Powerhorse, not to be confused with Powerhouse generators, are products of the Northern Tools and Equipment company. The American-based business designs its generator models in America, but like many other generator companies, the production happens in China.
Who Makes Powerhorse Generator?
Northern Tools + Equipment is an American company with its headquarters in Minnesota. For over 40 years now, the small company, which started in Don Kotula’s garage, has had a great lineup of generators and other electrical appliances.
These generators, which range between 2.5kW and 13kW, are designed in the US. However, production happens in China to keep the generator’s cost low. Northern Tool manufactures a range of conventional and inverter generators, most of which use gas.
After their production, Northern Tools exposes the generators to rigorous testing to ensure optimum performance and maximum life. This process happens for every batch of generators made, which makes the Powerhorse generators a reliable brand in the market.
In these Northern Tools testing offices, the test conditions mimic the generators in use, and they test for maximum strength and flawless execution. So, when any Powerhorse generator hits the market, Northern Tools ensures they all meet standard quality checks.
Who Makes the Powerhorse Engines?
The Powerhorse generators have an overhead valve engine (OHVs) engine featuring high-quality cast iron couplings and opaque metal ball double crankshafts. This material selection is durable and high-performance.
The generators are 100% copper wound, meaning that you can run your generator for weeks without overheating. According to their specifications, Powerhorse generators have less than 5% harmonic distortion, which means they can run fine, even with the most delicate electronics.
The sturdy OHV engine on the Powerhorse generators is a product of Liquid Combustion Technology Corporation. The multinational manufacturing company makes engines like the 6 hp and a 208-cc horizontal shaft motor, which you can adapt for various applications.
Key Features of Powerhorse Generators
According to Northern Tools, user reviews, and feedback, Powerhorse generators provide high-quality performance at unbeatable prices. These generators have a rugged build and possess features that make them one of a kind in the market.
Some of the features of the Powerhorse generators include:
- A free wheel kit: The 4-wheel block improves convenience when handling the generator and makes it easy to observe its operations.
- Efficient OHV engines feature cast iron cylinder sleeves built to last. The dual ball-bearing crankshaft is also high-performance for the coupling. The engine is also efficiently designed to save gas, with an average consumption of 1.8 gallons for 8.8 hours of run time.
- The low oil shutdown: This feature on all Powerhorse generator models protects the engine from damage should the engine oil reach dangerously low levels.
- Super quiet mufflers: These generators employ superior noise cancellation technology that lowers the noise to 67-75dB.
- An electric start: Most Powerhorse generators have an electric start. However, the generator does not come with a battery. The generators also have a control system that regulates power and energy generated during overload conditions to avoid damaging the engine.
- 2-year warranty: With this generator, you get a 2-year warranty.
- Safe to use on sensitive devices.
What Kind of Oil Does A Powerhorse Generator Take?
The manufacturers designed the OHV engines to run on 10W-30 (API service SE type or higher) oil type. This oil is a multi-grade engine oil suitable for use in heavy-load applications. The oil has a high viscosity rating when hot and can withstand hot temperatures for a long time without compromising on engine performance.
Are Powerhorse Generators Any Good?
The Powerhorse generators have features that you would want in a good generator. They have dual-fuel functionality, with a low oil indicator and shutdown functions. Moreover, their design is geared towards ease of use with multi-functional applications.
However, this does not mean that all the Powerhorse generators are perfect. They have some drawbacks.
Pros
- An oversized tank for longer run times.
- Fuel efficiency.
- Suitable for many applications with 5% distortion.
- Multiple power outlets on open-frame generators.
- Low oil shutdown to protect the machine from damage.
- A wheel kit for easy maneuverability.
- Foldable hands for easier storage.
Cons
- The open-frame gensets are louder than similar-sized gensets from competitor brands.
- It’s heavy.
- Do not have commercial or home use generators.
- Some generators do not come with a battery.
Best Powerhorse Generator Models
Powerhorse generators may not be as popular as Honda generators, but the brand has some spectacular products. The generators feature designs geared toward reliability and subject them to rigorous tests to affirm their lifetime and performance. In short, Powerhorse puts in the effort to ensure their consumers only get the best products.
Some of their top generators include:
- The Powerhorse LC3500i: a 3500 watt generator that has an electric start and a 2.6 gallon tank for gasoline, with 11 hours of runtime at 25% loading. Also, it is hushed at 57dBA noise levels, with the low oil alert and shutdown functions. However, it is pretty heavy.
- Powerhorse Inverter generator-7500 Surge watts: The 420cc powerhouse engine comes with an electric start and a battery and features a parallel ready design. At 55dBA noise, the generator is relatively quiet. It also features a variable throttle to conserve fuel and lower noise levels.
- Powerhorse inverter generator- 2300 surge watts: The generator has a 1.1 gasoline tank that can keep it running for 8.5 hours at 25% loading. The generator is also quiet, with a 52dBA noise level. It is lightweight and produces clean power with less than 1.5% THD. However, it does not have an electric start.
Related post: Where Are WEN Generators Made?
FAQs
Are Powerhorse and predator generators the same?
Powerhorse and Predator generators are not the same. Powerhorse is more fuel-efficient, durable, and has more starting and rated power.
How long will a Powerhorse generator run?
The total runtime will depend on the tank size and the load. For instance, the LC3500i generator can go for 11 hours at 25% load with its 2.6 gallon tank. On the other hand, the 2300 watt inverter generator only runs for 8.5 hours with a 1.1-gallon tank.
Who sells Powerhorse generators?
In the US, Northern Tools + Equipment is the official distributor of the generator. You can also find the same on eBay, Sears, Walmart, and Amazon.
Conclusion
Powerhorse generators may not be so popular, but they are the ideal choice for people looking for affordability and quality in their generators.
The Powerhorse brand is relatively small, quiet, and easy to transport from one place to another. Moreover, the design features protection measures that protect you and your appliances during use. So, if you want a good generator, Powerhorse is an excellent choice.
