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Description
Zoom on the Powermate PM1200i
In a nutshell, the Powermate PM1200i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- 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 engine, 54 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 1000W and reaches a peak wattage of 1200W.
This inverter generator is started via 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).
The PM1200i generates a clean sine wave: providing <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Portability
The Powermate PM1200i is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L18.3 x W10.3 x H15.7 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating 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. 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 10th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
The PM1200i's control panel
Some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is on overload, its oil levels are insufficient 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.
Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual, useful for starting the generator right away, the Powermate PM1200i's package also includes these accessories: tool kit and funnel.
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 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 In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the ECHO EGi-1200, standing at just 30 lbs.
- 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. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse WGen2000, which is able to run for up to 26 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. This inverter generator has an estimated fuel consumption of roughly 0.11 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, rendering it somewhat average compared to devices of a similar output. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Predator 2000, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1000-2000W generators, the Powermate PM1200i 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
- Inverter
- Lightweight (33 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- No electric start
- No parallel ports
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 54 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1000 W |
| Starting watts | 1200 W |
| Running amps | 8.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 10 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 5.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | 7 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 0.79 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 33 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 18.3 x 10.3 x 15.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 3% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Other model numbers | P0080400 |
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
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Total | 192 W | 1192 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| LED TV | 150 | 150 | |
| Total | 730 W | 1180 W | |
| For work | Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 |
| Total | 730 W | 960 W |
What is the noise rating of the PM1200i?
Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Powermate (Generac) does not provide their units' noise levels.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
