The Best Generator For Food Truck: Top 7 Current Generators For Your Food Truck With Generator Features

When it comes to the constant support of electricity, it makes sense to use generators. If you have a food truck, then the question arises of which would be the best and most suitable generator for your food truck. You can read more about food truck generators in this article.

Brief description

	Honda Generator EU7000iS	Runs on gasoline, and has a rated power of 5.5 kW. Maximum power – 7 kW. The tank is designed for 5.1 gallons of fuel. There are many outlets. The noise level is only 58 dB. There is a 3-year warranty.
	Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, Wheel & Handle Kit, RV Ready, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable	Runs on gasoline. Power varies from 3.7 to 4.5 kW. The fuel tank is rated at 3.4 gallons. Engine 4-stroke. The noise level is only 52 dB.
	DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Home Back Up & RV Ready	The device works on both gasoline and propane. Power differs depending on the type of fuel. The fuel tank is rated at 7.9 gallons. It can work continuously for up to 8 hours. There are many outlets. The noise level is 74 dB.
	Generac 7127 IQ3500 3,500-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator, 50-State/CARB Compliant	The device only runs on petrol. The average power is 7 kW. The fuel tank capacity is 6.9 gallons. Works for 10 hours without interruption. There are sockets with a twist lock.
	Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Quiet Power Series Inverter Generator | CO Guard, 6500 starting watts	The power of the device is 6.5 kW. Works on gasoline, and the power source is gas. Voltage 120 V. There is a telescopic handle. Comes in grey-red. The engine is designed for 4 cycles.
	Hudson Motors 2000-Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, EPA & CARB Compliant, Eco-Mode Feature, Ultra Lightweight for Backup Home Use & Camping	The operating power of the device is 1.8 kW. The engine runs on 4 cycles and has a capacity of 80 cubic centimeters. Works 8 hours without interruption.
	Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts – Gas & LPG – Electric Start – Transfer Switch & RV Ready – CARB Compliant	The operating power of the device is 12 kW. Runs on gas or petrol. Weighs about 209 pounds. Voltage 120-240 V. Presented in a gray tint. The engine is designed for 4 cycles.

Honda Generator EU7000iS

If you are looking for the best food truck generator, take a look at this option. Honda has a long-established reputation in the market and delivers quality products. The device is very quiet, and emits a noise level of 58 dB, even at full power.

The food truck generator can work autonomously for about 18 hours if you set ¼ load. The device is small and portable. It has a light frame, so you can carry the portable generator if necessary. This type of generator is characterized by medium power and is capable of maintaining 5.5 kW at constant power.

If the power is pulsed, it is 7 kW. Therefore, this is enough to meet the needs of most food truck owners.

There are two sockets on the front panel, which are interlocked, and are rated for 30 A.

They can output power at 250V.

The device lacks USB ports and 12V chargers. Therefore, this slightly reduces the usefulness of the generator. Here is a 389 cc engine from Honda. It is fuel efficient, but the generator produces little noise. However, the device for a food truck is expensive.

Advantages

The main advantages are:

• autonomy of work – up to 18 hours;
• noise intensity 58 dB;
• power up to 7 kW;
• 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Minuses

The minus of food trucks device is the high cost. Also, the device lacks a DC outlet and USB ports.

Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, Wheel & Handle Kit, RV Ready, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable

These small generators for food trucks run on gasoline and are ideal for trucks that carry groceries. The power output of the device can be adjusted from 3.7 to 4.5 kW. The generator is inexpensive to maintain because it runs on gasoline. Therefore, it is the best option for people who do not want to spend money.

The gasoline tank capacity is 3 gallons. The device can work up to 18 hours. Inside, there is a 4-stroke engine, which has a volume of 224 cubic cm. The generator works very quietly and emits only 52 dB.

Numerous outlets are located on the generator panel. There is a socket designed for 120 V and 30 A. Therefore, it is possible to connect household appliances. There are multiple USB ports, so you can charge your phones. There is a 12V DC outlet for charging batteries.

However, the voltage cannot be switched to 220 V or more. You can start the generator with one click on the button. There is a handle and wheels, which makes it easy to carry the generator. The manufacturer provides a 12-month warranty for the product.

