DuroStar DS5000DX - Spec Review

In a nutshell, the DuroStar DS5000DX is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

• RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
• Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
• Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
• Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The DuroStar DS5000DX

With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile DuroStar DS5000DX provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 4000W along with a peak wattage of 5000W. While propane-powered, it provides 3800 rated watts and 4750 starting watts.

Enjoying a noise rating of 69 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation), this generator can be started thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also to a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).

With a fuel capacity of 4 gallons, the DS5000DX can operate for around 8.9 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.45 GPH), or for around 7.6 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.62 GPH) using propane.

The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the DS5000DX is not recommended due to its relatively high THD (<12%).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

As it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the DS5000DX is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.

Portability

The DuroStar DS5000DX has the following dimensions: L25 x W23 x H22 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

As the generator's weight is 135 pounds, manually moving it or transporting it may be challenging, despite the fact that it is technically considered 'portable' (movable). Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.

Features

The DS5000DX's control panel

The control panel of the DS5000DX includes a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.

In addition to this info, a light indicator shows you if its oil levels are insufficient.

Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.

As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.

The DS5000DX also benefits from DuroStar’s CO Alert carbon monoxide shutdown. If CO levels become unsafe or rapidly increase, the generator will automatically shut down, an indicator will light red, and the engine will not restart for 5 minutes. It’s a welcomed additional security feature, but don’t forget to always take your generator outside (opens in a new tab).

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the DuroStar DS5000DX also is packed along with the following accessories: funnel, tool kit and propane hose.

Emissions

The DuroStar DS5000DX is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.