Welcome to my review of the EcoFlow Dual Fuel Smart Generator. This innovative generator is designed to provide emergency backup power for your home or campsite using two different fuel sources – propane and gasoline. It also has integrated smart features allowing you to monitor and control the generator remotely through an app.
The EcoFlow Dual Fuel Generator sets itself apart in a few key ways. First, it gives you flexibility in the type of fuel used – either a 20lb propane tank or gasoline can power the generator for hours of continuous use. It has a rated output up to 1800 watts, giving you sufficient power to handle lights, appliances, power tools and more. You also get the convenience of electric start via battery or auto start when powering compatible EcoFlow power stations.
I’ll be giving a hands-on review of how this generator performs on both propane and gasoline. We’ll take a close look at the setup process, fuel efficiency, noise levels, and ease of use. I’ll also discuss how its smart connectivity and dual fuel capability compare to other generators on the market.
Let’s get started!
Dual Fuel Capabilities
One of the standout features of this smart generator is its dual fuel capabilities, allowing it to run on both propane and gasoline. This provides greater flexibility compared to traditional gas-only generators.
The generator has a propane inlet on the side that accepts a standard propane tank adapter. An included adapter cable snaps into place easily without any tools required. On the other side, there is a gasoline tank that can be filled up like a typical gas generator.
Having the ability to use two fuel sources is very convenient. Propane has advantages like cleaner burning and easier storage, while gasoline provides more power output. You can choose which fuel to use based on your needs at the time.
The dual fuel design gives you the flexibility to take advantage of both gasoline and propane. With propane, you don’t have to worry about fuel expiration or spills during transport. Gasoline may be more convenient if you need to refuel quickly at a gas station.
Overall, the dual fuel capabilities provide a versatile generator that can handle different situations. You get the reliability of propane plus the extra power of gasoline when needed.
Smart Features
The EcoFlow smart generator sets itself apart with advanced smart capabilities. It has a built-in LCD display that provides real-time monitoring of power output, fuel levels, and runtime.
More impressively, the generator offers full app connectivity and control when connected to the EcoFlow app. You can remotely turn the generator on or off, monitor its status, and adjust the power output right from your phone.
The generator’s smart features also allow it to automatically start up and shut down when connected to compatible EcoFlow power stations like the Delta Pro or Delta Max. For example, you can set the generator to automatically start when your Delta Max drops below a certain battery percentage. Once the Delta Max is recharged to the desired level, the generator will automatically shut off.
This auto start/stop functionality ensures your EcoFlow ecosystem has seamless power delivery. The generator acts as a backup power source to your solar panels or grid power, kicking in automatically when needed. This hands-free operation is a huge perk unique to EcoFlow’s integrated product line.
Electric Start with Lithium-Ion Battery
One of the smart features of this generator is the electric start capability. This allows you to start the generator with the simple press of a button, without needing to pull start it manually each time.
The electric start uses a built-in lithium-ion battery located on the top of the generator. When you first receive the unit, you will need to connect the battery terminals to provide power to the electric start system. The battery comes included with the generator.
The lithium-ion battery enables quick and easy push-button starting. This makes the generator much easier to start compared to traditional pull start only generators. The electric start works when running the generator on both propane and gasoline.
Having electric start functionality via the onboard lithium-ion battery gives you a convenient way to start up the generator. This avoids the physical effort of pull starting the motor every time you need to use it.
DC Fast Charging
One of the unique features of this smart generator is the dedicated DC output designed specifically for charging EcoFlow’s line of portable power stations. It includes a DC to DC charging cable that connects to the Delta Pro, Delta Max, and home backup power stations.
This DC fast charging allows you to charge those stations much more efficiently compared to using the AC output. EcoFlow claims it’s 10% more efficient to charge the power stations using the DC output instead of converting to AC and back to DC again.
So if you plan to use this generator primarily for charging EcoFlow products like the Delta Max or home battery solution, you’ll want to take advantage of this DC fast charging capability. Just connect the included 6-pin cable from the generator’s DC output to your EcoFlow product and it will fast charge up to 1800 watts.
The DC output also enables smart connectivity and control between the generator and EcoFlow power stations. So the generator can automatically turn on and off based on the state of charge of your connected power station. This helps optimize fuel efficiency so you don’t waste excess gas or propane.
Overall the dedicated DC output is a great addition for existing EcoFlow owners. It provides faster more efficient charging for their portable power stations directly from the generator.
