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NorthStar c13000s - 10500/13000W Portable Generator With Electric Start And Honda Engine

The NorthStar c13000s is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 10,500 W and a starting wattage of 13,000 W. (Read full specs)

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NorthStar c13000s
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Description

Zoom on the NorthStar c13000s

In a few words, the NorthStar c13000s is a powerful portable generator perfectly suited for professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure..

The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.

Power & Run Time

The NorthStar c13000s's core is the 688 cc Honda GX630 OHV V-Twin engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120/240V, it provides a running wattage of 10,500W and a peak wattage of 13,000W.

Enjoying a noise rating of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator gets running thanks to a hassle-free and practical electric starter (battery included).

The c13000s can operate for around 10.9 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 1.1 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 12 gallons.

The c13000s generates a clean sine wave: providing <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 9 AC outlets:

Three Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle
120/240V 50A (14-50R) receptacle

Even if this NorthStar generator isn't quite RV Ready, it still allows for an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor, thanks to its L5-30R receptacle. Besides, the c13000s's twist-lock L14-30R receptacle makes it transfer switch ready, enabling hassle-free connection to your breaker box for powering your home during outages.

Portability

At L43 x W36 x H35 in, the standard open frame design of the NorthStar c13000s delivers stability alongside easy maintenance access to components and good air cooling. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 387 pounds. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.

Features

Panel of the NorthStar c13000s

The c13000s's control panel

To help you monitor the c13000s's status and activity, the unit's control panel is equipped with a digital display that provides extensive information on the generator (more information about it below).

Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation.

It also includes a carbon monoxide sensor. This sensor is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the generator will automatically shut down.

In addition to the standard documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for prompt setup, NorthStar has also included a funnel in the packaging of the c13000s.

Full-Featured Display

The Home, Service, and Diagnostic screens of the display

The excellent digital display

The unit is fitted with a colored, multi-function LCD display that offers simple, yet incredinbly exhaustive, at-a-glance monitoring. It features 3 screens:

  • Home: Gives you information about the load that is connected, fuel level, and total runtime of the generator
  • Service: Displays maintenance intervals and the time remaining before each service is due
  • Diagnostic: Provides various electrical data, such as voltage, current, and frequency

The NorthStar c13000s versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the NorthStar c13000s compare to generators of similar power (between 10000 and 11000 W).

  • At 387 lbs, the NorthStar c13000s stands out as one of the heaviest generators rated from 10000 to 11000 watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Genmax GM12000XiT appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 194 pounds.
  • With noise emissions rated as low as 72 dBA, this generator falls within the typical noise range expected for devices of similar power. If you value reduced noise levels, the Genmax GM12500iET could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 62 dBA.
  • Since the c13000s boasts with a run time of around 10.9 hours at 50% load, it can be safely judged as a device of a higher run time than most generators of a comparable output. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Genmax GM15000ET, as it provides around 11 hours.
  • Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. This generator doesn't excel in fuel efficiency when compared to others of its kind: it consumes approximately 1.1 GPH at a 50% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the WEN TF1300iX. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.93 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Excellent display, full of information
  • CO sensor
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Impressive quantity of AC outlets
  • 4 different AC outlet types
  • Honda engine
  • Electric start
  • Clean sine wave
  • High run time
  • Made in USA
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Acceptable noise (72 dBA)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No recoil back-up
  • No remote start
  • On the heavy side (387 lbs)
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the NorthStar c13000s 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
FuelGasoline
Engine688 cc Honda GX630 OHV V-Twin
Starting systemElectric
Warranty4 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz
Running watts10,500 W
Starting watts13,000 W
Running amps (@120/240V)87.5/43.8 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)108.3/54.2 amps
Run time @50% load10.9 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 3x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerPower output, fuel level, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tank12 gal
Fuel gaugeDigital
Misc
Weight387 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)43 x 36 x 35 in
Noise (lower limit)72 dBA
THD< 5%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedFunnel, battery, and wheel kit
Country of originUSA
SeriesCommercial-Grade
Other model numbers1654404
UPC840321737458

We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.

Spec Improvement×

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About NorthStar

NorthStar is a brand of outdoor power equipment trademarked and sold by the Northern Tool + Equipment company which has been based in Burnsville, Minnesota, USA since being founded in 1981. NorthStar products include log splitters, portable generators, air compressors, and pressure washers. Their line of commercial-grade portable generators is manufactured in the US. With many units powered by Honda engines, NorthStar outdoor power tools make up a large percentage of the product line for the fast-growing Northern Tool company.

Warranty Information

The NorthStar c13000s is covered under a warranty for up to 4 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of NorthStar generators, please contact the NorthStar Customer Support: 1-800-270-0810.

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.
Item Running Watts Starting Watts
At home AC (10,000 BTU) 1500 2200
Microwave (1000 watts) 1500 1500
Electric fry pan 1500 1500
Dish washer 1500 3000
Sump pump (1/2 hp) 1050 2150
Refrigerator (energy star) 192 1192
Vacuum cleaner 1075 1175
Set of 5 LED light bulbs 55 55
Cell phone charger 20 20
Total 8392 W 9892 W
For work Table saw 1800 4500
Air compressor (1 hp) 1600 6100
Grinder 1400 2500
Demolition hammer 1260 1260
Pressure washer (1 hp) 1200 3600
Milk cooler 1100 1800
Total 8360 W 12860 W

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