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DuroStar DS5500EH - 4500/5500W Dual Fuel Generator

The DuroStar DS5500EH is a portable open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 4,500 W and a starting wattage of 5,500 W.

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DuroStar DS5500EHDuroStar DS5500EHDuroStar DS5500EHDuroStar DS5500EH
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Description

The DuroStar 5,500 Watt Dual-Fuel Generator is the most powerful generator in its class. Powered by either gasoline or propane, the dual-fuel capability coupled with an available 5.500 peak watts in a small footprint allows this generator to be used anywhere for anything!

Zoom on the DuroStar DS5500EH

In a nutshell, the DuroStar DS5500EH is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The DuroStar DS5500EH in use

The DuroStar DS5500EH

Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the DuroStar DS5500EH delivers 120/240V and offers power and versatility. When gasoline-powered, it benefits from a running wattage of 4,500W and a peak wattage of 5,500W. When propane-powered, it has 4,275 rated watts and 5,225 peak watts.

With a noise rating of 69 dBA (less noisy than background music), the generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism, but also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).

Regarding its running time, the DS5500EH, with a 4 gallons fuel capacity can operate for up to 19 hours with a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.44 GPH). When using propane, it can run for up to 15 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.31 GPH).

Since the DS5500EH has a somewhat high THD (<12%), it is advisable to not use it for the powering of sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle

Additionally, it features 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

Since the DS5500EH bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of a power outage.

Portability

The DuroStar DS5500EH has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L25 x W22 x H22 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 124 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.

Features

Panel of the DuroStar DS5500EH

The DS5500EH's control panel

The DS5500EH's control center features a convenient voltmeter, which provides an easy way to monitor power output anytime to aid you with the monitoring of its status and activity.

In addition to this info, a light indicator allows you to instantly see 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.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the DuroStar DS5500EH also is packed along with the following accessories: tool kit, funnel, propane hose and battery charging cables.

Emissions

The DuroStar DS5500EH is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

The DuroStar DS5500EH versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the DuroStar DS5500EH compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 4000 and 5000 W).

  • As its weight is 124 pounds, the DuroStar DS5500EH falls in the expected weight range of the dual fuel devices in the 4000-5000 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Ford FG5250PBR, standing at just 108 lbs.
  • This generator has a somewhat average expected noise for its type and power range, rated at 69 dBA. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Champion 201003, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 61 dBA.
  • As for its autonomy, the DS5500EH, with an autonomy of around 9 hours at a 50% load, is placed on the low end among the generators of its kind. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Champion 201322, with around 14 hours.
  • Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. In fact, this generator is not among the most fuel efficient, within the aforementioned wattage range : its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.44 GPH. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Pulsar PG5250B, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.33 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: DuroStar DS5500EH vs DuroMax XP5500EH.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 4000-5000W dual fuel generators, the DuroStar DS5500EH 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

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • Several accessories included
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Electric start
  • Dual Fuel
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (124 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (69 dBA)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No remote start
  • Relatively low run time
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the DuroStar DS5500EH and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelDual Fuel (gasoline/propane)
Engine224 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty3 years
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Power
GasolinePropane
Running watts4,500 W4,275 W
Starting watts5,500 W5,225 W
Running amps (@120/240V)37.5/18.8 amps35.6/17.8 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)45.8/22.9 amps43.5/21.8 amps
Run time @50% load9 h8 h
Run time @25% load19 h15 h
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A output
Data centerVoltmeter
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tank4 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight124 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)25 x 22 x 22 in
Noise (lower limit)69 dBA
THD< 12%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedFunnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery charging cables, battery, and wheel kit
UPC811640015695

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.

Spec Improvement×

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About DuroStar

The DuroStar brand belongs to DuroMax, a company founded in 2003 and based in Ontario, California. DuroStar generators usually have a DuroMax twin, and only differ in their color scheme and in the factory in which they were produced. While DuroStar generators and engines are manufactured in China, the design and servicing centers reside in the US.

Warranty Information

The DuroStar DS5500EH is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of DuroStar generators, please consult DuroStar's (DuroMax) warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-844-DUROMAX (844-387-6629).

Questions & Answers

What can it power?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizing calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeAC (10,000 BTU)15002200
Electric fry pan15001500
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Blender400850
Total3592 W4592 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Coffee maker600600
Total3590 W4180 W
For workTable saw18004500
Reciprocating saw730960
Electric fence (25 miles)250250
Total2780 W5480 W
Does the 240 volt outlet have “gfci” on the DS5500EH duro star generator? (Asked December 29, 2022)

It doesn't. Only the duplex 120V provides GFCI protection.

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