Facing blackouts is an occurrence that isn’t as severe as it used to be before, but a pretty disturbing occurrence, nonetheless.
A blackout can lead to all food in your refrigerator starting to rot, pipelines getting flooded, important medicines losing their properties, and projects remaining incomplete. So, how exactly do you solve these problems? By getting a generator, of course.
When it comes to ensuring an alternative source of power for your home, 12kW generators are the most suitable on power outages. How so?
Read our review about the best 12000 watt portable generators to understand more. Equipped with a buying guide, this article will surely answer all your questions. So, keep reading!
What Will a 12000 Watt Generator Run?
Watts are a mean of measuring power. While deciding what generator you want to purchase, watts play a pretty important role. The higher your generator’s wattage will be, the more electricity it will produce.
But it will also be able to run more appliances at once. So with a higher power, you basically get a tradeoff between maintenance cost and the benefit of uninterrupted power supply.
A machine with 12000 watts is definitely capable of running a lot of devices simultaneously. With a power like this, you can basically supply electricity to your whole house without any problem.
You can run fans, lights, TV, refrigerators, air conditioners, the central heating system, computers and almost anything else you can think of.
These devices are also great for industrial appliances. They can also be used in rural areas where there are wells, to run the well pumps. To install these, you must take the help of a professional.
| Pos | Brand | Image | Features | More Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LightweightA-iPower |  |
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| 2 | Champion |  |
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| 3 | PopularDuroMax |  |
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| 4 | Durostar |  |
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| 5 | Best BudgetPulsar |  |
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| 6 | LightweightRainier |  |
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| 7 | Most DurableCAT |  |
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| 8 | Rockpals |  |
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| 9 | Fuel EfficientA-iPower |  |
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Best 12000 Watt Portable Generator Reviews
To help you choose among the toppers, we have provided detailed reviews of our recommendations. Let’s get to know them.
A-iPower SUA12000E Gasoline Powered Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 78db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 7 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 216lbs |
A-iPower generators are one of the well-known generators in the market. Regarded as the best rated 12000 watt portable generator by many, this one is ideal to use in households, getaways, and job sites – whatever you name.
The peak power of 12000 watts helps it to initially start large devices like refrigerators and air conditioners without missing a beat, as these require more than average power when they start.
Also, the fuel capacity of this machine is 7 gallons, and its fuel tank is made out of steel, adding to its durability. With this capacity, this unit has the power to keep itself running for 9 hours straight when it is operating at 50% load.
One of the best things about this machine is definitely its weather-resistant cover and GFCI protected outlets, which makes sure that it is safe to use even when it is damp.
Although this device is quite heavy, it is quite easy to move with the help of the 9.5 inch solid flat wheels that come along with it. The wheels also provide the traction needed to go over rough terrain, making it a suitable option for all kinds of environments.
Another great thing about this unit is that you get all these features at a very low price point. Despite having a lot of cords, this model appears to have a very neat and compact appearance since all the cords are covered.
There are other amazing features available on this device, too, including safety modes to protect the engine from overworking, light indicators to provide warnings, and built-in fuel gauges to help you understand when you need to refill it.
- Peak wattage of 12000 watt helps to initially start large devices
- Can be used in households, and job sites
- Has a fuel capacity of 7 gallons
- Can run for 9 hours on 50% load
- Safe to use even when damp
- Includes flat wheels for easy mobility
- Affordable price point
- GFCI protected outlets prevent the risk of shocks
- Neat and compact appearance
- A little bit too noisy for some individuals
Champion 12,000-Watt Electric Start Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 15000 Watt / Running: 12000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 78db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 10.9 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 329.6lbs |
With many unique features to help differentiate it from others in the market, this proves to be a great option for your home.
First of all, it has a peak wattage of 15000 watts, which is way more than traditional 12kW generators provide. Hence, this is great for heavy use.
One of the worst things in portable generators is a recoil start. These things can make starting the unit quite an uncomfortable process, so this device has a solution for that too!
Equipped with an electric start button, it allows you to get your machine roaring with just one push of a button. Its cold start technology also makes sure that it is getting started without any glitches during winter.
The best thing about this champion generator is that it does not only have fancy, unique features that make it seem like it’s going overboard, but it covers the basic aspects of safety too.
