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Powerhorse 2500i - 1800/2500W Inverter Generator

The Powerhorse 2500i is a compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,800 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W. (Read full specs)

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Powerhorse 2500i
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Price history for the Powerhorse 2500i

Current price is in the mid range.
Lowest price $429.99
Highest price $589.99
Current price $529.99

Description

Zoom on the Powerhorse 2500i

In summary, the Powerhorse 2500i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:

  • Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
  • Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
  • RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level

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 2500i in use

The Powerhorse 2500i

The Powerhorse 2500i 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 2,500W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.

With a noise rating of 62 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a conventional pull-start mechanism.

The fuel capacity of 1.2 gallon allows the 2500i to operate for up to 10.5 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.11 GPH).

As the 2500i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel features 3 AC outlets as follows:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

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

The Powerhorse 2500i is distinguished by its enclosed inverter generator design (L20.4 x W12.5 x H18.3 in), providing improved aesthetics and quieter performance compared to traditional, open frame units. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

Considered a lightweight portable generator, the 2500i weighs just 48.3 lbs. Thanks to its lightweight design, one person can easily move it around, ensuring power availability wherever you travel. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.

Features

Panel of the Powerhorse 2500i

The 2500i's control panel

The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the generator is on overload, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready.

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 classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Powerhorse 2500i also comes with some accessories: funnel and tool kit are included.

Product Video

The Powerhorse 2500i versus other generators

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

  • Having a dry weight of 48.3 lbs, the Powerhorse 2500i belongs in the expected weight range for inverter generators which produce 1500 to 2500 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM2000i, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
  • When stacked up against other devices of similar running wattage, this inverter generator's lowest possible noise rating of 62 dBA places it in the louder category. If you wish to prioritize minimal noise, the Honda EU2200i stands out as one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, with a rating of 48 dBA.
  • As the 2500i offers up to 10.5 hours run time on a full tank at a 25% load, it falls within the average autonomy range among the inverter generators of a similar power. If run time is one of your main concerns, the DuroMax XP2300iH could be worth looking at. It boasts one of the highest run times among units of comparable power, lasting 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. When operating at 25% load, the inverter generator's fuel consumption is estimated at 0.11 GPH, placing it within the average range of gasoline usage among similarly powerful devices. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Westinghouse iGen2800c is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.08 gallons per hour.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Powerhorse 2500i 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
  • CO sensor
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (48.3 lbs)
  • Decent run time
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • On the noisy side (62 dBA)

Do you own the Powerhorse 2500i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine80 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts1,800 W
Starting watts2,500 W
Running amps15 amps
Peak amps20.8 amps
Run time @50% load9.5 h
Run time @25% load10.5 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank1.2 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight48.3 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)20.4 x 12.5 x 18.3 in
Noise (lower limit)62 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceEPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedFunnel and tool kit
Country of originVietnam
Other model numbers6075628
UPC840321763969

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×

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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 2500i 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 Refrigerator (energy star) 192 1192
Vacuum cleaner 1075 1175
Laptop 150 150
Cell phone charger 20 20
Total 1437 W 2437 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

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