EFI (12,500 Starting Watts)
Generac’s tri fuel portable with electronic fuel injection. There is no carburetor to clog, and one dial changes fuel.
- On gasoline9,500 running, 12,500 starting
- On propane8,550 running
- On natural gas7,000 running
- Run timeUp to 10.5 hours at 50% load
- 240-volt outlets30A L14-30R and 50A 14-50R
- Warranty3-year residential limited
- Why it works: fuel injection improves fuel efficiency and reduces maintenance, the listing says. The dial switches fuel without shutting the generator down.
- Who it is best for: owners who use gasoline often and are tired of carburetor problems.
- What it solves: hard starting after storage, which is usually a carburetor fault.
- Handy extras: electric start with a recoil backup, COsense carbon monoxide shutdown and a battery in the box.
- Keep in mind: it keeps the smallest share of its power on natural gas in this review, at 74%. It weighs up to 227 pounds.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Mid-size and efficient on gas
Champion 8125-Watt Electric Start Tri Fuel Portable Generator
A mid-size open-frame tri fuel generator. It keeps the largest share of its power on natural gas of any model here.
- On gasoline6,500 running, 8,125 starting
- On propane6,000 running, 7,500 starting
- On natural gas5,500 running, 6,875 starting
- Engine389 cc
- Weight197 lb
- Warranty3-year limited
- Why it works: it loses only about 15% of its running power on natural gas, so the rating you see is closer to what you get.
- Who it is best for: households that want the essentials covered on a gas line without buying a 200-pound-plus machine.
- What it solves: setup. Both the natural gas and propane hoses are included, along with engine oil.
- Handy extras: electric start, CO Shield and a meter for voltage, frequency and run time.
- Keep in mind: 5,500 running watts on natural gas covers essentials only. The listing highlights do not state the outlet types, so check the panel.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Specs come from the Amazon listing, checked October 2026.
Two more to consider. The WEN TF-1450X lists 8,750 running watts on natural gas with a natural gas quick-connect adapter in the box. The Pulsar PGD105TiSCO is a CARB-compliant tri fuel inverter rated at 62 dB.
What You Need Besides the Generator
A tri fuel generator is only useful with the right connections. Budget for these before you buy.
| Fuel | What you need | Who should fit it |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | Approved fuel cans and fresh, stabilized fuel | You |
| Propane | A cylinder and the supplied hose and regulator | You, with a leak check each time |
| Natural gas | A gas outlet with enough supply, and a hose | A licensed gas fitter |
| Power to the house | A transfer switch or interlock, an inlet box and a cord | A licensed electrician |
The natural gas outlet is the item people forget. Your gas meter must also be able to supply the generator together with your other appliances. Ask your gas company before you rely on it.
Our guide on how to connect a generator to your house explains the electrical side.
How to Choose a Tri Fuel Generator
Work through these in order.
- Decide your main fuel. If it is natural gas, shop by natural gas running watts.
- Add up your loads. Use our Generator Size Calculator for the running watts and the biggest starting surge.
- Check for 240-volt needs. A well pump or central air needs a 120/240-volt outlet.
- Choose the style. Inverter for quiet and electronics, open frame for the most watts.
- Check the weight and your storage path. Most of these weigh 190 to 230 pounds.
- Look at what is in the box. Hoses, a battery, a remote and oil all save a second order.
- Read the warranty. Most listings here state three years.
Common Mistakes With Tri Fuel Generators (and the Fix)
Pro Tips for Tri Fuel Owners
- Test every fuel on a calm day. Run the generator on gasoline, propane and natural gas once, so you know each connection works.
- Label the hoses. Mark which hose is for propane and which is for natural gas, so nobody mixes them up in the dark.
- Start big motors on the strongest fuel you have. If a pump struggles to start on natural gas, the surge rating is the reason.
- Keep one fuel in reserve. Use natural gas day to day and keep propane as the backup to the backup.
- Store the generator near where it runs. Moving 200 pounds across a yard in a storm is harder than it sounds.
- Follow the oil schedule. Running for days on natural gas adds up hours quickly.
Real-Life Scenarios: Which One Fits?
These are typical situations that buyers describe in forums and reviews. They are examples to help you choose, not quotes from real people.
🏡 The gas-line homeowner
You have natural gas, a well pump and outages that can last several days.
You need strong natural gas output and a 240-volt outlet.
Best fit: Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel
🏘️ The close-neighbor suburb
Houses are a few yards apart, and a loud generator at night will not be popular.
You need inverter-level noise with home backup power.
Best fit: Westinghouse iGen12000TFc or Champion 11,000-Watt inverter
🧰 The essentials-only household
You want the refrigerator, furnace fan, lights and internet to stay on, without a huge machine.
You need modest power that holds up on natural gas.
Best fit: Champion 8125-Watt Tri Fuel
Tri Fuel Generator Review: FAQ
What is the best tri fuel generator?
It depends on your fuel and your loads. On published specs, the Westinghouse 12500 Tri-Fuel is the best balance for most homes, the Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel has the most natural gas output, and the Westinghouse iGen12000TFc and Champion 11,000-Watt are the leading inverters.
Do tri fuel generators lose power on natural gas?
Yes. The eleven models in this review keep between 74% and 85% of their gasoline running watts on natural gas, with most close to 80%.
Are tri fuel generators worth it?
They are worth it if you have a natural gas line or face long outages where fuel is hard to find. If you will only ever use gasoline, a single-fuel generator costs less.
Can a tri fuel generator run a whole house?
The largest ones can run most of a home through a transfer switch. On natural gas, the models here supply between about 5,300 and 9,500 running watts, so add up your loads carefully.
Do I need a special hookup for natural gas?
Yes. A licensed gas fitter must install a gas outlet with enough supply for the generator, and your gas meter must be able to handle the extra demand.
Is a tri fuel inverter better than an open-frame tri fuel generator?
An inverter is quieter, makes cleaner power and uses less fuel at light load. An open-frame generator gives more watts for the money. Choose by your neighbors, your electronics and your budget.
Your Tri Fuel Buying Checklist
- Choose your main fuel and your backup fuel.
- Add up your running watts and largest starting surge.
- Compare models by running watts on your main fuel.
- Check for a 120/240-volt outlet if you need one.
- Decide between open frame and inverter.
- Check the weight and where you will keep it.
- See which hoses and accessories are included.
- Arrange a gas outlet and a transfer switch with licensed trades.
- Ask your gas company about meter capacity.
- Test all three fuels before storm season.
The bottom line
Buy a tri fuel generator for the fuel you will really use. For most homes with a gas line, the Westinghouse 12500 Tri-Fuel gives a sensible balance of power on all three fuels. Step up to the 14500 for more natural gas output, or to an inverter if noise matters.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Sources: Current Amazon listings for the Champion, Generac, Westinghouse, WEN and Pulsar tri fuel generators named in this review; Champion Power Equipment’s official website for noise figures; Generac’s official website. All checked October 2026.