And the outlets of this device are fully protected so that you do not get any nasty electric shocks, whereas the surge protectors built in the device help to prevent overload and keep the engine safe.
Another great thing about this model is the lifting hook, which makes it super easy to load and unload. It is also a great addition, which makes the machine easier to move along the ground.
There are also a few built-in features in this model, which include the ability to monitor how much runtime is left when you need to refill the fuel tank – keeping your mind free from worries.
- Has an astonishing peak power of 15000 watts
- Electric start facilitates ease of use
- Cold start technology gives a perfect edge in the winter months
- Covered outlets will keep you protected from shocks
- Built-in surge protectors help prevent overload
- Lift hook increases portability
- Extra features to make maintenance super easy
- Few reported to have started leaking oil after a few usages
DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9500 Watt Starting: 11400 Watt / Running: 9025 Watt |
| Noise Level | 74db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 8.83 hours / 50% Load Gagsoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8.3 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 260lbs |
This by far is quite a unique portable generator in terms of the fuel options it provides. It gives you the flexibility to choose between either fuel or propane and offers numerous benefits no matter which one you choose. This generator also places on our top list of dual fuel generators.
If you use gasoline, you will get 600 watts more peak power and 475 watts more running power than while using propane with its powerful dual fuel technology.
However, this should not be one the only category to base your decision on. While using gasoline may lead to a more stable supply of power, propane can drastically reduce the number of emissions from your machine, and lessen the severity of your carbon footprint.
Using propane is also more economical, as it can be stored for a longer time than gasoline.
Besides this choice between two fuels, the DuroMax generator has much more to offer. It has quite a long runtime, and the difference in the peak power is quite negligible, making this an ideal option for job construction sites and trips, as well as household backups.
Furthermore, the electric key start besides the traditional recoil system also makes this machine easy to start for everyone. One of the most important things to keep in mind while using a generator is the aspect of safety. XP12000EH model of Duromax takes good care of that.
It is equipped with a circuit breaker for the main unit, and individual circuit breakers for each power outlet, therefore reducing the chance of getting an electric shock to almost zero. It has two 120V/20AMP household style outlets, one 120v/30A twist lock outlet, a 120/240V 30AMP outlet. For heavy duty machines it has a 50-amp power outlet.
Also, it is not too noisy, making this a very good choice.
- Dual fuel option offers a lot of flexibility
- Provides a runtime of average 7.8 hours on both fuels at 50% load
- Made from high-quality materials
- Equipped with overload protection
- Includes both an electric and a recoil starter
- Noise is relatively less compared to its size
- EPA and CARB approved
- Complaints of spraying oil in the engine compartment
Durostar DS12000EH Dual Fuel Electric Start Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9500 Watt Starting: 11400 Watt / Running: 9025 Watt |
| Noise Level | 74db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 8.83 hours / 50% Load Gagsoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8.3 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 260lbs |
Boasting quite a lot of amazing features under the belt, it runs on both gasoline and propane for almost 8 hours at 50% load. This makes it quite a great choice as a home unit.
One of the best things about this Durostar Generator is definitely the fact that it gives you the freedom to choose from your preferred fuel type. While these two fuels are quite different, each of them certainly has its advantages and disadvantages. Which fuel you will choose depends on the kind of result you want from them.
For example, if you want a stable supply of electricity throughout the house at all times, you should opt for gasoline.
On the other hand, if you do not want to spend much money on fuel and to look for a more economical alternative, propane would be the right choice with this machine. Propane can also help you emit fewer gases into the environment.
This Durostar generator has 2 120V household style outlets, 1 120V/30A twist lock outlet, 1 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet and 1 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet. It has a 12V DC charging ports for charging external batteries.
Along with all these, this generator comes fully equipped with safety features like circuit breakers and light indicators. It also has a built-in gauge to help you understand how much gas is left in the tank. Another great thing about this model is that it uses an electric key start instead of a traditional recoil start.
