The Honda EM6500SX Generator is a portable generator that can get the job done. Powered by a robust engine and backed by special features such as electric ignition, voltage regulation, smartphone connectivity, and carbon monoxide detectors, it has a broad range of appeal for buyers from all walks of life. Honda EM6500SX reviews come from campers, concertgoers, festival organizers, food truck owners, and many others who need electric power in an outdoor setting. It’s also a popular choice among homeowners looking to operate big-ticket appliances or who need backup power in emergency situations.
Want to skip the details? See a summary of the Honda EM6500SX Generator here.
Honda EM6500SX 7000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator Review
Description and Specifications
The Honda EM6500SX Generator is a powerful yet portable generator that boasts a 389cc engine capable of producing a running wattage of 5500 and a peak wattage of 7500. It comes with multiple outlets, including ones that can be hooked up to adapters, so it has a wide range of functionality for many different settings.
Additionally, there are many special features of the EM6500SX that add comfort and convenience to its operation. Notable aspects include an electric ignition, multiple AC outlets, iAVR technology, and a Bluetooth-connected smartphone app that allows for everything from remote start/stop capabilities to regular maintenance reminders.
Engine and Power Output
Capable of running for almost 10 hours, the Honda EM6500SX Generator has a powerful and long-lasting engine. It can deliver enough juice for fridges, freezers, and other household appliances as well as outdoor events such as festivals and family camping nights. Though classified as a residential appliance, it delivers pro-level performance that’s also suitable for commercial use.
Internally, the generator is backed by Honda’s Intelligent Automatic Voltage Regulation (iAVR) technology to ensure a steady, consistent stream of power regardless of load type. Not only can this benefit equipment that’s sensitive to power fluctuations, but it also results in a more reliable generator performance overall.
Another nice thing about the Honda EM6500SX Generator is that it can be started in three different ways. You can use either its electric starter, its manual pull-start mechanism, or its remote starter via Honda’s My Generator smartphone app.
Tank Capacity, Fuel Economy, and Runtime
The Honda Portable EM6500SX boasts an overall fuel consumption of around 0.63 gallons per hour. Since its tank capacity is 6.2 gallons, you can operate it for quite a while before needing a refill.
Its running time depends on its power output. With a full tank and a 50% power load, it can run for a peak maximum of 9.8 hours. On the other hand, if you only need a quick blast of energy to kick-start a large piece of equipment, you can take advantage of the generator’s iAVR technology to deliver a whopping 7000 watts for 10 seconds.
Breakdown of the Control Panel and Outlets
The Honda EM6500SX Generator comes with six AC outlets and one DC outlet, making it suitable for a variety of functions and purposes. Campers can connect it to other portable appliances or power sources; homeowners can utilize its transfer switch readiness to connect it to breaker boxes. Buyers of all types can also choose between 120 and 240 volts thanks to its 120/240-volt selector.
The front panel is easily accessible with all of its switches and outlets. It’s also compatible with a number of Honda’s optional accessories, including their remote control kit and outdoor storage cover.
One potential downside of the Honda Portable EM6500SX Generator is that it isn’t always RV-friendly. Some RV units might require one or more adapters for connection.
Dimensions and Weight
The Honda EM6500SX Generator measures 41.4 x 27.8 x 28.3 inches and weighs 232 pounds. This is a bit large for a portable generator, but the trade-off is its powerful engine, customizable controls, and advanced safety features. For example, its reinforced standing legs add a bit of bulk to its frame, but they make generator operation much safer overall.
Noise and Safety
At 66 dBA, the Honda EM6500SX Generator isn’t particularly noisy. It isn’t silent, of course, but it isn’t a rip-roaring generator that will drown out all other sounds. This 66 dBA rating is quieter than both vacuum cleaners (70 dBA) and city traffic (85 dBA). Especially in an outdoor setting like a campground, festival, or food court, it can blend right in with the ambient noise of the setting.
As for safety, the Honda Generator EM6500SX comes with multiple safety features designed to protect you and your family during operation. The electronic circuit breakers, for instance, prevent the generator from overloading, and the spark arrestor stops any wayward sparks from causing fires. The CO Minder actively monitors carbon monoxide levels and provides both alerts and automatic shutoff when the CO reaches dangerous levels. Honda has even created a Honda Oil Alert system that will automatically pause generator operation when low oil levels are detected in the unit.
Portability of the Honda EM6500SX
Honda has tried its best to make the Honda Portable EM6500SX live up to its name in terms of portability. However, the results are mixed.
