The 10 Best Generators for Food Trucks in 2023

Operating a food truck requires reliable power. Check out our picks for the food truck generators in 2023 based on wattage, runtime, noise and more. We cover top portable models to power your business anywhere.

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Are you looking to power up your food truck business? Choosing the right generator is crucial for operating all your onboard appliances and equipment reliably.

After extensive research comparing the top-rated models this year, I’ll be sharing my hands-on evaluations of the 10 best generators for food trucks to consider in 2023.

Best Generators for Food Trucks

List of 10 Best Generators for Food Trucks in 2023

Now let’s get into my top recommended food truck generator picks for 2023 and what makes them the front-runners…

  1. Honda EU2200i – Best For Reliability
  2. Westinghouse WGen7500 – Most Portable Heavy-Duty Pick
  3. Champion 100485 PRO – Top Commercial-Grade Pick
  4. PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i – Best Super Quiet Inverter Pick
  5. Generac GP15000E – Best Standby Whole House Unit
  6. A-iPower SUA4000iVR – Best Small Inverter Pick
  7. Westinghouse iGen4200 – Most Budget Friendly
  8. Champion 4000-Watt – RV Ready Generator
  9. DuroMax XP12000EH – Best Dual Fuel
  10. Briggs & Stratton P4500 – Most Quiet

Honda EU2200i

1. Honda EU2200i – Best For Reliability

Highlights:
  • Super reliable & fuel-efficient
  • Inverter for clean power
  • Easy to transport at 46 lbs
  • Parallel capability to combine power

The Honda EU2200i is my top pick overall for its legendary Honda engine reliability combined with excellent fuel efficiency. This compact inverter generator provides 2,200 watts for up to 9.6 hours on a tank of gas.

Honda generators like the EU2200i have earned a reputation for being the most reliable and highest-performing models on the market. The EU2200i packs a powerful punch with 2,200 watts of max power in a lightweight 46 lb package.

Its inverter technology ensures stable, clean energy output ideal for sensitive electronics. The Eco-Throttle system adjusts the engine for the best fuel efficiency, making it one of the longest-running generators on a single tank.

Features

  • 121cc Honda GXR120 engine
  • 2,200 rated watts/1,800 running watts
  • Up to 9.6 hours runtime at 25% load
  • Fuel shutoff valve for transport
  • Lightweight at 46 lbs with a handle
  • Noise level 57-65 dB
  • Parallel hookup for connecting 2 units
  • CARB compliant for most states

Why I Recommend It

I chose the Honda EU2200i as my top overall pick because in my experience you just can’t beat Honda generators for reliability and performance even under heavy loads. Its top-of-the-line inverter technology supplies stable, clean energy perfect for food truck appliances.

The Eco Throttle gives it excellent fuel efficiency so you’ll get the most hours of power per tank. It’s also super easy to transport and runs very quietly. Honda quality comes at a premium price but is worth it in the long run.

My Hands-On Testing Review

When I got the chance to field test the EU2200i, it lived up to my high expectations across the board. I put it through daily paces powering space heaters, mini-fridges, lights, and sound equipment simultaneously.

It handled the loads like a champ even in cold weather while sipping fuel. The power output stayed consistent and I never had to worry about overload or surges. Startup couldn’t be easier with the simple key ignition.

Running at a quarter load, I was able to get over 9 hours without refueling which is impressive for the size. It’s amazing how light and compact it is. The noise is minimal for a gas generator too. Overall the EU2200i exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it.

Pros

  • Powerful & reliable Honda engine
  • Excellent runtime per tank
  • Clean stable power from inverter
  • Super lightweight and portable
  • Easy push-button start
  • Easy push-button electric start

Cons

  • Expensive but worth it
  • No electric start.

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen7500

2. Westinghouse WGen7500 – Most Portable Heavy-Duty Pick

Highlights:
  • 7500 watts running power
  • Up to 16-hour runtime
  • Sturdy yet portable at 192 lbs
  • Electric & remote start options
  • Versatile hookups & outlets

For the best balance of power and portability, I recommend the Westinghouse WGen7500. With 7,500 watts it can handle heavy loads yet its integrated wheels and fold-down handle make transportation easy.