- Can run on both propane and gasoline
- Boasts a runtime of 8 hours on 50% load
- Easy to move around with the help of a wheel kit
- Has safety measures included to protect the engine from overload
- Light indicators help provide a warning when oil level is low
- Option to start with an electric key
- EPA and CARB approved
- The instructions are quite vague
Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9500 Watt Starting: 10800 Watt / Running: 5550 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 12 hours / 50% Load Gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 209lbs |
If you are looking for a generator that has it all, this model could be the best choice! It features a dual fuel mode, which helps you stay ready for all kinds of circumstances. You have the power to choose between any fuels you like, depending on what advantage you are willing to get out of the fuel.
One of the best things about this model is definitely its runtime. No matter whether you use gasoline or liquid propane, you will be able to operate this machine at a 50% load for 12 hours.
This is quite a long time, which helps you make sure that you do not need to frequently refill and maintain the model. The fuel tank has a capacity of 8 gallons and uses it at an economic rate. Economic mode ensures low fuel consumption.
Another great thing about this device is that it is very convenient to store. The drop-down handles of the machine make sure that it is not taking too much space. Moreover, the handles, along with the 10-inch wheels, are great for moving it around.
Along with these, this machine has various safety measures like low oil shut off modes to keep the engine protected from overheating.
Not knowing when exactly you need to refill the fuel tank of your generator next can be pretty daunting, and in extreme cases, can leave you sitting in the dark because you forgot to refill it at the appropriate time.
For this, there are various features included in the model, such as digital meter, light indicators, etc. to keep your mind free from all worries.
- Can run for 12 hours on 50% load
- The fuel tank has a capacity of 8 gallons
- Gives you the power to choose between propane and gasoline
- Easy to store and move around
- Features various safety measures
- Low oil indicators and digital meters help with maintenance
- The liquid propane is not easily convertible into gas
- CARB approved
Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9500 Watt Starting: 10800 Watt / Running: 8550 Watt |
| Noise Level | 72db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 17 hours / 25% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 196lbs |
The Rainier Dual Fuel Generator is ideal for use as a backup in your house, on camping trips, and on job construction sites. This model is mainly known for the amazing runtime it provides.
Using this at 25% load, you can keep the generator up and running for around 17 hours on gasoline, which is quite a lot compared to other options in the market.
With a peak wattage of 12000 watts, you can use this device to supply power to almost anything in your house, though preferably not all together.
Another great thing about this model is definitely the fact that it can run on two types of fuel using its dual fuel technology. Now whether you would like to use gasoline to keep your costs low or propane to keep the environment safe is your choice.
One of the best things about this model is that it has an electric start. But it does not stop at that. Also featuring a recoil start as a backup, this model makes sure that you always have a backup in hand in case of any emergency. Along with this, this model ensures ease of portability by including a wheel kit that helps move it around.
Another great thing about this model is the display. It shows how much voltage the model is using, how much fuel is left, and how long the device will run for. All these features help to keep you updated about what you need to do to maintain it and definitely make your life easier.
This model also includes other safety features like low oil shut off that ensures your engine stays protected.
- Has an astounding runtime of 17 hours on 25% load
- Starts with a peak 12000 watts of power on gasoline
- Gives you the liberty to choose between gasoline and propane
- Boasts an electric start along with a recoil start as a backup
- Shows the amount of voltage, fuel and hours left in exact numbers
- Equipped with a wheel kit for easy portability
- Comes with various features to keep the engine protected
- The frame is not too sturdy
CAT RP12000E Gas Powered Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 15000 Watt / Running: 12000 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 11.7 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 13.2 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Electric |
| Weight | 347.6lbs |
This generator is one of the most popular among users, mostly due to its amazing peak wattage. While most traditional generators have a surge wattage of 12kW, this model here has a surge wattage of 15kW instead. This helps it to start large devices without fearing any up-downs in the voltage or facing any short circuit.
The model can run for almost 12 hours on a 50% load, so it is great for use in houses as well as on job sites. You can use this model even at nights, because of the LED panel it has. The panel is useful for showing the current status of the machine, such as the voltage it is running on, the run time it has left, the amount of fuel needed, etc.
One of the best things about this model is that it is quite durable. Made from fine quality metal, it is strong and offers great support to the unit. Although it is very heavy, it is quite easily portable, mainly because of the foldable handle and the wheel kit it comes with.
