Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO review: our full analysis

Power output: running and starting watts

The Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO delivers 4,000 W continuously and up to 5,000 W for a few seconds to start motors on gasoline. On propane, the manufacturer rates it at 3,600 running watts (4,500 W starting), 10% less. It handles 12 of the 14 loads on our typical list one at a time; add up the running watts of everything you run together, plus the extra starting watts of the biggest motor. As an inverter, it produces clean power suited to laptops, TVs and furnace control boards.

Typical figures; check the label of your own appliances. One load at a time: add up everything you run together.

Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO4,000 running W · Dual fuel inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price

How long does it run on a tank?

The fuel tank holds 3.1 gallons of gasoline. At half load, it runs about 9 hr on a full tank. That is about 0.34 gallon per hour at half load, or 8 gallons for a full day of running, so plan your fuel storage for a multi-day outage. On propane, a standard 20 lb tank holds about 4.7 gallons of LP; propane does not go stale, which makes it the easiest fuel to stock.

65 dB(A): how loud is it?

The manufacturer rates the Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO at 65 dB(A), usually measured at 23 feet (7 m) and a light load. That is a typical open-frame level, comparable to a vacuum cleaner: fine for home backup at 20 feet, loud for a campground.

Outlets: home, RV and tools

Its panel offers 2 × 120 V household outlets (5-20R), TT-30R 30 A RV outlet, USB ports. It has no 240 V outlet: it runs plug-in appliances through extension cords, not hardwired circuits or a 240 V well pump. The TT-30R outlet plugs straight into a 30 A RV. It is parallel capable: linked to a second compatible unit with a parallel kit, the two outputs combine.

Start type, CO shutoff and warranty

It starts with a remote key fob or the electric push-button, with a recoil cord as backup. A CO shutoff sensor stops the engine if carbon monoxide builds up around it; it does not replace distance (20 feet from the house) and CO alarms indoors. It is listed as CARB compliant, so it can be sold in California. The warranty runs 3 years (residential use).

Typical price $500–$800: good value per watt?

Relative to its running watts, the Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO scores 6.9/10 on value: an average result. Inverters always cost more per watt than open frames: compare it with other inverters. Generator prices on Amazon move a lot, especially before hurricane season: check the current price before you buy.

Pulsar PG5000BiSRCO4,000 running W · Dual fuel inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price