Need reliable backup power? Discover the Best Natural Gas Home Generators engineered to keep your home running smoothly during any outage. We review the top models for seamless, efficient operation.
In today’s unpredictable climate, securing a reliable source of backup power is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Home generators fueled by natural gas offer an exceptional advantage: they can tap into your existing residential gas line, providing an essentially unlimited fuel supply that never runs out or requires manual refueling. This eliminates the stress of managing propane tanks or storing large quantities of gasoline, making them the most convenient option for extended power interruptions. This roundup focuses on both dedicated and tri-fuel portable units that offer natural gas capabilities, highlighting features like high wattage output, inverter technology for sensitive electronics, and vital safety features like CO sensors.
Ultimately, choosing the right generator depends on your home’s specific power needs, budget, and desired feature set. Whether you need to run your entire HVAC system and major appliances or just keep essential systems powered up, our comprehensive guide and reviews are here to help. Moreover, the right generator provides priceless peace of mind. Let’s dive into the detailed reviews of the top models to help you find the absolute best Natural Gas Home Generators for your family’s security.
Top 5 Best Natural Gas Home Generators
10 Best Natural Gas Home Generators Review
1. Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator (WGen9500TF)
The Westinghouse WGen9500TF is the quintessential solution for homeowners seeking robust, flexible, and long-lasting emergency power. This tri-fuel workhorse is designed for whole-home backup, allowing you to seamlessly switch between gasoline, propane, and natural gas. With a healthy 7,500 running watts on natural gas, it’s a premier choice for keeping major appliances and HVAC running during an outage. Ideal for larger homes, this unit takes the worry out of fuel sourcing, offering unlimited runtime when connected to a residential natural gas line.
The core of this generator is its heavy-duty 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine, built with a durable cast iron sleeve for longevity. Performance is bolstered by an included key fob for remote start and an electric start for push-button convenience. While the open-frame design means it’s louder than an inverter model, the power density is unbeatable for the price. It features a transfer switch-ready L14-30R and a powerful 14-50R outlet, making hookup to your home electrical system straightforward. Furthermore, this unit includes a CO Sensor for crucial operational safety, automatically shutting down the generator if harmful carbon monoxide levels are detected.
In summary, the Westinghouse WGen9500TF is an exceptional value, combining the versatility of a tri-fuel generator with serious power output. It’s best suited for the homeowner whose primary concern is reliable, high-wattage, whole-house backup power, particularly valuing the set-it-and-forget-it nature of a natural gas hookup. However, those needing a quiet generator for close-quarter camping should look elsewhere.
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2. DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt Tri Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000HXT stands out as one of the most powerful tri-fuel options, making it a serious contender for the Best Natural Gas Home Generators category. This robust unit is built around a massive 500cc OHV engine, offering immense starting power and a versatile ability to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It’s tailored for those who need a heavy-duty solution that can power a large home’s essential circuits, including the well pump and central AC unit. The integrated CO Alert feature provides an essential layer of safety, ensuring the unit shuts down if carbon monoxide levels become dangerous.
Performance-wise, the DuroMax XP13000HXT is built to last with a durable, all-metal frame. Its tri-fuel capability is highly intuitive, allowing users to switch fuel sources easily via a front-facing interface. It also includes both a push-button electric start and a remote start for convenience. The unit is equipped with a transfer switch-ready 50-amp outlet, providing the high amperage connection necessary for whole-home backup. However, similar to other high-output conventional generators, it is heavy and will generate substantial noise when under load, which is a common trade-off for this level of power.
Overall, the DuroMax XP13000HXT is a top choice for those prioritizing raw power and fuel flexibility. It is perfectly suited for homeowners in areas prone to long-duration outages who need a powerful and versatile dual fuel generator that can seamlessly integrate into a home backup system using natural gas. This generator is a powerful option for the Best Natural Gas Home Generators for homes with high electricity demands.
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3. WEN TF1450X 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator (TF1450X)
The WEN TF1450X is built for maximum power and versatility, delivering up to 14,500 surge watts on gasoline, making it one of the largest portable tri-fuel generators available. For Best Natural Gas Home Generators applications, it provides a solid 8,750 running watts, which is sufficient to power the vast majority of essential circuits and high-draw appliances in a large home. In addition, the unit includes the WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor, a critical safety feature that automatically turns off the engine upon detecting dangerous carbon monoxide levels, protecting the operator and family.