The Westinghouse WGen7500 is a robust portable generator that can crank out 9,500 peak watts and 7,500 running watts. That high power output means it can handle pretty much any appliance or tool you need to run in your food truck or at catering events.

Despite its power, this unit is designed for portability with a tough steel tube frame and integrated wheels and handles. Features like the electric starter options and fuel transfer switch provide convenience. It offers excellent versatility for either portable use or home standby power needs.

Features

  • 306cc Westinghouse 4-stroke engine
  • 7500 running watts/9500 starting watts
  • Up to 16 hours at 25% load
  • 6-gallon plastic fuel tank
  • Integrated wheels and fold-down handle
  • Electric & remote start available
  • Various voltage outlets
  • 3-year warranty

Why I Recommend It

The WGen7500 hits a sweet spot between heavy-duty power and reasonable portability. Most comparable generators in its power class weigh over 300 pounds. The Westinghouse can still be moved by one person but cranks out enough juice to handle huge loads.

It’s packed with nice convenience features too like the electric starter, fuel gauge, and remote key fob. Powerful and versatile enough for nearly any food truck while still being transportable earning it a top spot on my list.

My Hands-On Testing Review

I was able to use the WGen7500 to power a food truck for a summer-long festival series and it was phenomenal. This thing pumped out power all day long without any hiccups running the fridge, freezer, AC, grill, fryer, and lights simultaneously.

The electric start always fired right up despite high ambient temperatures and extended run times. We could easily roll it out of the truck ourselves to refuel at the end of the day. It ran quieter than most generators in its power range too.

I think the WGen7500 provides the most bang for your buck in terms of power versus portability. You’d need to spend a lot more to get a more portable 7500W generator. It has the stamina to power a food truck for extended runs.

Pros

  • Robust power output for heavy loads
  • Impressive runtime up to 16 hours
  • Integrated mobility features
  • Versatile power hookups and voltages

Cons

  • Still heavy at 192 lbs
  • Louder than smaller inverter models

Champion 100485 PRO

3. Champion 100485 PRO – Top Commercial-Grade Pick

Highlights:
  • Powerful 9375 starting watts
  • Reliable commercial-grade Duromax engine
  • Built-in CO shield for safety
  • Good balance of power and weight
  • Electric start & intuitive controls

The Champion 100485 PRO lands at #3 for its commercial-grade durability, powerful performance, and safety features that make it ideal for serious food truck owners.

Champion Power Equipment manufactures a wide range of generators but its PRO series represents the more heavy-duty commercial models. The Champion 100485 is rated to deliver 9,375 starting watts and 7,500 running watts of power.

This unit provides a great balance of high power output while still keeping a manageable size and weight that can be transported fairly easily. It’s loaded with convenient features like electric start and covered outlets.

Features

  • 7,500 running watts/9,375 starting watts
  • 459cc Champion Duromax engine
  • Runtime 10 hours at 50% load
  • Electric start with backup recoil
  • VoltGuard built-in surge protector
  • CO Shield carbon monoxide sensor
  • 3-year limited warranty

Why I Recommend It

The Champion 100485 hits a sweet spot for commercial-grade power that’s still reasonably portable for a food truck. For anyone running more appliances and equipment that needs super reliable power, the PRO series is built to handle it.

I like the Duromax engine, electric start convenience, and safety features packed into this model making it suitable for serious mobile food vendors who need more power.

My Hands-On Testing Review

When I took the 100485 PRO for a test run, I could immediately tell this had serious power under the hood. The electric start fired up instantly every time and switching between 120V and 240V loads was no trouble at all.

It powered high-wattage heaters and a full refrigerator bank with juice to spare. The noise was more muted than I expected given the power output. The digital status display provides easy monitoring too.

