ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 200
Amazon
eBay
Walmart
| Price history for the Pulsar G12KBN | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
Since: January 20, 2023 |
|
Page Content
Description
Zoom on the Pulsar G12KBN
In summary, the Pulsar G12KBN is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:
- Small homeowners in search of a full power backup solution
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar G12KBN
The dual-fuel technology of the Pulsar G12KBN allows for an output of 120/240V and provides superb power and versatility. If gasoline-powered, the device provides a running wattage of 9,500W and a starting wattage of 12,000W. If propane-powered, it gives 8,550 rated watts and 10,800 starting watts.
At a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), this generator can be started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, or a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included).
With a fuel capacity of 8 gallons, the G12KBN can operate for around 12 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.67 GPH), or for around 5 hours (estimation based on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.94 GPH) using propane.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
If you own an RV with a 50-amp service, you can consider this Pulsar unit as RV-ready, as it features a 14-50R outlet. In addition, as it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the G12KBN is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.
Portability
The Pulsar G12KBN has the following dimensions: L28.5 x W21.8 x H22.2 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 209 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.
Features
The G12KBN's control panel
To help you monitor the G12KBN's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.
In addition to this info, a light indicator allows you to instantly see if the oil level is too low.
The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
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: funnel, tool kit and propane hose.
Emissions
The Pulsar G12KBN is CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.
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).
- As for its weight, the Pulsar G12KBN weighs only 209 pounds, making it one of the lighter dual fuel generators in the 9000-10000 rated wattage category. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Rainier R12000DF with only 196 pounds.
- Since the generator's noise is rated at 74 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar type and power. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the A-iPower SUA12000ED with only 69 dBA.
- 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.
- 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. With an estimated gasoline consumption of 0.67 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, this generator is among the more fuel efficient of the products in the above-mentioned wattage range. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Rainier R12000DF, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.55 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, 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
- Acceptable noise (74 dBA)
- No remote start
- 1-year warranty
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 |
| 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 |
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 | Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 7567 W | 9067 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| 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
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.