The Pulsar PGL9000BCO is a powerful open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 8,100 W and a starting wattage of 9,000 W. (Read full specs)
ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 0
The Home Depot 
Amazon Page Content
Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PGL9000BCO
In a nutshell, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120/240V, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 8,100W and a starting wattage of 9,000W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 6,700 running watts and 7,200 starting watts.
This generator can be started using either a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism or a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included).
Concerning its running time, the PGL9000BCO, featuring a 7 gallons fuel tank, can continuously run for around 9.5 hours at 50% load with a full gasoline tank (consuming fuel at approximately 0.74 gallons per hour). Alternatively, when utilizing propane, it offers around 4.5 hours (estimation based on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 1.04 GPH) of runtime.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 6 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which you may charge your batteries with ease.
Though it may not be labeled as 'RV Ready,' this Pulsar generator offers the benefit of hassle-free RV connectivity through its L5-30R receptacle, allowing you to easily power your RV with the assistance of an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, with its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the PGL9000BCO is configured to be transfer switch ready, allowing straightforward connection to your breaker box to supply backup power to your home during outages.
Portability
Measuring L29 x W21 x H23 in, the classic open frame construction of the Pulsar PGL9000BCO provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
While technically classified as 'portable' due to its ability to be moved, the 149 lbs of this generator make manual lifting and transportation incredibly difficult. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
The PGL9000BCO's control panel
Included in the control panel of the PGL9000BCO are a convenient meter, displaying voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours information, essential for monitoring its status and activity.
In addition to this info, a light indicator on the device will signal if its oil levels are insufficient.
The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
The unit also benefits from Pulsar's CO Sentry carbon monoxide detection. The sensor monitors for the accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide gas around the generator, and shuts down the engine is increasing levels of CO gas are detected.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual to get you promptly started, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO also comes with some accessories: funnel, tool kit, oil and propane hose are included.
The Pulsar PGL9000BCO versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PGL9000BCO compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 7500 and 8500 W).
- Concerning weight, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO weighs only just 149 pounds, distinguishing itself as one of the lightest dual fuel generators amidst the 7500 to 8500 rated wattage range.
- The PGL9000BCO's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its type and power range, as it reaches only around 9.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Firman H07553 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 12 hours.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. This generator reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.74 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Cummins Onan P9500df, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.6 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 7500-8500W dual fuel generators, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO 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
- Dual fuel
- CO Sentry technology
- Several accessories included
- Electric start
- Lightweight for its kind (149 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No 50-amp output
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 340 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 8,100 W | 6,700 W |
| Starting watts | 9,000 W | 7,200 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 67.5/33.8 amps | 55.8/27.9 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 75/37.5 amps | 60/30 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 9.5 h | 4.5 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 | 7 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 149 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 29 x 21 x 23 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
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 PGL9000BCO is covered under a warranty for up to 3 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 | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
| Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 6472 W | 7947 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 6475 W | 6895 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Concrete vibrator (1 hp) | 1080 | 1080 | |
| Total | 4480 W | 8980 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