Powering this beast is a 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine with an effortless electric start. The 8.2-gallon fuel tank provides an impressive run time of up to 12 hours at half load when using gasoline. Crucially for natural gas, the unit includes an NG quick-connect adapter, simplifying the connection to your home’s gas line. It is highly transfer-switch ready, offering both a NEMA L14-30R and a NEMA 14-50R outlet for flexible connection. The straightforward fuel selection dial makes switching between gasoline, propane, and natural gas exceptionally easy, increasing its user-friendliness in an emergency.
The WEN TF1450X is an ideal solution for homeowners who need a high-wattage, multi-fuel generator that won’t break the bank. It offers a fantastic combination of power and safety features, placing it firmly among the Best Natural Gas Home Generators. It is particularly recommended for those who have a wide range of appliances to run and value the long-term, low-maintenance fueling of natural gas, along with the backup of two other fuel types.
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4. Westinghouse 8200 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator (iGen8200TFc)
The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc offers a unique combination: the high wattage of a traditional portable generator with the clean power and quiet operation of inverter technology. This tri-fuel inverter is one of the Best Natural Gas Home Generators for running sensitive electronics, delivering power with less than 3% THD. Running on natural gas, it provides a very respectable 5,280 running watts, which is ample for most mid-sized home essential loads. This model is specifically engineered for those who demand quiet operation and fuel flexibility for prolonged outages.
At the heart of the iGen8200TFc is a powerful yet efficient 298cc Westinghouse engine. Inverter technology adjusts the engine speed according to the power draw, which dramatically improves fuel economy and reduces noise compared to conventional open-frame models—operating at only around 60 dBA at 25% load. Furthermore, it is genuinely transfer switch-ready, featuring a 120/240V 14-50R 50A outlet, capable of powering high-draw items like a central air conditioner. The unit also boasts a lightweight design (134.5 lbs) compared to its open-frame counterparts, adding to its portability.
The Westinghouse iGen8200TFc is the premier choice for the user who needs the versatility of natural gas but refuses to compromise on low noise and clean power. It’s arguably the best high-output natural gas inverter on the market, ideal for residential neighborhoods where noise is a concern or for powering sensitive, modern smart-home devices. This flexibility makes it a top contender in the Best Natural Gas Home Generators category.
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5. WEN DF475T 4,750-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The WEN DF475T offers a compact and budget-friendly power solution, though it is technically a dual-fuel (gasoline/propane) generator. It is included here as a compelling option for those needing modest backup power with the potential for aftermarket natural gas conversion, making it a valuable option among the Best Natural Gas Home Generators. With 3,500 running watts on propane, this model is sufficient for keeping essential circuits, a refrigerator, and some lights powered during a short outage. Its lightweight design and wheel kit make it highly portable for both home backup and recreational use.
Equipped with a 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine and an easy electric start, the DF475T is designed for simple, no-fuss operation. The 4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half-load runtime on gasoline. It is versatile enough to provide both 120V and 240V power and features a NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R) outlet, perfect for connecting to a manual transfer switch. While it does not natively run on natural gas, the lower cost and high reliability of the WEN brand make it a popular choice for conversion kits. However, always consult a professional for safe conversion to natural gas.
This WEN model is best suited for the budget-conscious homeowner or small apartment/cabin owner who only needs to power the most critical loads. For users willing to explore a safe and professional conversion to access the benefits of natural gas, this generator provides an affordable, solid, and portable starting platform. It’s an entry-level option into the flexibility offered by multi-fuel portable generators, but remember to factor in the cost and complexity of conversion.
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6. Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator (WGen12500TF)
The Westinghouse WGen12500TF is one of the most powerful portable generators available, designed to handle the highest home backup demands. As a tri-fuel model, it offers a robust 9,500 running watts on natural gas, positioning it among the absolute Best Natural Gas Home Generators for powering large houses or small commercial operations. This incredible power is generated by a heavy-duty 550cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine, which ensures maximum reliability and endurance during extended outages. It’s the ideal solution for those who cannot compromise on power output.
