Time after time, power outages occur, especially during storms and fire disasters. When this happens, people cannot run almost any of their routine activities anymore. Also, at times, people like to go off-grid on purpose – RV’ing, camping, simply spending time in nature. In situations such as this – some sort of electricity is also a must.
Companies such as DuroMax Power Equipment come in handy in such situations by providing solutions such as portable generators that help you to access electricity anywhere, anytime.
DuroMax XP13000E 13000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000E 13000-Watt Gas Portable Generator is one of the top DuroMax portable generators in the market. This unit is designed to generate enough power to meet your diverse needs.
Power Output
The DuroMax XP13000E Portable Generator has a peak wattage of 13,000W and a rated wattage of 10,500W. This power output allows you to run multiple appliances in your home or work site. Before applying any load to this workhorse, it is advisable to make sure the total rated wattage for your appliances does not exceed that of the generator.
To achieve this, check the rated wattage of each appliance and add them. In cases where this wattage is not indicated, you can calculate it by multiplying the appliance’s amperage with its rated voltage. You can also use an online calculator to determine how much power you need to run your electrical appliances.
If the total load exceeds the generator’s rated wattage, you will overload it and damage it. Another critical feature is the peak wattage of the generator. Peak power is the power needed to start an appliance, especially if it has a motor. Usually, this wattage is higher than the rated wattage. If your generator’s peak wattage is less than that of any of your appliances, then those appliances will not start.
For this reason, you must make sure that you do not connect an appliance whose peak wattage is higher than that of your generator. The good news is that most home appliances and hand-held power tools have peak wattages below 13,000W. However, this power rating may be inadequate for some industrial machines.
Ergonomics and Transporation
The DuroMax 13000-Watt Generator measures 30 x 29 x 26 inches and weighs 236 pounds. Ordinarily, very few people can move this unit alone. However, DuroMax incorporated an ergonomic design that includes foldable arms and a non-flat wheel kit that makes moving this generator is a breeze.
These wheels are easy to install and one person can do the job with ease. It is also important to mention that the handle features a long design that increases the mechanical advantage of the generator transportation setup. This way, the unit feels lighter. You will use less effort to move it from one point to another. The handles fold downwards along the generator frame. This design makes it convenient to store this unit in your garage or RV as it doesn’t take up extra space.
Another feature that makes this generator easy to use is its electric start mechanism. All your need is to push the start button. Your unit will be up and running. The generator has a battery self-charging mechanism when it’s running. This way, you will eliminate the hassle of charging the battery externally. You don’t have to worry when the battery is low on charge and cannot start the engine. This portable generator also comes with the traditional recoil pull-start mechanism, which acts as a fallback when the electric start fails.
Engine Specs
The Duromax XP13000E runs on a powerful 20hp four-stroke OHV engine with a 500cc displacement. This engine runs on gasoline and consumes about 0.98 gallons of fuel per hour, a speed of 3600 RPM. You can lower the engine RPM using idle control, especially when not on full load. The resultant effect is reduced power output to match the applied load, which results in low fuel consumption. At 50% load, the engine can run for about 8 hours, thanks to the 8.3-gallon fuel tank.
The company has a dual-fuel version of this generator, the DUROMAX XP13000EH. Its engine runs on both gasoline and liquid propane. This way, it gives you the flexibility of choosing the fuel of your choice. You can also increase the runtime by connecting the unit to a large propane reservoir and overcoming challenges associated with a small fuel tank. However, when running on propane, the engine delivers less power.
Also, with the reduced RPM, you get less noise. This generator has a noise level of 74dB(A), which is a little louder than the humming of a vacuum cleaner. The good news is that you need to run it at least 20 feet away from the house for safety reasons. This setup also helps to reduce the noise. It is also important to mention that this noise level is slightly lower than that of some models in the market. Some generators emit between 78 to 80 dB(A) of noise and, therefore, the XP13000E noise level is within the normal range.
Output Panel
The control panel of this generator features multiple power outlets that you can use to hook up different appliances. These include two 120V 2A GFCI ports, one 120V 30A twist lock, one 120/240V 20A twist lock, and a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty port. These power ports with varied amperage and voltage ratings come in handy when using the generator for different applications. However, you may need to invest in additional adaptors for specialized applications that require TT-30R or 14-50R outlets.
Other features you will find on the control panel include the electric engine start switch, digital output meter, circuit breakers, low fuel, idle control, and battery charging indicators. These indicators allow you to get vital data on the overall status of the generator at a glance.
Safety Features
The DuroMax XP13000E portable generator has multiple safety features that help you operate the unit safely. For instance, each receptacle is connected to a circuit breaker that protects against overloading. These circuit breakers protect in the event of short-circuiting.
