Powermate PM1200i - 1000/1200W Inverter Generator

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 hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• Amateur DIY lovers

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 is powered by a 54 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 1000W as well as a peak wattage of 1200W.

Its starting mechanism is based on a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

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

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 provides 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 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. As it can be moved by a single person without much effort, the generator and its power can be enjoyed on-the-go. It can also be carried without effort with a featured handle (molded in the case), further improving its convenience.

Good to know: This unit ranks 9^th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.

Features

The PM1200i's control panel

When the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is on overload, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

Security-wise, this product benefits from an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual, which lets you start it right away, the Powermate PM1200i also is packed along with the following accessories: tool kit and funnel.

Emissions

The Powermate PM1200i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may 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 inverter 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 inverters of the 1000-2000 rated wattage category If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM1200i with only 25.3 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 inverters of a comparable power output. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the DuroMax XP2300iH, with up to 13 hours.
• While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator is not fuel efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 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

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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