Owning a tri-fuel generator means you already have one of the most versatile backup power solutions available. These capable units give you the freedom to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas — so you never have to worry about scrambling for fuel when an emergency strikes or the lights go out.
One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is: "How do I hook up my generator to my natural gas supply?" The short answer is that your generator already comes equipped to handle it — paired with useful information about setup, operation, troubleshooting, and more. Find a comfortable seat, grab a cold beverage, and read on. If you already have a specific model in mind, you can visit the product page or look up the manual on the WEN website — just search the generator's model number in the search bar.
For a deeper dive with appropriate visuals and community commentary, keep reading below.
Before You Begin: A Note About Standby Units & Automatic Transfer Switches
If you have purchased a portable tri-fuel generator expecting it to automatically turn on when the power goes out, it is important to understand that some portable tri-fuel generators on the market can connect to automatic transfer switches (devices responsible for automatically starting a generator when the power fails), but many cannot. They would need to be connected to a manual transfer switch or to a power management system instead.
Transfer switches safely and legally connect your generator to your home to help distribute the electrical load between the grid and the generator during utility outages, making sure everything runs correctly. Be sure to consult a licensed electrician for transfer switch installation.
If any of the following scenarios apply to your situation, a transfer switch is probably the best path forward for your permanently installed generator system:
✓ You live in a region that is prone to frequent or multi-day outages from storms, natural disasters, or other causes.
✓ You don't want to deal with setting up a generator every single time the power goes out.
✓ You have confirmed that you are physically able to set up or start a generator during a power outage.
Standby generators are engineered to handle total-home power capacity. Your tri-fuel portable unit can provide solid backup power, and it can be permanently connected to an automatic or manual transfer switch by a licensed professional. When the power goes out, the standby generator kicks in, and you are back up and running within seconds.
Specifications You Need to Know
Consult your owner's manual first. It will most likely contain all the details you need to connect your generator to a natural gas supply. The specifications listed here will typically include:
⚡ Minimum Gas Line Size
This may be provided at different load levels, as there may be size baseline recommendations. Typically given in terms of ½-inch or ¾-inch tubing as minimums for use. Always check with a licensed professional for guidance on specifics.
🔥 BTU Requirements
BTU stands for British Thermal Units, and is a common unit of measurement in the gas industry. The metric equivalent is about 1,055 joules. If you know the rated wattage and want to better estimate your fuel burn rate, you can calculate the BTU rate (standard cubic feet per hour), which helps with pipe sizing calculations and fuel usage planning.
🔋 Minimum Gas Pressure
This may be provided at different load levels, or there may be one baseline recommendation. This is usually given in inches of water column (in. WC), pounds per square inch (PSI), or similar units. Ensuring adequate pressure is critical for reliable operation and efficiency.
⚙ Natural Gas Fitting Size
The amount of gas a generator consumes is typically measured at its rated or maximum output. If you are unsure about your gas supply capacity, consult your gas utility provider or a qualified professional.
Understanding Your Natural Gas Line Size
Make sure you know the size of your home's natural gas distribution piping. Most homes use ½-inch pipe, some larger homes or those with a lot of heavy-load gas appliances may use ¾-inch or 1-inch lines. Your generator's manual should tell you if it can meet the generator's requirements; consult a professional if you are not sure.
Also, be aware that if you use a generator combined with a smaller-size line than your home's piping, you will be limited by the smaller end of that connection. For example, if your home has a ¾-inch pipe, but you connect to the generator with a ½-inch hose, you will only be able to use as much gas as the ½-inch hose lets through, even though the ¾-inch pipe theoretically has the ability to provide more. Make sure all components are sized appropriately.
Lastly, when reading your manual, make sure you know the rated power that the generator can provide when running on natural gas. It is likely lower than the advertised rated power, which is usually specified when running on gasoline.
When to Call in a Professional
In some states or towns, it is illegal to connect a generator to your natural gas supply without professional help. Make sure that:
● You confirm your local gas or utility company allows you to do it on your own — and it is your legal responsibility to check on this first.
● Any connections, especially around soft or rigid pipe, comply with all applicable local, state, and national building and installation requirements. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, ANSI Z21.54/CSA 6.27, and NFPA standards as well as the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) and related codes.
● Your current setup includes proper gas shutoff, distribution, and vented connections (e.g., NG vent on the right side), and any suitable and properly rated flex and pressure connections for your generator and other currently installed loads such as stoves, furnaces, or other home appliances. Always keep in mind that you may be limiting the generator's performance and capabilities depending on the above factors.
