The Powerhorse 27000 is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 18,000 W and a starting wattage of 27,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Northern Tool 
Amazon | Price history for the Powerhorse 27000 | |
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| Latest updates:
Since: February 22, 2024 |
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Description
Zoom on the Powerhorse 27000
To sum up, the Powerhorse 27000 is a powerful portable generator tailored for:
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
- Small homeowners in search of a full power backup solution
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 27000
Powerhorse 27000 runs on gasoline, powered by a 999 cc OHV V-Twin engine, delivering 120/240V, boasting a running wattage of 18,000W alongside a starting wattage of 27,000W. The impressive running wattage makes this unit the 2nd biggest portable generator currently on the market, along with the Generac GP18000EFI.
This generator is started via an intuitive and practical electric starter (battery included).
Featuring a 17.2 gallons fuel tank, the 27000 can provide power for around 8 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with fuel consumption averaging 2.15 gallons per hour).
As the 27000 produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel is equipped with the following 8 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle offering a convenient battery charging option.
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, as the 27000 holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.
Portability
At L37.8 x W25.5 x H32.6 in, the Powerhorse 27000 boasts a traditional open frame structure, ensuring stability and allowing for convenient maintenance access to components, promoting air circulation. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Even at 510 lbs, the generator is categorized as 'portable,' suggesting its movability, although its weight impede its portability. However, the constrained maneuverability is addressed with the assistance of its wheel kit (⌀13") and its folding handle, allowing for easy shifting once the generator is placed on the ground.
A lift hook, which is on the top of the frame, serves as an extra safety feature for the transport, unloading and loading of the device.
Features
The 27000's control panel
Integrated into the control center of the 27000 are a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings, facilitating the monitoring of its status and activity.
The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Powerhorse 27000 also comes with some accessories: battery charging cables and funnel are included.
Product Video
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).
- A weight of 510 lbs makes the Powerhorse 27000 one of the heavier devices in the 14000-20000 rated wattage range. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM17000iE, with a dry weight of only 308.6 lbs.
- As far as autonomy is concerned, providing around 8 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 50% load, the 27000 falls into the low end in comparison with other devices of a comparable power output. If wyou wish to prioritize autonomy, the Westinghouse WGen20000 shines as one of the top contenders, offering one of the highest run times among generators with similar power output, totaling around 11 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. In fact, this generator is not one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 2.15 GPH. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Genmax GM17000iE, which has a fuel consumption of only 1.03 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 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
- Impressive quantity of AC outlets
- 4 different AC outlet types
- Electric start
- Clean sine wave
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- On the heavy side (510 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 999 cc OHV V-Twin |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 18,000 W |
| Starting watts | 27,000 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 |
| Country of origin | China |
| 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 or Vietnam.
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 | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| 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 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Drain cleaner | 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).
How much oil does the machine need (Asked April 17, 2023)
Engine oil capacity is 2.6 qt.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
