DuroStar generators are manufactured by DuroPower, which is owned by Dexin International Inc. This Company also makes DuroMax generators, and that’s why there are a lot of similarities between DuroStar and DuroMax generators.
DuroStar offers reliable and budget-friendly generators. They not only make generators to power homes, but also power job sites, tailgates, and RVs. Most of these units meet CARB and EPA’s strict guidelines to keep air, free from pollution.
DuroStar Generator Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Rankings | Check Price |
 | DuroStar DS12000EH Dual Fuel Generator |
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 | DuroStar DS10000EH Dual Fuel Generator |
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 | DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator |
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 | DuroStar DS5500EH Dual Fuel Generator |
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1. DuroStar DS12000EH Dual Fuel Generator – Best DuroStar Generator under $1500
Generator Type: DuroStar DS12000EH is a dual fuel portable conventional generator.
Dual Fuel Technology: Its dual-fuel technology allows users to run generators either on gasoline or propane. When one fuel source is not available, switch to another one to keep your essentials running.
Start System: The advantage of using an electric start system is that it makes it easy to start the generator. But the generator also has a recoil backup.
Engine and Power Wattage: DuroStar DS12000EH has a 457cc, 18 HP 4-stroke OHV engine with an air-cooled cooling system.
It can produce 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline but 11,400 starting and 9,025 running watts on propane.
Both the fuel options help users to power large appliances and high amperage power tools.
Power Outlets: The control panel of DuroStar DS12000EH has two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets, one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlet, and one 120/240 Volt 30 Ampere (L14-30R) outlet. Also, there is a 120/240 Volt 50 Ampere (14-50R) outlet and one 12 Volt 8 Ampere DC outlet.
The L5-30R outlet helps you to connect your generator with an RV. The presence of an L14-30R outlet makes it a transfer-switch ready generator. And the 12 Volt DC outlet is for battery charging only.
MX2 Technology: If you have an RV, this MX2 technology is made for you. It allows you to either draw full power from each of the 120 Volt outlets or use both 120 Volt and 240 Volt at the same time.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: Durostar DS12000EH has a fuel tank size of 8.3 gallons that gives up to a 9-hour runtime at half load on gasoline. But if your generator is running with a full 40-pound propane tank, it will run up to 8 hours at half load.
Idle Control: If you work on a job site, this feature is ideal for you. This idle control decreases the speed of the engine when not in use. This helps you save fuel and money.
Safety: If we focus on its safety features, then we find low-oil shutdown and overload protection (circuit breaker).
Overload protection protects the engine and equipment from overload damages. And the low-oil shutdown automatically turns off the engine when the oil level decreases below the minimum level.
Sound Rating: Durostar DS12000EH operates at 74 dB (A) that makes it a louder generator than A-iPower SUA12000ED.
Weight: It is not a lightweight machine. Its weight is 260pounds, but durable wheels and fold-down handles help users to move it effortlessly.
Certifications: It is not only an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approved generator, but it is also CARB (California Air Resources Board) certified.
It means that the generator meets the emissions requirements set by EPA and obeys the standards set by CARB for reducing air pollution.
My Opinion:
Pros: Durostar DS12000EH can operate either on gasoline or propane. It has a powerful engine that provides power to run any major appliance or tool. It can operate at both 120V and 240V simultaneously. Also, DS12000EH has a variety of power receptacles.
Cons: Its fuel efficiency is very much on the lower side.
2. DuroStar DS10000EH Dual Fuel Generator – Powerful Dual Fuel Machine
Generator Type: DuroStar DS10000EH is also a portable conventional generator that is dual fuel.
Dual Fuel Technology: According to the availability of the fuel, you can either use gasoline or propane to run your generator.
Start System: It also comes with both recoil and electric start systems.
Engine and Power Wattage: DuroStar DS10000EH features a 440cc 4-stroke air-cooled engine, which generates 9,500 peaks and 7,600 rated watts on propane. But when operated with gasoline, it produces 10,000 peaks and 8,000 rated watts.
Power Outlets: It has five AC outlets and one DC outlet. The AC outlets include two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets, one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlets, one 120/240 Volt 30 Ampere (L14-30R) outlet, one 120/240 Volt 50 Ampere ((14-50R) outlet, and one 12 Volt 8 Ampere DC outlet.
MX2 Technology: The same MX2 technology is also a part of this generator.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: It is also equipped with an 8.3-gallon gasoline fuel tank that offers 10.4-hour runtime on gasoline at 50% load, but 8.6-hour runtime on propane at 50% load.
This runtime makes it more fuel-efficient than DuroStar DS 12000EH. So, you can easily run their appliances and tools for longer through this generator.
Idle Control: The idle control feature helps users save fuel by lowering the engine speed when the generator is not powering anything.
Safety: Overload protection along with automatic low-oil shutoff
Weight: DuroStar DS10000EH weighs 232 pounds that make it lighter than the 12000EH model.
Sound Rating: Its operational sound is 72 dB (A).
Certifications: It is also EPA and CARB certified.
My Opinion:
Pros: DuroStar DS10000EH has a powerful engine that runs on both gasoline and propane. Its MX2 technology allows users to use both 120V and 240V at the same time. Also, its fuel efficiency is better than DS12000EH.
Cons: It is a louder machine.
3. DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator – CARB and EPA approved
Generator Type: DuroStar DS4000S is a portable conventional generator that runs on gasoline.
Start System: It only features a recoil start mechanism that may not be suitable for some users.
Engine and Power Wattage: The power output it offers is 4,000 starting watts and 3,300 running watts. A 208cc, 7HP 4-stroke OHV engine helps the generator to give this output power.
With this generator, you can easily power an RV refrigerator and microwave oven along with fans and lights. At home, you can also power two big appliances at the same time.
Power Outlets: There are two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets and one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlet.
If you often go RV camping, then this L5-30R outlet will help you to connect your generator with an RV.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: If we talk about its fuel tank size, then it is of 4 gallons. It gives up to 12 hours of runtime at 50% load.
Safety: DuroStar DS4000S offers overload protection and low-oil shutoff protection.
Weight: With 94 pounds weight, it is considered a lightweight unit.
Sound Rating: Its 69 dB (A) operational sound makes it a noisy generator.
Certifications: CARB approved and EPA certified
My Opinion:
Pros: DuroStar DS4000S is a budget-friendly generator that is CARB and EPA approved. It gives excellent runtime, light in weight, and features a voltmeter.
Cons: It only offers a 1-year warranty.
4. DuroStar DS5500EH Dual Fuel Generator
Generator Type: DuroStar DS5500EH is also a dual fuel portable conventional generator.
Dual Fuel Technology: You can either run it on propane or use gasoline to power your essentials.
Start System: It offers both recoil and electric start systems.
Engine and Power Wattage: DuroStar DS5500EH is powered by a 225cc 4-stroke air-cooled engine. On gasoline, it gives 5,500 watts of peak power and 4,500 watts of rated power. And on propane, it generates 5,225 peak watts and 4,275 rated watts.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: At half load, you will get up to 9 hours of runtime on a 4-gallon gasoline tank. But when running a generator on propane, it will give you a 7.6-hour runtime at half load.
Power Outlets: It has one 12 Volt 8 Ampere DC outlet, one 120/240 Volt 30 Ampere (L14-30R) outlet, and two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets.
The L14-30R outlet makes it a transfer switch ready unit, and a 12 Volt DC outlet is available for charging batteries.
MX2 Technology: It is also powered by MX2 technology that allows users to use both 120 Volt and 240 Volt together.
Safety: DuroStar DS5500EH has the same safety features that include low-oil shutdown and overload protection.
Sound Rating: It also operates at 69 dB (A).
Weight: The weight of this generator is 127 pounds. But its wheels and handles make it a portable unit.
Certifications: EPA and CARB approved
My Opinion:
Pros: DuroStar DS5500EH offers decent runtime. It gives respectable output power, has a tough all-metal construction, and features dual-fuel technology.
Cons: There is no wattage meter. Also, it is a noisy unit.
Buyer’s Guide
Output and Power Needs
Before selecting a generator, the most important thing to consider is the power output. You can do this by listing all the appliances you will be running on the generator. Now mention the starting and running wattage of all the appliances and calculate the total. The total running wattage is the maximum power you will need to run the mentioned appliances. To understand this better, consider the table below.
| Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
| Refrigerator | 1200 | 200 |
| 1/2 HP Furnace | 2350 | 875 |
| TV | 300 | 300 |
| Lights | 300 | 300 |
| AC (2) | 3600 | 2400 |
| 1/2 HP Well Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| 1/2 HP Sump Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| Security System | 600 | 600 |
| Total | 12350 | 6475 |
In the example above, 12350 watts are needed to start all the appliances together, and 6475 watts are needed to keep them running altogether. You need to consider a couple of things here. First, you will very rarely need to power all the appliances at one single time. Second, if you start the motorized appliances one by one, you can make room for more appliances. For such a setup, a generator with 7000 running watts will be perfect. You can find out your needs in the same way and buy an appropriately sized generator. Buying a smaller unit will help you save money upfront and also reduce the running and maintenance costs.
Single vs. Dual Fuel
Once you have decided your power needs, the next big question is the type of fuel. DuroStar is known for providing quality dual fuel generators. You must select the fuel option based on your usage pattern. If you use your generator in remote areas, then a dual fuel generator is helpful because finding gas in such localities is a bit difficult due to supply problems. Gas availability also comes into question during times of natural disaster and emergencies. You can use propane in such times because it has a long shelf life, and unlike gas, it can be easily stored for 10-15 years. Propane also burns cleaner than gas and is safer to use.
On the other hand, gasoline provides a better runtime and more power. However, its exhaust is not as clean as propane, and it is prone to spillage and hazards. Storing gasoline is also difficult as you need plastic containers and a designated place to store it. Gasoline goes bad after 8-10 months. A dual fuel generator will allow you to run your generator during emergencies as well. You can use gasoline during normal circumstances and propane during emergencies.
Control Panel
DuroStar generators offer impressive features on the control panel. You get every option at a finger’s touch needed to control the unit. It comes with various readings, chokes, on/off buttons, and other features.
Power Outlets
With DuroStar generators, the need for a power extension is greatly reduced. You get various power outlets such as AC/DC outlets, 120/240V outlets. Some units also offer a 50 Amp outlet. You must check the outlets before buying the unit. Power outlets are needed to run heavy appliances directly on the generator.
Tank Size and Runtime
Look for a large fuel tank if you run your generator for longer durations. A large gas tank also enables you to get maximum runtime from your generator. If you are an occasional user, a small gas tank will suffice as well. To increase the runtime, keep the load under 50% of your generator’s total power output.
Sound Rating
DuroStar generators are not that great when it comes to operational sound. They are like the big noisy boys in the street. They work well, but noise is one area where they are far behind Honda, Yamaha, and other leading brands. The smallest generator, DS4000S, has a sound rating of 69 DB. The bigger units operate above 70 DB.
Starting Mechanism
You have two options; electric start or recoil start models. Electric start models save you from the hassle of pulling the starting rope every time you need to start your generators. Please keep in mind that electric start models are a bit costly as compared to recoil start models.
Portability
The majority of DuroStar generators come with high-quality wheels and handles. However, DS4000S doesn’t have a pre-installed wheel kit. If you are buying this unit, you will have to invest in a wheel kit as well. Wheels and handles help move the generator from one place to another during a power outage or at a worksite.
MX2 Technology
One feature which is unique to DuroStar generators is MX2 technology. It allows you to get output from 120V and 240V outlets simultaneously or use one at one particular time. This feature helps in powering your RV and machines at worksites.
Safety Features
DuroStar generators offer all the safety features you need in a generator. You get overload and overheat protection, surge voltage protection, and auto shutdown in case of low oil.
Warranty and Certifications
DuroStar generators come with a warranty of 1-3 years. Its customer service is also impressive. All the units are EPA and CARB (for California) compliant. Make sure you read all the terms and conditions in the warranty agreement before starting your generator for the first time.
Price
The last thing to consider is the price. DuroStar Generators are reasonably priced. If you don’t have a high budget and need an above the average unit, DuroStar is your brand.
FAQ
Which is the best DuroStar portable generator?
The best DuroStar portable generator is DS4000S. It is powerful, affordable, and simple to use. You can either use it to power your home, job sites, or campgrounds. It produces 4000 starting watts and 3300 running watts. It has a 4-gallon tank, 69 dB (A) noise rating, and two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets, and one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlet.
Can I ship any DuroStar generator to California?
Yes, you can ship any DuroStar generator to California. All generators from DuroStar meet the standards set by CARB (California Air Resources Board) for reducing air pollution.
Can I use a DuroStar generator for my whole house?
Yes. You can use a DuroStar generator to power your house. If total power needs are less than the generator’s running watts, it can be treated as a whole-house unit.
Is DuroStar good for RVs and commercial purposes?
Yes. Durostar generators are perfect for RVing and worksites. They offer all the power outlets needed to run your RV and heavy machines. Make sure that that your power needs are according to the generator’s output.
How to maintain and safely use DuroStar generators?
Maintenance Needs
- Never store your generator with fuel in the tank.
- Always keep your generator in a safe, dry place and cover it with a generator cover.
- Change engine oil timely and inspect spark plugs.
- Always run your generator after 12-15 days for testing purposes and use fresh gas.
Safety Protocols
- Run your generator at least 15 feet away from your home/RV/worksite.
- Make sure you place the generator on a flat surface.
- Never refill/move/operate a hot generator.
For detailed guidelines on maintenance and safety, refer to the user guide.
How to make DuroStar generators silent?
DurStar generators are noisy. You can reduce the exhaust sound by replacing the muffler with a low sound rating. Placing your generator in an enclosure with ample space for exhaust and heat exchange is also a good idea.
Which oil is recommended to use in DuroStar generators?
You can use 10W 30 full synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional motor oils in your DuroStar generators.
What are the limitations of a DuroStar Generator?
A Durostar generator is heavier than other models. It also produces a lot of noise, and some models don’t come with wheels.
Conclusion
DuroStar generators are made of high-quality materials, are durable, and always provide power when needed. Buy one now and forget the power worries for the next 10-15 years.