Model benefits

The main advantages of the food trucks generator include:

• quiet operation;
• the ability to work without stopping for up to 18 hours;
• the presence of a variety of connectors;

Minuses

Of the shortcomings, note:

• no socket for 220 V;
• modest power output;
• warranty only 12 months.

DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Home Back Up & RV Ready

The food truck generators are quite large. An engine is installed inside, which is designed for 457 cubic cm. Therefore, the running power is about 9.5 kW. The generators for food trucks run on gasoline. There is a possibility of power surges up to 12 kW.

This is enough to connect several refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, and air conditioners to the generator. Yes, the gasoline generator is quite massive, so there may be difficulties in the transfer process. However, the generator can easily fit in a food truck.

If necessary, you can fill the generator with propane. This is a very good advantage. Yes, the device does not have fuel efficiency. This is due to the large size. There is an 8-gallon gas tank inside. This is enough for the device to work 8 hours at a load of ½.

If you plan to use the device for a food truck for quite some time, this generator is not the best option. After all, constant work requires a lot of gasoline, which will negatively affect the economy. The generator works quite loudly and emits a noise level of 74 dB. Therefore, some clients may experience discomfort.

Many factors were taken into account in the construction of the panel to achieve a huge power output. There are several sockets with 3 pins and also 2 sockets with four pins. They can support both 120 and 140 V. Therefore, you can connect a variety of electrical devices.

There is a 12V DC outlet, so it is easier for you to charge the battery. Inside, there is an analog voltmeter, so you know exactly how much power is consumed over a certain period.

Model benefits

The advantages of this generator for a food truck are:

• high-power ratings, so the generator fits most food trucks;
• the possibility of using gasoline and propane;
• availability of sockets for 120 and 240 V;
• the built-in voltmeter.

Minuses

The shortcomings are:

• high fuel consumption. The device consumes 1 gallon of fuel per hour;
• loud work;
• the massiveness and heavyweight, which makes transportation difficult.

Generac 7127 IQ3500 3,500-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator, 50-State/CARB Compliant

When the generator works, its running power is 6.5 kW. At start-up, the power is 8.1 kW. There is a 120V or 240V twist-lock socket and four additional sockets. The generator runs on gasoline, and the tank is rated for 7 gallons.

If set to half power, the portable generator works for 10 hours without interruption. There is a high-power output, so the generator will easily feed all the appliances that are in the food truck.

The design is complemented by an on/off switch that runs on electricity.

Using it is quite simple. It is enough to start or turn off the portable generator by pressing one button. There is also a fuel cut switch. Start it, and turn it to the side so that no fuel is supplied to the engine. Yes, the design is heavy.

However, there are several handles and wheels, which makes it much easier to carry. You can move the portable generator around the car, or put it in the yard, without much difficulty. However, after purchasing the product, you have to assemble the handles and wheels yourself. To start the device, you need to correctly install the switches, as well as turn them off.

Model benefits

The main advantages of the design are:

• three-year warranty from the manufacturer;
• high output power;
• powerful modern technology;
• increased power at start-up;
• existence of wheels and handles that facilitates carrying.

Minuses

The only negative of the model is that it works loudly and can cause discomfort.

Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Quiet Power Series Inverter Generator | CO Guard, 6500 starting watts

This generator is considered an inverter. Therefore, at maximum load, the inverter generators work 60% quieter than other classic generators. At the same time, it has enough power required for the operation of household appliances is maintained.

An engine is provided inside, which is designed for 306 cubic centimeters. Thanks to the built-in alternator, the inverter generators can work for 14 hours without interruption. A protective cover is provided that suppresses noise. Inside the casing, there is a solid steel frame, so there is practically no noise.

The design is small in size and light in weight. Therefore, it is much easier to carry and store the portable generator. There is a technology that helps turn off carbon monoxide. As soon as the gas level rises, the device automatically turns off.

There is a telescopic handle, which has the shape of a suitcase. Several sockets are designed for different voltages. There are also USB ports.

Model benefits

The main advantages of inverter generators for food trucks are:

• quiet operation;
• ease of transportation;
• control of carbon monoxide;
• the different sockets and USB ports;
• good power.

Minuses

There are no shortcomings in the model.

