If you are in the market for a new portable generator, Honda is definitely a brand worth considering. In this Honda EB5000 review, we will go over the details of this generator, including its engine specs, power output, control panel features, noise levels, and safety factors. We will also offer you a comparison of this model against competitors and let you know what consumers who use this generator are saying about it, so you can make the most informed decision possible.
Want to skip the details? See a summary of the Honda EB5000 generator here.
Honda EB5000 5000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator Review
Description and Specifications
Models in the Honda EB5000 series include:
- Honda EB5000X
- Honda EB5000XK3
- Honda EB5000XK3AN
- Honda EB5000XK3AG
The Honda EB5000XK3AN is not CARB-compliant and cannot be sold in California. The Honda EB5000XK3AG is CARB-compliant. The X in the model name indicates that the generator comes with an iGX engine. K3 means the model is a revised version of the original. EB means it is an industrial generator.
Let’s take a look at the specs of the Honda EB5000 generator.
Engine and Power Output
The EB5000 comes with a 389cc iGX390 OHV four-stroke engine. The generator uses gasoline only, has a conventional pull-start, and can easily provide 120V. It provides 4,500 running watts and 5,000 starting watts. Though, thanks to the iAVR technology that comes with this generator, it can reach a peak wattage of 7,000 for a short period.
iAVR stands for Intelligent Automatic Voltage Regulation. A conventional generator that does not have this technology will experience a drop in revolutions per minute (RPM) when a load is applied. As a result, the voltage and frequency also drop until these revolutions recover. Honda solved this problem with its iAVR technology and iGX engine that provides advanced and instantaneous control of the RPM when a load is applied. This also enables the generator to produce a starting wattage that is above its maximum rate for 10 seconds.
This generator does have a high total harmonic distortion (THD), which makes it unsuitable for running sensitive electronics.
Tank Capacity, Fuel Economy, and Runtime
Equipped with a 6.2-gallon fuel tank, the EB5000 offers a fuel efficiency of 0.59 gallons per hour. It can run for about 10.5 hours at 50% load. If you’re looking for a long runtime generator, the Honda EB5000 is within the average range of 4,000- to 5,000-watt generators. However, when you take into consideration the tank size, this generator has a somewhat lower fuel efficiency than some other options on the market.
Breakdown of the Control Panel and Outlets
This generator comes with full GFCI protection, and on the control panel, you will find two duplet 120V 20A (5-20R), one 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle, and one 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle. The l14-30R receptacle is twist lock and transfer switch ready, allowing you to easily connect your home’s breaker box to the generator in the event of a power outage. While this generator is not RV ready, an L5-30P to TT30R adaptor can be connected to the L5-30R receptacle for easy RV connection.
Dimensions and Weight
This generator is a bit heavy at 210.8 lbs., but when you consider its power output and dimensions, it is pretty standard. While most portable Honda generators are below average for weight, this generator is an exception. It is quite a bit heavier than the average weight of 145 pounds for 4,000- to 5,000-watt generators. The generator itself is 41.1″ L X27.8″ W x 30.4″ H.
Noise and Safety
Honda generators are known for being much quieter than the competition. This particular model has a noise rating of 63 dBA. To put this into perspective, a conversation between two people typically registers between 60 and 65 dBA.
In terms of safety, the Honda EB5000 comes with CO-MINDER, an advanced carbon monoxide detection system. This safety system monitors ambient carbon monoxide levels and will automatically turn the generator off if it detects levels that exceed 800 ppm or an average of 400 ppm for a period of 10 minutes. If the generator turns itself off due to the detection of high carbon monoxide levels, an alarm indicator will flash for around five minutes, and you will not be able to restart the unit during this time.
This generator also features a spark arrestor, making it safe to use in forested areas, and is OSHA worksite compliant, meeting the job site emission and safety requirements. It also has a low oil shutoff and circuit overload protection.
Portability of the Honda EB5000
The EB5000 generator comes with a lifting hook and has an open frame design that makes loading and unloading the generator with a piece of equipment much easier. It also comes with a wheel kit and foldable handle, making it easy to move around.
Certifications and Warranty
The Honda EB5000 is both EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. So it can be sold and used in all 50 states, including California. This generator is covered under a three-year limited warranty.
