Review of the A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator

Should You Buy It?

You may want to look more closely at this model as it is quite a popular generator that buyers choose for its excellent power outputs. For more versatility, A-iPower also offer a dual fuel variant of this model - see A-iPower12000ED.

Key Points about the A-iPower SUA12000E

Overview of the Generator 

Able to deliver 12000 watts of starting power and a constant 9000 watts this is a generator that can run a lot of equipment either in a home or on a construction site. The generator comes with a good selection of accessories, as shown below.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 459cc Overhead Valve engine can operate for up to 14 hours at 25% load on its 7-gallon fuel tank.

This model has an electric starter so if you consider this to be an essential feature it's got you covered. 

The SUA12000E is likely to have enough power for your whole house much like a standby generator. Care is needed not to run into serious problems over carbon monoxide entering the house when operating the generator in close proximity to your home, and under a roof. And it'sa good idea for you get hold of a suitable cover to protect the unit from the elements.

You can study the manual for more details about the operation of this model.

Controls and Features

Looking at the control panel we see a highly organized layout with multiple protected outlets, an hour meter, circuit breakers, an electric start, and a low oil warning light.  of the SUA7000C is neat and tidy offering all the essential outlets, information, and controls. It has an hour meter to monitor run time, breakers, multiple outlets including 4 x GFCI 120V 20A NEMA5-20R, 1 x 120/240V 30A NEMA L14-30R, and 1 x 12V port. All have the benefit of protective coverings.

You may come across information on other sites that this generator is CARB Compliant. Our understanding is that it does not have that certification so keep in mind that you won't be allowed to use it in California.

A-iPower provide a 2-year limited residential warranty and 1-year for commercial use for this model.

What Most Buyers Like

The SUA12000E is a good quality unit for a very reasonable price. It can be connected to your home's mains power box for which you'll need a 50A breaker and equivalent power cord. Some buyers choose this model over the less powerful SUA7000C mainly because of the increased power outputs and the electric start. 

What Some Buyers Like Less

One owner commented that you should not run a generator continuously at its rated capacity if you want it to last longer. Better to stay within 50 to 60% of the stated running watts. The generator is very loud, and the fuel gauge sometimes fails.