Another great thing about this model is that it has many safety features included to make sure that you do not get into an accident or ruin your engine while using this. To ensure this, it has circuit breakers built-in, along with modes like low oil shutoff, which signals the engine to shut down to prevent the risk of overheating.
- Has an amazing peak 15000 watts of power
- Can run for around 12 hours at 50% load
- Electric start button provides ease of use
- LED panel shows the status and offers visibility in dark places
- Metal frame provides durability
- Easy to move around with the help of the included wheel kit
- Equipped with circuit breakers to provide protection from overheating
- A little bit on the expensive side
Rockpals 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9000 Watt Starting: 10800 Watt / Running: 8100 Watt |
| Noise Level | 78db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 8.5 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 200lbs |
If anyone asks you what is the quietest 12000 watt generator, always answer it with this name; Rockpals. This model is quite unique in many ways, along with being the quietest out there.
It has achieved that status by incorporating oversized mufflers into its systems, which reduces the sound of engines drastically.
The best thing about this model is the fact that you can use either propane or gasoline for its engine, according to your choice. However, the advantage does not stop at this. Instead of restarting the generator every time you want to switch from one fuel to another, you can now do the same task by using a switch only.
Another great thing about this model is that it has a decent runtime. If you are operating it on gasoline, you can run it for 8.5 hours on a 50% load. Since propane is more economical, you can achieve a 20 hour runtime at 50% load while using propane. There is quite a stark difference present here.
Besides these, this model is also suitable to use in all weather and conditions. Since it features outlets that are covered totally, you will have no problem using it when the weather is too cold, or it is raining. This definitely offers an advantage, as now you can use it on job sites without worrying.
- You can choose between two options of fuels
- Switch system allows for ease of use
- Decent runtime
- Very quiet compared to other generators
- Suitable for use in all weather conditions
- A little hard to assemble
A-iPower SUA12000ED Dual Fuel Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 12000 Watt / Running: 9000 Watt Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 78db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load Gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 242lbs |
This A-iPower SUA12000ED model is among one of the top-rated models in the market. Equipped with a peak wattage of 12000 watts, this machine is great for providing power supply to a lot of devices in your house simultaneously and works great as a backup.
Along with that, it has a run time of 9 hours at 50% load, so you have got yourself quite a deal. This device is also known for being easily usable in all weather conditions.
The build of this product is quite sturdy, making it durable. It also features a cover outlet which is weather-resistant, making this more reliable.
Although this device in itself is not exactly lightweight at 242 pounds, it is portable, thanks to the wheel kit and the foldable handle that comes along with it.
But you would have to get it on the floor first, which is again made possible through its supportive dimensions. Besides the wheel kit, some oil, charging batteries, and tool kit are also included in the package.
The best thing about this model is definitely the extra features it encompasses for easy monitoring and maintenance. For example, a digital data center helps understand how much runtime is left.
A light indicator gives a warning in case of low levels of oil, while a circuit breaker and low oil shut off mode will automatically shut off the engine when it might be endangered.
- Equipped with a peak wattage of 12000 watts
- Can operate for 9 hours on 50% load
- Has a very sturdy exterior
- Suitable to use in any weather conditions
- Equipped with a wheel kit for easy portability
- Digital data center is useful for providing information about runtime
- Extra features like low oil shut off help keep the engine secure
- Quite noisy
What to Look for Before Buying?
Portable Generators are not exactly cheap, and buying a 12000 watt one might also be considered as an investment.
Therefore, before deciding which one to buy, you should definitely have an idea about what factors you need to look out for and how each of these factors plays a role in shaping your needs. Only then can you buy the generator that is best for you.
Here is a list of the factors that we think will help determine your needs more clearly;
Power Requirement
To determine what kind of product you need, you first need to calculate the amount of power you need to supply.
And to do this, you can calculate the wattage of all the major appliances in your house or office that you need to run. Taking the help of an electrician might come in handy too. After that, you need to choose your generator accordingly.
Usage
You need to determine what you are going to use the device for. For example, if you are going to use it in a site or a recreational area, you should invest in a portable generator. This will help you to move the machine around whenever you need it and to various different sites.
On the other hand, if you plan to use it as a home backup system, you have both the options open to you. You can use either a portable or a standby one, considering that it fulfills the other needs too.
