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Powerhorse LC4500i - 3500/4500W Inverter Generator With Electric Start

The Powerhorse LC4500i is a quiet and compact inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)

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Powerhorse LC4500i

Description

This Powerhorse® Inverter Generator provides super-quiet operation (at just 57dB @ 1/4 load!) and reliable, clean power for safely running tools, appliances and electronics. Great for home, camping, tailgating and outdoor recreation and entertaining.

Zoom on the Powerhorse LC4500i

In short, the Powerhorse LC4500i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator adequately designed for:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
  • Amateur DIY lovers
  • Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go

Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.

Power & Run Time

The Powerhorse LC4500i in use

The Powerhorse LC4500i

The Powerhorse LC4500i houses a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 3,500W along with a peak wattage of 4,500W. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) allows for increasing of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and reliability for diverse needs.

The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 57 dBA (less noisy than a conversation at home). Its starting mechanisms include a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism and a straightforward and intuitive electric starter (battery included).

The LC4500i's fuel tank, with a capacity of 2.6 gallons, supports uninterrupted operation for up to 10 hours when fully fueled (fuel consumption at an estimated 0.26 gallons per hour).

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the LC4500i produces a clean sine wave, with a <2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

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

Moreover, it presents 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Powerhorse generator is RV Ready.

Portability

Since the Powerhorse LC4500i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L22.8 x W17.3 x H20 in) not only provides an aesthetic advantage but also contributes to reduced noise levels compared to conventional, open frame devices. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

The 99 lbs of the LC4500i's dry weight enables you to use it anywhere you will ever need. Moreover, its set of 4 wheels and its double handle make it easy to shift the generator once it's on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Powerhorse LC4500i

The LC4500i's control panel

Included in the control panel of the LC4500i, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the power output, voltage and lifetime run hours.

In addition to this info, light indicators on the device will signal if its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.

The inverter 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 standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Powerhorse LC4500i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit.

Product Videos

The Powerhorse LC4500i versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powerhorse LC4500i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).

  • Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 99 lbs, the Powerhorse LC4500i belongs in the expected weight range for inverters which can produce between 3000 and 4000 rated watts. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
  • Rated at a lowest possible noise level of 57 dBA, this inverter generator positions itself amongst the more quiet of the products of similar type and power. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 52 dBA.
  • As for its autonomy, the LC4500i, with an autonomy of up to 10 hours at a 25% load, is placed on the low end among the generators of its kind. If you wish to prioritize autonomy, the Firman WH03662OF shines as one of the top contenders, offering one of the highest run times among generators with similar power output, totaling up to 25 hours.
  • While run time is vital, it hinges on the fuel capacity. To grasp the full picture, we must also factor in fuel efficiency. Compared to its peers, this inverter generator is not exactly fuel-efficient, compared to similarly powerful devices, with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.26 GPH at a 25% load. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Champion 201050 is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.15 gallons per hour.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Powerhorse LC4500i vs Predator 3500.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • RV Ready
  • Electric start
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Quiet for its power (57 dBA)
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (99 lbs)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No remote start
  • Relatively low run time
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Powerhorse LC4500i 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 readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V
Running watts3,500 W
Starting watts4,500 W
Running amps29.2 amps
Peak amps37.5 amps
Run time @50% loadUnknown
Run time @25% load10 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets2x 5V USB port
Data centerPower output, lifetime run hours and voltage
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank2.6 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight99 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)22.8 x 17.3 x 20 in
Noise (lower limit)57 dBA
THD< 2%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedFunnel, tool kit, and battery
Country of originVietnam
Other model numbers96387

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.

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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 LC4500i 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 homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Hair dryer18001900
Toaster oven800800
Total2792 W3792 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
RV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
Slow cooker270270
Cell phone charger2020
Total2780 W3370 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W
Does the Powerhorse 4500i have an automatic choke and is it made in China? (Asked May 06, 2021)

The unit has a manual choke and is indeed manufactured in China.

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