Review of the DuroMax XP5250EH Open Frame Dual Fuel Portable Generator

We are not sure why, but DuroMax have several dual fuel generators with pretty similar outputs. For example, competing with this model is the slightly less powerful XP4850EH as well as the slightly more powerful XP5500EH.

It's an affordable portable generator and, like most of its competitors, it has its pros and cons. It should, however, provide you with essential power when needed. 

So, if this model delivers the power and flexibility of dual fuel you need at a price you think is fair, then go ahead and consider it as deserving of your money.

The following has more detailed information about this generator.

The DuroMax XP5250EH is in essence a bit more powerful version of the DuroMax XP4850EH. It's got enough wattage for you to power your basic essentials when the grid goes down or you have another emergency. At the same time, it's also one more effective solution for working with power tools on your jobsite.

The control panel has an three-way electric Start/Run/Stop switch to operate the generator. It also has a pull cord on the rear in case the battery is discharged for any reason. 

For external connections the panel includes 2x120v household GFCI outlets and 1x120v/240v 30A twist lock RV-ready outlet. These are protected by circuit breakers which automatically trip when there's a short circuit or an overload, preventing damage to the generator and connected appliances and equipment either to the generator itself or to the circuit.

In addition, there are 12v DC charging posts and a digital multimeter. The multimeter keeps track of actual run time and total run time, and displays voltage and frequency. Monitoring total run time is useful for you to keep to the manufacturer's maintenance schedules, which should extend the life of the generator.

A sensor monitors the engine's oil level and shuts it down when the level is too low for safe operation. And if the level is too low you won't be able to start it until more oil has been added.

All DuroMax generators are EPA Certified and CARB Compliant, so you can use this one too in all 50 states.
 
For a look at the manual for this model, go here.

With the absence of a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor on this generator be careful in how and where you use it.

The XP5250EH produces 5250 starting watts and 4200 running watts on gasoline from its 224cc 7.5HP engine. On propane, the power delivery is slightly less at 5000 starting watts and 4000 running watts. This should be enough for you to run your lights and most of your household appliances such as a refrigerator/freezer, and a home air conditioner.

This model uses traditional generator technology. Basically this means that the power output cannot be compared to that of an inverter. It does, however, incorporate "Surge Arrest" that provides some protection against power surges. But if you plan on connecting sensitive electronics you'll need a UPS/line conditioner to prevent fluctuations causing possible damage.

Bear in mind that altitude and ambient temperature affects the performance and output of a generator. So have a look here to ensure you take this into account if need be when deciding how much power you'll need.

The generator weighs 136lbs. It comes with a never-flat rear wheel kit and a foldable handle to help you move it more easily.

In the absence of any norms that manufacturers must adhere to when measuring noise levels, most take a measurement at around 23 feet. But measurements can differ according to how the generator is placed. Best take any published levels as no more than an indication of how loud a generator is.

DuroMax specify the sound level for this model at 69dB, which they say is about as loud as a dishwasher.

There is not much information about what owners think of this generator possibly because of DuroMax's own competing models mentioned above. In addition, some manufacturers have the habit of lumping together reviews for different generators, making it more difficult for consumers to identify specific ones for any particular model.

However, this one is very similar to the XP4850EH, so it might be worth mentioning some views made for that model if only as an indication of what this one may be like.

Most owners give the XP4850 between 4 and 5-stars. They see it as an excellent alternative to a whole house generator at substantially less cost. But it's not without its problems. A few suggest you get what you pay for and you can't expect too much from the more affordable end of the generator sector.

Many are pleased about the generator's ability to run on both gasoline and propane. One knowledgeable owner says that even if you run mostly on propane you should use gasoline once a month to stop the fuel seals from drying out.

The following comments do not directly relate to this model. But some of them may be applicable, such as poor factory workmanship, use of cheap materials, unavailability of spares and poor instructions. Customer service sometimes falls short of some buyers' expectations with what appear to be mediocre and scripted responses when a call is answered.