The A-iPower SUA12000ED is a powerful open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 9,000 W and a starting wattage of 12,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Since: December 7, 2023 |
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Description
Zoom on the A-iPower SUA12000ED
In short, the A-iPower SUA12000ED is a powerful portable generator adequately designed for:
- Small homeowners in search of a full power backup solution
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.
Power & Run Time
The A-iPower SUA12000ED
Delivering 120/240V, the A-iPower SUA12000ED is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 9,000W and a starting wattage of 12,000W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 8,100 running watts and 10,800 starting watts.
A-iPower’s Switch On Demand technology allows you to switch from propane to gasoline or from gasoline to propane while the generator is running.
At a noise rating of 69 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation), this generator can be started via a manual recoil starter system, or a straightforward and intuitive electric starter (battery included).
With a fuel capacity of 7 gallons, the SUA12000ED can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.82 GPH), or for around 10 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.47 GPH) using propane.
The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the SUA12000ED is not recommended due to its high THD (<23%).
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle making battery charging a breeze.
Thanks to its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the SUA12000ED is transfer switch ready, facilitating easy hookup to your breaker box to provide backup power for your home during blackouts.
Portability
With a size of L27.9 x W27.2 x H25.9 in, the A-iPower SUA12000ED features an open frame design, providing stability and simplified maintenance access to components, enhancing air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
With a weight of 228 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀9.5") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
The SUA12000ED's control panel
For easy status and activity monitoring of the SUA12000ED, its control panel integrates a digital data center, offering insights into the lifetime run hours.
In addition to this info, a light indicator allows you to instantly see if the oil level is too low.
Equipped with a built-in fuel gauge, the generator facilitates swift gas level checks.
In terms of security, the generator features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during its use.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the A-iPower SUA12000ED also comes with several accessories, including: oil, propane hose, battery charging cables and tool kit.
The A-iPower SUA12000ED versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the A-iPower SUA12000ED compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 8500 and 9500 W).
- With its weight of 228 lbs, the A-iPower SUA12000ED is one of the heavier dual fuel generators in the 8500-9500 rated wattage category. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 187.4 pounds.
- With a lowest noise rating of 69 dBA, the generator is one of the more quiet of the generators of similar type and power. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the DuroMax XP11000iH with only 61 dBA.
- Autonomy-wise, with around 8.5 hours on a full tank at a 50% load, the SUA12000ED is on the low end when compared to other dual fuel generators of a similar power output. If runtime is a priority for you, the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing around 12 hours of continuous use.
- While run time is vital, it hinges on the fuel capacity. To grasp the full picture, we must also factor in fuel efficiency. The generator burns fuel at a rate of around 0.82 GPH when running at a 50% load, which is consistent with the average fuel usage of models of comparable power output. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.66 GPH.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 8500-9500W dual fuel generators, the A-iPower SUA12000ED is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Dual Fuel
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Switch On Demand technology
- Quiet for its power (69 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No remote start
- On the heavy side (228 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 459 cc Senci SC460 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 9,000 W | 8,100 W |
| Starting watts | 12,000 W | 10,800 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 75/37.5 amps | 67.5/33.8 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 100/50 amps | 90/45 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.5 h | 10 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | Lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 7 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 228 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 27.9 x 27.2 x 25.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 69 dBA |
| THD | < 23% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil, tool kit, propane hose, battery charging cables, battery, and wheel kit |
| UPC | 851217006428 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About A-iPower
A-iPower, a small company based in the USA, is a fresh face on the generator market. Their product line is comprised of engines, water pumps, pressure washers and of course, generators. The selection of A-iPower generators includes several conventional and inverter portable generators, many of which have an electric starter. The company has several facilities, including headquarters in California and a distribution center in Wisconsin. The production of their devices is, however, outsourced completely overseas, to China.
Warranty Information
The A-iPower SUA12000ED is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of A-iPower generators, please contact the A-iPower Customer Support: 1-855-888-3598.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 7195 W | 8695 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Satelite receiver | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 7190 W | 7780 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Milk cooler | 1100 | 1800 | |
| Total | 7160 W | 11660 W |
Can the SUA12000ED be converted to natural gas? (Asked August 29, 2021)
The unit was designed to run on gasoline or propane only, and there are no official natural gas conversion kits. Modifying the unit’s fuel system would most likely void your warranty and could lead to a violation of local/federal emission laws.
What's the valve clearance or adjustment on the sua12000ed (Asked September 21, 2021)
Valve clearance settings are the following: intake 0.004″ – 0.006″, exhaust 0.006″ – 0.008″.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
I have not had a very good experience with this generator from the time I purchased it on Ebay. Yes it was in the price range that I wanted to spend, but with less that one hour running time, I have had to by-pass the CO2 sensor, and Low oil sensor (paying engine repair service to figure these issues out) to get it running. I will say that the customer service tried to help, but I didn’t live near on of the service center to make a convent repair. With all the aggravation I went through trying to get this generator running (new battery included) I would past on this product.
For the price point I’m very pleased with this purchase. Getting a generator with a pure synwave inverter within this price point and output is a far cry, so I was prepared to add a good inverter at a later time if really needed. The valve adjustment isn’t as difficult as some might think. If you have any mechanical abilities it is quite easy and doesn’t require taking the engine out or anything like that. The weight isn’t an issue unless you need to load it in and out of a truck box. I would wager that few people properly ground their generator as recommended and that likely causes issues.
Their own website as of 3-1-2021 shows a 5% THD.. Your specs shows a <10% THD Their own tech support now admits a 17% THD. That high of THD will not allow for any kind of household computer device to run properly. I ran it on my house with only AHU fans and refrigerators and security cams and half of my computer devices failed in 1st 10 hours even my computer UPS would not accept the power and would run under battery only. Anything with a variable speed motor or VFD will not run with its protections enabled. Also for the engine to continue to operate properly it needs a 50 hour check and adjustment of the intake, exhaust valves. This means pulling the engine heads after 50 hours of operation which IMHO is unacceptable under normal wear and tear operation of any modern day small engine. I would not recommend this Generator to do anything other than running incandescent light bulbs because even Fluorescents and LED's flicker. This is a poor power source for any modern day need. IMHO It needs to be recalled. I am currently trying to work with AI-power tech support on a solution