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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar G12KBN
In summary, the Pulsar G12KBN is a powerful portable generator especially useful for prudent homeowners who want a backup power source in case of a power outage.
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 9500W and a starting wattage of 12000W. If propane-powered, it gives 8550 rated watts and 10800 starting watts.
The generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism and also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). It is rated for a noise of 76 dBA (less noisy than a dishwasher).
As for its running time, the G12KBN, along with its 8 gallons fuel capacity, can run for around 12 hours at 50% load with a full tank filled with gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.67 GPH). If propane is used, it can operate for 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:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
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
With its dimensions of L28.5 x W21 x H22 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Pulsar G12KBN offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 209 pounds. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed 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 showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.
In addition to this info, when the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicator.
Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual, letting you start the generator quickly, the Pulsar G12KBN also comes with several accessories, including: funnel, propane hose and tool kit.
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, which makes it suitable 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 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 generators in the 9000-10000 rated wattage range. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Rainier R12000DF, with a dry weight of only 196 lbs.
- Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this generator with a lowest noise of 76 dBA can be judged as noisy. If you are concerned with noise, check out the A-iPower SUA12000ED, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 69 dBA.
- As the G12KBN features an autonomy of around 12 hours at 50% load, it has a higher run time than an average generator of its power range. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the Powerhorse 13000ES, boasting with around 15 hours.
- 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, 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 wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Rainier R12000DF, with a fuel consumption of 0.55 GPH could be in your good books.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 9000-10000W 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
- Several accessories included
- Electric start
- Dual Fuel
- Lightweight for its kind (209 lbs)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- No remote start
- On the noisy side (76 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 457 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 9500 W | 8550 W |
| Starting watts | 12000 W | 10800 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 79.2/39.6 amps | 71.3/35.6 amps |
| Peaks 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 x 22 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 76 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Emissions | CARB |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| 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 | 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 | |
| Electric fry pan | 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.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
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.