⚠ Improper sizing is the number one cause of generator performance issues when running on natural gas.
Additionally, even if it is legal in your area to connect your generator yourself, if you are at all unsure of the procedure, not certain your gas piping is safely connected to it, or if a professional licensed plumber with natural gas certification is available to help, it is strongly recommended to seek their assistance in setting things up.
Supplies and Tools You Will Need
If you are using natural gas to fuel your generator, there is a good chance you will find a gas piping equipment supplier in your area during a routine search. In order to safely and properly connect a suitable generator to your home, you will need a manual transfer switch (or an interlock kit where it is code-compliant). Go ahead and look up your local connection or installation requirements if you have not already, then come back here.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, read your generator's owner's manual for specifics. Generally, you will need the following:
○ An adjustable wrench (or combination wrench of the correct size) to tighten the connections between the various components.
○ A natural gas hose to connect the generator to your NG supply. Make sure the hose meets the following requirements:
○ Choose a hose with a CSA or UL certification to the ANSI Z21.54 safety standards for gas hose connectors.
○ Make sure the hose is the right size. Hoses are rated by their inner diameter — usually ½", ¾", or 1". Your generator's owner's manual may have a recommendation for the proper hose size.
○ A ball-valve shutoff. Generally, these are quarter-turn ball valves rated for gas use, so make sure the valve selected is approved for your area and that it can handle the pressure used by your generator.
○ Optional: An adapter to connect the NG hose to the supply's shutoff valve. Make sure your hose connection matches the supply side connection type.
Tip: You may also need an adapter to convert the NG hose to your generator. It may or may not be included with your generator purchase. Also, many NG hose kits have universal quick-connect adapters that can be easily connected and disconnected from the generator for quicker setup and breakdown.
The adapter shown in the image is used with models like the TF1450X and similar WEN tri-fuel generators, and it allows NG hoses with quick connectors to be attached to the generator.
• Nut-rated PTFE tape — a good idea! Refer to your generator's owner's manual for detailed instructions.
• Simple wrench for bolt tightening.
• Soapy water for leak detection.
Keep your setup as simple as possible. The fewer the hose or pipe runs, and the fewer fittings and adapters used, the more opportunities there are for pressure drops, leaks, and other problems that would affect performance.
Generally, you want to ensure that all of the supply connections meet the rated and required adapters for the valve size and rating of the gas piping at the outlet, and be ready to safely comply with the setup, and then start the generator according to the procedures in your owner's manual. Remember, your setup may be different depending on your particular situation and local code requirements. Follow any instructions given to you specifically by your licensed installer.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Unfortunately, all signs indicate that the risks of thermoelectric events remain inevitable, and so you may run into problems in the following areas. Here are a few important things to consider:
High Altitudes
Most specifications in your generator's owner's manual are likely provided for installations at or near sea level (generally below 2000 feet elevation). If you live in a mountainous area, elevated terrain like a hilltop or plateau, your generator will likely not be at its best at higher altitudes. It is a good idea to install a high-altitude kit if your manufacturer offers one, or at the very least to accept that you may see slightly less power output at high altitudes.
Very Hot Weather
In hot temperatures, the pressure in your gas connection may decrease, and the normally easy-to-use gas carburetor may not perform at maximum output. Your generator may also work harder to cool its metal parts, the weather, and performance will drop. To be safe on hot days, it is a good idea to reduce the load on your generator and try to run it in the shade if at all possible.
Very Cold Weather
In cold temperatures, the pressure in the gas line in your generator may drop significantly if you have a large or concentrated draw on supplies, which may result in a reduced flame and reduced output. Additionally, consider keeping your unit sheltered and pre-warmed when possible. In severe cold, your home may need additional energy, putting strain on the supply if multiple natural gas appliances such as a furnace and a generator run at the same time. You may want to plan ahead and ensure your gas capacity can accommodate simultaneous use.
Backup Fuel Supply
One of the best aspects of having a tri-fuel generator is redundancy. It is always a good idea to have a backup fuel supply on hand for emergencies — whether that means gasoline or propane. In the event your natural gas supply is interrupted, having an alternative fuel source ensures you can keep running your generator.
Conclusion
If after reading this guide you still have questions about your setup specifics, we recommend consulting a local professional plumber licensed for natural gas work, your gas utility, or your local municipality. If you have any questions about your WEN tri-fuel generator, or are considering making the leap and want to learn more, do not hesitate to reach out.
Having the flexibility to run your generator on natural gas, propane, or gasoline means you are better prepared for virtually any emergency or extended power outage. Stay safe and stay powered up — your comfort and safety are always the top priority.