Coleman Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern

I have used many propane and white gas lanterns over the years, I must say that the Coleman 2 Mantle Premium Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern definitely gets the job done, and is even brighter than its cousin the Regular Dual Fuel Lantern by Coleman.

These types of lanterns are most beneficial to people who plan on driving to a campsite or a cabin. Another great use is for emergencies such as power outages. Large lanterns are too heavy & bulky for hiking any real distance, however they take up little space in the back of the family vehicle and have the benefit of lighting up large areas in a campsite. This lets campers carry on with chores and activities after dark in a safe manner.

I have several lanterns and this one is my go lantern if the campsite area is big, the primary reason is because it is so bright. Secondly, it is a dual white gas / unleaded gas lantern, and as such it is very economical when compared to the cost of disposable propane cylinders.

I have found this lantern to be very durable, I have not had any issues with it outside of routine maintenance. One thing to be aware of, as with many dual fuel appliances is that using unleaded gas can lead to carbon build ups that require cleaning the fuel system. It is best to use white gas, but the ability to use unleaded gas if you don't have - or can't get white gas, is a huge advantage, especially for emergencies.

I have had my lantern for about 7 years and use it several times a year.

It holds 2 pints of fuel.

It has a burn time of 7 hours on high - 14 hours on low.

It uses 2 number 21 mantles.

By following the instructions I found this lantern easy to use, and those that are already familiar with using manual pump gas stoves & lanterns will be right at home.

Pros:

Exceptional light output! Even brighter than the regular Dual Fuel Lantern.

Much more economical than 16.4 oz. propane cylinders.

Durable, well made.

Cons:

Sharper learning curve than propane lanterns, but not difficult.

As with any gas appliance fuel should not be stored in the lantern for long periods of time, so burning off any unused fuel is best. This is not a problem with propane cylinders.

Costs more than cheaper lanterns, but in my opinion it is well worth it due to the reliability and performance.

I rated this lantern 5 stars even though it does not have push button lighting because it is so darn bright!

If you don't mind using white gas, appreciate durable equipment, and want something really bright, this just may be the best choice.

As bright as my regular Coleman Duel Fuel Lantern is, this one is about 25% brighter which kinda blew me away. It does however use more fuel which is not surprising.

If you understand how to operate any Coleman pump style stove or lantern you will have no problem operating this lantern. And the potential for saving money on fuel is substantial. I highly recomend it.

When I first received my new lantern I tested it out at home using unleaded automotive fuel. Mantle setup and pumping are just like all other Coleman lanterns regardless of vintage.

To light, I set the valve at low to ignite the mantles and allowed the generator to warm for around 20 seconds. (If you open the valve too much when it's cold you get black smoke and soot buildup on the hood and glass.) On its highest setting it's very bright and lowering the brightness is easily accomplished. The "Powerhouse" version seems to be brighter than the basic model. 

Some folks are reluctant to use unleaded gasoline as there are warnings about carbon clogging the generator. To keep this from occurring, I periodically clean my generators in an ultrasonic cleaner. You can get one cheaply online. Or you can keep a spare generator.

Another good thing... You can get replacement globes, pumps, and mantles easily at Walmart and other places with sporting goods.

Background

I am very experienced with this type of appliance.

Bought this used, but like new. Excellent, excellent lantern. Considerably brighter than other Colemans I've seen, keeps pressure well, rarely had to prime it all night, burns steady and the adjustment knob is nice and smooth. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED