DuroMax XP12000EH VS XP12000HX: Which Portable Generator Should You Get
When it comes to massive power, the DuroMax XP12000EH VS XP12000HX are in a class of their own. These beastly generators can crank out up to 12,000 starting watts, making them two of the most powerful options for home backup power or worksites. But which model reigns supreme? Let's compare the key features of the XP12000EH and XP12000HX to see how they stack up. With dual-fuel capability, electric start and ultra-quiet mufflers, both pack a punch - but the differences may surprise you.
Table of Contents:
- Key Differences Between the XP12000EH and XP12000HX
- XP12000EH Overview and Features
- XP12000HX Overview and Features
- Fuel Type Comparison: Gasoline vs Propane
- Power Output and Runtime
- Noise Levels: How Loud Are They?
- Portability and Ease of Use
- Safety Features and Compliance
- Warranty and Customer Support
- Pricing: Which Model Offers Better Value?
- Our Recommendation: Which is the Better Choice?
- FAQs About the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX
Key Differences Between the XP12000EH and XP12000HX
The DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX are both heavy-duty 12,000-watt generators, but there are some key differences between the two models.
XP12000EH Overview and Features
The DuroMax XP12000EH is a powerful 12,000-watt gasoline generator. It has a 15 HP engine with electric start and dual 30A RV outlets. The XP12000EH can run for up to 10 hours at 50% load on a full 8.3-gallon tank of gasoline. Key features include:
- 12,000 starting watts, 9,500 running watts
- Dual-fuel capability - runs on gasoline or propane
- Electric start with recoil backup
- Dual 30A 120V RV outlets
- 8.3-gallon fuel tank provides 10 hours runtime at 50% load
- Digital controls with power meter
- Quiet, heavy-duty muffler
XP12000HX Overview and Features
The DuroMax XP12000HX is powered by an effective propane-fueled 389cc engine. It puts out 10,500 starting watts and 8,400 running watts on propane. With its 20lb propane tank (not included), it can operate for 10-12 hours at 50% load. Features include:
- 10,500 starting watts, 8,400 running watts on propane
- 389cc DuroMax OHV engine with electric start
- Dual 30A 120V outlets
- Digital controls with power meter
- Runs up to 12 hours on a full 20lb propane tank
- Quiet, heavy-duty muffler
- Electric start with recoil backup
Fuel Type Comparison: Gasoline vs Propane
The main difference between the XP12000EH and XP12000HX generators is their fuel type. The XP12000EH runs on gasoline, while the XP12000HX operates on propane.
Gasoline generators like the XP12000EH offer more peak power output, but require frequent refueling. Propane models like the XP12000HX provide steady power for longer durations on a single tank, but have slightly lower maximum wattage capabilities.
Propane is generally the more cost-effective fuel per hour of operation. It also has a longer shelf life and is safer to store long-term compared to gasoline. However, propane must be refilled from an external tank, while gasoline can be poured straight into the generator's fuel tank.
Power Output and Runtime
The gasoline-powered DuroMax XP12000EH has a higher maximum power output than the propane-fueled XP12000HX.
The XP12000EH provides 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline. The XP12000HX produces 10,500 starting watts and 8,400 running watts on a full propane tank.
However, the XP12000HX can operate for longer on a single fuel source. It will run for 10-12 hours at 50% load on a full 20lb propane tank. The XP12000EH provides around 10 hours runtime at 50% load from its 8.3-gallon gasoline tank.
So the tradeoff is higher peak power versus longer running time when comparing these two models.
Noise Levels: How Loud Are They?
These high-powered DuroMax generators produce substantial noise levels. But they have quality mufflers to reduce the decibels and make them reasonably quiet for their output class.
The gasoline-powered XP12000EH generates noise up to 74 dBA when running. The propane-powered XP12000HX has a noise rating of 72 dBA during operation. This puts both models in the range of a typical gas lawnmower.
While not whisper-quiet, these noise levels are manageable for most uses. The mufflers keep them from being excessively loud generators.
Portability and Ease of Use
Despite their large power output, these generators are reasonably portable. They both have similar compact footprints and wheel kits for mobility.
The XP12000EH weighs in at 291 lbs with its fuel tank empty. The XP12000HX is slightly lighter at 265 lbs without a propane tank attached. Two strong adults can maneuver them by the fold-down handles.
They both have intuitive control panels with electric start buttons, voltage meters, and power output gauges. The propane-powered XP12000HX does require periodically swapping out empty propane tanks for fresh ones. But both models are straightforward to transport and operate.
Safety Features and Compliance
The XP12000EH and XP12000HX have similar safety features and compliance with key standards.
They both have low-oil automatic shutoff sensors to prevent engine damage. The generators are EPA and CARB compliant for emissions regulations. They meet CSA standards for electrical safety and performance.
For fuel safety, the gasoline-powered XP12000EH has a spark arrestor to prevent accidental ignition. The propane-powered XP12000HX has a fuel cutoff solenoid to stop gas flow if the engine stalls.
Warranty and Customer Support
All DuroMax generators come with a 3-year limited warranty, which protects against manufacturer defects.
The company also provides customer support by phone and email. Their helpful technical support team is based in Ontario, California.
This factory-direct warranty and US-based support team give buyers extra peace of mind. DuroMax stands behind these generators for years to come.
Pricing: Which Model Offers Better Value?
The gasoline-powered DuroMax XP12000EH has an MSRP of $1,399, while the propane-powered XP12000HX retails for $1,299.
Given the similar power output and runtime for home backup use, the slightly cheaper XP12000HX propane model generally offers better value for most buyers. It saves $100 upfront over the gasoline-powered version.
Propane also has a lower fuel cost per running hour compared to gasoline. This further improves the value proposition of the XP12000HX model for cost-conscious shoppers.
Our Recommendation: Which is the Better Choice?
For most users, we think the propane-powered DuroMax XP12000HX is the best overall choice between these two generators.
The XP12000HX provides the advantage of longer runtime from its large propane tank. It's more affordable to operate over time since propane is a less expensive fuel per hour than gasoline. The propane model is also $100 cheaper upfront than the gasoline-powered XP12000EH.
Unless you specifically need the very highest peak wattage output that the XP12000EH can deliver, we recommend the XP12000HX for its better value and convenience of propane fuel.
FAQs About the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX
What is the difference between the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX portable generators?
The main difference is their fuel type. The XP12000EH uses gasoline, while the XP12000HX runs on propane. The gasoline model provides slightly higher peak power output, but the propane version has longer runtime on a single tank.
How much runtime can I expect from the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX?
The XP12000EH will run for around 10 hours on a full 8.3-gallon tank of gasoline at 50% load. The XP12000HX can operate for 10-12 hours at 50% load on a full 20lb propane tank.
What types of appliances can the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX power?
These generators can handle essentials like refrigerators, freezers, furnaces, and major appliances during outages. They can also power tools, pumps, medical devices, and lighting at worksites. Just check your appliance wattages against the rated outputs.
How quiet are these DuroMax portable generators?
They generate noise levels around 72-74 dBA, comparable to a gas lawnmower. While not super quiet, the mufflers keep them from being excessively loud for their power class.
Do the DuroMax XP12000EH and XP12000HX require maintenance?
Basic maintenance like changing oil, replacing air filters, and inspecting spark plugs will maximize their performance and lifespan. Always refer to the owner's manuals for full maintenance requirements.
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