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Northern Tool 
eBay | Price history for the Powerhorse 27000 | |
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Since: April 18, 2022 |
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Description
Zoom on the Powerhorse 27000
In summary, the Powerhorse 27000 is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
- Prudent homeowners who want a backup power source in case of a power outage
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Powerhorse 27000's core is the 999 cc OHV V-Twin engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120/240V, it provides a running wattage of 18000W and a peak wattage of 27000W.
Its starting mechanism is based on a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).
The fuel capacity of 17.2 gallons allows the 27000 to operate for around 8 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 2.15 GPH).
As the 27000 produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 8 AC outlets:
It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
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. Besides, due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 27000 is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.
Portability
The dimensions of the Powerhorse 27000, which are L37.8 x W25.5 x H32.6 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Since the generator weighs 510 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). However, this lack of maneuverability is compensated by its wheel kit (⌀13") and its folding handle, with which you can conveniently shift it, once it's on the ground.
A lift hook located on the top of the frame offers an additional safety feature while facilitating the transport, loading and unloading of the generator.
Features
The 27000's control panel
The 27000's control center features a convenient meter showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours to aid you with the monitoring of its status and activity.
The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
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.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Powerhorse 27000 also is packed along with the following accessories: funnel and battery charging cables.
Emissions
The Powerhorse 27000 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.
The Powerhorse 27000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powerhorse 27000 compare to generators of similar power (between 14000 and 20000 W).
- At a dry weight of 510 pounds, the Powerhorse 27000 is one of the heavier devices which can produce between 14000 and 20000 running watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Generac GP15000E with only 363 pounds.
- The 27000's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its power range, as it reaches only around 8 hours at 50% load on a full tank. 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 Westinghouse WGen20000, with around 11 hours.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This generator is not fuel efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 2.15 GPH at a 50% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Westinghouse WGen20000, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 1.56 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 14000-20000W generators, the Powerhorse 27000 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
- In the expected price range
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Clean sine wave
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- Not CARB-compliant
- On the heavy side (510 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 999 cc OHV V-Twin |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 18000 W |
| Starting watts | 27000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 150/75 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 225/112.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 17.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 510 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 37.8 x 25.5 x 32.6 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel, battery charging cables, battery, and wheel kit |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Other model numbers | 99932 |
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.
Warranty Information
The Powerhorse 27000 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 14392 W | 15892 W | |
| For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 | |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 14380 W | 18880 W |
I just purchased this Powerhorse 18000w generator. I'm wanting to power up my home. Will I need an inverter? (Asked January 30, 2021)
The unit has a THD below 5%, which is considered safe for powering appliances that contain sensitive electronic components. You shouldn't need an inverter.
Are there any fuel conversion kits to allow for this unit to run tri-fuel? (Asked March 04, 2021)
There are no official conversion kits.
Can it be shipped in British Columbia Canada? (Asked May 21, 2021)
Absolutely. Northern Tool ships to most countries all over the world, including Canada.
I purchased the 27000/18000 watt Powerhorse what size cord do I needed for backup power to my home, all I see are cords rated for 12500 watts (Asked July 10, 2022)
It's quite normal to find cords only rated for 12500 watts, since you won't get more than 12kW from a single outlet (240V*50A=12000).
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
