NorthStar c5500 - 4500/5500W Portable Generator With Honda Engine
The NorthStar c5500 is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 4,500 W and a starting wattage of 5,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Northern Tool Price history for the NorthStar c5500
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Description
Zoom on the NorthStar c5500
To sum up, the NorthStar c5500 is a portable generator tailored for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
With a 270 cc Honda GX270 OHV 4-stroke engine, the NorthStar c5500 operates on gasoline, providing 120/240V, with a running wattage of 4,500W and a starting wattage of 5,500W.
Operating at a noise rating of 70 dBA (just as noisy as a dishwasher), this generator starts up with a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
Thanks to its 8 gallons fuel tank, the c5500 can run continuously for around 15.1 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 0.53 GPH).
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the c5500 produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features 7 AC outlets as follows:
As the c5500 holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.
Portability
With its L41 x W32 x H29 in dimensions, the open frame structure of the NorthStar c5500 provides stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Despite its weight of 227 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. However, the constrained maneuverability is addressed with the assistance of its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, allowing for easy shifting once the generator is placed on the ground.
Features
The c5500's control panel
The c5500's status and activity may be monitored conveniently via the control panel, as it features a convenient voltmeter, which provides an easy way to monitor power output anytime.
The built-in fuel gauge of the generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.
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.
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.
Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, NorthStar also included a funnel in the c5500's packaging.
The NorthStar c5500 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the NorthStar c5500 compare to generators of similar power (between 4000 and 5000 W).
- Weighing 227 lbs, the NorthStar c5500 is one of the heaviest generators within the 4000-5000 rated wattage bracket. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Pulsar PGX5250BiXCO is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 64 pounds.
- As this generator has its lowest possible noise of 70 dBA, it should be considered noisier compared to its peers of a comparable running wattage. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Yamaha EF4500iSE appealing. It's rated at 58 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
- At 50% load, the c5500 achieves one of the longest run times compared to devices of similar power, sustaining operations for around 15.1 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This generator is not fuel-efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.53 GPH at a 50% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the WEN DF480iX. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.27 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 4000-5000W generators, the NorthStar c5500 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
- In the expected price range
- CO sensor
- GFCI Outlets
- Honda engine
- Clean sine wave
- High run time
- Made in USA
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (227 lbs)
- On the noisy side (70 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the NorthStar c5500 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 270 cc Honda GX270 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 4 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 4,500 W |
| Starting watts | 5,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 37.5/18.8 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 45.8/22.9 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 15.1 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Voltmeter |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 227 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 41 x 32 x 29 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 70 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Funnel and wheel kit |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Series | Commercial-Grade |
| Other model numbers | 1654400 |
| UPC | 840321737519 |
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.
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 c5500 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 | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 3592 W | 5092 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 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 5480 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
