The Powerhorse 2300i is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,800 W and a starting wattage of 2,300 W. (Read full specs)
Northern Tool 
Ace Hardware 
Amazon | Price history for the Powerhorse 2300i |
|---|
| Highest Price $549.99 Lowest Price $399.99 Current Price $399.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Powerhorse 2300i
To sum up, the Powerhorse 2300i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator tailored for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The Powerhorse 2300i
The Powerhorse 2300i's design includes a gasoline-fueled 80 cc (3 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 1,800W and also a peak wattage of 2,300W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (89778 Parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 52 dBA (just slightly more noisy than rainfall). Its starting mechanism is based on a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
With a full tank, the 2300i can operate for up to 8.8 hours (fuel consumption around 0.13 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1.18 gallon.
The 2300i produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <1.5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
Despite not having the 'RV Ready' status, this Powerhorse generator provides the benefit of convenient RV compatibility through its L5-30R receptacle, enabling you to easily power your RV using an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
With its enclosed inverter generator design (L22 x W13.3 x H19.3 in), the Powerhorse 2300i offers superior aesthetics and operates with minimized noise levels, distinguishing itself from standard, open frame generators. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
With a dry weight of 54 lbs, the 2300i can easily follow you wherever your power needs are. Furthermore, the 2300i's easy transport from A to B is facilitated by its convenient handle (molded in the case), which enhances grip.
Features
The 2300i's control panel
The light indicators show you if the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
Alongside the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for quick setup, the Powerhorse 2300i is bundled with additional accessories: funnel and tool kit.
Product Videos
The Powerhorse 2300i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powerhorse 2300i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- As its dry weight is 54 pounds, the Powerhorse 2300i is one of the heavier of the inverters which can generate 1500 to 2500 running watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM2000i, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
- At just 52 dBA rated noise level, this inverter generator is positioned as one of the quieter choices among devices delivering similar type and power. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the Honda EU2200i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 48 dBA.
- As for its runtime, the 2300i runs for up to 8.8 hours at a 25% load, placing it towards the low end among comparable inverters. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, boasting with up to 13 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This inverter generator is somewhat less fuel-efficient than devices of comparable output: its estimated fuel consumption reaches 0.13 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Powerhorse 2300i is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (52 dBA)
- No data center
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (54 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 80 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,800 W |
| Starting watts | 2,300 W |
| Running amps | 15 amps |
| Peak amps | 19.2 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 8.8 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | Plastic, 1.18 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 54 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 22 x 13.3 x 19.3 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 52 dBA |
| THD | < 1.5% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| Country of origin | Vietnam |
| Other model numbers | 83169 |
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 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 2300i 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1287 W | 2287 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1420 W | 1420 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1340 W |
What kind of oil does it take? (Asked May 23, 2020)
Recommended oil is SAE-10W30. The engine's oil capacity is 0.42 qt. (13.4 fl. oz.)
Can you add a auxiliary fuel tank to this power horse 2300i (Asked October 25, 2020)
It could be possible, but the unit does not have a fuel pump, so it would have to be gravity-fed.
Is there a way to use on a 230v circuit? (Asked October 28, 2020)
Possibly, with an appropriate step up transformer (opens in a new tab).
What is needed to make unit RV ready? (Asked February 16, 2021)
It would need a TT-30R outlet. Refer to our definition of RV-Ready.
Ii need plastic kit and parts. Where can I get them from (Asked March 09, 2021)
Replacement parts can be purchased through Northern Tool.
What spark plug to use (Asked August 17, 2021)
NGK spark plug should be BP7HS or BPR7HS.
I need to change the air filter? (Asked September 23, 2022)
Air filter part number is #801847. It can be purchased through Norther Tool.
Doe the powerhouse 2300 come with oil already in the generator or do I need to add oil? (Asked September 11, 2024)
The unit does not come with oil.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
I borrowed the 2300i from my neighbor to work it and learn it for her. I own a pretty big, heavy, awkward, hard to move around one myself.
I really love the way its quiet, easy to move around and easy start up. I have it inside my vehicle, does not emit gas odors (its off of course). I will definitely buy one for myself.
My son purchased two of these generators after the freeze of Feb 2021. I used one while cleaning up my home in S La after Hurricane Ida. I ran my refrigerator and sone fans on it. Very fuel efficient. Ran for 8 hours on that light load overnight. Now in Texas, used one during and after Hurricane Beryl, it rain for 3 days continuously. Ran refrigerator, freezer, fans internet modem and tv by day and a portable ac unit by night. Used 10 gal of fuel. This is a good unit for a homeowner.
Bought a powerhouse 2300i from northern tool.the damn thing ran 4hours and wouldn’t start again.was told at northern tool that they had trouble with the carburators….but they didn’t offer a replacement. It’s still sitting in my building …..junk…
I purchased a pair of these to power my 30ft 5th wheel camper. They run the whole house when in parallel, so long as the hot water heater doesn’t come on with A/C and microwave already going. Just 1 generator will power my Coleman Mach 15K BTU roof AC, along with my power convertor (battery charger/12v power supply). Run time on 1 full tank running wide open was just over 6.5 hours.