Powermate PM1200i - Spec Breakdown

Description

Zoom on the Powermate PM1200i

In summary, the Powermate PM1200i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:

• 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

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.

This inverter generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

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

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 features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Portability

Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L18.3 x W10.3 x H15.7 in), the Powermate PM1200i, is more esthetical than a typical, open frame generator. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

The PM1200i is a lightweight, portable generator, as it only weighs 33 lbs. A single person should not have any problems moving it around and thus, enjoy power availability on-the-go. This convenience is further enhanced thanks to its handle (molded in the case) that allows you to carry it with ease.

Good to know: This unit ranks 10^th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.

Features

The PM1200i's control panel

The light indicators show you if the generator is on overload, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low.

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.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual, helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Powermate PM1200i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit.

Emissions

The Powermate PM1200i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable 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 1000 and 2000 W).

• In terms of its dry weight, the Powermate PM1200i stands at only 33 lbs, meaning that is one of the lighter devices of the 1000-2000 rated wattage category If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the Genmax GM1200i, with a dry weight of just 25.3 pounds.
• The PM1200i's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its power range, as it reaches only up to 7 hours at 25% load on a full tank. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Powermate PM2000, as it provides up to 14 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. As this inverter generator uses an estimated 0.11 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Genmax GM1200i. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.07 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

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. In 2009, they have signed under what they call “partnership” (more accurately ownership) with the Italian PRAMAC. In 2014, Generac acquired Powermate from PRAMAC.

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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