The NorthStar c15000s is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 13,500 W and a starting wattage of 15,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the NorthStar c15000s
In a few words, the NorthStar c15000s is a powerful portable generator perfectly suited for professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure..
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The NorthStar c15000s's design includes a gasoline-fueled 688 cc Honda GX690 OHV V-Twin engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 13,500W and also a peak wattage of 15,000W.
Featuring a noise rating of 73 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), the generator utilizes a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included) for ignition.
Thanks to its 12 gallons fuel tank, the c15000s can run continuously for around 10.6 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 1.13 GPH).
With a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the c15000s delivers a clean sine wave—essential for safeguarding your delicate electronics when plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 9 AC outlets:
Even though this NorthStar generator isn't quite RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle allows an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, because the c15000s is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.
Portability
Measuring L43 x W36 x H35 in, the classic open frame build of the NorthStar c15000s delivers stability and easy maintenance access to components, facilitating air circulation. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Though weighing 390 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
The c15000s's control panel
To help you monitor the c15000s'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).
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, providing peace of mind during use.
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 the user manual for prompt setup, NorthStar has also included accessory] in the packaging of the c15000s.
Full-Featured 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 c15000s versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the NorthStar c15000s compare to generators of similar power (between 10000 and 14000 W).
- As its dry weight is 390 pounds, the NorthStar c15000s is one of the heavier of the products which can generate 10000 to 14000 running watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the DuroStar DS13000MX, weighing just 209 pounds.
- At just 73 dBA rated noise level, this generator is positioned as one of the quieter choices among devices delivering similar power. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the DuroMax XP16000iH, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 67 dBA.
- Given that the c15000s reaches an autonomy of around 10.6 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Powerhorse 13000ES could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 15 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 somewhat less fuel-efficient than devices of comparable output: its estimated fuel consumption reaches 1.13 GPH at a 50% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the A-iPower SUA13000EFI. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.78 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 10000-14000W generators, the NorthStar c15000s is on the expensive side of the price range.
While certainly not the cheapest of its kind, purchasing it would most likely also mean enjoying the reliability of a high-end product.
The bottom line
- Excellent display, full of information
- CO Sensor
- GFCI Outlets
- Rare 60-amp outlet
- Impressive quantity of AC outlets
- 4 different AC outlet types
- Honda engine
- Electric start
- Clean sine wave
- Quiet for its power (73 dBA)
- Made in USA
- Decent run time
- On the expensive side
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- On the heavy side (390 lbs)
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 688 cc Honda GX690 OHV V-Twin |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Warranty | 4 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 13,500 W |
| Starting watts | 15,000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 112.5/56.3 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 125/62.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10.6 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 12 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Digital |
| Weight | 390 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 43 x 36 x 35 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 73 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Funnel, battery, and wheel kit |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Series | Commercial-Grade |
| Other model numbers | 1654406 |
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 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 c15000s 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Security system | 180 | 180 | |
| Total | 10792 W | 12292 W | |
| For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 10730 W | 11830 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
