Powermate PM1200i Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Powermate PM1200i

In a nutshell, the Powermate PM1200i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:

• Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
• DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Powermate PM1200i's core is the 54 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 1000W and a peak wattage of 1200W.

The inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism.

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 0.79 gallon, the PM1200i can operate for up to 7 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.11 GPH).

As the PM1200i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Portability

Since the Powermate PM1200i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L18.3 x W10.3 x H15.7 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

With a weight of only 33 lbs, the PM1200i may be viewed as a lightweight and portable generator. A single person should not have any problems moving it around and thus, enjoy power availability on-the-go. In addition, a handle (molded in the case) lets you carry it easily and further increases its convenience.

Features

The PM1200i's control panel

The light indicators show you if its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.

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

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Powermate PM1200i also comes with several accessories, including: funnel and tool kit.

Emissions

The Powermate PM1200i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.

The Powermate PM1200i versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powermate PM1200i compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).

• Regarding its weight, the Powermate PM1200i only weighs in at 33 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 500-1500 rated wattage range. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i with only 20.3 pounds.
• As far as autonomy is concerned, providing up to 7 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 25% load, the PM1200i falls into the low end in comparison with other devices of a comparable power output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Yamaha EF1000iS, which is able to run for up to 11.9 hours.
• The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator is rather wasteful, compared to other devices within the aforementioned output range, when it comes to gasoline consumption, as it reaches roughly 0.11 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Yamaha EF1000iS, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.06 GPH, may be the right generator for you.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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 Powermate

Powermate’s history is somewhat enigmatic, but they claim to have been on the market for over 40 years, selling portable generators and various outdoor power equipment. What we know for sure is that in 2009, they have signed under what they call “partnership” (more accurately ownership) with the Italian PRAMAC. As of 2020, it would seem that Generac has now taken over the manufacturing of Powermate's portable generators.

Warranty Information

The Powermate PM1200i is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Powermate generators, please consult Powermate's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-445-1805.

Questions & Answers

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