Common Problems and Parts
Honda generators do not typically have problems with their parts. Some reviewers comment that they had issues with the generator not starting or only running for a few minutes. This is usually a simple problem that can be solved by ensuring proper oil levels and clean filters. Overloading the generator is also a common reason why it won’t continue running. You want to make sure you are not going over its maximum running wattage. A generator might also not start or stay running if the choke is turned on or a spark plug is fouled. One common thing that users mention is its lack of an electric start option.
Additional Features
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 389cc |
| Amperage | 41.7A @ 120V |
| Running Watts | 4,500 |
| Peak Watts | 5,000 |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Tank Capacity | 6.2 gal. |
| Max. Runtime | 10.5 hours |
| Dimensions | 41.1″ x 27.8″ x 30.4″ |
| Weight | 210.8 lbs. |
| Noise Level | 65 dBA |
| Certifications | ANSI Certified, CARB Compliant, EPA Approved, OSHA Compliant, UL Recognized |
| Warranty | 3-years parts |
Price
Honda generators typically have a higher cost than comparable models from other brands, and the EB5000 is no exception. The average price of 4,000- to 5,000-watt generators is about $917. This generator has a price of over $2,000, which is quite a bit more than the average. However, Honda is known for producing reliable, high-end products. While it is on the expensive side, most of those who have purchased this product are satisfied with it and would purchase it again and recommend it to others.
What Are Consumers Saying About the Honda EB5000?
The Honda EB5000 has overwhelmingly positive reviews, and consumers have mostly good things to say about it. However, some users feel it could use an electric start and better fuel efficiency for its price.
Pros
- CO-MINDER
- iAVR Technology
- Quiet for its power output
- Full GFCI panel
- Decent run time
Cons
- Expensive
- No electric start
- Heavy
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you still have questions after reading this Honda EB5000 review? Here are some additional resources that will provide you with more helpful information.
Additional Resources:
Is the Honda EB5000 for You?
If you are looking for a powerful and reliable multi-use generator with features such as carbon monoxide detection, low-oil shut-off, and iVAR technology, then the Honda EB5000 may be a good choice for you. This generator is a great model for those who want something they can use at home, when camping, or on the job. You can have peace of mind when using this generator at your work site since it is OHSA compliant and meets all safety requirements. This is an industrial generator that will hold up against Mother Nature and the conditions of construction work sites.
However, if you are looking for a generator that is lightweight, has a remote start, and is budget-friendly, you may want to consider a different model. If you only need something for camping or only need to power a few things, you should definitely look at a smaller model. Additionally, if you want something that two people could easily pick up and move around, this generator might not be the right choice, given that it weighs over 200 lbs.
Honda EB5000 5000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
Honda EB5000 5000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
Why Choose Honda
Honda is at the top of the list when it comes to expensive generator brands. However, the quality is unmatched, and as the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Honda is well-known for its fuel-efficient vehicles and small engines. They are also one of the most commonly used generator brands in the oil field. This is because of their undeniable reliability, durability, and fuel efficiency compared to competitors. Many portable Honda generators are also surprisingly lightweight compared to other brands and models with a similar power output.
Honda
The Honda Motor Company was founded in 1948 in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan, and is now a multinational conglomerate. The company has gained recognition for producing consistently reliable engines and is well known in the vehicle and motorcycle industries. So if you are looking for a reliable generator that can handle harsh conditions, one from Honda is definitely worth considering.
FAQs
The EB5000X is the original base model and is both EPA and CARB-compliant. The EB5000XK3AN model is a revised version of the EB5000X and is not CARB-compliant and cannot be sold or used in California. The EB5000XK3AG is also a revised version of the original and is CARB-compliant. It is the model designated for sale and use in the state of California.
To know exactly what this generator can power simultaneously, you will want to add up the starting and running watts of the appliances or tools you want to power. However, here are some examples. At home, this generator can power a 1/2 hp sump pump, 1/2 hp furnace fan, Energy Star refrigerator, clothes iron, and radio simultaneously. On the job site, this generator could power a table saw, drain cleaner, and bug zapper at the same time.
Honda recommends using regular unleaded gasoline with an octane level of 86 or higher in this generator.
This generator has a convention recoil pull start. Most reviews say it is easy to start with just one or two pulls.
iAVR is an exclusive technology offered by Honda that enhances the power output and performance of the company’s EM and EB generators. The technology reduces voltage fluctuations by up to 50%, resulting in constant power output and performance. A generator without this technology will experience a temporary drop in power output and performance when a load is applied.
