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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
Highest Price
$589.99
Lowest Price
$429.99
Current Price
$529.99

Description

Zoom on the Powerhorse 2500i

To sum up, the Powerhorse 2500i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator tailored for:

  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
  • 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 2500i in use

The Powerhorse 2500i

Running on gasoline, the Powerhorse 2500i utilizes a 80 cc (3 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine to deliver 120V, offering a running wattage of 1,800W and a starting wattage of 2,500W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.

Operating with a noise level of 62 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), the inverter generator starts up via a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.

With a fuel capacity of 1.2 gallon, the 2500i can run for up to 10.5 hours when the tank is full (fuel consumption is approximately 0.11 gallons per hour).

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 the following 3 AC outlets:

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

Even if this Powerhorse generator isn't quite RV Ready, it still allows for an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor, thanks to its L5-30R receptacle.

Portability

As the Powerhorse 2500i is an inverter generator, its encased design (L20.4 x W12.5 x H18.3 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

At a mere 48.3 lbs, the 2500i is a standout option for those in need of a lightweight and portable power solution. The product’s power can be enjoyed on-the-go, as it can be moved by a single person without trouble. In addition, a handle (molded in the case) lets you carry it easily and further increases its convenience.

Features

Panel of the Powerhorse 2500i

The 2500i's control panel

When the generator is overloaded, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.

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.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Powerhorse 2500i also comes with several accessories, including: tool kit and funnel.

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).

  • At a weight of 48.3 pounds, the Powerhorse 2500i places in the expected weight range of the inverter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Genmax GM2000i, standing at just 34.2 lbs.
  • This inverter generator, with its lowest possible noise rated at 62 dBA falls into the more noisy category, compared to other devices of a similar running wattage. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
  • Given that the 2500i reaches an autonomy of up to 10.5 hours with a full tank and at 25% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful inverter generators. 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.
  • Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. With a fuel usage of about 0.11 GPH at a 25% load, this inverter generator falls within the typical gasoline consumption range observed in comparably powerful products. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the DuroMax XP2300iH, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.08 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

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 generator size calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Vacuum cleaner10751175
LED TV150150
Cell phone charger2020
Total1437 W2437 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
Radio100100
Cell phone charger2020
Total1420 W1420 W
For workDemolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total1340 W1340 W

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