Last Updated: September 25, 2024
With so many generator options on the market and never-ending lists of product specifications to scroll through, we rounded up the 5 best generators for food trucks into one convenient list, complete with specs, pricing, and why we recommend them.
What to Consider When Picking a Food Truck Generator
- Price: Generators are pricey — even the cheapest models cost over a thousand dollars. Set a budget you’re comfortable with.
- Power output: The amount of power you need depends on how big your food truck is and how much equipment you use. To calculate this, add up the wattage for all the equipment you need to run at the same time.
- Run time: You may need more or less run time depending on how long your food truck will operate each day.
- Fuel capacity: Portable generators that aren’t built into your truck need their own source of gas or propane.
- Dimensions: Pay close attention to size as you need to make sure you actually have enough room for them in your food truck without encroaching on too much space.
- Weight: Some generators weigh less and are more portable than others. But they will weigh more once you add fuel to them (i.e., the “dry weight” listed in the specifications refers to how much it weighs without fuel).
- Noise level: Many cities and local governments have noise laws that prohibit using a generator that exceeds a certain decibel range. These laws vary from place to place, so do your research. Typically, the higher the power output, the louder the generator.
- Warranty: It’s common for generators to have both a residential and a commercial warranty, as many people use them as backup power sources for their homes. Commercial warranties are often at least a year, but be sure to read the terms and conditions before purchasing.
FLIP’s List of the Top Generators for Food Trucks
| Pros | Cons |
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✓ Exceptionally reliable; has been a favorite among food truck operators for years |
✗ Expensive; not the most budget-friendly option |
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✓ Very durable; able to withstand the demands of daily operations |
✗ Only runs on gasoline |
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✓ Fuel-efficient; up to 18 hours of run time on just one tank of gas |
✗ Shorter warranty |
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✓ Uses inverter technology to generate clean, stable power safe for sensitive electronics |
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✓ Power output fits most food truck requirements |
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✓ Ultra-quiet despite its power output |
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The Honda EU7000iS consistently takes the top spot on lists of food truck generators for many reasons, including its durability and reliability.
With an 18-hour run time and a power output that suits the needs of most food truck models, it’s the workhorse you can count on to keep your gear going.
It uses inverter technology, meaning it uses an alternator to invert power to your appliances. The electricity it generates is cleaner and more stable than a non-inverter model, making it safer to power sensitive tech like point of sale (POS) systems.
At $4,499, it is the priciest generator on this list. If that’s outside your budget, we recommend buying a used model in good condition — you can find one for half-price online. Or, check out our budget-friendly pick!
Price: $1,199.99
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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✓ Affordable |
✗ Powerhorse is not as established a brand as Honda |
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✓ Low noise level for its power output |
✗ Maintenance and repairs might be more difficult than a generator from a better-known brand |
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✓ Capable of handling the power needs of most food trucks |
✗ Only runs on gasoline |
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✓ Built with durable materials designed to withstand regular use |
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✓ 2-year warranty |
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For a cost-effective alternative to the Honda EU7000iS, look no further than the Powerhorse 7500 Watt Inverter Generator.
This model is over $3,000 cheaper than the Honda and boasts comparable specs, including a 16-hour runtime and a low decibel rating. It even has a slightly larger power output than the Honda, so it can meet the electrical needs of most food truck businesses.
Powerhorse doesn’t have the same brand recognition that Honda does, so replacement parts might be harder to come by than they would with a generator from a bigger name.
Even so, this model is a great option for anyone hoping to avoid a premium price tag while still getting a big bang for their buck.
Price: $1,599
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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✓ Impressively high power output; ideal for larger food truck operations |
✗ Loud; may not be suited for certain environments with decibel restrictions |
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✓ Dual-fuel capacity; runs on both gasoline and propane |
✗ Not as fuel-efficient as other models |
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✓ Durable all-metal frame stands up to the rigors of frequent use and transportation |
✗ Not inverter-based; may not be appropriate for more sensitive electronics |
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✓ Well-suited for complex setups and various types of equipment and appliances thanks to a variety of outlets |
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✓ Affordable, especially for its power output |
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If you’re running a large food truck or need to power a lot of demanding equipment, the DuroMax XP12000HX might be the right choice for you.
This model has exceptional power, maxing out at 12,000 W when running a quarter load on gasoline. Speaking of fuel, it has dual capacity and can run on both gasoline and propane. Plus, its all-metal frame means it’s built to withstand a good deal of wear and tear.
If you operate your food truck in areas with strict noise restrictions, you may want to consider other options. At 74 decibels, this model isn’t quiet and might be too loud to operate near residential areas.