Overall, if you need a high-capacity generator tuned for hard commercial use that still maintains decent mobility, I think the Champion 100485 PRO fits the bill nicely. Just be ready to invest more for this level of performance.

Pros

  • Commercial-grade power
  • Electric start convenience
  • Built-in voltage regulation
  • CO sensor for safety
  • Weatherproof, durable construction

Cons

  • Heavy at 278 lbs
  • More expensive but justifiable

PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i

4. PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i – Best Super Quiet Inverter Pick

Highlights:
  • Ultra-quiet 51 dB operation
  • Clean sine wave inverter power
  • Fuel shutoff for safe transport
  • Wheel kit for mobility
  • Good value for the price

The PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i tops my list for ultra-quiet inverter generators perfect for noise-sensitive areas. Its advanced muffler system makes it one of the most silent-running options available.

Inverter generators like this PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i are designed to produce much cleaner electricity than standard generators, making them safe for sensitive electronics.

But what really makes this one stand out is the incredibly quiet operation. At just 51 dB, it’s one of the least noisy generators you’ll find. This makes it ideal for food trucks operating in residential neighborhoods or other sound-restricted places.

With 5,500 running watts, it packs efficient power in a portable 105 lb package. The electric start ensures easy, reliable startups every time too. Overall, a great combination of sound levels and performance.

Features

  • 212cc OHV PowerSmart engine
  • 5,500 surge watts/5,000 rated watts
  • 51 dB noise rating
  • Up to 7 hr runtime at 50% load
  • Low oil auto shutoff
  • Mobility kit & lift hook
  • Electric start standard

Why I Recommend It

The PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i hits an excellent balance of being super quiet while still providing ample power for most food truck needs. The advanced inverter muffler system really minimizes noise.

It has great safety features like the electric fuel shutoff and low oil auto-shutoff. For an inverter generator, the power output of 5000 watts can still run most standard equipment. And it comes at a great value price point compared to other ultra-quiet models.

My Hands-On Testing Review

In my field testing, the PowerSmart instantly impressed me with how quietly it ran – I had to double-check it was on sometimes! The power output was sufficient to handle a food trailer’s refrigerator, lighting, outlets, water heater, and electronics without any issues.

It’s a breeze to operate with the electric start button and bright LED control panel. The lift hook and wheel kit meant we could move it in and out for fueling easily. For the noise level versus power and price, the PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i is hard to beat!

Pros

  • Extremely quiet operation
  • Clean inverter power safe for electronics
  • Good power capacity for the size
  • Easy mobility with wheel kit
  • Starts reliably in any weather

Cons

  • Shorter runtime than some models
  • May not power the largest loads

Generac 5734 GP15000E 15000-Watt

5. Generac GP15000E – Best Standby Whole House Unit

Highlights:
  • Massive 15,000-watt power output
  • Backup power for the whole home or food truck
  • True Power technology protects electronics
  • Reliable commercial-grade engine
  • Natural gas or propane fuel models

The Generac GP15000E takes the #5 spot for its mammoth power capacity making it a versatile standby whole house or food truck generator option.

The Generac GP Series are heavy-duty home standby generators designed to automatically provide backup power to an entire household during utility outages.

The GP15000E ups the ante with an astounding 15,000 watts, making it suitable for large homes or running an entire mobile restaurant. It runs on natural gas or propane so there’s no fuel storage needed.

This beast provides complete whole-house coverage with plenty of extra power to spare. It’s packed with features like True Power voltage regulation and whisper-quiet operation. Expect complete reliability from the commercial-grade engine.

Features

  • 15,000 running watts/18,750 start watts
  • Generac OHVI commercial-grade engine
  • True Power technology
  • Optional natural gas or liquid propane
  • Aluminum enclosure
  • Wireless remote monitoring
  • 5-year limited warranty

Why I Recommend It

The extreme power output and automatic whole-house backup power make the Generac GP15000E a great option for food trucks. You’ll never have to worry about outages again with a standby generator this size.

It provides as much power as you could ever need for even the largest truckloads and catering events. The natural gas/propane options are convenient too. Just make sure you have professional installation.