Fuel Capacity and Run Time
The amount of fuel that your generator will run on, and the periods of time it will run before needing to be fuelled again, both are very important factors.
However, they do not have a direct relationship. A bigger fuel capacity does not automatically convert to a longer runtime. Instead, the runtime depends on how the fuel is used.
Another thing to consider while finding out the actual runtime is the load at which the machine operates.
Starting vs Running Watts
While looking for a generator, you must have come across the words peak watts and running watts. If you are confused as to what they mean, peak watts mean the watts they generate during a surge of power, and running watts are the watts they produce normally.
Weight
If you are planning on getting a portable generator for your needs, then you definitely need to consider the weight of the device. A device is not really portable if you cannot move it around your job site, no matter how uneven the terrain is.
Therefore, invest in one that has a size and weight which you know you can handle.
Storage Space
Most of the time, the generators we use are kept in the garage or outside. Make sure that the place where you will store it is big enough to fit and maintain the device. Always keep a little bit of additional space around. But do not give up on the other qualities that you need for the storage space ever.
Starting Mechanism
Generators can have two kinds of starting mechanisms – a recoil pull or an electric start. The former one might be a little bit difficult to use and therefore disliked by many.
In that case, you should go for one with an electric start. Nevertheless, make sure to have the recoil pull option as a backup as that can come handy in cases where the electric start stops working.
Noise
The first thing that we associate with the word generator is often noise levels. However, you have a lot of options to choose from. Inverters are particularly known for their lack of loud continuous noise. Therefore, while making a purchasing decision, make sure to buy one that does not hurt your ears for long term benefits.
Fuel Source
What fuel source you will want depends typically on two things – how much conscious you are about the environment and how much you are willing to spend. The two common sources of fuel are propane and gasoline, and they both have their ups and downs.
Propane is more expensive than gasoline. It, however, also releases fewer emissions in the atmosphere, making this the best choice if you care about the environment. You will also need to use less propane than gasoline for the same runtime.
Gasoline, on the contrary, is known for its harmful emissions. However, it is a lot cheaper and yields stable power throughout its use.
The Material of the Fuel Tank
Although this seems to be a pretty strange factor to consider, the material of the fuel tank can play quite an important role in your decision. You can get two types of fuel tanks – plastic and metallic.
The main advantages of plastic fuel tanks are that they do not rust and are lightweight. However, they are not really durable and prone to breakage. Metallic tanks, on the other hand, are very durable. But they rust easily and are also very heavy in nature.
Extra Features
Some generators have some extra features that will allow you to operate the machine in a much safer way, and with better precision. You should try to find one with as many of these features available, as you will get a lot of extra things along with the basic machine.
Budget
Last but not least, one of the most important things you should keep in your mind is your budget. You should fix a price range, stick to it while looking at your options, and buy the one most suited to your needs within that range.
If you cannot find any suitable one, then consider buying the next best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I get a 12kW generator for my camping trip?
A: For a camping trip, you mostly need to supply power to only some basic major appliances. Therefore, getting one (which is better suited to home backup systems) will be quite expensive as well as unnecessary. You can look into the inverter generator instead.
Q: How long is the run time for a 12000 watt generator?
A: The runtime of it varies on the basis of the load. However, most 12000 units run for approximately 9.15 hours when they are operating at a 50% load.
Q: How many amps does a 12KW generator deliver?
A: The number of amps such an engine provides depends on the voltage it uses. You can get the number of amps it delivers by dividing the wattage with the number of volts. Therefore, the listed model will deliver around 100 amps if it uses 120 volts and around 50 amps if it uses 240 volts.
Q: How should we maintain these generators?
A: Maintenance of these products is not necessarily a hard task. You just need to do some basic things – such as replacing old oils for new ones, inspecting spark plugs, replacing air filters when needed, and giving your machines a test run every now and then. To know about maintaining generator Visit Electric Generators Direct.
Final Words
The perfect generator can really help you in times of need, so do not put off buying it for tomorrow. Instead, use this best 12000 watt generators review as a buying guide, and get shopping! We hope reading this has helped you understand which one will best suit your needs and will help you to make the best choice.