Initial Setup
Before getting the generator up and running, there are a few key steps for the initial setup. This includes:
Adding Oil
The first step is adding oil to the engine. This generator requires about 380 ml or 0.38 liters of 4-cycle 10W-40 oil. After removing the access panel, the oil fill cap can be accessed to pour in the required amount of oil. It’s helpful to mark the dipstick to track the oil level. Once filled, replace the oil cap and dipstick. Run the pull cord 2-3 times to circulate the oil before starting the engine.
Connecting the Battery
The next step is connecting the lithium-ion battery that powers the electric start function. The generator has SAE connections for the battery. After removing the access panel, the battery cables can be connected. Tuck any loose cables neatly out of the way before replacing the panel.
Fuel Setup
The last setup step involves the fuel. For gasoline, make sure the fuel valve switch is open to allow fuel to flow. For propane, connect the included adapter to snap into the inlet. No tools are needed. This generator has auto shut-off capabilities when using the DC output, so fuel can be left connected. With initial setup complete, the generator is ready for starting and testing.
Testing Propane Performance
For the first test, I wanted to see how the generator performed when powered by propane. I connected a large 200Ah power station to the AC output of the generator to charge it from 0% to 100%.
To start, I weighed the propane tank to get a baseline reading before beginning the test. The tank started at 35.2 lbs.
I was able to start the generator on the first try using the electric start button. It took a minute or two for the RPMs to stabilize, but it smoothed out quickly.
At max power output, the generator provided 1450 watts to the power station. This is just under the rated 1600 watt output for propane. The power station reported it was receiving just under 1400 watts input.
As the power station charged, the generator held steady at 59-60 decibels measured from 23 feet away. This is a moderate noise level, comparable to a normal conversation. You would definitely notice the noise running in your backyard.
After 2 hours and 15 minutes, the power station reached 100% charge. I immediately turned off the generator to check the propane usage. The tank now weighed 33.2 lbs, meaning 2 lbs of propane was consumed during this test.
Charging a 200Ah power station from 0-100% required about 2 lbs of propane fuel. This equates to approximately 10 full charge cycles from a standard 20 lb propane tank.
Testing Gasoline Performance
For the second round of testing, I ran the ecoflow smart generator on gasoline. I filled the 1 gallon tank halfway with ethanol-free fuel to test how efficient it was at charging.
I connected the Delta Max power station, which was sitting at 0% battery, to start the test. Using the DC output for maximum efficiency, the generator automatically turned on and began charging the power station.
The display initially showed the gas tank at 46% since I had added a half gallon. As the test progressed, the fuel gauge dropped steadily. The generator ran very quietly, even on the high-performance setting. I measured about 65 decibels at 23 feet away, the same sound levels as when running on propane.
When the Delta Max reached 98% charge, the generator shut off automatically. This shows the smart connectivity between the power station and generator. In total, it looks like a half gallon of gas provided one full charge cycle for the Delta Max from 0 to 100%.
While the display showed 0% fuel remaining, I let the generator continue running. Surprisingly, it ran for another 45 minutes before sputtering out. So there is reserve fuel even after it shows empty. Overall, it looks like this generator could provide 2.5-3 full charges for the Delta Max from a full 1 gallon tank.
The gasoline provided a bit more power output compared to propane, around 1680 watts vs 1480 watts. However, gas fumes lingered in the area after testing. I prefer the cleaner exhaust smell from the propane option. But for longer multi-day outages, the convenience of refueling from gas stations makes gasoline an appealing fuel choice.
Comparing Propane vs Gasoline
Propane and gasoline each have their own pros and cons when used in a dual fuel generator. Here is an overview of the main differences between the two fuel types:
Propane Pros
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Clean burning – Propane exhaust has minimal odor and doesn’t leave residue on clothes or surroundings. This makes it more environmentally friendly.
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Convenient storage – Propane tanks have an indefinite shelf life if properly stored and recertified. No need to add fuel stabilizers.
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Safer than gasoline – Propane is less flammable than gasoline and spills/leaks are less common with the direct tank connection.
Propane Cons
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Less power output – You may need a larger generator to get the same power as gasoline. The EcoFlow in tests had 100-200 less watts on propane.
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Refilling tanks is less convenient – You need to go to a specialty location, not any gas station like with gasoline.
Gasoline Pros
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More power output – Gasoline yielded up to 200 more watts in testing. Better for running high-draw appliances.