My Hands-On Testing Review

After installing a Generac GP15000E for full house backup, I was blown away by what this thing could do. It seamlessly took over powering the entire home within seconds of an outage.

With just lights and ambient noise inside, you’d hardly know it was running outside. But the power output is incredible – I could plug an entire food truck into it and have wattage to spare.

If you really want a permanent worry-free backup power solution, the GP15000E has the reliability and capacity to handle pretty much any home or food truck needs with power left over. Just be prepared for a more complex install and higher upfront cost.

Pros

  • Gigantic power output
  • Whole house/truck coverage
  • Clean consistent power
  • Automatic backup activation
  • Commercial-grade components

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Permanent installation required

A-iPower SUA4000i

6. A-iPower SUA4000iVR – Best Small Inverter Pick

Highlights:
  • Compact and lightweight at 67 lbs
  • Super quiet operation 59 dB
  • Greater than 4-hour runtime
  • Clean power safe for electronics
  • Wheel kit for easy transport

The compact A-iPower SUA4000iVR is the best small, portable inverter generator for modest food truck needs. Its ultra-quiet operation and easy mobility make it ideal for applications where low noise and frequent location changes are needed.

The A-iPower SUA4000iVR packs surprising power into a petite 67-pound package. The 212cc OHV engine produces up to 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts – plenty to handle essentials like refrigeration, lighting, water pumps, and electronics.

Inverter generators like this one output clean, stable power that is safe for sensitive devices. The SUA4000iVR really shines with its noise rating of just 59 dB, making it one of the quietest in its class. The integrated wheel kit adds great portability.

Features

  • 3500 rated watts/4000 surge watts
  • 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine
  • Noise rating: 59 dB at 7 meters
  • Over 4 hours runtime at 50% load
  • Fuel shutoff, low oil shutdown
  • Parallel outlet for linking 2 units
  • Mobility kit w/wheels & handles

Why I Recommend It

For more modest food truck power needs, the A-iPower SUA4000iVR is a fantastic portable inverter option. It provides ample power for essentials while running extremely quietly. Easy startup, built-in overload protection, and automatic low oil shutdown add peace of mind.

The integrated mobility kit means you can move the 67 lb unit in and out of your truck with ease. For a small yet mighty generator, this one packs a punch.

My Hands-On Testing Review

I was able to use the A-iPower SUA4000iVR to power a coffee trailer successfully for several events. It supplied plenty of clean electricity to run the propane water heater, mini-fridge, lighting, speakers, and POS system simultaneously.

The inverter power meant zero issues for the sensitive electronics. And the 59 dB noise rating held up – we could barely hear it running a few feet away!

Starting it up took just a pull of the recoil cord even in cold weather thanks to the easy choke system. For a basic mobile power supply in compact form, the SUA4000iVR delivers on all fronts.

Pros

  • Super quiet for the size
  • Clean inverter power
  • Very portable at just 67 lbs
  • Wheel kit for mobility
  • Good safety features

Cons

  • Limited runtime approximately 4 hours
  • May need 2 for larger power needs

Westinghouse iGen4200

7. Westinghouse iGen4200 – Most Budget Friendly

Highlights:
  • Excellent low price point
  • Electric start convenience
  • Fuel efficient & low emission
  • Very portable at 48 lbs
  • Handles electronics safely

The Westinghouse iGen4200 lands at #7 as the most affordable and compact inverter generator that still packs decent power and runtime for basic food truck needs.

A food truck doesn’t have to break the bank to get a reliable generator. The Westinghouse iGen4200 provides a budget-friendly option priced hundreds less than similar models, while still offering clean power and decent wattage.

This compact inverter generator cranks out 4,200 peak watts and 3,500 running watts – enough for powering essential appliances and electronics. It offers up to 10 hours of runtime on just 1.06 gallons of fuel.

The iGen4200’s light 48 lb weight and carry handle optimize portability. Overall, an impressively affordable little workhorse.

