DuroMax XP4850EH Review

DuroMax XP4850EH Review

The DuroMax XP4850EH is a hybrid generator for potential emergencies, random power outages, or an off-grid power source. It has dual-fuel technology and utilizes gasoline or propane for power. 

DuroMax launched in 2003 in Ontario, California. Their company-wide goal is to provide power to everyone – for work, home, and play. The brand concentrates on manufacturing eco-friendly generators, and all products have EPA and CARB certifications. Keep reading this DuroMax XP4850EH review to learn more about this portable generator.

DuroMax XP4850EH Features & Benefits

Below are the unique benefits and features of the DuroMax XP4850EH hybrid generator.

Product Highlight

duroMax xP4850EH

Electric Start Duel Fuel Portable

  • Starting – 4,850 W, Running – 3,850 W.
  • Dry Weight – 122 Pounds.
  • Tank Volume – 4 Gallons.
  • Runtime – 10 hrs at 50% load on Gasoline and 9 hrs at 50% load on 20 lbs Propane tank

Power Output & Runtime

The DuroMax XP4850EH generator brings 4,850 starting watts to the table and features exclusive MX2 Power Boost technology. MX2 provides double the 120V power to RVs and appliances. 

The XP4850EH maxes out at 3,850 running watts and can operate on 120V (or 240V simultaneously). Other power features include: 

  • Automatic shutoff if oil supply becomes low
  • 212 cc engine size
  • Wide outlet selections (more on those later)

What makes the DuroMax XP4850EH stand out is its longevity. If you choose to use gasoline, you can get up to 10.6 hours of runtime at 50% load. Propane provides about 9 hours of runtime.

Outlets, Hook up Provisions, and Possibilities

This generator comes with multiple outlet options – so you can enjoy it anywhere and hook up easily to your house or camping arrangements. You receive 2 Nos. 120V 20A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets and one 120V 30A twist lock with the XP4850EH generator.

If you have any concerns about buying tons of hook-up materials, fear not! A double-ended screwdriver (Phillips and slot blades), several different-sized wrenches, spark plug wrench, oil funnel, DC charge cables, and plug ends all come equipped with the XP4850EH. 

With such a diverse array of tools and benefits comes tons of possibilities. I love taking my XP4850EH generator on the road. It is so lightweight and reliable that all I need to worry about on camping trips is how burnt my marshmallows get making smores!

Starting & Remote Start

One reason people avoid generators and other power tools? Starting difficulties. Pulling on a cord sounds easy enough, but it often takes multiple tries to get the machine in gear – not ideal if you need immediate power! 

My favorite feature of the XP4850EH is the electric start capability. This generator has an electric starter for a perfect launch with every use. It functions like a push-to-start button in a car and operates with a 12V DC 7AH battery.

If you do not want the electric start function, this machine has a traditional recoil start system. 

Portability, Dimensions, Weight

The DuroMax XP4850EH has a near-indestructible one-inch steel frame and metal body. Although hybrid generators weigh less than traditional units, this model is still 122 pounds – the package weighs 132 lbs.

Thankfully, the XP4850EH has wheels for easy transport (although you do have to put them on yourself) and extending handles. The generator measures 25” L x 24” W x 21” H. Its size makes it ideal for residential use.

And, despite its mass, the XP4850EH will not disturb your neighbors or keep you up all night, as it reaches a max of 69 dB. 

Other Features

Are you still wondering what the XP4850EH has to offer? Read on for more convenient features. 

Paralleling With Other Generators

You can parallel the XP4850EH with other generators – but, as in every paralleling situation, the other generator must have the same wattage. If the wattages differ, you can damage your unit or whatever you want to power.

If possible, try getting two XP4850EH generators. That way, you do not run into any wattage issues!

Control Panel Features

The control panel on the DuroMax XP4850EH has two outlet openings and a 12V battery. There is also a breaker lever and a volt measurement tool. 

You can find the start switch on the control panel next to the voltage meter and the propane connection valve. 

The XP4850EH has a button for switching between gasoline and propane (also on the control panel). 

Security, Alarms, Accessories

While the XP4850EH has security features, it is still crucial to use caution during operation. Do not let the machine intimidate you (although I let it scare me before trying it!) but recognize its power. 

The two features included with the XP4850EH that diminish the likelihood of disaster are the surge-arrestor function and the low-oil shutoff tool. Both options keep you and your generator safe.

Emissions

The DuroMax XP4850EH is about as eco-friendly as a generator can get. Certified by the EPA and CARB and manufactured with sustainability in mind, this generator produces minimal dangerous emissions without skimping on power. 

Also of note is the spark arrestor, which promotes forest use and poses next to no risk for forest fires – another reason I love taking this generator camping.

Warranty

If you experience any challenges with your DuroMax XP4850EH, you can return it to the manufacturer. Domestic-use generators have a three-year warranty, and commercial generators receive a one-year warranty.

The emissions control system has a two-year warranty. Remember that any conventional wear-and-tear problems or general maintenance issues that go ignored are not under guarantee.

