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If your home has a natural gas connection, a tri-fuel generator can give you more flexibility during a power outage. Instead of relying only on gasoline stored in cans, these generators can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, depending on the model and fuel supply available.
For homeowners who plan to use natural gas most of the time, there is one important detail to understand before buying: a generator usually produces less power on natural gas than it does on gasoline. That means you should size the generator according to its natural gas running wattage if NG will be your primary fuel.
The models below focus on high-output portable generators that can provide substantial backup power for homes, workshops, and other demanding applications. Some are better suited to essential circuits, while larger models can support more household loads when properly connected through a transfer switch or approved interlock.
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Featured Natural Gas Generators
| Model | Gasoline Running Watts | Natural Gas Running Watts | Fuel Options | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse WGen14500TFc | 14,500W | 11,600W | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | Remote/electric start, CO sensor, transfer-switch ready |
| WEN TF1450X | 11,500W | 8,750W | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | 120V/240V, CO Watchdog, electric start |
| DuroMax XP13000HXT | 10,500W | 8,500W | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | CO Alert, electric start, 50A outlet |
| Westinghouse WGen11500TFc | 11,500W | Tri-fuel model | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | CO sensor, remote start, transfer-switch ready |
| Westinghouse WGen20000TFc | 20,000W | 16,000W | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | 999cc V-Twin, CO sensor, 50A outlets |
The important difference between these generators is not simply their headline wattage. If natural gas is your preferred fuel, pay particular attention to the natural gas running-watt rating, because that is the figure that determines how much continuous electrical load the generator can support.
Westinghouse WGen14500TFc Tri-Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse WGen14500TFc is one of the higher-output portable tri-fuel generators available for home backup. Westinghouse rates it at 14,500 running watts and 18,000 peak watts on gasoline, while the published tri-fuel ratings are 13,000 running watts on propane and 11,600 running watts on natural gas.
That difference is important if you intend to connect the generator to your home’s natural gas supply. At 11,600 running watts on NG, it still provides substantial capacity for refrigerators, freezers, lighting, sump pumps, well pumps, air conditioning and other household loads, provided the total electrical demand remains within the generator’s capacity.
The WGen14500TFc has a 713cc V-Twin engine, electric start, remote start, and emergency recoil starting. It also includes a CO sensor with automatic shutdown and is designed to work with transfer-switch systems. Westinghouse lists a 10.5-gallon fuel tank and up to 12 hours of gasoline runtime under its specified conditions.
Another useful feature is the ability to monitor voltage, frequency and operating information through the VFT display.
If you need a large portable generator and already have natural gas available at your property, this type of high-capacity tri-fuel configuration gives you the ability to switch fuels when conditions change.
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WEN TF1450X 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
The WEN TF1450X is another high-output option designed to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. Its published ratings are 14,500 surge watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, 12,500 surge and 10,300 running watts on propane, and 10,500 surge and 8,750 running watts on natural gas.
The 8,750-watt natural gas running capacity makes this generator suitable for homeowners who need considerable backup power but do not necessarily require the output of a 15,000- or 20,000-watt-class generator.
It supports both 120V and 240V operation, which is important for home backup because many larger appliances and HVAC equipment require 240V power.
The TF1450X also includes electric start, an 8.2-gallon fuel tank, and WEN’s CO Watchdog system, which can automatically shut down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected. WEN also identifies the unit as transfer-switch ready.
One advantage of this model is its straightforward fuel-selection system. You can choose between gasoline, propane, and natural gas depending on what is available.
For a home with a natural gas connection, however, the 8,750-watt NG rating should be the starting point when calculating which appliances can operate simultaneously.
DuroMax XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000HXT is a 13,000-watt-class portable generator that supports gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Unlike the original article’s description, it is more accurate to call this model a tri-fuel generator, rather than a dual-fuel model that is merely tri-fuel capable.
DuroMax rates the XP13000HXT at 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline. On propane, it produces 12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts, while natural gas output is rated at 11,000 peak watts and 8,500 running watts.
That 8,500-watt natural gas rating puts it in a useful range for homeowners who want significant backup capacity without moving all the way into the largest portable generator class.
The XP13000HXT features a 500cc engine, electric start, remote-start capability and DuroMax’s CO Alert safety system. It also has a transfer-switch-ready 50A connection for larger household loads.
Natural gas installation deserves special attention with this model. DuroMax specifies 6–9 inches of water column for natural gas pressure and lists a requirement of 225,000 BTU at full load. Your home’s gas piping must be able to provide the required supply while other gas appliances are operating.
This is why simply having a natural gas connection does not automatically mean that a generator can operate at full rated capacity. The gas line, pressure and available BTU capacity all matter.
