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Acme Tools | Price history for the Pulsar PG5250B | |
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Since: January 24, 2021 |
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PG5250B
In a nutshell, the Pulsar PG5250B is a compact portable generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
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 PG5250B
The dual-fuel technology of the Pulsar PG5250B allows for an output of 120/240V and provides superb power and versatility. If gasoline-powered, the device provides a running wattage of 4250W and a starting wattage of 5250W. If propane-powered, it gives 3850 rated watts and 4750 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 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), the generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
The running time of the PG5250B, with its 4 gallons fuel capacity, can reach around 12 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.33 GPH). With propane, it can reach around 13 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.36 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 4 AC outlets:
This Pulsar generator is RV Ready, as it features a TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'). In addition, due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the PG5250B is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.
Portability
The Pulsar PG5250B has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L23.2 x W17 x H17.8 in, which offers support and allows it 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 110 pounds. However, its challenging mobility is solved by its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.
Features
The PG5250B's control panel
The PG5250B 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.
The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, Pulsar also included a propane hose in the PG5250B's packaging.
Emissions
The Pulsar PG5250B is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.
Product Videos
The Pulsar PG5250B versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG5250B compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- As its weight is 110 pounds, the Pulsar PG5250B falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the WEN GN400i with only 66.1 pounds.
- If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this generator with a lowest emitted noise of 72 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 Cummins Onan P4500i with only 52 dBA.
- Offering around 12 hours of running time on a full tank at 50% load, the PG5250B is within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Predator 4375, with around 16 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. At an estimated fuel consumption of 0.33 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, this generator is a rather fuel efficient one within its wattage category. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Westinghouse iGen4200, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.17 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 3500-4500W generators, the Pulsar PG5250B is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- RV Ready
- Dual Fuel
- Switch & Go technology
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (110 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (72 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 224 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 4250 W | 3850 W |
| Starting watts | 5250 W | 4750 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 35.4/17.7 amps | 32.1/16 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 43.8/21.9 amps | 39.6/19.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 12 h | 13 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 110 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 17 x 17.8 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 72 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Propane hose and wheel kit |
| Warranty | 2 years |
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 PG5250B 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Total | 3392 W | 4392 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 3390 W | 3980 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Total | 2530 W | 5230 W |
Can this power a 2bedroom house (Asked February 12, 2021)
It is not feasible to answer this question without knowing the appliances you wish to power. You should start by calculating your required running and starting watts.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
I got the PG5250B because I didn’t want to be dependent upon a battery to start it. NOWHERE in the specifications, parts diagram or maintenance requirements have I seen a battery identified or listed. Guess what! While the PG5250 is recoil started, it has a battery that is required to operate its fuel solenoid! Further, it is a “specialty item” in that it is 12 Volts 9 AMPS. By the way, you have to call technical support to find out where the product’s serial number is located! BEWARE: As you unpack it, there are parts stuffed into the space located between the engine and fuel tank. There is also a shipping block strapped underneath the generator that must be removed. The serial number is lightly engraved on the engine block above and to the left of the oil plug.
Very misleading for there not have information that the Pulsar 5250B has a electrical fuel shutoff. Mid end generators are bought for emergency or recreational use which is seasonal. Battery maintenance is not a desirable feature for a stored generator. I did not find the reviews about the electrical fuel shutoff until after I purchased from a private party that had this generator new still in the box unopened. I would like to return it to the manufacture, however my purchase method is not valid for a return according to customer service. I have to research, if this battery will handle a smart trickle charger as to maintain reliability for an emergency generator. Very disappointed at Pulsar’s advertising policies. Borderline fraudulent.