Review of the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Open Frame Portable Generator

Should You Buy It?

Key Points about the DuroMax XP13000EH

Overview of the Generator

This is basically the dual fuel equivalent of the single fuel XP13000E. But with a dual fuel capability some potential buyers might find this one to be more versatile. It provides similar power to that tou will normally find in a home standby unit, but in the form of a portable.  It's capable of powering a lot of essential household items like lights, small and large appliances, and even your home's central A/C system.

Controls and Features

The comprehensive control panel has a varied selection of outlets, including 2x120v household GFCI outlets, 1x120v 30A twist lock outlet, 1x120/240v 30A outlet, and 1x120/240v 50A outlet. All of them are protected by individual circuit breakers in the event of an overload. There is also a voltmeter and 12v DC posts for charging external batteries., 

Starting is easy with a push-button electric start powered by a 12v hour battery. As usual, you also have a manual recoil cord. A control panel switch allows you to charge the battery while the generator is on. Nevertheless, it's worth thinking about getting a trickle charger to keep the battery charged when the unit is not in use. This will ensure you don't have a flat battery when bringing the unit out of storage.

DuroMax generators don't have optional remote starts, such as those supplied with some Westinghouse models. Remote starts are not practical, say the company, when you have to adjust the choke manually prior to starting the engine.

A sensor monitors the engine's oil level and shuts it down when detecting an insufficient level for safe operation. It won't allow you to restart until you've topped the level up.

The engine uses a splash type oil system instead of a pressurized system, so it doesn't need an oil filter.

For anyone considering a conversion to natural gas, DuroMax warn this can damage the generator as well as void the warranty.

The XP13000EH can be used with an RV, but you'll need to check if an adapter like this one is needed to make the right connection.

All DuroMax generators are EPA Approved and CARB Compliant, so they can be used in all 50 states. The company also say their products follow strict guidelines to ensure their generators are as environmentally friendly as possible.

You can study the manual for this model here.

This model is not fitted with a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor. Exercise care in its use because of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Power Output

At the heart of this generator is a powerful 20HP 500cc OHV Engine. On gasoline it outputs 13000 starting watts and 10500 running watts. On propane, the numbers are as usual a bit less at 12350 watts and 9975 watts, but this is still plenty of power to have on hand.

If not already seen, take a look at some information we have put together on the negative effects of altitude on engine performance and power outputs. You can find that here.

With a 10-12% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) under load, this is not an inverter. DuroMax don't recommend using sensitive electronics with this model without at least a power line conditioner/UPS to avoid potentially damaging spikes in the power output associated with the traditional technology used on this model.

Weight

This powerful generator weighs in at a beefy 236lbs. It comes with a never-flat wheel kit and foldable handle to facilitate movement. Not everyone is happy with these kind of wheel. You can have a look here for some information on this.

Noise Level

DuroMax say they fit their open frame models with over-sized auto-style mufflers. But open frame generators like this one are never quiet, and this one has a noise level of 74dB.  They don't recommend you attempt a modification to the muffler as this could void the warranty.

What Most Buyers Like

This is another DuroMax generator that gets plenty of 5-stars. Many buyers say it's a best buy, and if you want a very powerful dual fuel generator, you can't go wrong.  The build quality is excellent for the price, and it has multiple features. The control panel with its digital display is easy to read and manage, and the manual's operating instructions are clear and informative.

Another buyer likes the ability to switch fuels on the fly, reminding us of the need to first remove the load. The engine might stutter for a bit, but soon returns to normal. They also recommend using a 100lb tank for longer run times when using propane.

What Some Buyers Like Less

Like the XP13000E, there are a few minor points. Access to the battery terminal is not easy, and some buyers wish the company would include the required 1 ¼ quarts of 10w-30 oil together with a long funnel to avoid making a mess when filling. Another didn't like having to remove the engine braces before adding fluids.