Pulsar PG1202S Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Pulsar PG1202S

In summary, the Pulsar PG1202S is a compact and lightweight portable generator especially useful for:

• Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
• Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Pulsar PG1202S

The Pulsar PG1202S's design includes a gasoline-fueled 72 cc (2.2 hp) Ducar 2-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 850W and also a peak wattage of 1200W.

The generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than background music).

The fuel capacity of 1.1 gallon allows the PG1202S to operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.13 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.

Portability

With its dimensions of L14.6 x W12.4 x H12.4 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Pulsar PG1202S offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Since the PG1202S weighs only 37.5 lbs, it can be labeled as a portable lightweight generator. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. Further convenience is provided by its handle, as it allows you to carry it effortlessly.

Good to know: This unit ranks 4^th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.

Features

The PG1202S's control panel

A light indicator serves to show you when the generator is ready.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.

Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the Pulsar PG1202S's package also includes these accessories: battery charging cables and tool kit.

Emissions

The Pulsar PG1202S is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Product Videos

The Pulsar PG1202S versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG1202S compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).

• Regarding its weight, the Pulsar PG1202S only weighs in at 37.5 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 500-1500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i, standing at just 20.3 lbs.
• Since the generator's noise is rated at 65 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar power. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU1000i with only 42 dBA.
• Given that the PG1202S reaches an autonomy of around 8.5 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Sportsman GEN2000-SS, as it provides around 11 hours.
• 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. Standing at an estimated 0.13 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, this generator is somewhat average in this area compared to other devices, within the aforementioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Ryobi RYi1000. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.08 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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.

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 PG1202S 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

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