Power delivery is exceptionally clean for a conventional generator, with low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion), making it safe for sensitive electronics like phones and computers. It boasts a huge 9.5-gallon fuel tank for extended gasoline runtimes and features essential safety measures like a CO Sensor and automatic low-oil shutdown. Moreover, the inclusion of a 14-50R outlet means it’s fully ready for a permanent transfer switch setup, allowing seamless integration into your home’s electrical system. The convenience of a remote electric start makes powering up during an emergency effortless.
The WGen12500TF is the undisputed champion for homeowners requiring maximum power redundancy and the benefit of a virtually unlimited natural gas supply. While its size and noise level are commensurate with its immense power, its tri-fuel versatility and high wattage output on all fuel types, especially natural gas, make it an unmatched investment in home preparedness. For large-scale backup, this model is clearly a leader in the Best Natural Gas Home Generators category.
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7. DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH is celebrated as an industry leader in Dual Fuel portable generator technology, offering serious power (13,000 peak watts) on both gasoline and propane. While this specific model does not run on natural gas out of the box, its immense popularity, robust build, and high power output make it an outstanding candidate for professional aftermarket conversion, thus earning its spot near the top of the Best Natural Gas Home Generators discussion. It is a reliable solution for whole-home backup, capable of powering high-voltage appliances like air conditioners and electric water heaters with its 50-amp outlet.
This generator is powered by a robust DuroMax OHV engine that is designed for maximum power and longevity. Built with a heavy-duty all-metal frame, it’s engineered to withstand severe weather and years of tough use. The unit features an easy push-button electric start and no-flat tires for simple maneuverability over various terrains. Moreover, the control panel is user-friendly, allowing for quick and simple selection between gasoline and propane, and it includes a necessary CO Sensor for safe operation. The engine’s high performance and reliability are hallmarks of the DuroMax brand.
In summary, the DuroMax XP13000EH is an excellent platform for those seeking a highly powerful and reliable engine that can be adapted for the cost and convenience of natural gas. It is best suited for buyers who are comfortable with the process of professional conversion to achieve natural gas functionality. Its dual-fuel operation provides excellent redundancy, making it a dependable choice for emergency preparedness regardless of the fuel used. For pure power, it remains a contender for Best Natural Gas Home Generators (post-conversion).
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8. PowerSmart 4400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
The PowerSmart 4400-Watt Inverter Generator is a compact and remarkably lightweight option. As a gasoline-only model, its inclusion here reflects its high portability, quiet operation, and low cost, which makes it a frequent choice for those looking for an affordable base unit for professional natural gas conversion. Providing 3,600 running watts, it is perfectly suited for powering basic essentials like lights, a refrigerator, and a few devices—making it a strong solution for minimalist backup needs. It delivers safe, clean power for all sensitive electronics due to its inverter technology.
The unit’s primary strength is its compact size and low weight of just 61.29 lbs, which makes it easily transportable for camping, tailgating, or moving it quickly into position for emergency use. It boasts a long runtime of up to 11 hours at 25% load on its 1.6-gallon tank. Furthermore, it includes multiple essential safety features such as a CO-Sensor, low oil shutdown, and overload protection. Operating at a sound pressure level of 76 dB from 23 feet, it is significantly quieter than open-frame units of comparable power, enhancing its usability in residential environments.
This PowerSmart inverter is recommended for those who prioritize portability, low noise, and clean power over high wattage, and who are planning a professional conversion to gain the advantages of the Best Natural Gas Home Generators‘ fuel source. It’s an entry-level inverter that provides excellent value and reliability, though users must account for the additional steps and costs associated with converting it to run on natural gas.
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9. Generac 10,000/8,000-Watt Portable Gas Generator (GP8000E)
Generac is an established name in generator technology, and the GP8000E portable generator is a testament to their reliable engineering. With 8,000 running watts on gasoline, it offers a robust power source for most mid-sized homes. This model’s inclusion in a roundup of Best Natural Gas Home Generators is due to the availability of a separate, factory-authorized tri-fuel option (the 9500-Watt Tri Fuel), and the potential for a professional NG conversion kit for this specific model. The GP8000E is renowned for its PowerRush Advanced Technology, delivering over 40% more starting capacity to handle high-draw appliances like well pumps and air conditioning units.