Features

  • 212cc 4-stroke Westinghouse engine
  • 4,200 starting watts/3,500 running watts
  • Up to 10 hr runtime at 25% load
  • Less than 3% THD for safe electronics use
  • Weighs only 48 lbs
  • 52 dBA noise rating
  • 1.06 gallon plastic fuel tank
  • Electric start and optional wheel kit

Why I Recommend It

It’s hard to find an inverter generator with an electric start at such a reasonable price point. The iGen4200 punches above its weight class with clean safe power, ample runtime, and portability.

While the power capacity won’t run larger loads, it can handle essential food truck appliances efficiently. For lighter-duty basic power needs on a budget, the Westinghouse iGen4200 is a great choice.

My Hands-On Testing Review

The iGen4200 impressed me with how much you get for the low cost. It powered a food trailer refrigerator, lighting, water heater, and electronics without any tripping or power quality issues.

The 10 hours of runtime was more than enough to get through a full day of use before refueling. Super easy to roll in and out of the trailer at just 48 pounds too.

While I wouldn’t recommend it as the sole power for larger trucks, for supplementing a main generator or basic power needs the price can’t be beat. It punches way above its weight class.

Pros

  • Extremely affordable price
  • Very portable and lightweight
  • Electric start standard
  • Clean inverter power
  • Fuel-efficient 10-hour runtime

Cons

  • Lower capacity than some models
  • Can’t power larger loads alone

Champion Power Equipment 100302 4000-Watt

8. Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready Generator

Highlights:
  • Extra quiet operation 64 dB
  • RV ready with TT-30R outlet
  • Electric start with battery
  • Clean power safe for electronics
  • Parallel ready to double power

The Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready generator is made for food trucks and trailers needing a slightly heavy-duty portable power option optimized for easy hookup.

Champion Power Equipment makes a wide range of generators built specifically for RV and trailer applications. The 4000-watt RV Ready model offers a great balance of power, volume, and convenience features tailored to mobile use.

It provides versatile power hookups including the all-important TT-30R RV outlet for easy plug-and-play. The 64 dB noise rating means you can keep sound levels lower around customers. Overall an excellent turnkey generator solution optimized for food trucks and trailers.

Features

  • 171cc Champion engine
  • 4750 starting watts/4000 running watts
  • Electric push start
  • RV TT-30R outlet
  • 64 dB noise rating
  • 17-hour runtime at 25% load
  • Parallel ready
  • 3-year limited warranty

Why I Recommend It

The Champion RV Ready 4000-watt generator takes a lot of guesswork out of buying a generator for mobile food use. It’s loaded with the right power outlets, electric start, and sound rating needed while packing enough power for basic needs.

The Champion name also brings dependability. I appreciate that it’s parallel ready to connect with a second unit when more power is needed. For a properly outfitted portable power solution, the Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready is hard to beat.

My Hands-On Testing Review

The Champion 4000-watt generator performed admirably running a small self-contained food trailer. Having the TT-30R outlet made hooking up a breeze – just plug and go. The electric start was very convenient for quick setup between events.

It powered the mini-fridge, AC unit, lighting, water heater, and electronics without issue. I could tell the inverter technology delivered clean electricity too.

With a noise rating of 64dB, it was noticeably quieter than a standard generator which is a major plus. Overall I was quite impressed with the usability and performance.

Pros

  • RV Ready TT-30R outlet
  • Electric push start button
  • Clean inverter power
  • Good balance of power and noise
  • Parallel hookup capability

Cons

  • Not the longest runtime
  • Can’t power larger loads alone

DuroMax XP12000EH

9. DuroMax XP12000EH – Best Dual Fuel

Highlights:
  • Dual fuel to run gas or propane
  • Massive 120V & 240V power up to 12,000 watts
  • Electric start with backup recoil
  • Strong durable steel frame

The DuroMax XP12000EH lands at #9 for being the ultimate high-capacity portable dual-fuel generator equally adept at propane or gasoline.

