The DuroMax XP12000E is a heavy-duty generator you can use during a power outage or for commercial applications. Let’s take a closer look at how this generator performs and how it compares to other products.

DuroMax XP12000E Overview

The DuroMax XP12000E is a performing generator designed for heavy-duty applications, job sites, and whole-home backup. It’s a gasoline generator with a four-stroke 457cc engine. The forced air cooling feature makes it ideal for extended periods of use, and the 12,000W starting capacity and 9,500 running watts are great for running all your key appliances.

Overall, it’s a powerful generator that mixes the performance of a home backup solution with the convenience of a portable generator.

DuroMax is a reliable manufacturer that has been around since 2003. This brand offers generators, engines, water pumps, and more. It’s also a leader in large and dual-fuel portable generator markets.

DuroMax XP12000E Features & Benefits

The DuroMax XP12000E is a viable solution for powering your home during an outage or running equipment on a job site. Here is what you need to know about this generator’s features.

Power Output and Run Time

With 12,000 starting watts, this powerful generator can deliver enough power to start heavy-duty equipment and large appliances. The 9,500 running watts are just under the average power consumption of a household at 10,700kWh but should be sufficient during an outage if you turn off a few non-essential appliances.

If you run a half-load at 6,000W, you just get just under nine hours of run time on a full tank. The fuel tank capacity is 8.3 gallons.

A great thing about the power output of the DuroMax XP12000E is that you can switch between 120V and 240V to power larger appliances. You can even use the MX2 switch feature to set one circuit on 120V and run a different circuit on 240V simultaneously.

You can get a better idea of the generator’s capacity in this video that shows a similar model.

Outlets, Hook Up Provisions, and Possibilities

The control panel of the generator can seem a little complex at first, but it provides you with many options for powering appliances, tools, and other equipment. 

You’ll find five outlets on the control panel, including two standard 120V 20A outlets. You’ll also find a heavy-duty 120/240V 50A outlet, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, and a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet.

The generator also comes with a DC terminal so you can charge a car battery.

You can learn more about balancing an electrical load between these different circuits in this helpful video.

Starting, Remote Start

This DuroMax generator doesn’t have a remote start feature. You can start it by turning the engine key on and pulling the recoil start. 

Portability, Dimensions, Weight

The DuroMax XP12000E is a portable generator with a sturdy metal frame and large wheels. This design keeps the unit stable.

However, this generator is heavy at just under 220 lbs. It measures 30x30x26” and can be bulky, but it’s difficult to find a more compact generator that can deliver the same power output.

Other Features

There are a few additional features worth mentioning.

Paralleling With Other Generators 

The DuroMax XP12000E isn’t an inverter generator, which means you won’t be able to wire it in parallel with other generators. Wiring generators that share the same specs in parallel can double their power output. However, the XP12000E is a great solution for whole-home backup and job sites, and it seems unlikely that you would need more than 9,500 running watts.

Control Panel Features

The control panel can seem complex at first, but it comes with many useful features once you become familiar with it.

You can use a voltage meter to keep an eye on the load, a switch to select 120V or 240V, AC breakers, an idle control switch to save fuel, an oil alert lamp, and more.

Security, Alarms, Accessories

The engine key is an interesting feature to ensure that no one else can turn the generator on. The generator also uses a DC circuit protector, AC circuit breakers, and an AC circuit protector to automatically shut off the unit in case of overload.

Emissions

Since it’s a gasoline generator, you’ll need to use it outside for safety. This generator meets the EPA and CARB requirements for emissions in all 50 states. 

Warranty 

DuroMax offers a three-year warranty on this generator. However, the warranty is only one year for commercial use.

About the Manufacturer

DuroMax has been around for almost 20 years and specializes in power equipment, especially heavy-duty appliances.

This manufacturer has a great reputation and stands behind its products by offering a three-year warranty. It’s a brand known for the quality and performance of its products, which is why many major retailers carry DuroMax generators.

FAQ

Is this DuroMax generator a good match for your needs? Here are a few additional things to know.

