WE ARE PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT AND IN NO WAY ASSOCIATED WITH MANUFACTURERS. TO STAY UNBIASED, WE DO NOT ACCEPT FREE PRODUCTS.

Powerhorse 13000ES (Discontinued)

The Powerhorse 13000ES is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 10,000 W and a starting wattage of 13,000 W. (Read full specs)

Compare ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 87
Powerhorse 13000ES
⚠️

This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.

Add Generator Bible as a preferred source on Google

Description

This Powerhorse Portable Generator is built to handle high-power demands in emergencies and on the job. Less than 5% total harmonic distortion allows you to enjoy clean power for running sensitive electronics.

Zoom on the Powerhorse 13000ES

In a nutshell, the Powerhorse 13000ES is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards 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 Powerhorse 13000ES in use

The Powerhorse 13000ES

Powerhorse 13000ES is equipped with a 622 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, running on gasoline and providing 120/240V, boasting a running wattage of 10,000W alongside a starting wattage of 13,000W.

At a noise rating of 77 dBA (less noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator provides the choice between a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism or an intuitive and practical electric starter (battery not included) for starting.

With a fuel capacity of 12.6 gallons, the 13000ES can run for around 15 hours at 50% load when the tank is full (fuel consumption is approximately 0.84 gallons per hour).

The 13000ES produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 7 AC outlets:

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

Additionally, it offers 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

This Powerhorse generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. However, it is still not quite RV ready. Besides, with its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 13000ES is configured to be transfer switch ready, allowing straightforward connection to your breaker box to supply backup power to your home during outages.

Portability

At L33.5 x W24.4 x H25.6 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Powerhorse 13000ES ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

Despite its weight of 324 lbs, the generator is still considered 'portable,' meaning it is movable, although its heftiness may restrict portability in certain environments or require additional considerations for transportation and setup. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Powerhorse 13000ES

The 13000ES's control panel

The control panel of the 13000ES includes a digital data center, which assists you in monitoring its status and activity, as it provides information on the lifetime run hours and voltage.

The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

Alongside the typical set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, Powerhorse has included a tool kit in the packaging of the 13000ES.

Product Videos

The Powerhorse 13000ES versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powerhorse 13000ES compare to generators of similar power (between 9500 and 10500 W).

  • With a weight of 324 lbs, the Powerhorse 13000ES sits in the heavier end of the spectrum among generators rated from 9500 to 10500 watts. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Genmax GM12000XiT is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 194 pounds.
  • The generator can be considered average in its noise for its power category, as it is rated at 77 dBA. 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.
  • In terms of run time, the 13000ES surpasses similarly powerful devices, boasting one of the highest run times at around 15 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 is one of the more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.84 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Westinghouse WGen9500DFc EFI, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.66 GPH, may be the right generator for you.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • 4 different AC outlet types
  • Electric start
  • Clean sine wave
  • High run time
  • Fuel efficient
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Acceptable noise (77 dBA)
WEAKNESSES:
  • Battery not included
  • No remote start
  • On the heavy side (324 lbs)

Do you own the Powerhorse 13000ES 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
Engine622 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts10,000 W
Starting watts13,000 W
Running amps (@120/240V)83.3/41.7 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)108.3/54.2 amps
Run time @50% load15 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
Data centerLifetime run hours and voltage
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankSteel, 12.6 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight324 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)33.5 x 24.4 x 25.6 in
Noise (lower limit)77 dBA
THD< 5%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedTool kit and wheel kit
Country of originChina
Other model numbers799215

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×

This form does not send us any personal data (not even your IP address)

About Powerhorse

Powerhorse is a trademarked brand name of gas-powered outdoor products owned and distributed by the Northern Tool & Equipment Company Inc. through their store locations and online. Powerhorse outdoor products include gas- and electric-powered tools including pressure washers, wood chippers/shredders, log splitters, electric generators and inverters. The product line also offers engines and water pumps. The brand's motto is "Power You Can Depend On". Powerhorse generators are engineered, developed and tested in Minnesota, but manufactured in China or Vietnam.