Another safety feature that comes with this unit is the low-oil auto-shutoff mechanism. The generator has sensors in the engine oil reservoir. If oil is too low, the sensors shut down the engine. This feature protects the engine from getting damaged and ensures that the unit lasts longer to give you value for money.
This portable generator comes in an open-frame metallic design that is durable and can weather harsh conditions. It also has a metallic fuel tank that prevents possible gas leaks, which could be hazardous. This generator is EPA & CARB certified, which means that it has low carbon emissions that have reduced impact on the environment. Its CO alert system warns you when the carbon monoxide levels are dangerously high. This way, you can protect yourself from fatal CO poisoning. However, the best approach is to take precautions and not run the unit indoors.
Where Can You Use the DuroMax XP13000E
The DuroMax XP13000E portable generator has enough power to run a whole house. It is, therefore, a good choice for someone looking for a backup generator. A medium-sized home can run on an 8,000W generator.
The XP13000E’s rated output of 10,500W can support more appliances at home. It can also run high amperage power tools used in construction sites such as grinders, cutters, and drills. If you are running a total load of about 5,000W, this generator can support a day’s work without the need to refuel.
Moreover, outdoor lovers can use this generator to power their RVs. The beauty of this generator is that it will meet all your RV power needs. However, it is important to mention that this unit has a high THD(<12%). For this reason, the XP13000E is not ideal for use on sensitive electronics such as computers, medical equipment, and hand-held devices unless you invest in an automatic voltage regulator. Alternatively, you may need to use an inverter generator.
Care and Maintenace of the DuroMax XP13000E
It is advisable to conduct routine maintenance on the DuroMax XP13000E portable generator as recommended by the manufacturer to keep it in optimal operating conditions. Assuming that you use the generator for the designed purpose, the manufacturer recommends the time intervals or running hours that you need to service or change various generator accessories.
- For instance, you need to check the oil level before every use and change it after every 20 hours of use, or one month whichever comes first. This generator uses 10W30 oil which you need to buy separately.
- Check the air cleaner before each use and replace it after every three months or 50 hours of use. Clean the sediment cup, spark plug and spark arrestor every six months or 100 hours. You will need to change the sparkplug annually or after 300 hours of use.
- Also, check and adjust the idle speed and valve clearance once a year or after 300 hours. Other parts you need to clean are the combustion chamber and fuel tank every 500 and 300 hours, respectively. It is also advisable to change the fuel tube every two years.
- If you apply maximum load on this generator or use it in a hot and dusty environment, the rate of wear and tear will be high. Therefore, you may need to perform maintenance routines more often than described above.
- Take safety precautions when undertaking maintenance tasks, as these could expose you to fatal injuries. For instance, do not attempt to service the unit when it is running, as you expose yourself to electric shocks and possible gasoline explosion. Wait for the generator to cool as hot surfaces could burn you.
- Moreover, do not attempt to perform complicated maintenance tasks if you have little about generators. Instead, get a qualified technician to service the generator for you to avoid damaging it.
- Avoid operating the generator on the wet ground to avoid electric shocks.
Customers’ Opinion About the DuroMax XP13000E
- Customers who bought this unit on Amazon loved it because of its sturdy construction and high power output that can power a whole home during a blackout. One customer in Florida said that this generator met their power needs, especially in an area prone to storms. They also said that the unit provided affordable power backup solutions compared to standby generators.
- Another customer loved the way this unit was easy to start, just like a car. Its setup instructions were easy to follow, and the package came with essential accessories such as an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, toolset, and wheel & handle kit. The wheel and handle kit was also easy to fix and made it easy to transport the unit from one place to another.
- However, this generator didn’t come with engine fuel and customers had to buy it separately. One customer who had challenges in getting the electric start mechanism found it easy to use the alternative recoil pull-start. They also had issues with the unit running unevenly. However, with the help of a qualified technician, they got the unit up and running. Sometimes you can receive the delivery with a battery that has no charge.
- Fortunately, you can start the unit using the recoil mechanism and charge the battery. Also, if you get a defective unit, DuroMax has service centers that can help you get the unit working properly. You can also ask for a replacement from Amazon since the company offers a three-year warranty on this portable generator.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 500cc |
| Amperage | 87.50A @ 120V |
| Running Watts | 10,500 |
| Peak Watts | 13,000 |
| Fuel Type | Dual Fuel |
| Tank Capacity | 8.3 gal. |
| Max. Runtime | 8 hours |
| Dimensions | 29″ x 30″ x 28″ |
| Weight | 234 pounds |
| Noise Level | 74 dBA |
| Certifications | EPA-Certified, CARB-Compliant |
| Warranty | 3-years parts |
Pros
- Affordable price
- Electric start
- Relative lightweight
- GFCI power outlets
- CO alert
- Automatic low-oil shutoff
Cons
- No remote start
- Low fuel efficiency
- Not dual-fuel
DuroMax XP13000E 13000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
Additional Resources
Comparing DuroMax XP13000E With Similar Generators In The Market
A Brief History of DuroMax
DuroMax Power Equipment, also known as DuroPower, was established in 2003 with a vision to power everyone, anywhere. The company is headquartered in Ontario, California, and specializes in manufacturing portable generators, pumps, and pressure washers. It also manufactures engines and accessories that are used to run these appliances.