Will a 12,000W generator run a house?

The answer is yes, a 12,000W should be more than enough for a whole house backup solution. However, it’s best to turn off non-essential appliances to reduce fuel consumption. 

How long does a DuroMax generator last?

You should get at least 3,000 hours of use out of your generator, but it’s possible to make your generator last longer with proper maintenance and small repairs if applicable.

Is the XP12000E easy to maintain?

It’s a quality generator that should require basic maintenance. You’ll have to check the oil level and clean the air filter regularly. You should also empty the fuel tank before storing the generator and perform occasional maintenance such as replacing spark plugs or cleaning the fuel line if debris accumulates.

You can learn more about generator maintenance in this video.

Is a gasoline generator a good option?

A gasoline generator is convenient because this type of fuel is easy to find. However, diesel and natural gas generators tend to be more energy-efficient. 

Things To Consider Before Buying

Should you buy an XP12000E generator? 

Best Suited For

This generator is a good match if you’re looking for a whole home backup solution or need a performing generator to run electric equipment on a job site.

Reasons to Buy

DuroMax is a reliable brand that offers a great warranty. You’ll get a quality generator with an impressive capacity.

Strengths, Average Spaces & Weaknesses

The DuroMax XP12000E has several pros to consider:

• It’s a performing generator with 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts.
• You can switch between 120V and 240V and have several outlets to choose from.
• The engine cooling system is great if you need to run the generator for long periods.
• There are safety features to protect the generator from overloads.

There are also a few drawbacks:

• The generator doesn’t come with a carbon monoxide sensor.
• You’ll end up spending more on fuel compared to diesel or propane.
• It’s a heavy and bulky unit.

The following features stand out:

• The 9,500 running watt capacity.
• The DC circuit for charging a car battery
• The 120/240V switch allows you to run both simultaneously

Social Proof

Overall, the DuroMax XP12000E has received excellent reviews. 

SBourque reports being able to power three window AC units, a water pump, a fridge, and more thanks to this performing generator. 

Amazon shopper FL-Reviewer used this generator during Hurricane Irma and was able to run crucial appliances for five days. 

T-Graves mentions how easy it is to get started with this generator. This user was able to get started in about 30 minutes!

Related Products

Even though the DuroMax XP12000E is a great option if you’re in the market for a heavy-duty generator, there are other products to consider

DuroMax XP12000EH

The XP12000EH is very similar to the XP12000E model. However, the EH model is a dual-fuel generator.

This generator delivers the same power capacity and has a similar noise level. It costs more, and it weighs a little more at 224 lbs.

However, you can switch between gasoline and propane thanks to the dual-fuel feature. At a 25% load, the runtime is of 19 hours on gasoline and 14 hours on propane. 

Westinghouse WGEN12000DF

If you need a heavy-duty generator, the Westinghouse WGEN12000DF could be an alternative worth considering. This generator delivers an impressive 12,000 running watts and 15,000 starting watts with its powerful 713cc engine.

You can use gasoline or propane and will get 11 hours of run time on a half-load thanks to the large fuel tank. This generator has a few features missing from the XP12000E, including GFCI outlets and a remote start.

The noise level is similar, but the price is significantly higher and this generator is less portable at 352 lbs.

Pulsar PG12000B

Available in a similar price range, the Pulsar PG12000B is another alternative worth considering. This dual-fuel generator lets you choose between gasoline and propane, and you can even switch from one fuel source to the other while the generator runs.

The power output is the same, but you’ll get more outlets with four standard outlets instead of two. The generator is also a little more portable at 209 lbs.

The run time is better since you can get 12 hours of run time on a half-load. The noise level is the same as the XP12000E.

Conclusion

The DuroMax is a great option if you need a whole home backup solution or a sturdy generator for a job site. It’s a quality product that performs well, and we recommend it for those who need to operate a generator for long periods because of the forced engine cooling feature.

The safety features that protect the circuits from overloading and the many features of the control panel also make this generator worth considering.

Click here to learn more about the DuroMax XP12000E.