Why Choose DuroStar?
When you’re learning how to choose the right generator, the brand matters. Some generator brands have different materials or features than others, so it’s important to research each brand fully. DuroStar is one of the most interesting generator brands. Unlike many other generator manufacturers, DuroStar isn’t a big company that produces a variety of power tools and equipment. Instead, DuroStar focuses almost entirely on making generators.
This focus has allowed DuroStar to create some unique generator models. Since they spend all their time making generators, the company has been able to include very helpful features. When you purchase a DuroStar generator, you can enjoy high-quality performance at an affordable cost.
History
DuroStar has an interesting background that involves several different companies. The brand’s history actually dates all the way back to the 1990s. In 1992, DuroStar’s original parent company, Dexin International, was founded. This company was initially based in California and made and sold its products in the state. Dexin International was initially founded to produce commercial electrical equipment. However, after a few years of focusing on commercial lighting, the company realized that electricity itself was in demand.
Instead of producing their generators under the Dexin name, the company launched a new brand. The DuroMax Power Equipment brand got its start in 2003. At the time, there was a growing interest in reliable, off-grid power solutions. Therefore, the company was created to capitalize on this interest and provide modern styles of generators. Their generators are meant to provide the full capabilities of a professional generator while being competitively priced. They are known for producing power supply equipment for retail in stores like Walmart, the Home Depot, and Lowes.
The DuroStar generator name is not technically a brand by itself. Instead, it is a subsidiary of DuroMax. DuroStar generators are a specific product line that offers some features not found on other DuroMax generators. DuroStar generators are the higher-end version of DuroMax Power generators. They offer mostly similar features, but their materials and workmanship are even better. They only cost slightly more than most DuroMax generators, but they have a quieter engine and a longer run time.
In modern times, DuroStar is one of the leading manufacturers of generators. Their products are sold nationwide, and the company even produces some models for international sale. The company mostly produces larger models that can power things like a workshop or an air conditioner unit. They were originally a favorite of professionals. However, they have recently been experimenting with more portable power solutions. These newer designs are often popular with homeowners, campers, and other casual users.
Founding and Milestones
DuroStar is a relatively new generator brand, so the company’s history is very short. Since it’s a subsidiary of a company that’s no longer operational, there isn’t much available information about DuroMax’s founding, and no individual founder is named. However, there have still been a few notable milestones in the brand’s timeline.
- 1992: Dexin International is launched. It primarily plans to sell commercial electrical equipment.
- 2003: DuroMax Power Equipment is launched. This Dexin International subsidiary is meant to sell the company’s commercial generators straight to the consumer.
- 2009: Dexin International closes. Though the parent company is shuttered, DuroMax is still successful enough to remain operational.
- 2011: DuroMax Power begins producing generators under the DuroStar generator trademark. These generators are a slightly higher-end version of their base DuroMax models.
Production and Manufacturing
To see why DuroStar generators are so popular, it’s important to learn a little about how they’re made. Explore the details of the brand’s generator construction.
Products
DuroStar produces portable generators powered with gasoline and propane. Most DuroStar generators are on the larger side. Though these generators are portable, they often run with 500cc engines that have up to 13,000-watt capacities. The company also produces some smaller generators with a 5,000-watt capacity. DuroStar primarily produces models in two series. The X series is a line of gas generators while the DX series comprises dual-fuel generators.
DuroStar is one of the leading providers of portable dual-fuel generators. These generators are unique because they let you use propane, gas, or a mix of both fuels. This provides more versatility and ensures you can run your generator with whichever fuel is available. When shopping for DuroStar generators, you have the option of choosing inverter generators or traditional generators. Traditional generators tend to be more affordable while inverter generators are typically quieter and more energy-efficient.
DuroStar generators typically incorporate a variety of helpful features into their designs. Depending on which generator you choose, you may enjoy one or more of the following options:
- A low-oil shut-off that prevents your motor from overheating
- Idle control to minimize excess noise
- Wheels and handles to easily move the generator around
- Air-cooled engine that provides maximum power without overheating
- Push-button start for easy use
- Manual start to start your engine when the battery is dead
- Fuel gauge and hour meter to estimate generator run time
- CO alert and auto shut-off to protect you from dangerous carbon monoxide buildup
- Multiple three-prong and four-prong outlets
Manufacturing
DuroStar products are made in the United States. Alongside other DuroMax generators, DuroStar products are produced at the company’s manufacturing site in Ontario, California. This facility is a midsized factory that employs several people in the Ontario region. The company uses the same facility for both designing and producing its products.