Key features include a reliable electric start, an extended runtime of up to 11 hours at 50% load, and a large-capacity steel fuel tank. Importantly, it includes the integrated COsense technology, which automatically shuts down the generator when dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected, prioritizing user safety. It is constructed with a heavy-duty, durable frame, ensuring it can handle the rigors of frequent emergency use. The hour meter also simplifies maintenance tracking, ensuring your generator is always ready when the power goes out.
The Generac GP8000E is best for homeowners who value a proven brand name and need dependable, high starting power. For those seeking the flexibility of natural gas, Generac offers a powerful tri-fuel variant, but if considering this specific dual-fuel model, an external, professional conversion will be necessary to utilize the benefits of NG. It’s a workhorse of a generator, providing consistent and reliable power for the most essential circuits during an outage, establishing a benchmark of power for the Best Natural Gas Home Generators.
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10. Gidrox 8000W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
The Gidrox 8000W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator is an excellent option that merges the high wattage needed for home backup with the benefits of inverter technology. It is a dual-fuel (Gas/Propane) unit, but Gidrox also offers a factory-ready tri-fuel variant, making it a relevant choice when discussing the Best Natural Gas Home Generators. This specific model delivers 6,500 running watts on gasoline, along with clean, pure power (less than 3% THD) that is safe for all sensitive devices. Its super quiet operation and dedicated 50A ultra outlet make it a prime choice for home and RV users.
Powered by a 317cc 4-stroke OHV engine, the Gidrox 8000D ensures consistent performance and improved fuel efficiency. It features an ECO Mode which automatically lowers the engine speed under lighter loads, saving fuel and reducing noise further—a critical benefit in residential areas. The remote and electric start options offer effortless operation. In addition, it comes equipped with a built-in CO sensor, low-oil shutdown, and overload protection. The inclusion of a dedicated RV adapter right in the box enhances its utility for those needing power on the road, alongside home backup.
This Gidrox inverter generator is best suited for buyers who require a balance of high power, quiet operation, and clean power. While this version is not NG-ready, the brand’s availability of a tri-fuel option validates its inclusion as a powerful, feature-rich unit that is part of a line offering the Best Natural Gas Home Generators. It offers superior power quality and quieter operation than most similarly rated conventional generators, making it a great modern choice for power security.
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How to Choose Best Natural Gas Home Generators
Choosing the best Natural Gas Home Generators is a critical decision for your home’s security during a power outage. Natural gas generators connect directly to your home’s existing gas line, offering uninterrupted fuel flow—a major advantage over gasoline or propane during long-term emergencies. They eliminate the need for fuel storage, making them safer and more convenient. The right generator should meet your home’s maximum power draw while balancing factors like noise, fuel efficiency, and installation requirements.
Power Output (Wattage)
Power output determines how many appliances you can run simultaneously. For natural gas generators, power output is typically about 10–20% lower than running on gasoline, so check the specific natural gas wattage. Calculate the total wattage of all essential appliances you plan to run (e.g., HVAC, refrigerator, well pump) and choose a generator with at least 20% more running watts for a buffer. This is the most crucial step in choosing the best Natural Gas Home Generators.
Fuel Versatility (Tri-Fuel vs. Dual-Fuel)
While dedicated NG models exist, many of the best options are tri-fuel generators (gasoline, propane, and natural gas). Tri-fuel offers the ultimate redundancy: the convenience of natural gas with the backup options of propane or gasoline if the main gas line is compromised. Dual-fuel models (Gas/Propane) can be converted to NG but require an additional kit and professional installation, which adds complexity and cost.
Inverter vs. Conventional Technology
Inverter generators produce clean power with low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), making them safe for sensitive electronics like computers and smart TVs. They are also significantly quieter and more fuel-efficient. Conventional generators are louder and often provide less clean power, but they are typically more affordable and available in higher wattage outputs for heavy loads like central air conditioning.
Safety and Start Features
Prioritize generators with modern CO Shutdown Sensors (like CO Alert or COsense), which automatically turn off the engine if carbon monoxide builds up. Also, look for an electric start (push-button or remote fob) to ensure the generator can be reliably and easily started, which is a major convenience in an emergency. Low-oil shutdown protection is also vital for engine longevity.
Transfer Switch Readiness
For home backup, the generator should have a high-amperage outlet (e.g., NEMA L14-30R or NEMA 14-50R). These outlets allow for a direct, safe connection to a manual transfer switch or interlock kit, which is necessary to power your home’s circuits directly from the generator panel and avoid the dangerous practice of back-feeding. Always consult a licensed electrician for installation.
