The Honda EG5000CL is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 4,500 W and a starting wattage of 5,000 W. (Read full specs)
This product was discontinued. For your convenience, we decided to leave this page up.
If you were looking to purchase it, you may want to have a look at the Honda EB5000X, which has similar specs.
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Description
Zoom on the Honda EG5000CL
To sum up, the Honda EG5000CL is a portable generator tailored for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- 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 Honda EG5000CL
The Honda EG5000CL is powered by a 389 cc Honda GX390 OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 4,500W as well as a peak wattage of 5,000W.
Enjoying a noise rating of 70 dBA (just as noisy as a dishwasher), this generator gets running thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism.
Thanks to its 6.3 gallons fuel tank, the EG5000CL can run continuously for around 11 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 0.57 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
This Honda generator isn't quite RV Ready, but it features an L5-30R receptacle, allowing a simple RV connection through an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since the EG5000CL 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
Measuring L26.8 x W22.8 x H22.6 in, the Honda EG5000CL showcases a classic open frame layout, guaranteeing stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Though weighing 173 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. Thus, you may also want to consider purchasing its official wheel kit (opens in a new tab).
Features
The EG5000CL's control panel
The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Alert®) and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Honda EG5000CL's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which will help you start your generator promptly. An official storage cover is available, as a separate purchase.
DAVR Technology
Honda’s DAVR (opens in a new tab) technology (Digital Automatic Voltage Regulation) holds the voltage stability within a ±1% change during operation and thus, offers a more stable voltage than conventional generators. This results in better performance, and better protection of your tools.
The DAVR has a built-in, self-diagnosis function to prevent engine speed from exceeding 4,140 rpm for longer than three seconds and abnormal voltage. Additionally, a built-in temperature protection system protects the generator from overheating.
Product Video
The Honda EG5000CL versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Honda EG5000CL compare to generators of similar power (between 4000 and 5000 W).
- Weighing 173 lbs, the Honda EG5000CL is one of the heavier generators within the 4000-5000 rated wattage bracket. If you are mindful of weight, the WEN 56477i is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 72.7 pounds.
- Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this generator with a lowest noise of 70 dBA can be judged as noisy. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the Yamaha EF4500iSE is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 58 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
- With around 11 hours of runtime at a 50% load on a full tank, the EG5000CL is in line with the average autonomy range for generators of comparable power. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the NorthStar c5500, which is able to run for around 15.1 hours.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. This generator is not fuel-efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.57 GPH at a 50% load. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the WEN DF480iX is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.27 gallons per hour.
The bottom line
- GFCI Outlets
- DAVR technology
- Decent run time
- No data center
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (173 lbs)
- On the noisy side (70 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 389 cc Honda GX390 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 4,500 W |
| Starting watts | 5,000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 37.5/18.8 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 41.7/20.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 11 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | DAVR |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 6.3 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 173 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 26.8 x 22.8 x 22.6 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 70 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | No |
| Series | Economy |
| Other model numbers | EG5000CLAT1 |
| UPC | 786102004343 |
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 Honda
Founded in 1948, the Japanese Honda Motor Company has gained notoriety for consistently producing top quality engines, motor-powered vehicles and devices. Over the years, the company has gained a strong reputation in the motorcycle, automobile, but also power tool industry. Honda’s power tool division has been producing power tools since 1953, including tillers, mowers, blowers, sprayers and of course, power generators. While the company has expanded globally and moved a majority of its production out of Japan into other Asian countries, Honda is to this day known as a legend among the generator manufacturers.
Warranty Information
The Honda EG5000CL 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 Honda generators, please consult Honda's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-770-497-6400.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 3462 W | 4962 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Coffee maker | 600 | 600 | |
| Total | 3590 W | 4180 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2130 W | 4830 W |
What is the difference between the EG5000, the EG5000CL and the EG5000CLAT1?
These model numbers refer to the same unit, but simply include more or less information regarding its specs, production batch, etc. Read how Honda name their generators.
Would this EG5000CL power two refrigerators and a chest Freezer at the same time? (Asked August 01, 2020)
At first glance, it should be fine. But wattage consumption varies from fridge to fridge, and from freezer to freezer. We recommend checking the actual wattage consumption of your appliances, and then insert the values in the "custom appliances" section of our generator sizer.
Do all the 4500w-5000w generators have the same size gas tanks (Asked February 28, 2021)
Full tank size depends on the year of production. Older models of the EG5000 may have a smaller tank.
what is the BTU rating for natural gas as a fuel? (Asked November 02, 2022)
There is no such rating, since the generator is designed to operate on gasoline only.