DuroStar generators and standard DuroMax generators have some very similar components. However, the manufacturing process for the former is a little more complex. To produce their equipment, the company focuses on high-quality materials. Tires are made with a solid-fill foam that resists puncturing. The rest of the body is solid metal, so it’s unlikely to warp or crack like plastic. The DuroStar OHV engine is surrounded by a cast-iron sleeve to protect it from any rough handling. Inside the generator, 100% copper windings extend the machine’s life span.
To help with brand recognition, DuroMax uses a color-coded system during the manufacturing process. Base DuroMax models have blue or green coatings on the exterior. DuroStar models use red and yellow components instead.
Key Facts
DuroStar generators are EPA-compliant and CARB-certified. Both of these certifications mean that the generator follows very rigorous government emission standards. Due to the efficient dual-fuel technology of the brand’s products, the generators run cleanly and efficiently. They still release some carbon monoxide, but they don’t produce many other toxic byproducts.
Another interesting fact about the generators is that most DuroMax products have noise levels of 70 decibels or less. This is very unusual since most generators run with a noise level of up to 95 decibels. DuroStar is able to produce quieter-than-usual generators because of its proprietary muffler and motor mounts. So, if you’re in the market for a quiet model, a DuroStar generator might be right for you.
Warranty Information
The warranty for your DuroStar product will depend on which generator you get. All models have a residential warranty of at least three years. Some DuroStar models have an even longer warranty of five years. This warranty is longer than most other industry-standard warranties. Even if you use the generator for commercial use, you still get a fairly long warranty of one year.
The DuroStar generator warranty will cover any problems that arise due to a manufacturer’s fault. It will not cover failures due to improper use, natural disasters, or lack of maintenance. The warranty also does not fix cosmetic wear and tear such as a scratch on the housing.
Once your warranty runs out, DuroStar still offers lifetime customer support. With this service, you’ll need to pay the cost for any repairs or replacements. However, the customer support team will always be there to answer your questions and help you arrange repairs.
DuroStar Generator Parts
If you want to fix part of the generator yourself, you have a few options for purchasing replacing parts. The company sells some accessories directly through its online store. This is mostly useful for getting standard things like outlet adaptors or parallel conversion kits. Buying parts directly from DuroMax ensures that they will be compatible with your generator.
When you’re trying to replace an internal part, check with the DuroStar customer service center. Since you get free lifetime customer support, they’re a valuable resource. They can redirect you to an authorized DuroStar parts reseller. The company works with many other parts providers, so you can often find DuroStar parts online at various shops. Aftermarket parts that aren’t made by DuroStar are often cheaper, but you’ll have to do more research to ensure compatibility with your equipment.
Check Out More DuroStar Content From GeneratorTools
When you want to learn more about DuroStar generators, we’re here to help. Follow these links to get access to more great content from GeneratorTools.
DuroStar Generator Reviews
Get all the details about specific DuroStar generator models. Our reviews will explain the generators’ features and tell you what other users think about them.
The Ultimate DuroStar DS12000EH 12000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroStar DS4000S 4000-Watt Gas Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroStar DS4850EH 4850-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
DuroStar Generator Roundups
How does DuroStar compare to other generators? Click here to see how DuroStar ranks in our product roundups and All Power America generator reviews.
DuroStar Generator Releases
Make sure you can stay up to date on DuroStar generator news. Explore these press releases to learn about the latest products released by the company.
DuroStar Recalls
It’s rare for DuroStar generators to have issues, but every now and then, a recall does occur. Check here to make sure your model hasn’t been recalled.
Where To Buy
You can often buy a generator directly from DuroMax Power Equipment. However, they do occasionally sell out of popular designs. If the DuroMax website doesn’t have exactly the model you want, check at other big-box stores near you. DuroStar has merchandising deals in place with a variety of major retailers. You can buy generators on The Home Depot DuroStar store page, the Amazon DuroStar store page, or the Lowes DuroStar store page.
Similar Brands
There are a lot of other quality generator brands to discover, too. Most other companies don’t offer the same level of quality materials at such a low price. However, some brands may offer features or designs that you can’t find at DuroMax. If you like DuroStar generators, you’ll also enjoy generators from these companies.
Online Presence
There are plenty of great places to learn about DuroStar’s products and latest designs. You can always check their website for basic info, or you can visit their social media for details. DuroMax has a very robust online presence. They have a Facebook page and a Twitter page where they provide updates regularly. You can also find DuroStar content on the company’s Instagram page and YouTube page.
Contact Information
If you want to talk directly to the people making your DuroStar generator, you have a lot of ways to contact them. DuroStar prides itself on its 24/7, free lifetime customer support.
- Customer Service Number: 1-844-DUROMAX
- Customer Service Email: customerservice@duromaxpower.com
- Product Support Email: support@duromaxpower.com
- Technical Support