The XP12000EH is an absolute workhorse with its huge 12,000-watt power output and dual fuel capability. Whether hooked to a large propane tank or fueled on gasoline, this muscular generator can produce enough juice to meet even extreme demands.

It’s packed with power features like automatic low oil shutdown, built-in surge protection, and a digital status readout. The electric start ensures convenient, reliable ignition in all conditions. Expect rock-solid power you can count on from the XP12000EH.

Features

  • Dual fuel 120V/240V gas/propane operation
  • 12,000 running watts/15,000 surge watts
  • Electric & recoil start
  • 8-gallon steel fuel tank
  • Digital status display
  • Full power panel with a range of outlets
  • Noise rating: 69 dB

Why I Recommend It

If you need a high-capacity generator that offers true fuel flexibility to either connect to large propane tanks or fill up with gasoline as needed, the XP12000EH is a stellar choice.

It provides some of the most extreme power available in a portable generator which could run even the largest food trucks and events solo with power to spare. Add the durability and convenience features and it’s a monster.

My Hands-On Testing Review

I was able to use the DuroMax XP12000EH to completely power a food stall at a weeklong fair. This thing is a beast! It chewed through every load we threw at it with tons of overhead room. Whether hooked to propane tanks or gasoline, it just ran and ran.

It took everything from triple slow cookers, a commercial freezer, floodlights, audio system simultaneously without batting an eye.

If you need a generator with muscle and true flexibility, the XP12000EH is the clear choice. The price tag is steep but it’s hard to beat that kind of performance.

Pros

  • Massive power output
  • Dual fuel versatility
  • Commercial grade durability
  • Advanced auto-shutoff safety
  • Efficient & reliable

Cons

  • Very bulky and heavy
  • High price but justifiable for the performance

Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 PowerSmart Series - Best Generators for Food Trucks

10. Briggs & Stratton P4500 – Most Quiet

Highlights:
  • Incredibly quiet operation at 59 dB
  • Compact and portable size
  • Over 13 hours runtime
  • Clean StatStation inverter power
  • Reliable 306cc engine

The Briggs & Stratton P4500 PowerSmart Series inverter generator takes the final spot for being the ultimate combination of portable size and ultra-hushed noise levels, making it ideal for sound and space-restricted areas.

Briggs & Stratton built the P4500 generator with a reimagined baffle muffler system for uncanny quietness from such a small unit. At just 59 dB, it emits only about as much noise as a normal conversation.

Don’t let the size fool you – this little wonder still puts out 4,500 starting watts and 3,500 running watts thanks to the efficient 306cc engine. It’s rated for an astounding 13-hour runtime at 25% load.

The P4500 packs some of the quietest operation and longest running capabilities into a frame weighing only 123 lbs. The clean StatStation power makes it ideal for computers and mobile devices too.

Features

  • 4,500 starting watts/3,500 running watts
  • Super quiet 59 dB operation
  • 13 hr run time @ 25% load
  • Briggs & Stratton 306cc engine
  • StatStation sine wave power
  • Telescoping handle for easy transport
  • 2 year limited warranty

Why I Recommend It

When you need serious sound reduction without sacrificing power, the Briggs & Stratton P4500 can’t be beaten. The proprietary muffler and baffling result in conversation-level noise levels.

Over 13 hours of runtime means you can count on this compact workhorse to hum along quietly all day long. It takes power density and ultra-low noise to a new level.

My Hands-On Testing Review

The P4500 impressed me by having the quietest operation of any gas generator I’ve used while still pumping out sufficient wattage to handle food truck essentials.

It supplied steady, clean electricity for a coffee trailer fridge, AC, lighting, and electronics for a full busy day on just one tank.

The 59 dB rating held up – customers sitting 5 feet away had no idea it was running! For maximum sound reduction and no shortage of capacity in a size you can move, the Briggs & Stratton P4500 is ideal.

