Imagine this: a storm hits, the power goes out, and your house plunges into darkness. No lights, no refrigerator, no way to charge your phone. It’s a frustrating and even scary situation many of us have faced. But what if you could keep your lights on, your food cold, and your family comfortable, no matter what the weather throws at you?
Choosing a natural gas home generator can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and features to consider, and you want to make sure you pick the best one for your needs without breaking the bank. It’s a big decision, and getting it wrong can mean dealing with power outages without the backup you need.
This post is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about natural gas home generators. You’ll learn what to look for, understand the different types, and discover how to find a generator that perfectly suits your home and budget. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to make a smart choice for your family’s peace of mind.
Top Natural Gas Home 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
- Engineered with low THD, so it's safe for sensitive electronics. Power phones, computers, TVs and more. Stay connected with people, news and entertainment during power outages, or on jobsites and campsites. Durable copper windings help your generator produce cleaner power, run cooler and last longer
- All Westinghouse portable generators are gunctionally tested in the factory and may contain minimum residual oil and/or fuel odor; EPA compliant; Backed by 3-Year limited service, labor, and parts coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 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).
- CO Alert - Our innovative CO Alert eliminates the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning by automatically shutting down the generator when harmful fumes are detected.
- 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
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, and Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 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
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, and Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- With 13,000 watts of power, the XP13000HXT 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
- Run your generator on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. With Tri Fuel, we offer the ultimate freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Powerful 500cc OHV Engine: At the heart of this generator resides a robust DuroMax engine designed to provide you with the most power.
- The XP13000HXT comes with a push button start, a front facing interface that allows you to change your fuel type in seconds, and a wide variety of outlets including a transfer switch-ready 50 amp outlet
- Push Button Start and Remote Start: Turn on your generator with a simple push of a button, or use the remote to conveniently start your generator from a distance.
- TRI-FUEL FLEXIBILITY FOR ANY SITUATION: Run on gasoline, liquid propane, or natural gas with a simple dial turn, delivering 9,500 running watts and 12,500 starting watts to power home backup, job sites, or RV setups
- STABLE POWER WITH AUTOMATIC VOLTAGE REGULATION: Built-in AVR continuously stabilizes output voltage, protecting connected equipment from fluctuations and enabling reliable operation of motor-driven tools, pumps, and appliances
- 12,500 STARTING WATTS FOR HIGH-SURGE LOADS: The 500cc Generac OHV engine delivers 12,500 starting watts on gas — 32% more surge capacity than running output — handling simultaneous starts of air conditioners, sump pumps, and power tools
- COSENSE TECHNOLOGY WITH ELECTRIC START: Onboard COsense automatically detects rising carbon monoxide levels and shuts the generator down before reaching dangerous thresholds; push-button electric start with included 12V battery eliminates pull-cord effort
- EXTENDED RUNTIME WITH 7.5-GALLON FUEL TANK: Run up to 9.5 hours at 50% load on gasoline, 14 hours at 25% load, or connect to a natural gas line for virtually unlimited runtime; onboard fuel gauge lets you monitor levels at a glance
- 9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); 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 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 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 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)
- 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
- Engineered with low THD, so it's safe for sensitive electronics. Power phones, computers, TVs and more. Stay connected with people, news and entertainment during power outages, or on jobsites and campsites. Durable copper windings help your generator produce cleaner power, run cooler and last longer
- Powered by a heavy duty 550cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed with a durable cast iron sleeve
Your Guide to Natural Gas Home Generators
When the power goes out, a natural gas home generator keeps your lights on and your appliances running. It’s a smart investment for peace of mind. This guide will help you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For
Power Output (Wattage)
- This is how much electricity the generator can provide.
- Think about what you need to power: lights, refrigerator, TV, or even your whole house.
- A small generator might power a few essentials. A larger one handles more.
- Check the “running watts” (what it can power continuously) and “starting watts” (what it needs to start appliances with motors, like refrigerators).
Fuel Type: Natural Gas
- Natural gas generators connect directly to your home’s gas line.
- This means you don’t have to store or refuel with gasoline or propane.
- It’s a clean-burning fuel, which is good for the environment.
- Natural gas is usually readily available, so you won’t run out during an outage.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
- This is a crucial safety feature.
- An ATS detects when your power goes out and automatically turns on your generator.
- When utility power returns, it safely switches back.
- This means no manual switching is needed. It’s very convenient.
Noise Level
- Generators can be loud.
- Look for generators with lower decibel (dB) ratings.
- Some are designed to be quieter than others.
- This is important if you have close neighbors or want less disturbance.
Weather Resistance
- Your generator will sit outside.
- It needs to be built to withstand rain, snow, and sun.
- Look for sturdy construction and protective casings.
Important Materials and Construction
A good generator is built to last. The engine is the heart of the generator. Look for engines made from durable materials like cast iron. The outer casing should be made of strong, weather-resistant metal, like steel. A well-built generator will resist rust and damage from the elements.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Improves With:
- Reputable brands are usually a sign of good quality.
- Generators with advanced features like digital displays and remote monitoring often indicate higher quality.
- Good warranties show the manufacturer stands behind their product.
- Professional installation is key for safety and performance.
Quality Reduces With:
- Cheaper, lesser-known brands might use lower-quality parts.
- Generators that lack essential safety features can be risky.
- Poor construction that doesn’t hold up to weather will reduce lifespan.
- Lack of a good warranty can be a red flag.
User Experience and Use Cases
Natural gas generators are great for homeowners who want reliable backup power. They are ideal for keeping essential appliances running during storms or power outages. Families can continue using their refrigerators, lights, and medical equipment without worry. Some people use them to keep their sump pumps working, preventing basement flooding. Others want to maintain internet access and keep their phones charged. The automatic nature of these generators means you don’t have to be home to turn them on.
Installation usually requires a qualified electrician and a gas technician. Once installed, they are very easy to use – you just let them do their job.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much power do I need from a natural gas generator?
A: You need to figure out what you want to power. Add up the running watts of your essential appliances. Then, add a little extra for starting watts.
Q: Is a natural gas generator safe to have at home?
A: Yes, when installed by a professional and with an automatic transfer switch, they are very safe. They vent exhaust gases outside.
Q: How long can a natural gas generator run?
A: A natural gas generator can run as long as your natural gas supply lasts. This is usually for extended periods.
Q: Do I need a special connection for natural gas?
A: Yes, a licensed professional will connect the generator to your existing natural gas line.
Q: What maintenance do natural gas generators need?
A: They need regular checks, oil changes, and filter replacements. Following the manufacturer’s schedule is important.
Q: Can I run my air conditioner on a natural gas generator?
A: It depends on the size of your generator and your air conditioner. Larger generators are needed for AC units.
Q: How much does a natural gas generator cost?
A: Costs vary widely based on size and features, but expect to pay several thousand dollars for the unit and installation.
Q: Will a natural gas generator work in very cold weather?
A: Most are designed for cold weather, but it’s good to check the manufacturer’s specifications for extreme temperatures.
Q: What is an automatic transfer switch (ATS)?
A: An ATS automatically switches your home’s power from the utility grid to the generator when power is lost.
Q: Can I install a natural gas generator myself?
A: No, for safety and proper function, installation should always be done by a qualified professional.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!