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Easy to refill at any gas station. Don’t need to go to a specialty location.
Gasoline Cons
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Stale gasoline can damage engines – Gas goes bad over time and requires fuel stabilizers and maintenance.
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Strong odor lingers – Gasoline exhaust can make clothes and surroundings smell strongly.
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Spills are dangerous – Gasoline is highly flammable if spilled or stored improperly. Tanks also leak over time.
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Not as environmentally friendly – Gasoline exhaust contains more emissions.
In summary, propane offers a cleaner and safer fuel source while gasoline provides more power output and convenience. Consider your needs and planned usage to decide which fuel type is the better fit.
Multiple Starting Methods
The EcoFlow smart generator offers several convenient ways to start the engine:
Pull Start
The classic pull start method is always available as a backup option if the battery is dead. Simply grab the pull cord handle and give it a firm tug to start the engine. This is a tried and true starting method that requires no electricity.
Electric Start
Thanks to the built-in lithium battery, you can start the engine with the simple press of a button. Just press the start button on the control panel, and the electric starter will spring the engine to life. This gives you quick, convenient push-button starting.
App Control
Through the EcoFlow app on your smartphone, you can remotely start and stop the generator. If you’re away from the unit, you can fire it up with a tap on your phone. The app also lets you monitor fuel levels and other status information.
Auto Start
When connected to a supported EcoFlow power station like the Delta Pro or Delta Max, the generator can automatically start up to recharge the power station when the battery level gets low. This fully automatic starting takes the guesswork out of when to run the generator.
Comparisons to Other Brands
The EcoFlow Smart Generator stands out from other portable generators on the market in a few key ways:
Dual Fuel Capability
Most portable generators run on either gasoline or propane, but the EcoFlow model offers dual fuel flexibility. You can operate it with either fuel type, giving you more options and making it easy to use whatever fuel is most readily available. This versatility sets it apart from single fuel generators.
Smart Features
With the EcoFlow Smart Generator, you get app connectivity and real-time monitoring thanks to the built-in LCD screen. You can turn the generator on or off, monitor power output, adjust settings like Eco Mode, and more, all from your smartphone. Many competitors lack this level of smart technology and app integration.
Automatic Backup Capabilities
The generator can serve as an automatic backup power source for EcoFlow’s full product line, including the Delta Pro, Delta Max, and home battery systems. When connected via the DC cable, it will automatically power on and off as needed based on your settings. This seamless auto backup functionality for EcoFlow products is a unique advantage not offered by other brands.
By providing dual fuel flexibility, smart app control, and intelligent integration with EcoFlow power stations, the EcoFlow Smart Generator differentiates itself from standard gasoline-only generators. These capabilities make it a more versatile and full-featured option compared to competitors.
Pricing and Availability
The EcoFlow Smart Generator Dual Fuel 1800 is currently available on EcoFlow’s website.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for this generator is $1599. However, at the time of writing, EcoFlow is offering a promotional discounted price of $1299, allowing customers to save $300 off MSRP.
Readers interested in learning more or purchasing the EcoFlow Smart Generator Dual Fuel 1800 can visit the product page below:
EcoFlow Smart Generator Dual Fuel 1800
The discounted pricing may not last forever, so act fast to take advantage of these savings.
Summary and Conclusion
In this in-depth review and testing, we took a close look at EcoFlow’s latest Dual Fuel Smart Generator. This portable generator offers the flexibility of running on either propane or gasoline, with rated power output up to 1,800 watts on gasoline.
Key features of the Dual Fuel Smart Generator include an integrated LCD display with smartphone app control, electric push-button start, and a dedicated DC output for fast charging EcoFlow’s power stations. We walked through the initial oil and battery setup, and then performed extensive runtime tests on both propane and gasoline.
On propane, the generator efficiently charged up a Delta Max power station from 0% to 100% with only 1.8 pounds of propane consumed. Gasoline runtime tests showed the ability to fully recharge the Delta Max off just a half-gallon of gasoline. At full power output, noise levels measured around 65 decibels in performance mode, dropping to 60dB in eco mode.
Overall, the Dual Fuel Smart Generator provides versatile dual-fuel capability, smart features like app monitoring and control, and DC fast charging to support EcoFlow’s ecosystem of power stations. For those seeking an integrated backup power solution for their home or outdoor adventures, the EcoFlow Dual Fuel Generator is a compelling option.