Warranty Information

The Powerhorse 13000ES is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Powerhorse generators, please contact the Powerhorse Customer Support: 1-866-443-2576.

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 wattage calculator.
Item Running Watts Starting Watts
At home AC (10,000 BTU) 1500 2200
Electric fry pan 1500 1500
Microwave (1000 watts) 1500 1500
Dish washer 1500 3000
Sump pump (1/2 hp) 1050 2150
Refrigerator (energy star) 192 1192
Waffle iron 750 750
Total 7992 W 9492 W
For work Table saw 1800 4500
Air compressor (1 hp) 1600 6100
Grinder 1400 2500
Demolition hammer 1260 1260
Circular saw 1200 3200
Reciprocating saw 730 960
Total 7990 W 12490 W
I need the replacement wheels and parts that go with them, and the feet for the frame. Can I buy these? (Asked July 28, 2020)

Replacement parts can be ordered directly from Northern Tool + Equipment: 1-800-657-0516

I have a powerhouse 13,000 ES generator I’m trying to find an old filter for If I can get a part number on it. (Asked July 04, 2021)

Replacement part numbers can be found pages 49-54 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).

I lost my key, is there a replacement key i can buy from somewhere? (Asked November 03, 2022)

Replacement parts can be ordered directly from Northern Tool: 1-800-657-0516

Powerhorse 13000ES
6.3 Total Score
4 reviews
Add your review
Price
5.3
Value
6.3
Quality
5.5
Performance
8

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 3.25
    Price
    60
    Value
    60
    Quality
    60
    Performance
    80

    Using it right now , powering everything required heat furnace freezers fridges tv its a champ , however it’s a little on the noisy side so I’m rubbing my power into the faces of neighbors whom have no power

    + PROS:
    • I have heat and power!
    - CONS:
    • Not having heat and power !!
    • $1800 well spent
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 3.9
    Price
    60
    Value
    80
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    90

    We have only used the generator a few times during brief power outages. The generator connects to a generator inlet (50amp/240V) on the load-center. It has performed very well each time it has been used. It handles loads very well. It performs very well.

    + PROS:
    • Power
    • Wheel kit
    • Many power receptacle options
    • Electric start (w/pull-start backup)
    • Large gas tank (w/fuel level meter)
    - CONS:
    • Weight
    • Bonded neutral (not sure if this can be setup for floating)
    • Wheel kit needs larger tires for this size of generator
    • Separate 12V battery required
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. Avatar
    Russell Lambert May 22, 2023 at 8:40 pm
    1.25
    Price
    20
    Value
    20
    Quality
    10
    Performance
    50

    DO NOT BUY this piece of crap machine. Got a blown engine on mine, called Northern Tool/Powerhorse and was told engine parts are not available, only a complete engine for $1100. If something happens to your engine which is highly likely, you’re out off luck for internal parts.

    + PROS:
    • Ok when it works.
    - CONS:
    • No engine parts, complete engine only.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this
  4. 4.15
    Price
    70
    Value
    90
    Quality
    70
    Performance
    100

    Powerhorse 13000ES is definitely a beast. The electric start is very convenient and easy to use. The power this thing has is amazing, we are in a prone hurricane area and have power outages on regular basis and this beast can almost supply the entire house. We run the AC, our well, microwave all at the same time and never hear this thing struggling. Just have to get the fuel shut off valve fixed, plastic valve won’t shut the fuel off. Want to replace it with a metal valve to see if that fixes the problem.

    + PROS:
    • Tons of power, easy to start up, can run nearly an entire house. Has a big gas tank and long running time.
    - CONS:
    • Some cheap plastic parts already failing, on the heavy side, pricey(for a machine with cheap plastic components.)
    • Loud
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(2)You have already voted this

Leave a review

Your total score

0/5
Uploading photos, please wait...
Allowed file formats: .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .webp - Max file size: 3mb

Generator Bible
Logo
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare

You can compare as many generators as you wish. However, for the best results, we recommend you to compare only 2 generators at a time.

0