The Pulsar G12KBN is a powerful open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 9,500 W and a starting wattage of 12,000 W. (Read full specs)
ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 220
Amazon 
Walmart | Price history for the Pulsar G12KBN | |
|---|---|
| Latest updates:
Since: November 9, 2023 |
|
Page Content
Description
Zoom on the Pulsar G12KBN
In a few words, the Pulsar G12KBN is a powerful portable generator perfectly suited for:
- Small homeowners in search of a full power backup solution
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar G12KBN
Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the Pulsar G12KBN delivers 120/240V and offers power and versatility. When gasoline-powered, it benefits from a running wattage of 9,500W and a peak wattage of 12,000W. When propane-powered, it has 8,550 rated watts and 10,800 peak watts.
The generator, rated for a noise of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), provides flexibility in starting, offering both a simple traditional pull-start mechanism and a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included).
The G12KBN, with a fuel capacity of 8 gallons, reaches a run time of around 12 hours at 50% load utilizing gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.67 GPH). Alternatively, it can reach a run time of around 5 hours (estimation based on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.94 GPH) with propane.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 6 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which charging your batteries is made easy.
For RV owners with a 50-amp service, this Pulsar unit is RV-ready, boasting a 14-50R outlet. In addition, since the G12KBN bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of a power outage.
Portability
With its L28.5 x W21.8 x H22.2 in dimensions, the open frame structure of the Pulsar G12KBN guarantees stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.
Even at 209 lbs, the generator is categorized as 'portable,' suggesting its movability, although its weight impede its portability. However, the limited maneuverability is remedied with its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, facilitating convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.
Features
The G12KBN's control panel
The control panel of the G12KBN includes a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.
In addition to this info, a light indicator on the device will notify you if its oil levels are insufficient.
The built-in fuel gauge of the generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, providing peace of mind during operation.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Pulsar G12KBN also is packed along with the following accessories: tool kit, funnel and propane hose.
Product Videos
The Pulsar G12KBN versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar G12KBN compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 9000 and 10000 W).
- Regarding its weight, the Pulsar G12KBN only weighs in at 209 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter dual fuel generators in the 9000-10000 rated wattage range. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc, weighing just 187.4 pounds.
- When stacked up against other devices of similar running wattage, this generator's lowest possible noise rating of 74 dBA places it in the louder category. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the DuroMax XP11000iH is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 61 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
- Since the G12KBN boasts with a run time of around 12 hours at 50% load, it can be safely judged as one of the dual fuel devices with the highest run time among those of a comparable output.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.67 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, is one of the more fuel-efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.66 GPH, the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 9000-10000W dual fuel generators, the Pulsar G12KBN 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
- Dual Fuel
- Several accessories included
- Electric start
- Lightweight for its kind (209 lbs)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- No remote start
- 1-year warranty
- On the noisy side (74 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 457 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 9,500 W | 8,550 W |
| Starting watts | 12,000 W | 10,800 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 79.2/39.6 amps | 71.3/35.6 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 100/50 amps | 90/45 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 12 h | 5 h * |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A output |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 209 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 28.5 x 21.8 x 22.2 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 74 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Other model numbers | G12KBN-SG |
| UPC | 814726024598 |
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.
* Propane runtime is our own estimation, based on a 20 lbs tank and NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs of propane = 1 gal of gasoline.
About Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar G12KBN is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
| Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 7572 W | 9047 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 7595 W | 8185 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Pressure washer (1 hp) | 1200 | 3600 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 7340 W | 11840 W |
How much oil does the oil tank hold on the G12KBN portable generator? (Asked September 24, 2020)
Engine oil capacity is 38 fl. oz.
Can it be converted to be UN on natural gas? (Asked November 20, 2020)
There are no official conversion kits. We do not recommend such modification, since you'd most likely void your warranty.
Is it ok to run electronics like tv and computers and cell phones! (Asked December 16, 2020)
The THD of this unit can get above 5% at anytime, which makes it unsuitable for sensitive electronics.
What is the brand of engine manufacturer for the Pulsar G12KBN ? Thanks. (Asked January 13, 2021)
The engine is manufactured by Ducar.
Which source do you normally power your home with the 50 amp or the 30 amp. Very confusing. (Asked May 01, 2021)
It depends if your transfer switch is 30 or 50-amp.
can 2 be paralleled? For a whole house system? (Asked June 15, 2021)
The unit is not parallel capable. You may find a list of generators with parallel capability here.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
This unit has addressed all of our electrical needs. We live in a sub with lots of big trees. Down lines are frequent during heavy storms and this unit powers our house great. Like the duel fuel option, although I use gas 99% of the time. I recommend giving it a look.
FN Awesome! Powers my whole house, well pump(30amp), 40 gal electric hot water, 3 frig/freezers!
Very fuel efficient, 4 hours took about 1.75 gallons of gas. 14 hours on 7 gal with normal operation of house. Love it! AND cheap battery actually holds a great charge. No run for 6 months, fired up with no problem. Turned over fast!
I have owned this unit for about one year and used it for about 12 hours or so during power outages. It has started easily on all of the necessary occasions and to date has not failed in anyway. I would recommend the unit as a good quality to price point product. Some of the smaller units are quieter but usually much more expensive and will not produce the available power necessary to run most of the required items that most consumers want. If you want a reasonable cost to power output unit I would recommend this one.
Extremely low sine wave >1% at 120v measured at furthest outlet in a 2000 sq ft home running whole house in winter with forced hot air oil furnace, all appliances on including refrigerator, hot water heater, well pump, 2 sump pumps, deep freezer, garage pellet stove, lights etc, except cook top stove and clothes dryer. Wired into breaker panel as a home standby generator, for less than a 10th of the cost of a generac home standby unit. Yes I have to manually start it and switch the breaker over, but for 11k less than an actual equivalent standby unit that’s a small price to pay. Sine wave is what’s a winner for me, more than safe enough for all your sensitive electronics.
This generator has sufficient strength to power my entire 2200 square foot, centrally air conditioned, Central Florida home with in-ground pool. This generator is a dual fuel unit, propane and gasoline. I bought a third-party conversion kit to make this generator a tri-fuel unit, propane, gasoline and natural gas. I also added a generator interlock kit to my home electric panel and now I have an excellent stand-by source of power in the event a hurricane disables the electricity in the area (Space Coast). There is no need to store gasoline or propane because I am tapped into the natural gas supply with a quick disconnect hose and a 50 amp power cable. In addition, I can continue to make full use of the generator as a portable unit as it is not a permanent installation and will run from the gas tank or a propane tank.