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Acme Tools | Price history for the Pulsar PG5250B | |
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Since: November 17, 2020 |
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PG5250B
In summary, the Pulsar PG5250B is a compact portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- 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
With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile Pulsar PG5250B provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 4250W along with a peak wattage of 5250W. While propane-powered, it provides 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.
The generator is rated for a noise of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner). Its starting mechanism is based on a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
Regarding its running time, the PG5250B, with a 4 gallons fuel capacity can operate for around 12 hours at 50% load with a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.33 GPH). When using propane, it can run for around 13 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.36 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 4 AC outlets:
This Pulsar generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'). In addition, since the PG5250B bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of 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. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
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. Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
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.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use.
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. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all 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 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. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN GN400i, standing at just 66.1 lbs.
- When compared to devices able to produce a similar running wattage, this generator and its lowest emitted noise of 72 dBA is on the noisier side. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Cummins Onan P4500i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 52 dBA.
- The PG5250B, offering a run time of around 12 hours with a full tank at a 50% load, falls within the average autonomy range when compared to its peers. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Honda EB4000X, which is able to run for around 16 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption 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 you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen4200, with a fuel consumption of 0.17 GPH could be in your good books.
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 |
| Peaks 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.