About the Manufacturer

DuroMax, an American brand, operates under the DuroMax Way, which concentrates on: 

  • Quality
  • Reliability
  • Durability

DuroMax also provides top-notch customer service and is available 24/7 to help you with any issues with your generator. Whether you want to brew a hot cup of cocoa on a camping trip or power your home in severe weather, DuroMax has your back.

FAQ About the DuroMax XP4850EH

Are you still curious about the DuroMax XP4850EH? Below are some frequently asked questions from other prospective buyers.

Does the Battery Charge When the Unit Is Operating?

Yes, the battery charges during operation. You never have to worry about running out of power when you need it – this generator has you covered.

Will the DuroMax XP4850EH Run on Natural Gas? 

No, the XP4850EH will not run on natural gas. Never put natural gas in your generator. Doing so can cause irreversible damage to your machine and lead to injury. 

What is the Valve Clearance for a DuroMax XP4850EH? 

The valve clearance for the DuroMax XP4850EH is 0.006” for the intake and 0.008” for the exhaust. 

Things to Consider Before Buying

If you have finally decided to take the plunge and purchase a generator, there are several things to consider before such a substantial investment. 

Best Suited for

The DuroMax XP4850EH works for commercial and residential needs but gravitates towards residential. It also works exceptionally well for RVs and powering refrigerators and AC units. 

Of course, you can use the XP4850EH for commercial projects – but its user-friendly capabilities make it ideal for a first-time generator buyer or as an extra in case of emergency.

Reasons to Buy

The primary reasons to purchase the DuroMax XP4850EH are affordability, portability, and eco-friendly certifications. 

While this generator is not cheap, it is also not the most expensive on the market. Its portable size and weight and multiple safety features make the investment worthwhile. Plus, the shelf life of propane is so long that even if you do not use the generator constantly, it is there when you need it most.

Strengths, Average Specs, and Weaknesses

Although the XP4850EH is my generator of choice, it still has its drawbacks for some users. Below is a roundup of the pros and cons of the DuroMax XP4850EH generator.

Pros

  • Dual fuel technology gives you total freedom
  • push-to-start button alleviates the stress of powering up the generator
  • Low volume level makes it perfect for camping

Cons

  • No remote start – you have to turn the generator on and off manually
  • Quite heavy, even though it is on the lighter side of generators

The pros outweigh the cons, but if you work on a large construction site, you may want to consider a model with remote start capabilities for convenience.

Standard features of the XP4850EH generator include dual-fuel technology, MX2 Power Boost, 8-10 hour running time, and metal frame.

Social Proof

I scoured the internet reviews of the DuroMax XP4850EH, and people have lots of positive things to say. Here are a few positive reviews from Amazon.

  • Gregg Bruns praised the generator’s extended running time with propane function. He loved the simplicity and claimed that it was the best model for the price.
  • Likewise, user JD pointed out the easy wheel assembly and the smooth performance. They also mentioned that the DuroMax customer service was quick and helpful.
  • Customer Paul H has owned his generator for three years and says that it has required minimal maintenance and continues to perform well despite extensive use.

Related Products

If this model is not the right fit, three alternatives are the DuroMax XP4850HX, DuroMax XP4400E, and Durostar DS4400E Generators. 

DuroMax XP4850HX

The XP4850HX model is the closest to the XP4850EH – however, this model has a few added features and is newer. 

Its most prominent feature is the CO detector, which alerts users if any carbon monoxide is present in the air. The XP4850EH does not have this alert system. 

Weight-wise, they are almost identical. The XP4850HX weighs 126 pounds, so about 4 pounds heavier than the XP4850EH. They have an equal noise measurement (69 dB) and run autonomously. 

Like the XP4850EH, this generator is CARB and EPA-certified and has a 4-gallon gas tank. The downside of the XP4850HX is its price – it clocks in just under $700. 

DuroMax XP4400E

You may not need as much power as the XP4850EH provides, and if that is the case, the XP4400E may be your best bet. This model has slightly lower wattage at 4,400 watts and a smaller gas tank (3.96 gallons). 

Its noise level is the same as the XP4850EH at 69 dB, and it weighs 122 pounds. As with all DuroMax generators, the XP4400E is autonomous and eco-friendly. And, at under $400, this generator will not break the bank!

Durostar DS4400E

While propane is the preferred fuel for eco-friendly generators, sometimes, users want to stick to what they know. The Durostar DS4400E is a gas-only generator with 4,400 wattages.

The DS4400E weighs the same as the XP4850EH, and they have identical dimensions. Noise levels are also similar, and the DS4400E is autonomous. 

At under $400, the XP4850EH and DS4400E are relatively affordable. However, most people agree that the propane capabilities of the XP4850EH save more money in the long run.

Final Thoughts

The DuroMax XP4850EH is a budget-friendly generator with user-friendly security features and dual-fuel technology. 

Ideal for camping, RV adventures, emergency power supply, or in conjunction with your home energy system, the XP4850EH is a sensible investment for any home.

Do you want to learn more about the XP4850EH? Check out the DuroMax website for more details and purchasing options.

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