It’s also important to note that the DuroMax isn’t inverter-based, so you shouldn’t use it to power sensitive tech like your POS system.
Price: $1,199
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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✓ Dual-fuel capacity; runs on both gasoline and propane |
✗ Not powerful enough for larger food truck operations |
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✓ Extremely quiet; great for areas with strict noise laws |
✗ Not parallel-capable; no option to combine it with another unit to increase power output |
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✓ Compact size; works well for trucks with limited space |
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✓ Convenient remote start allows you to power it from a distance |
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✓ LED display clearly shows performance stats
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The Westinghouse iGen4500DF is a compact model best suited for smaller food trucks because of its relatively lower power output. It’s also the quietest food truck generator on our list at just 52 decibels!
This versatile dual-fuel generator has several convenient features, including a clear LED display that makes it easy to see how your generator is performing. It even has a remote control so you can power it on or off at a distance.
While this model is an excellent choice for small food trucks, it doesn’t have enough juice to power larger operations. It’s also not parallel-capable, so you won’t be able to run two of them simultaneously to generate twice the power. But for food trucks that don’t need much power, this won’t be an issue.
Price: $799.99
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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✓ Extremely lightweight; very portable and easy to take from one location to the next |
✗ Lower power output; only suitable for smaller food truck operations |
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✓ Among the quieter models; great choice for areas with noise restrictions |
✗ Only runs on gasoline |
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✓ Very affordable; <$1,000 for a new model |
✗ Short run time |
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✓ Fuel-efficient Eco-Mode feature adjusts fuel consumption according to the load |
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✓ Can connect with a parallel generator to double the power output |
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If you’re looking for a generator that’s relatively easy to transport from one place to the next, the WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800 is an excellent choice. Weighing 99.2 lbs, it’s the lightest on our list, and compact and quiet too.
It can’t compete with some of the larger models for power output but would be well-suited for a smaller food truck. Plus, it’s parallel compatible, so you can buy two and run them together.
While it only runs on gas and has a short runtime of 8.5 hours, this model boasts a fuel-efficient Eco-Mode feature that automatically adjusts the amount of fuel it’s burning according to its current load. This allows you to stretch your gas dollars a little further than you would with other models.
How to Protect Your Food Truck and Generator
Generators aren’t cheap, and neither is running a food business. With all the time, effort, and money you put into making your culinary dreams come true and serving up delicious eats, you don’t want an accident to come along and cause financial strain.
If an accident does happen, though, FLIP has your back. Our base policy starts at just $25.92 a month or $299 a year and includes general liability coverage for third-party injuries and property damage.
Plus, you can add tools and equipment coverage to your policy to cover instances like your generator or other business gear being stolen or damaged. This could save you thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
Learn about protecting your food truck and equipment with food truck insurance today!
FAQs About Food Truck Generators
Start by calculating how much power you need by adding up the wattage for all of the appliances you need to run at the same time. With that number, you can identify the size you need because generator size usually coincides with power output.
- Small generators: up to 4,000 W
- Medium generators: up to 6,000 W
- Large generators: over 6,000 W
- Regular fuel and oil checks
- Battery replacements
- Cleaning or replacing the air filter
- Checking coolant levels (especially during hot weather)
- Replacing spark plugs
- Regular exhaust system inspections and cleanings
- Cleaning dirt, debris, and grease that might accumulate on the generator
- Annual servicing inspections
Generators can be used in most weather conditions, but you shouldn’t leave your generator exposed to the elements.
If you need to run it in rainy or snowy conditions, make sure it’s sheltered by a tent or canopy to keep water from seeping into it. However, the generator still needs proper ventilation, so don’t cover it completely.
- Read up on local regulations: Many areas have noise ordinances or emissions standards that could impact which generators you can use.
- Obtain necessary permits or licenses: You might need a permit from your local fire or health department that clears your generator for safety concerns like fire risk or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Maintain detailed records: Make copies of any permits or inspections you’ve received for your generator in case you ever need to prove your model is compliant.
- Amazon
- Lowe’s (in-store or online)
- The Home Depot (in-store or online)
- Electric Generators Direct
- Northern Tool
- Honda Power Equipment (manufacturer direct)
- Facebook Marketplace (secondhand)
- Local equipment auctions
- Camping and RV supply stores
Updated By Alex Hastings
Alex is a Marketing Copywriter at Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP). In her free time, she enjoys reading, birding, traveling, and finding any excuse to get brunch.
Reviewed by: Kyle Jude
Kyle Jude is the Program Manager for Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP). As a dedicated program manager with 10+ years of experience in the insurance industry, Kyle offers insight into different coverages for food and beverage business professionals who are looking to navigate business liability insurance.
