Rainier R12000DF Spec Review

In summary, the Rainier R12000DF is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:

• Homeowners who wish to power almost all appliances in their house under any circumstances
• Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
• Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
• RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level

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 Rainier R12000DF

With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile Rainier R12000DF provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 9500W along with a peak wattage of 12000W. While propane-powered, it provides 8550 rated watts and 10800 starting watts.

Enjoying a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator can be started thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also to a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included).

As for its running time, the R12000DF, along with its 6.6 gallons fuel capacity, can run for up to 17 hours with a full tank filled with gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.39 GPH). If propane is used, it can operate for up to 11 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.43 GPH).

As the R12000DF has a relatively high THD (<23%), it is not recommended to use it to power sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 5 AC outlets:

If you own an RV with a 50-amp service, you can consider this Rainier unit as RV-ready, as it features a 14-50R outlet. In addition, since the R12000DF 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 Rainier R12000DF has the following dimensions: L29 x W24.5 x H24 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

As the generator's weight is 196 pounds, manually moving it or transporting it may be challenging, despite the fact that it is technically considered 'portable' (movable). 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

The R12000DF's control panel

To help you monitor the R12000DF's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.

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

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), 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, Rainier also included a propane hose in the R12000DF's packaging.

Emissions

The Rainier R12000DF 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 and therefore, can be used in forested areas.