Hudson Motors 2000-Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, EPA & CARB Compliant, Eco-Mode Feature, Ultra-Lightweight for Backup Home Use & Camping

This generator is also considered an inverter. The inverter generators work almost silently and have a power of 2 kW. An 80cc engine is installed inside and has 4 cycles. If there is not enough oil inside, the device will automatically turn off. The tank is designed for 1 gallon of fuel. The generator works for about 6.5 hours without interruption.

Differs in ease of transportation and storage. It goes well with various appliances that are used for cooking. The device can be used not only in the food truck but also on the campsite.

The device operates quietly and with fuel efficiency. The output noise level is 60 dB. Several devices can be connected to the generator at the same time. However, the technique can be sensitive. There is a sensor that notifies you when the oil level is low.

There is an indicator that is responsible for overload. There is an output power sensor. Users appreciate the presence of “Eco-mode”, which helps to save energy and save fuel efficiency. There are several sockets for 120V and 20A. One socket is rated for 120V and 30A. There is a socket for 5V and 1A.

The manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty on the product. You can also clarify technical issues with a company employee, since the support service works around the clock, seven days a week.

Model benefits

The main advantages are:

• quiet operation;
• presence of numerous sockets;
• availability of oil control sensor;
• existence of a two-year guarantee.

Minuses

The only downside is low power. Therefore, it is not possible to connect multiple devices at the same time.

Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts – Gas & LPG – Electric Start – Transfer Switch & RV Ready – CARB Compliant

The rated power of the product is 9.5 kW on gasoline and 8.5 kW on gas. If we consider peak power, then on gasoline it is 12 kW, and on gas – about 10.8 kW. You can choose which type of fuel is used. The choice depends on your financial capabilities.

Inside is a 4-stroke, 457cc engine that only has 1 cylinder. The engine is air-cooled and can be started with electricity. For its protection, a durable frame is provided, which has a powder coating.

The fuel tank capacity is 8 gallons, which provides 12 hours of trouble-free operation. It should be noted that there are many sockets on the device panel that is designed for different voltages. Therefore, you have enough space to power the necessary appliances needed for cooking.

Thanks to the handles and wheels, you can easily move the portable generator. Excellent mobility characterizes these quiet generators. The device has an oil control sensor, as well as automatic voltage regulation. Therefore, you do not have to constantly monitor the operation of the generator. Includes propane hose.

Model benefits

The advantages of the model are:

• availability of oil control sensor;
• quiet operation;
• mobility and compactness;
• versatility, because there are several outlets;
• high power.

Minuses

There are no downsides to this model.

The need for a generator

Quite often, food trucks are equipped with generators. However, it is important that the seller can communicate with visitors, and nothing drowns out the conversation. That is why you should choose quiet devices so as not to drive away buyers.

Food trucks are often augmented with various power-hungry devices. It should be noted air conditioners, refrigerators, microwave ovens, stoves from electricity, and much more. They require a generator to run continuously.

The device must withstand voltage surges and have high power.

It is important to keep the generator running while the food truck is open. Therefore, the device should work for several hours in a row without interruption. Therefore, you should choose a powerful generator that has a large fuel tank. In this case, the device should work quietly.

How to choose a generator?

As you know, there are different options for generators on the market, which differ in power, fuel-efficient, and reliability. There are several factors that you need to pay attention to when buying. More about them will be discussed below.

Required power

It is important to pay attention to how much power the device can produce. To determine the desired parameter, add up enough power for all devices that you plan to use. The resulting value means how many watts are consumed constantly.

If the required power is almost the same as the maximum operating power of the generator, then the fuel is consumed very quickly. It is important to pay attention to the additional power that is generated when the devices are started. Some generators can easily cope with increased load.

Type of fuel

Today, there are generators on the market that run on propane or gasoline. You can find devices that are designed for only one type of fuel, or you can choose for yourself a universal option that works on both gasoline and gas.

This quickly gets the power you need. However, gasoline does this much better than gas. Especially if the generator can run on different types of fuel. Gasoline is readily available, so the generator can be refueled while you fill up the van.

For food trucks, dual-fuel or gasoline-only generators are the best options. However, gasoline is more expensive and cannot be stored in a food van due to the release of harmful fumes. If you use propane, you will not have to constantly cool the device. It is enough to immediately connect a new cylinder.

Engine power and reliability

As you know, the engine is an important component. If it is designed for a volume of 457 cubic cm, then its rated power is higher compared to smaller engines.

