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Pulsar PG12000B - 9500/12000W Dual Fuel Generator

The Pulsar PG12000B is a powerful open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 9,500 W and a starting wattage of 12,000 W.

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Description

Pulsar’s PG12000B Dual Fuel Portable Generator was built to keep you out of the dark during the next power outage. The dual fuel feature with the ability to run on gasoline or liquid propane to provide you with more options and peace of mind in the event of a natural disaster. (source: Pulsar (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Pulsar PG12000B

In a nutshell, the Pulsar PG12000B is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • Homeowners who wish to power almost all appliances in their house under any circumstances
  • Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
  • RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The Pulsar PG12000B in use

The Pulsar PG12000B

The dual-fuel technology of the Pulsar PG12000B 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.

Pulsar’s patented Switch & Go technology allows you to switch from propane to gasoline or from gasoline to propane while the generator is running.

At a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower), this generator can be started via a conventional pull-start mechanism, or a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).

With a fuel capacity of 8 gallons, the PG12000B 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:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R)
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle
120/240V 50A (14-50R) receptacle

Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

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 PG12000B 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 design of the Pulsar PG12000B is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L28.5 x W21 x H22 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough 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 205 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

Panel of the Pulsar PG12000B

The PG12000B's control panel

The PG12000B and its control panel include a convenient meter showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours. This feature comes handy when monitoring its status and activity.

Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Pulsar PG12000B also comes with some accessories: propane hose, funnel and tool kit are included.

Emissions

The Pulsar PG12000B is CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

Product Video

The Pulsar PG12000B versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG12000B compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 9000 and 10000 W).

  • As far as its dry weight is concerned, the Pulsar PG12000B weighs just 205 pounds and thus, it is one of the lightest 9000 to 10000 rated wattage dual fuel generators.
  • The generator can be considered average in its noise for its type and power category, as it is rated at 74 dBA. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the A-iPower SUA12000ED, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 69 dBA.
  • With a run time of around 12 hours at 50% load, the PG12000B has one of the highest run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers.
  • 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. At an estimated fuel consumption of 0.67 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, this generator is one of the most fuel efficient units within its wattage category.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Pulsar PG12000B vs Pulsar G12KBN.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 9000-10000W dual fuel generators, the Pulsar PG12000B 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • Several accessories included
  • Electric start
  • Dual Fuel
  • Switch & Go technology
  • Lightweight for its kind (205 lbs)
  • High run time
  • Fuel efficient
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Acceptable noise (74 dBA)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No remote start

Do you own the Pulsar PG12000B and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelDual Fuel (gasoline/propane)
Engine457 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty2 years
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Power
GasolinePropane
Running watts9,500 W8,550 W
Starting watts12,000 W10,800 W
Running amps (@120/240V)79.2/39.6 amps71.3/35.6 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)100/50 amps90/45 amps
Run time @50% load12 h5 h *
Run time @25% loadUnknownUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A output
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankSteel, 8 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight205 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)28.5 x 21 x 22 in
Noise (lower limit)74 dBA
THDUnknown
ComplianceCARB
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedFunnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit
UPC814726025021

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 PG12000B is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. 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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeDish washer15003000
AC (10,000 BTU)15002200
Microwave (1000 watts)15001500
Electric fry pan15001500
Sump pump (1/2 hp)10502150
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Slow cooker270270
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total7567 W9067 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
Microwave (1000 watts)15001500
Radiant heater13001300
Radio100100
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total7595 W8185 W
For workTable saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Grinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Disc sander12001200
Bug zapper8080
Total7340 W11840 W
Will the Pulsar pg 12000 duel fuel work and not damage the electrical system of a 50 amp rv? The 50 amp plug on the generator looks right but is it comparable with my rv electrical system? (Asked October 20, 2020)

The 14-50R outlet is suitable for RV use. Your may have a 14-50P plug, or a TT-30P one (in which case, you would need an adapter). Note that this unit may not be suitable for powering equipment that contains sensitive electronic components (laptops, etc.)

Does it come with the wheels (Asked November 16, 2020)

Yes, the wheel kit is included.

What is the difference between the PG 12000B and the PG12KBN? (Asked November 16, 2020)

The PG12000B features the Switch 'N Go technology, which allows you to change of fuel source without stopping the unit. The G12KBN must be stopped before switching between propane and gasoline.

