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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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 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:
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
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.
The bottom line
- RV Ready
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (57 dBA)
- Decent weight (99 lbs)
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W |
| Starting watts | 4,500 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps |
| Peak amps | 37.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 10 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours and voltage |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 2.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 99 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 22.8 x 17.3 x 20 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 57 dBA |
| THD | < 2% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, and battery |
| Country of origin | Vietnam |
| Other model numbers | 96387 |
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.
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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 2792 W | 3792 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 3370 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2740 W | 3840 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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