Westinghouse WGen11500TFc Tri-Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse WGen11500TFc is another option for homeowners who want a large portable tri-fuel generator without moving into the size and cost of the company’s largest units.
Westinghouse lists the WGen11500TFc as a tri-fuel generator with 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts, along with natural gas and propane operation. The model also includes a CO sensor and is designed for home backup applications.
One reason to consider this size class is that not every home needs 14,000 or 20,000 running watts. If your goal is to keep essential appliances, refrigeration, lighting, pumps and selected HVAC loads running, a somewhat smaller generator can be easier to integrate and operate.
The key is to calculate your actual electrical load instead of choosing a generator based solely on the size of your house.
For natural gas users, compare the manufacturer’s current NG output with the starting watts required by your largest motor-driven appliances. Air conditioners, well pumps, sump pumps and refrigerators can require substantially more power when their motors start.
Westinghouse WGen20000TFc Tri-Fuel Generator
For homes with very high electrical demand, the Westinghouse WGen20000TFc moves into a substantially larger power class.
Westinghouse rates this tri-fuel generator at 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts on gasoline, 25,200 peak and 18,000 running watts on propane, and 22,400 peak and 16,000 running watts on natural gas.
The generator uses a 999cc V-Twin engine and includes electric and remote starting. Westinghouse also lists two 50A outlets and two 30A outlets, with transfer-switch and interlock-kit compatibility.
This amount of output can make sense for larger homes with several major electrical loads, but bigger is not automatically better. A 20,000-watt-class generator is considerably heavier, more expensive and more demanding from an installation standpoint than a smaller portable unit.
Before buying something in this category, calculate the actual running and starting requirements of the appliances you want to operate simultaneously.
Why Choose a Natural Gas Generator in 2026?
1. Natural Gas Can Reduce Fuel Storage
One of the biggest advantages of natural gas is that you do not have to store large quantities of gasoline or propane for every outage.
If the utility supply remains available, a properly connected natural gas generator can continue operating without the same type of fuel-storage limitation associated with gasoline.
However, natural gas is not completely immune to interruptions. Severe weather or utility problems can affect gas service, so a tri-fuel generator provides an additional layer of flexibility.
2. Tri-Fuel Gives You More Options
A tri-fuel generator can operate on:
- Gasoline
- Propane
- Natural gas
This flexibility can be particularly useful during extended outages.
For example, you may normally use natural gas but switch to propane or gasoline if the natural gas supply becomes unavailable or if the generator needs to be moved to another location.
3. Natural Gas Usually Produces Less Power
This is one of the most important details to understand before purchasing.
A generator’s advertised gasoline rating is usually higher than its natural gas rating. For example, the WEN TF1450X is rated at 11,500 running watts on gasoline but 8,750 running watts on natural gas.
The DuroMax XP13000HXT follows the same pattern, with 10,500 running watts on gasoline compared with 8,500 running watts on natural gas.
Therefore, if natural gas is going to be your primary fuel, use the natural gas running-watt figure when sizing the generator.
4. Natural Gas Can Be Convenient During Long Outages
A large gasoline reserve can become difficult to manage during a prolonged outage. Natural gas can eliminate frequent refueling as long as the utility supply remains operational and the generator is properly connected.
This is one reason tri-fuel generators are attractive for homeowners who want both convenience and fuel redundancy.
5. Home Integration Matters
A high-wattage generator should not simply be plugged into a random household outlet.
For home backup, larger generators are commonly connected through an appropriate transfer switch or approved interlock system installed according to local electrical requirements.
This allows selected circuits or the appropriate panel configuration to receive generator power while helping prevent dangerous backfeeding into the utility grid.
How Many Watts Do You Need From a Natural Gas Generator?
The right generator size depends on what you actually want to operate.
A smaller backup setup might include:
- Refrigerator
- Freezer
- Internet equipment
- Lights
- Television
- Garage door opener
- Sump pump
A larger setup could also include:
- Central air conditioning
- Well pump
- Electric water heater
- Furnace blower
- Microwave
- Electric range
- Multiple refrigerators or freezers
The important point is that square footage alone is not enough to determine generator size.
A 2,000-square-foot home with gas appliances may have very different electrical requirements from a similarly sized home with electric heating, an electric water heater and central air conditioning.
Create a list of the appliances you want to operate simultaneously and check their running and starting watt requirements.
If natural gas is your primary fuel, perform the calculation using the generator’s natural gas running-watt rating, not its gasoline peak rating.
Natural Gas Generator Safety Tips
A natural gas generator still produces carbon monoxide and must be operated outdoors.
Never operate a portable generator inside a house, garage, basement, crawl space, shed or other enclosed or partially enclosed area.
Keep the generator positioned away from doors, windows and ventilation openings according to the manufacturer’s instructions and current safety guidance.