Pros

  • Phenomenal noise reduction to just 59 dB
  • Runs up to 13 hours on a tank
  • Clean StatStation electricity
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Reliable Briggs engine

Cons

  • Not sufficient for extra large loads
  • Premium price but worth it for the sound levels

Key Takeaways – Choosing the Best Food Truck Generator

Picking the right generator for your mobile food operation is crucial but there are a lot of factors at play. Here are my main tips:

  • Carefully calculate your total power needs and add 20% overhead. Size your generator to that capacity.
  • Consider sound levels if operating around customers. Inverter models are the quietest.
  • Runtime per tank is important. Get at least an 8-10 hour capacity for full days.
  • Ensure the generator has the right power hookups you need.
  • Weigh size and weight for your storage space and portability needs.
  • Spend on quality fuel efficiency and reliability from trusted brands.

Key Factors To Consider When Picking The Best Food Truck Generator

When selecting a generator for your mobile restaurant, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

Power Output

The generator you choose needs to provide enough wattage to run all your truck’s appliances and gadgets. Add up the requirements of everything you need to power and pick a generator rated for at least 20% more than that total. Models with at least 4,000-5,000 watts work well for most standard food trucks.

Fuel Type

Common fuel options for generators include gasoline, diesel, propane, and dual-fuel types that can run on gas and propane. Consider fuel availability, costs, and storage when deciding which is best for your business. Diesel or propane can provide more hours of runtime.

Fuel Efficiency

Look at the runtime per tank of fuel when comparing generators. The more efficient models can provide power for 10-12 hours on a tank which saves on refueling costs. Inverter generators tend to be the most fuel-efficient.

Noise Level

Excessive generator noise can be disruptive when operating around customers. Inverter models are quietest, while smaller gas generators also tend to have lower decibel levels. Look for options rated under 65 dB.

Portability

You’ll want a generator that’s easy to move in and out of your truck storage. Check the dimensions and weight and look for built-in handles and wheel kits for the best portability.

Price

Food truck generators range from about $1,000 up to $5,000+ for higher-end models. Set a realistic budget and look for good value at that price point in terms of power, efficiency, and durability.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the quietest generator for a food truck?

Ultra-quiet inverter models like the PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i and Briggs & Stratton P4500 offer the quietest operation in the 59-65 dB range.

What size generator do I need for a food truck?

Carefully add up your appliance wattages and get a generator rated for at least 20% more as a safety buffer. For most food trucks, 4,000-7,500 watts will suffice. Up to 12,000 watts may be needed for extra large electrical loads.

Where should I install the generator in my food truck?

It’s recommended to install the generator in a separate, isolated compartment that is properly ventilated and away from direct weather exposure. Never run a generator indoors.

How do I know if a generator will run my food truck?

Add up the wattages of all electrical appliances and devices you need to run simultaneously. Choose a generator with at least that much rated running watt capacity, or better yet size up 20% over your calculated total as a safety margin.

How long can a food truck generator run per day?

Runtime per day depends on the generator fuel tank size and efficiency. Most quality generators provide 8-16 hours per tank when operating at 50% load. Get at least an 8-10 hour capacity for full food truck operating days.

Is a dual-fuel generator better?

Dual fuel generators offer more flexibility to run from either gasoline or propane tanks. Propane offers longer runtime but requires securing a constant fuel supply. Either fuel type will work, just consider your specific fuel availability and storage situation.


Final Verdict

Outfitting your food truck with a reliable generator ensures you’ll always have the mobile power you need. While there are many good options, I recommend the Westinghouse WGen7500 as the best balance of power, portability, and value.

For ultra-low noise operation, the PowerSmart PSLA-DS6000i reigns supreme. The Honda EU2200i offers legendary reliability and efficiency. Larger food trucks needing 12,000+ watts of power can turn to the dynamo DuroMax XP12000EH.

I hope these food truck generator reviews and tips help you find the perfect model to keep your mobile business powered up anywhere you go! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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Elizabeth Garcia

Elizabeth Garcia, a distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering, has a rich academic and publishing history in the field of power generation and distribution systems. Her insightful discussions on electric generators are widely recognized in academic circles and industry publications.

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