Powermate PM1200i - 1000/1200W Inverter Generator
The Powermate PM1200i is a compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,000 W and a starting wattage of 1,200 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
The PM1200i is compact and lightweight for easy storage and convenient transportation. Best of all, the unit’s fully-enclosed design allows PM1200i models to operate quietly, leaving neighbors and surrounding wildlife undisturbed.
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
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
The Powermate PM1200i
Running on gasoline, the Powermate PM1200i operates with a 54 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 1,000W and a peak wattage of 1,200W.
Its starting mechanism relies on a manual recoil starter system.
With its 0.79 gallon fuel tank, the PM1200i can operate for up to 7 hours when fully fueled (with fuel usage averaging around 0.11 GPH).
The PM1200i generates a clean sine wave with <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), ensuring minimal electrical noise and fluctuations. This feature makes it ideal for powering sensitive electronics, providing stable and reliable AC power through the outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
Portability
Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L18.3 x W10.3 x H15.7 in), the Powermate PM1200i not only offers superior aesthetics but also operates with reduced noise levels compared to a typical, open frame generator. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
The PM1200i is a lightweight, portable generator, as it only weighs 33 lbs. It's easy for one person to move around, ensuring power availability on the move. The inclusion of a handle (molded in the case) makes carrying it a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Features
The PM1200i's control panel
When the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is overloaded, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual to assist with setup, the Powermate PM1200i ships with supplementary accessories: tool kit and funnel.
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 inverter generators of similar power (between 1000 and 2000 W).
- When it comes to weight, the Powermate PM1200i tips the scales at just 33 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 1000 to 2000 rated wattage range. if you wish to prioritize weight, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is one of the top contenders in its power category, weighing only 24 pounds.
- Autonomy-wise, with up to 7 hours on a full tank at a 25% load, the PM1200i is on the low end when compared to other inverter generators of a similar power output. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the DuroMax XP2300iH, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting up to 13 hours.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. Compared to its peers, this inverter generator is not exactly fuel-efficient, compared to similarly powerful devices, with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.11 GPH at a 25% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.07 GPH, the Genmax GM1200i is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1000-2000W inverter generators, the Powermate PM1200i is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Inverter
- Lightweight (33 lbs)
- No data center
- No parallel ports
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Powermate PM1200i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 54 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,000 W |
| Starting watts | 1,200 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% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| Other model numbers | P0080400 |
| UPC | 696471078909 |
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 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 | |
| Game console | 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.