Also pay attention to the natural gas installation itself. A generator can require substantial gas flow at full load, so the existing piping must be properly sized and capable of supplying the generator while other gas appliances are operating.
For example, DuroMax specifies 6–9 inches of water column and 225,000 BTU at full load for the XP13000HXT.
A qualified professional should handle permanent gas-line modifications and electrical connections where required by local codes.
Natural Gas vs. Propane vs. Gasoline
Each fuel has advantages and limitations.
| Fuel | Main Advantage | Main Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Gas | Convenient for homes with an existing gas supply | Lower generator output and dependent on utility service |
| Propane | Easy to store for emergencies | Requires tanks and output is usually lower than gasoline |
| Gasoline | High power output and widely available | Requires safe storage and regular fuel management |
For many homeowners, the appeal of a tri-fuel generator is not choosing one fuel forever. It is having the ability to switch between fuel sources when circumstances change.
What to Look For When Buying a Natural Gas Generator
Natural Gas Running Watts
This should be one of the first specifications you check.
Do not look only at the large number in the product title. A generator advertised as “14,500 watts” may produce substantially less continuous power when running on natural gas.
120V and 240V Output
For home backup, 240V capability can be important because many large appliances use 240V power.
Transfer-Switch Compatibility
If the generator will serve as home backup, verify that it supports the transfer switch or interlock configuration you plan to use.
CO Shutdown Protection
Carbon monoxide protection is an important safety feature on modern portable generators. Models such as the WEN TF1450X, DuroMax XP13000HXT and Westinghouse tri-fuel units include CO monitoring or shutdown systems.
Starting System
Electric and remote starting can be useful when the generator is positioned outside during bad weather.
Some models also retain recoil starting as a backup.
Natural Gas Pressure Requirements
This specification is easy to overlook.
Check the manufacturer’s required gas pressure and BTU input before assuming your existing natural gas line will support the generator at full load.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a portable generator run on natural gas?
Yes. A generator specifically designed as a tri-fuel model can run on natural gas, propane, or gasoline. Models such as the WEN TF1450X and DuroMax XP13000HXT are designed for all three fuels.
Is natural gas better than gasoline for a generator?
Neither fuel is universally better. Natural gas can be more convenient for a home with an existing gas connection because it reduces the need to store gasoline, while gasoline generally provides higher output on many tri-fuel generators. The right choice depends on your fuel availability and backup requirements.
Do natural gas generators produce less power?
Generally, yes. Many tri-fuel generators have lower running and peak watt ratings on natural gas than on gasoline. For example, the DuroMax XP13000HXT is rated at 10,500 running watts on gasoline and 8,500 running watts on natural gas.
Can a natural gas generator power an entire house?
It can power a substantial portion of a home, and sufficiently large models may support many or most household loads. However, this depends on the generator’s natural gas output, the home’s electrical demand, starting loads and the way the generator is connected. Whole-home capability should be determined through load calculations rather than house size alone.
Does a natural gas generator need a transfer switch?
A transfer switch or properly installed interlock system is commonly used when connecting a portable generator to a home’s electrical panel. The exact configuration depends on the generator, electrical system and local requirements. Have the installation handled according to applicable electrical codes.
How much natural gas does a generator need?
The requirement varies by generator and load. For example, DuroMax specifies 225,000 BTU at full load for the XP13000HXT and requires 6–9 inches of water column natural gas pressure.
Can you switch from gasoline to natural gas?
Tri-fuel generators are designed to operate on different fuel sources, but always follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions for switching fuels. Do not assume that every generator uses the same switching procedure.
Final Thoughts
A natural gas generator can be a practical backup-power solution for a home that already has a reliable natural gas connection. The biggest advantage is fuel flexibility: with a tri-fuel model, you can use natural gas for convenience while keeping gasoline and propane available as alternatives.
The most important specification to compare is not the largest wattage printed in the product name. Look at the natural gas running watts, then compare that figure with the appliances you actually need to operate during an outage.
The Westinghouse WGen14500TFc provides a large amount of capacity, with 11,600 rated watts on natural gas according to Westinghouse. The WEN TF1450X offers 8,750 natural gas running watts with 120V/240V operation and CO Watchdog protection. The DuroMax XP13000HXT provides 8,500 natural gas running watts along with tri-fuel capability, CO Alert and a transfer-switch-ready 50A connection.
For homes with significantly higher electrical demand, the Westinghouse WGen20000TFc reaches 16,000 rated watts on natural gas, although its larger size and installation requirements make it a different class of generator.
Before buying, calculate your running and starting loads, verify the generator’s natural gas pressure and BTU requirements, and make sure the electrical and gas connections are appropriate for your home.
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