Pulsar G12KBN - 9500/12000W Dual Fuel Generator With Electric Start
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)
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Walmart | Price history for the Pulsar G12KBN |
|---|
| Highest Price $899.99 Lowest Price $749.00 Current Price $899.00 |
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar G12KBN
In a nutshell, the Pulsar G12KBN is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- 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
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar G12KBN
With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile Pulsar G12KBN provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 9,500W along with a peak wattage of 12,000W. While propane-powered, it provides 8,550 rated watts and 10,800 starting watts.
The generator is rated for a noise of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower). Its starting mechanisms include a manual recoil starter system and a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included).
The running time of the G12KBN, with its 8 gallons fuel capacity, can reach around 12 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.67 GPH). With propane, it can reach around 5 hours (estimation based on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.94 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 6 AC outlets:
Additionally, it offers 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output providing easy battery charging capabilities.
With its 14-50R outlet, this Pulsar unit is RV-ready for owners with a 50-amp service in their RVs. In addition, due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the G12KBN is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.
Portability
Measuring L28.5 x W21.8 x H22.2 in, the classic open frame construction of the Pulsar G12KBN provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Despite its weight of 209 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. Despite the restricted maneuverability, its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle provides a solution, allowing for convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.
Features
The G12KBN's control panel
The control panel of the G12KBN is equipped with a convenient meter, displaying voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours information, aiding in monitoring its status and activity.
In addition to this info, a light indicator serves to show you when the oil level is too low.
The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
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.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Pulsar G12KBN, the following accessories are also included: tool kit, propane hose and funnel.
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).
- At 209 lbs dry, the Pulsar G12KBN is consistent with the standard weight profile for dual fuel devices ranging from 9000 to 10000 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 187.4 pounds.
- If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this generator with a lowest emitted noise of 74 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the DuroMax XP11000iH with only 61 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.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This generator has a better fuel efficiency than other units in the aforementioned output range, consuming approximately 0.67 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.66 gallons per hour.
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
- Electric start
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (209 lbs)
- No remote start
- 1-year warranty
- On the noisy side (74 dBA)
Do you own the Pulsar G12KBN and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
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 |
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.
* Propane runtime is our own estimate, 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
when I first saw this generator and the price ($899) I told me “Your not going to beat this price for this much generator>>> So o o I got it!! Came from Cal> and took a few days, but right to my driveway.. Had it now about a year & a half- not broken yet..Ha Working on that now, but in South Texas it’s 43 outside now. It will get warmer soon I hope.. ha After break-in I will fill it with Mobile 1 and wait for whatever comes. I live in South Texas in Corpus Christi. Road out Hurricane Celia in August 3 1970.. What a mess that was. Don’t want to do that again.. I’m setup now for Natural gas and Propane. these gases will keep forever or till you need them, plus not gumming up the carburetor.
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.