Review of the DuroMax XP4850EH Open Frame Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Should You Buy It?

Key Points about the DuroMax XP4850EH

Overview of the Generator

The XP4850EH is a medium power dual fuel portable generator with an all-metal construction to ensure durability and reliability in tougher conditions.  It can, for example, power lights, a refrigerator and a home air conditioner, and on a jobsite you can power some high amperage tools. With these capabilities, it's a good choice for ensuring some home backup, and wherever you might need a source of independent power.

Controls and Features

The control panel has a three-way rocker switch that electrically starts/runs/stops the generator (a manual pull recoil cord is also on the rear).

For your connections, it has 2x120v household GFCI outlets and 1x120v/240v 30A twist lock outlet. All have circuit breakers to protect the generator from overload conditions. In addition, there is a voltmeter and 12v DC posts for external battery charging. Owners are warned that:

● Only the 120v receptacles must be used to connect 120v devices.
● The 120/240v receptacle can be used to connect 120v devices, using an appropriate adapter.
● Only the 240v receptacle must be used to connect 240v devices.

An MX2 switch allows you to choose between operating the generator at both 120v and 240v simultaneously. Alternatively, you can get maximum power from each of the 120-Volt receptacles, making it Ideal for RV use.

The generator has a sensor that shuts down the engine when the oil level falls below a safe limit. It also prevents you from starting under the same conditions.
 
The unit is EPA Certified and CARB Compliant, so it can be used in all 50 states.

Here is the XP4850EH manual.

Do not operate this generator in an enclosed environment to avoid serious risks from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Power Output

The XP4850EH produces 4850 starting watts and 3850 running watts when using gasoline with its 208cc 7HP engine. On propane, the power delivery falls to 4608 starting watts and 3658 running watts. 

With these amounts of power you can run your lights and most of your household appliances, such as a refrigerator and a home air conditioner. It also has enough juice to allow you to work with high amperage power tools, say on a jobsite.

This model uses traditional generator technology and incorporates "Surge Arrest", which provides a degree of protection from power surges. But if you plan on connecting sensitive electronics, you will need a UPS/line conditioner to prevent fluctuations potentially causing damage.

Power outputs can be significantly affected by ambient temperature and altitude. We set out how altitude can affect the performance of any engine as this may impact the size of generator you actually need. 

Weight

This generator has a dry weight of 122lbs. It comes with never-flat rear wheels and a foldable handle designed to make it more portable. Not every buyer is a fan of the never-flat style of wheels and there are alternatives available, some of which we show elsewhere.

Noise Level

It's said to be about as loud as a dishwasher.

What Most Buyers Like

Most owners give this 5-stars, though it also gets fewer stars too. The majority say it's compact, super easy to assemble and get going with the electric starter. The dual fuel option is great as gas stations quickly run out during emergencies.

It's an excellent option as a partial house backup generator at a very affordable price. In terms of quality, it's what you should expect from the less expensive end of the power generator niche. 

What Some Buyers Like Less

The comments here don't reflect the overwhelming number of positive views expressed by customers. But it's worth alerting you to some issues raised by people who are less than happy with the product.

The complaints include poor factory workmanship, cheap materials, unavailability of spares and poor instructions, as well as noise. Some buyers say customer service is mediocre with staff parroting scripted responses. Others said they got no response at all.

There is an apparently attractive 3-year warranty with DuroMax generators. But as one owner found, the devil is in the detail. On reading the warranty document it becomes clear that only parts are covered. Buyers are responsible for shipping costs and themselves having to do any work required with new parts supplied by the company even if they have no mechanical knowledge. 

Some owners advise that to prevent the wheels from flattening over time you need to move the generator frequently. One customer had one no-flat-wheel develop a flat spot after sitting for about 4 to 5 months. "It now thump-thumps as it rolls across the garage floor". 

A few find that adding oil is difficult because of what they see as a poor design. And one claimed that the 12v outlet actually measures about 20v DC. So if you're planning on connecting a 12v DC appliance, they warn you could end up in trouble.