Does the Pulsar Model 12000B charge its own battery? (Asked November 22, 2020)

The generator will charge the battery while running.

how many amps is the generator good for? (Asked January 29, 2021)

It depends on voltage and fuel used. On gasoline and 120V, it can deliver up to 79.2 running amps and 100 peak amps. You can find this information in the spec table a bit further up the page, in the "Power" section of the table.

How do you switch from gas to propane? (Asked February 12, 2021)

A fuel switch is located on the left side of the control panel.

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.

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Pulsar PG12000B
8.4 Total Score
4 reviews
Add your review
Price
8.8
Value
9
Quality
7.8
Performance
8

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Just stumbled onto this site looking for fuel consumption. We just had power restored after a 30hr outage caused by an ice storm. This is not the first time we have used the PG12000 but the longest. It ran the entire house in the winter. Rural location with private well, furnace and all. We did not run the electric oven and the burners are propane along with the furnace and hot water. Great generator – we also run it on propane connected to our main tank.
    Not sure about the guy that changed his oil and could not restart generator????

    + PROS:
    • Great Price Point
    • Easy to operate
    • Handles the whole house
    - CONS:
    • Changing oil is a bit messy
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 4.5
    Price
    80
    Value
    100
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    100

    This a beast. Great features, built sturdy and does the job. I wired it into my panel and am ready for any storm.
    During the Texas Winter storm I was able to power my furnace, 2 refrigerators, a TV, ceiling fans and light fixtures. It still had capacity but I stopped there.I just purchased a soft start for my 4 ton AC. I started the generator, turned on the fan, then the AC compressor- No problem!!! Then I flipped one breaker on at a time and before you know it I am running essentials in a1900 sq. Ft . 4ton AC, TV, 2 refrigerators, lights, 5 ceiling fans.
    I am ready for the next outage.

    + PROS:
    • Built sturdy
    • Duel Fuel
    • High Current options
    • Great generator for a good price.
    - CONS:
    • It would be nice to have a amp meter to know how much current it is pulling.
    • Filling and Changing oil is not easy.
    • It would be nice to have a LP to Natural gas converter.
    Helpful(4) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. 2.4
    Price
    70
    Value
    60
    Quality
    40
    Performance
    20

    I bought the generator. It has run perfectly all along. I shut it down to change the oil. I did what I was to do according to the manual. I went to start it back up and won’t start!!! I called customer service and got a line of crap from a lady I asked to talk to her supervisor and she said to email him!! So here I sit with a $1300 generator I need for my family and it won’t run! I followed all the troubleshooting from the manual and nothing. I just bought it in March 2021!!

    + PROS:
    • Nice being duel fuel
    - CONS:
    • Won't start after u change oil
    • Can't get any advice or help from customer service! Stuck with a generator that wont run!
    Helpful(4) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this
  4. Avatar
    Robert D Wengert April 3, 2021 at 11:32 am
    4.9
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    100

    Purchased PULSAR PG12000B 4/1/2021. Installed transfer switch and started generator on propane, took about 3 1st try’s to start new. I turned on my 1hp well pump, 3000-watt electric water heater, tv, both bathroom fans and lights, garage and house frig, coffee maker, and all house led lights all at one time. I’m very surprised it handled all with ease. I’m very pleased with my transfer switch and this generator. My 3 items must items out of this generator was a THD of 5-7 % (not listed but called manufacturer techs 3 different times to make sure of the THD) to be able to run sensitive electronics, IE computers my $3000 OLED TV, etc. It must be fuel-efficient especially on propane (5hrs Run time @50% load on a single 5-gallon tank IE:20 lb) and a 50 amp plug-in. I’m very happy with this PULSAR PG12000B. Reviews were good, well priced at $1083, no brainer. Pulsar customer service was good for THD info. I placed 3 calls and they were well trained I felt on answers I asked about THD and reliability parts and service. (very happy)

    + PROS:
    • None that I found, Remote start is not any biggie as you should always shut off your propane when not in use and check oil before each start. Could have covers for plug-ins but I don't want it sitting in the weather so Ill build a small cover over the top IE shelter for generator and and the tank
    - CONS:
    • Could have covers for plug-ins
    Helpful(6) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this

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