Powerhorse 2300i (Discontinued)
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)
This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.
It was replaced by the Powerhorse 2500i.
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Description
This Powerhorse® Portable Inverter Generator offers greater performance combined with clean, quiet, reliable power. Quiet 52dB noise level makes it ideal for home, camping, tailgating and more. Low distortion output allows safe operation of sensitive electronics, including laptops, smartphones, TVs, tools and more.
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
- Amateur DIY lovers
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
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
The Powerhorse 2300i
The Powerhorse 2300i houses a 80 cc (3 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 1,800W along with a peak wattage of 2,300W. Moreover, since it is parallel capable (89778 Parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), its power may be doubled if linked to a second compatible unit.
At a noise rating of 52 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a quiet suburb), the inverter generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
The 2300i boasts a fuel tank capable of holding 1.18 gallon, allowing it to run continuously for up to 8.8 hours (with fuel usage averaging around 0.13 gallons per hour).
The 2300i generates a clean sine wave: providing <1.5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel features 3 AC outlets as follows:
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.
Portability
As the Powerhorse 2300i is an inverter generator, its encased design (L22 x W13.3 x H19.3 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
As the 2300i's weight is only 54 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. In addition, the 2300i's easy transport is aided by its convenient handle (molded in the case), ensuring a secure grip.
Features
The 2300i's control panel
When the oil level is too low, the generator is overloaded and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, offering peace of mind throughout operation.
Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the Powerhorse 2300i's package also includes these accessories: tool kit and funnel.
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).
- Considering its dry weight of 54 pounds, the Powerhorse 2300i is one of the heavier inverter generators producing between 1500 and 2500 running watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM2000i with only 34.2 pounds.
- Delivering a rated noise output as low as 52 dBA, this inverter generator is has a quieter operation that most units of similar type and power. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Honda EU2200i appealing. It's rated at 48 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
- Autonomy-wise, with up to 8.8 hours on a full tank at a 25% load, the 2300i is on the low end when compared to other inverter generators of a similar power output. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Yamaha EF2800i could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching up to 14.7 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. In fact, this inverter generator is not one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 25% load is around 0.13 GPH. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.08 gallons per hour.
The bottom line
- 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
Do you own the Powerhorse 2300i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
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 |
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 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 | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 1435 W | 2025 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.
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.