We Tested and Reviewed The Duromax XP12000EH
The team got the Duromax XP12000EH four months ago. We tested noise, runtime, load, fuel efficiency, and overall performance several times. We asked the manufacturers and people who are using it, and we also read online reviews to finalize the data.
Who Should Buy Duromax XP12000EH?
This generator is recommended for emergency preparedness, homeowners, RV owners, construction sites, outdoor events, remote work, camping, tailgating, and outdoor enthusiasts.
This generator is not suitable for people who like to carry compact generators with them. This is not a portable or compact generator by any means.
Duromax XP12000EH Review
The younger brother of Duromax XP13000EH, Duromax XP12000EH is also an extremely durable, versatile, powerful, and reliable hybrid generator.
Most people consider the Duromax XP12000EH to be the best 12KW generator on the market based on the price-to-performance ratio.
This model is rated at 12000 peak watts and 9500 running watts on gasoline and 11400 peak watts and 9025 running watts on propane, which is 100% correct based on our multiple tests in the garage. We will share the results later on in this review.
Following are the things we got during the unboxing of this machine:
- Oil funnel
- Spark plug wrench
- Wheel and handle kit
- Toolset
- Useful user manual
- DC charging cables
- Warranty Card
The Design [Rating: 8.5]:
Duromax XP12000EH’s design is pretty solid. It is an open-frame generator made with sturdiness in mind. The protective casing also works as the motor mount.
It weighs around 224 pounds, which is very heavy. Without the wheels and handle, this thing cannot be moved easily.
The wheel on this hybrid generator is not that good. Replace with some other 10’’ diameter wheels.
One thing appreciable about the design is the neatness and user-friendly control panel featuring the following GFCI and other outlets.
- An analogue voltmeter
- X2 5-20R
- L14-30R
- 14-50R
- 12V post
- MX2 switch
- Low oil sensor
- Switch start
The overall aesthetics and sturdiness of the design, coupled with a neat and clean control panel, deserve a solid 8.5.
Noise of Test [Rating: 7.5]:
This model weighs close to 224 pounds with an open frame design, so it is not going to be quiet by any means.
Our team of experts conducted multiple noise tests over the course of five days, and the results were based on the average of the data.
- From 5 feet under zero load, the noise was 88 to 90 dB (A).
- From 30 feet under zero load, the noise was 75 to 76 dB (A).
Results After 4 Months of Use:
- From 5 feet under zero load, the noise levels were 89 dB (A).
- From 30 feet under zero load, the noise was 75 to 77 dB (A).
Runtime Test/Fuel-Efficiency Test [Rating: 8.5]:
We tested the fuel efficiency of Duromax XP12000EH for both gasoline and propane several times over a period of 3 months to get the following results:.
- 4 hours at a 55% load on gasoline
- 2 hours at 55% load on propane
These are the average results. We did expect very good fuel efficiency, but this performance is very good. That is why the Duromax XP12000EH is among Duromax’s highest-selling heavy-duty generators.
Load Test [Rating: 9]:
This machine is equipped with a 457cc 4-cycle air-cooled engine, which is top-of-the-line in terms of performance. We put XP12000EH under a heavy load.
We ran all sorts of devices and equipment on this generator, and the maximum running wattage it was able to give off was 9510 watts on gasoline and 9021 watts on propane.
Duromax XP12000EH is a 100% recommendable generator in the 10KW to 12KW category.
This machine will follow things easily. You can even use some of them together at the same time.
for a normal load, we recommend its smaller variant Duromax XP5500EH
| Appaliance | Peak Watts | Rated Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Energy Star) | 1925 | 1200 |
| Freezer (Energy Star) | 2100 | 700 |
| Sump Pump | 1200 | 800 |
| Microwave | 1000 | 1000 |
| Air Conditioner (10,000 BTU) | 2750 | 2200 |
| Space Heater | 1500 | 1500 |
| Incandescent light bulb | 60-100 | 60-100 |
| LED TV | 80 | 80 |
| Laptop Computer | 50-100 | 50-100 |
| Well Pump (1/2 HP) | 2000 | 1000 |
| Electric Water Heater | 4000–5500 | 4000–5500 |
FEATURES & SPECS
Comparing Duromax XP12000EH with Other Generators
| Feature | Duromax XP12000EH | Westinghouse WGen9500DF | Champion 7500 Watt |
| Running Watts | 9500 | 9500 | 7500 |
| Starting/Peak Watts | 12000 | 12500 | 9375 |
| Fuel Type | Dual Fuel (Gasoline/Propane) | Dual Fuel (Gasoline/Propane) | Gasoline |
| Run Time at 50% Load | 84 hours at 55% load (Gasoline) | 12 hours (Gasoline) | 8 hours (Gasoline) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 8.3 gallons | 6.6 gallons | 6 gallons |
| Noise Level (at 25 feet) | 76dB (A) from 30 feet. | 74 dB(A) | 74 dB(A) |
| Outlets | 2x 120V GFCI, 1x 120/240V Twist-Lock, 1x 120V Twist-Lock, 1x 12V DC | 4x 120V GFCI, 1x 120V Twist-Lock, 1x 120/240V Twist-Lock | 4x 120V 20A GFCI, 1x 120/240V 30A Twist-Lock |
| Portability | Wheel Kit and Handles | Wheel Kit and Handles | Wheel Kit and Folding Handle |
| Weight | 269 lbs | 220 lbs | 202.4 lbs |
| Electric Start | Yes | Remote Start and Electric Start | Electric Start |
| Inverter Technology | No | No | No |
| Parallel Capability | Yes | Yes | No |
| CARB Compliant | No | Yes | No |
| Price | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
Frequently Asked Questions?
What is the fuel type for the Duromax XP12000EH?
The Duromax XP12000EH is a dual-fuel generator, meaning it can run on both gasoline and propane.
What is the running wattage and peak wattage of the Duromax XP12000EH?
The Duromax XP12000EH has a running wattage of 9500 watts and a peak (starting) wattage of 12000 watts.
How long will the generator run on a full tank of gasoline or propane?
The run time on a full tank of gasoline is approximately 8.4 hours at 55% load, but this can vary based on the load. Propane run time may be slightly different.
Is the Duromax XP12000EH suitable for powering sensitive electronics?
The XP12000EH does not have inverter technology, so it may produce slightly higher total harmonic distortion. It’s recommended to use a surge protector or voltage regulator for sensitive electronics.
Can the generator be used in parallel with another generator?
Yes, the Duromax XP12000EH is parallel capable, allowing you to connect it to another compatible generator for increased power output.
How noisy is the Duromax XP12000EH?
The noise level is rated at 76 decibels (dB) at 30 feet, which is typical for generators of this size. It’s recommended to place the generator at a reasonable distance from living areas.
Is the Duromax XP12000EH suitable for RV use?
It has a 120/240V, 30-amp twist-lock outlet that is commonly used for RV connections.
Is the generator CARB-compliant?
No, the Duromax XP12000EH is not CARB-compliant, meaning it may not be legal for use in some areas with strict emissions regulations.
What kind of warranty does Duromax offer for the XP12000EH?
Warranty terms may vary, but Duromax typically offers a limited warranty for their generators. It’s recommended to check the specific warranty details provided by Duromax.
Fareed, the highly skilled electrical expert, boasts 5 years of extensive experience in proficiently maintaining, repairing, diagnosing, and installing a diverse range of electrical systems.