Natural Gas Home Generator Maintenance
Unlike gasoline generators, which require fuel stabilization and carburetor draining, natural gas models simplify long-term storage and maintenance because the fuel is always fresh and readily available. However, all generators, including the Best Natural Gas Home Generators, still require regular maintenance to ensure peak performance when an emergency strikes. Annual maintenance should include checking the oil level, air filter, and spark plugs. Ensure the battery for the electric start is charged and functional.
An important element is the load test. You should start your natural gas generator and run it under a partial load for 30 minutes every 1–3 months. This keeps the engine lubricated, recharges the battery, and confirms that all systems are operational. Also, regularly inspect the natural gas connection hose and fittings for any signs of wear or leakage, following all manufacturer instructions and local gas generator regulations.
How to Use Best Natural Gas Home Generators
Using the best Natural Gas Home Generators correctly involves proper setup and adherence to safety protocols.
- Step 1: Setup/Prep: First, ensure the generator is placed outdoors, at least 20 feet away from any windows, doors, or vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Connect the natural gas hose from your home’s quick-connect fitting to the generator’s fuel inlet. Check the oil level and confirm the battery for the electric start is connected.
- Step 2: Core Usage & Best Practices: Turn the fuel selector dial to the “Natural Gas” setting. If your model has a choke, apply it as needed (less in warm weather). Use the electric or remote start button to power the unit on. Once the engine is running and stabilized, you can connect your transfer switch cable and flip the necessary circuit breakers on your transfer panel to restore power to your home.
- Step 3: Optimization/Safety/Maintenance: Avoid overloading the generator. Monitor the power panel display if available to ensure you stay below the rated running wattage. If running a few hours, periodically check the oil level. After the utility power is restored, disconnect the generator from the transfer switch before turning off the engine.
- Step 4: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips: If the generator won’t start, check the fuel selector (ensure it’s on NG), confirm the engine is not low on oil, and try using the pull-cord backup start. If the power output suddenly drops, check for an overload condition and switch off unnecessary appliances. Always allow the generator to cool completely before covering it or moving it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run my natural gas generator continuously?
Yes, one of the biggest benefits of a natural gas connection is the ability to run the generator for days or even weeks because the fuel supply is essentially limitless. This is a primary reason why people invest in the best Natural Gas Home Generators for long-term backup. However, it’s critical to monitor the oil level and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance intervals.
Is a natural gas generator less powerful than a gasoline generator?
Generally, yes. Natural gas has a lower energy density than gasoline, resulting in a 10% to 20% reduction in power output for the same engine. When comparing models, always check the specific running wattage listed for natural gas to ensure it meets your needs, especially when looking for the best Natural Gas Home Generators in terms of output.
Do portable natural gas generators need professional installation?
Yes. While the generator unit is portable, the natural gas connection to your home’s main gas line must be installed by a licensed plumber or HVAC technician. They ensure the connection is safe, meets local codes, and that the gas pressure is sufficient to run the generator reliably.
Are natural gas generators safer than gasoline generators?
In terms of fuel handling, natural gas is significantly safer as there is no need to store flammable liquid fuel in containers. However, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning remains. Therefore, all generators, especially the best Natural Gas Home Generators, must be operated exclusively outdoors and away from the home.
What size natural gas line do I need for my generator?
The required gas line size (diameter) depends on the BTU consumption of your generator and the distance from the gas meter. Running too small a line will cause the generator to starve for fuel and fail under load. This is a critical detail that an HVAC professional must calculate before installation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing among the best Natural Gas Home Generators means investing in unparalleled convenience and long-term security. The ability to connect directly to an infinite fuel source and avoid panic-buying fuel during a major storm is a priceless benefit. The key considerations should always be the specific natural gas running wattage to match your home’s needs and the inclusion of modern safety features like the CO shutdown sensor.
For most buyers seeking a perfect balance of power and high-end features, the Westinghouse iGen8200TFc Tri-Fuel Inverter Generator offers the best of both worlds, providing clean, quiet power and 50A transfer switch readiness. If, however, you require maximum raw power for a large home with central HVAC and heavy loads, choose the Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator for its robust 9,500 running watts on natural gas.