DuroMax
DuraMax generators are designed and made in the U.S.A. The company strives to provide top-quality, reliable, and durable products that give customers value for money. DuraMax has several distribution centers spread across Canada and U.S.A. besides its Ontario assembly plant. These outlets allow the company to reach its North American clients with ease.
And if your generator fails for one reason or another, the company has many service centers where you can get it serviced. DuraMax has also partnered with lead retailers such as Amazon, HomeDepot, to ensure that you can get its products with ease.
DuroMax Power Equipment Reputation
DuroMax company is renowned for its powerful dual-fuel technology for portable generators. Its dual-fuel engines can run on either gasoline or liquid propane. This technology gives you the flexibility of choosing the available fuel, especially during emergencies. It also comes with a wide range of benefits which include increased efficiency. Your generator engine is 33% more efficient when running on propane than gasoline.
Moreover, propane is cheaper than gas. This way, it reduces your operating costs, especially if you are looking for a generator that can run several hours per day. When it comes to storage, gasoline has a shelf life of a few months. On the other hand, propane can last for up to thirty years.
Besides the dual-fuel technology, DuroMax uses its MX2 Power Boost innovation that doubles the amperage for 120V output to support heavier loads, thus allowing you to do more with your generator.
Other innovations that make DuroMax generators stand out include the push start button technology, lighted instrument panels, and powerful V-twin engines. Its engines are approved in all 50 states for reduced emissions and are EPA & CARB certified.
Why Choose DuroMax Portable Generators
DuroMax boasts of a wide range of generators that suits any conceivable application. For instance, if you need a backup power solution to power your home, DuroMax has generators that can deliver between 8,000 and 15,000 watts enough to run your home. These units can also be used for remote construction sites and heavy-duty applications.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, DuroMax has got your back. The company provides portable power solutions that you can use for camping or in your RV. Its digital inverter generators are ideal for powering sensitive electronics.
In addition to providing a wide range of products, DuroMax provides 3-years limited warranty on its generators. This way, you can purchase its portable generators with the confidence that the company will cover the repairs if the product malfunctions during this period. All you need to do is make sure that you comply with the warranty terms and conditions.
The company offers excellent customer support when you have issues with your generator. You can contact the firm for technical support by filling a form on its website. If you need face-to-face interaction with its support technicians, you can use the online service center locator to find an outlet near you. Here, you can get help servicing your portable generator or purchase spare parts and accessories for your unit. Other self-help online resources such as product videos, manuals, and a FAQs section allow you to operate and troubleshoot your generator.
Check Out More Of Our Duromax Generator Reviews
Duromax Generator Reviews: We Compare the XP5500E and XP5500EH
The Ultimate DuroMax XP10000E 10000-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroMax XP12000EH 12000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroMax XP4400EH 4400-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroMax XP4000S 4000-Watt Gas Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroMax XP4850EH 4850-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate DuroMax XP5250EH 5250-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
FAQs
No. The DuroMax XP13000E runs on gasoline only. However, the company has an alternative model, the DuroMax XP13000EH that runs on both propane and gasoline. These generator models have comparable power output.
The DuroMax XP13000E portable generator has enough power to run household appliances such as fridges, dishwashers, dryers, and cooking stoves. You can also use it to run power tools on remote worksites and outdoor RVs.
Although the DuroMax XP13000E portable generator has a high power output, it has a high THD (12%). Sensitive electronics such as computers and medical equipment require clean power with pure sine wave electrical signal. Therefore, it is advisable to use an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) to smoothen out the electrical signal from this generator before connecting it to your sensitive electronics.
The DuroMax XP13000E has a noise level of 74 dB(A), which is comparable to that of a lawnmower even at full load. This noise level is lower than some models in its class, which are as loud as 80dB(A) and will not interfere with your neighbors.
The runtime of the Duromax XP13000E depends on the fuel tank size and the load you apply. This generator comes with an 8.3-gallon fuel tank, and at 50% load, it runs for 8 hours. If you increase the load the runtime will be less.