It is important to pay attention to how many cycles the generator runs. The 4-stroke options are quieter and more fuel efficient. Therefore, they are the best option.

Fuel tank capacity and operating time

Many people who are going to the food truck business pay attention to the operating time of the generator. After all, no one wants the generator to be idle while you communicate with customers. Generators that run on gasoline are distinguished by the small size of the fuel tank. Capacity varies from 4 to 7 gallons.

Not only the size of the tank affects the operating time. It is important to consider the efficiency of the fuel used, as well as the power consumption. Fuel-efficient engines will run longer while consuming the same amount of fuel. It is important to understand that the operating time depends on the load on the device.

Versatility and sockets

You should pay attention to how many outlets you need to connect all the necessary appliances that are in the food truck. After all, not enough outlets slow down the sale of goods. If the appliances inside the van are very powerful, they need a 240V 30A outlet.

Be sure to take care of the availability of household sockets for 120 V and 20 A. They are provided on almost all generators. Be sure to clarify in advance whether you need USB ports. Indeed, in some models of generators, they are not provided. A 12 V socket is required to charge the batteries.

Noise level

For most food truck owners, the generator must run quietly. After all, this has a positive effect on the attitude of customers. The seller must retain the ability to communicate with visitors and receive orders.

There are various generators on the market that differ in noise level from 52 dB. However, there are those that emit noise up to 70 dB. It must be understood that the noise will increase if the power consumption of the generator increases. Devices running on dual fuel or gasoline are louder than those on propane.

Dimensions and weight

You need to understand that for the daily start of the generator, it has to be transferred. Therefore, it is better to focus on models that are light in weight and size. They won’t take up much space, and you can easily move them from place to place.

If you choose generators with large fuel tanks and high power, then the devices are quite heavy and bulky. If you are looking for a practical design, look for models that have a reinforced base frame.

Guarantee

As you know, generators are quite expensive. Therefore, no one wants to buy a device, and in a few months, in the event of a breakdown, repair it at their own expense.

That is why you should pay attention to what kind of warranty the manufacturer supplies.

For commercial use, in most cases, the warranty lasts only 12 months. However, you can find options that are covered by a three-year warranty. They are the most practical.

Generator operation tips

If you decide to use a generator, there are some practical tips to make operation, maintenance, and safety easier. In order for the device to be durable, it is important to ensure proper maintenance. Therefore, you need to constantly change the oil, and also do not leave gasoline in the tank for a long time.

Before you replenish the gasoline in the tank, you need to turn off the device and wait for it to cool completely. If you do this while the generator is hot, the device may spark, which is not entirely safe.

Cost of food truck generators

You need to understand that the purchase is quite impressive, and you won’t be able to save. If you are looking for power generators, then the cost of them can reach $1,000. If you decide to choose generators from well-known brands, for example, Honda, then the cost increases to 2-5 thousand dollars.

The cheapest generator on the American market is considered to be a product from Pulsar. Its cost is 850 dollars. It is important to note that you should not immediately save on buying a generator. After all, cheap models can become unusable over time, and you have to spend money again.

If you want to save money in the future, pay attention to more expensive models. They are distinguished by the best quality of materials and assembly, and the manufacturer has taken care of safety during operation. Therefore, you will be sure that the fuel-efficient generator will not let you down at the most crucial moment.

FAQ

When it comes to choosing champion power equipment, there are a lot of questions. The answers to the most common of them will be presented below.

What type of generator is best for food trucks?

If you are looking for the best generator for your food truck, inverter models are your best bet. They use alternating currents and can convert electrical voltage to power appliances.

At the same time, such models are distinguished by quiet operation, lightness, and convenience. It is a pleasure to use them.

What size generator does a food truck need?

In almost all vans there are quite large generators. Their power varies from 5 to 7 kW.

Can you run a generator while driving a food truck?

You need to use a generator if there is a need to feed the equipment necessary for cooking. Do not use generators if the room is closed. You should also stock up on a carbon monoxide detector to be on the safe side.

How much power does my food truck need?

A 6.5 kW generator suffices for a food truck. This is enough to feed the main technique. If you use deep fryers that consume a lot of power, you have to stock up on a 10 kW generator. In the future, you can save a lot.

Results

As you can see, various generator options on the market that are optimal for a food truck. The choice must be made based on the required power, as well as other parameters discussed in this article.