The biggest barrier to mobility is its size and weight. At 41.4 x 27.8 x 28.3 inches and 232 pounds, there’s no getting around the fact that this generator is big and bulky. It’s larger than others of similar power output as well.
On the other hand, the Honda EM6500SX Generator is relatively simple to maneuver once you have it set up with the provided wheel kit. With its folding, easy-grip handles, you can move it when you need it and stash it away when you’re done. Storage is much more convenient when there are collapsible elements in the construction.
Certifications and Warranty
The Honda EM6500SX Generator is both EPA-approved and CARB-compliant, meaning that you can buy and sell it in all 50 states. Its warranty lasts for three years.
Common Problems and Parts
According to Honda EM6500SX reviews, a common complaint is the size of the unit and the impact that this bulk has on its portability. It weighs 232 pounds, a somewhat hefty sum for a generator of its class, and it’s on the larger size in terms of dimensions as well.
Another source of discontent is the fact that the generator isn’t compatible with all RVs. It can still be used on RV camping trips with a bit of finagling, but it isn’t instantly RV-ready.
Additional Features
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | OHV |
| Engine Displacement | 389cc |
| Amperage | 54.2A @ 120V |
| Running Watts | 6,500 |
| Peak Watts | 7,000 |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Tank Capacity | 6.2 gal. |
| Max. Runtime | 9.8 hours @ 50% load |
| Dimensions | 41.4″ x 27.8″ x 28.3″ |
| Weight | 231.7 lbs. |
| Noise Level | 66 dBA |
| Certifications | ANSI/PGMA G300-2018, EPA-certified |
| Warranty | 3-years |
Price
With everything from smartphone controls to voltage regulation technology, the Honda EM6500SX offers a lot of bang for your buck. Rather than being a plain, no-frills generator, it comes with many special features that increase its value and save you money in the long run. It also comes with “extras,” like a wheel kit that you don’t have to purchase separately.
The current price range of the EM6500SX is around $3,000 – $3,200, though it can reach as high as $3,500 from certain retailers.
What Are Consumers Saying About the Honda EM6500SX?
What are people saying about the Honda Generator EM6500SX? With thousands of reviews across third-party sites such as Amazon, here are some common pros and cons cited by buyers.
Pros
- Large power capacity
- Wheel kit included
- Electric start
- Honda My Generator app w/ Bluetooth compatibility
- Environmentally friendly
- Carbon monoxide safety monitoring
Cons
- Not as quiet as other models
- Heaviest model
- Most expensive model
- CO-MINDER not included
Additional Resources
Is the Honda EM6500SX for You?
The Honda EM6500SX has a lot to offer prospective buyers. Whether you’re interested in its powerful engine, intuitive controls, user-friendly operation, or advanced safety features, this is a generator that can get you through everything from an outdoor concert to a blackout hurricane. Check it out today and see if it’s the answer to your own generator needs.
Honda EM6500SX 7000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
Honda EM6500SX 7000-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
Why Choose Honda?
You might be most familiar with Honda as a car manufacturer, but they’re also in the business of power equipment, including generators, motors, pumps, and mowers. They’re a well-known brand and one of the largest in the industry, so they offer safe, reliable, and accessible products that are familiar to many.
Private: Honda
Another noteworthy thing about Honda is its brand-specific features. They’ve designed a lot of technology over the years that’s exclusive to their own products, including best-in-class engine operations and safety features. You’ll see some of this innovation in Honda’s portable generators as well.
FAQs
No. While Honda offers a smartphone app to help operate, monitor, and maintain the EM6500SX, it isn’t a requirement. You can use the generator the old-fashioned way and never touch the app.
Yes. The EM6500SX Generator is compatible with several Honda accessories, including a remote control kit and an official storage cover.
The Honda Portable EM6500SX comes with multiple safety features designed to prevent fires, stop energy overloads, and monitor carbon monoxide levels. It’s also equipped with sensors and alerts that will engage automatic shutoff when danger is detected.
Yes. The EM6500SX Generator is both EPA-approved and CARB-compliant, meaning that there are no restrictions to buying, selling, or moving it within all 50 states.
The EM6500SX has three methods of startup: an electric ignition, a manual pull-start mechanism, and a remote start available through Honda’s My Generator app.
You can find Honda’s energy guide on their website. They break down the energy requirements of several household appliances, including lights, furnaces, and refrigerators.
