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Powerhorse 2500 - 2000/2500W Portable Generator

The Powerhorse 2500 is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 2,000 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W.

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Description

This Powerhorse Portable Generator prepares you for emergencies and a variety of outdoor projects. Equipped with 100% copper-wound generator head for continuous operation without overheating. Less than 5% THD safely operates sensitive electronics.

Zoom on the Powerhorse 2500

In summary, the Powerhorse 2500 is a compact portable generator especially useful for:

  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Powerhorse 2500 in use

The Powerhorse 2500

The Powerhorse 2500's engine, 212 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 2,000W and reaches a peak wattage of 2,500W.

At a noise rating of 67 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation), the generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 4 gallons, the 2500 can operate for around 11 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.36 GPH).

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the 2500 produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 4 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R)

In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.

Portability

The Powerhorse 2500 has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L25.4 x W18.8 x H19.8 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

Since the generator weighs 100 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). 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 2500

The 2500's control panel

The 2500'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.

In addition to this info, a light indicator shows you if the oil level is too low.

The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.

As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the Powerhorse 2500 also comes with the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), allowing you to start it right away.

Emissions

The Powerhorse 2500 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.

Product Video

The Powerhorse 2500 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powerhorse 2500 compare to generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).

  • A weight of 100 lbs makes the Powerhorse 2500 one of the heavier devices in the 1500-2500 rated wattage range. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the Genmax GM2000i, with a dry weight of just 34.2 pounds.
  • When compared to devices able to produce a similar running wattage, this generator and its lowest emitted noise of 67 dBA is on the noisier side. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Honda EU2200i. With just 48 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
  • As the 2500 features an autonomy of around 11 hours at 50% load, it has a higher run time than an average generator of its power range. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Pulsar PG3250, with around 16 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. In fact, this generator is not among the most fuel efficient, within the aforementioned wattage range : its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.36 GPH. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse iGen2200. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.11 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Powerhorse 2500 vs Honda EU2200i.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1500-2500W generators, the Powerhorse 2500 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

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • Clean sine wave
  • High run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start
  • Not CARB-compliant
  • On the heavy side (100 lbs)
  • On the noisy side (67 dBA)
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Powerhorse 2500 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
Engine212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts2,000 W
Starting watts2,500 W
Running amps16.7 amps
Peak amps20.8 amps
Run time @50% load11 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
Data centerVoltmeter
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tankSteel, 4 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight100 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)25.4 x 18.8 x 19.8 in
Noise (lower limit)67 dBA
THD< 5%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedWheel kit
Country of originChina
Other model numbers750137

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 2500 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 generator sizer.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeMicrowave (1000 watts)15001500
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Fan40120
Total1595 W1675 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Blender400850
Total1590 W2180 W
For workDemolition hammer12601260
Electric fence (25 miles)250250
Bug zapper8080
Total1590 W1590 W

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