Generac GP17500E – Overview

The Generac 5735 GP17500E is a high-powered, gas-powered portable generator designed for reliability and convenience. It is the perfect solution for both home use and job sites, providing continuous power supply with an impressive output of 17500 watts. This unit is crafted for resilience and efficient performance, making it a suitable choice for securing power needs.

Key Features

• Powerful Engine: The Generac 5735 is powered by a robust 992cc OHVI engine, which is renowned for its reliable and consistent power output.
• Electric Start: The generator comes with an included battery for convenient electric start. The plug-in battery charger jack guarantees the battery is always ready for use.
• Efficiency: This generator is equipped with an hour meter for tracking usage, a low-oil level shutdown for engine protection, and idle control to reduce noise and conserve fuel.
• Extended Run Time: With its 16-gallon fuel tank, the Generac 5735 can provide up to 10 hours of run time at 50% load.
• Durability and Portability: The generator is built to withstand tough conditions, featuring a hardened 1-1/4″ steel tube cradle for added strength. The integrated lifting eye allows for easy transport and security.

Product Attributes

Brand	Generac
Wattage	17500 watts
Fuel Type	Gasoline
Power Source	Gas-powered
Recommended Uses For Product	Security
Item Weight	390 Pounds
Voltage	120 Volts
Output Wattage	17500 Watts
Special Feature	Electric
Included Components	Generator

The Generac 5735 GP17500E is priced at $3,649.00, offering unmatched power and durability with the convenience of electric start and extended run times.

Pulsar G12KBN-SG – Overview

The Pulsar G12KBN-SG is a durable, portable dual-fuel generator that offers both power and flexibility. With its 9500 rated watts and 12000 peak watts, it can provide substantial power supply for residential use. The option of using either gasoline or LPG as fuel sources makes it a practical choice in emergency situations or during natural disasters. Its sleek space gray color, combined with its robust features, makes it a blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Key Features

• Dual Fuel Capability: The Pulsar G12KBN-SG offers the flexibility of choosing between gasoline and LPG as fuel sources, making it ideal for emergency situations or natural disasters where LPG may be more readily available and easy to store.
• Powerful Engine: The generator is powered by a 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start, protected by a durable powder-coated frame.
• Extended Run Time: It features an 8-gallon fuel tank that provides up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline.
• Multiple Outlets: The generator offers ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices with four 120V 20A AC outlets, one 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120V/240V 50A outlet, and one 12V DC output.

Product Attributes

Brand	Pulsar
Wattage	12000 watts
Fuel Type	Electric
Power Source	Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product	Residential
Item Weight	209 Pounds
Voltage	120240 Volts
Output Wattage	12000 Watts
Special Feature	Electric
Color	Space Gray

The Pulsar G12KBN-SG is valued at $899.99, combining high power output, dual fuel capability, and a multitude of outlet options, all encased in a stylish space gray frame.

Summary Table of Generac GP17500E and Pulsar G12KBN-SG Specs

Attribute	Generac GP17500E	Pulsar G12KBN-SG
Brand	Generac	Pulsar
Wattage	17500 watts	12000 watts
Fuel Type	Gasoline	Electric
Power Source	Gas-powered	Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product	Security	Residential
Item Weight	390 Pounds	209 Pounds
Voltage	120 Volts	120240 Volts
Output Wattage	17500 Watts	12000 Watts
Special Feature	Electric	Electric
Color	N/A	Space Gray
Price	$3,649.00	$899.99

User reviews of Generac GP17500E

Positive User Reviews Summary for Generac GP17500E

• Users appreciate the Generac GP17500E for its powerful performance and longevity, with some users reporting effective usage for over 6 years. It’s described as a “monster” and a “serious powerhouse.”
• One of the notable features that users value is the built-in elapsed-hours meter, which aids in determining when to change the oil.
• Many customers praised this generator for its ability to power an entire house, including large appliances like air conditioning units and heat pumps. Some users even compared it to the “F350 of pickup trucks.”
• Despite being a large and heavy unit, users found the generator relatively easy to assemble and maneuver once the wheels and handle were installed. Several users opted to replace the stock tires for better portability.
• The generator is also appreciated for its fuel efficiency, especially when running on low load. However, users also noted that it can consume a significant amount of fuel when running heavy loads.
• The generator’s sound reduction features, including a quiet muffler, received positive remarks. Some users even added secondary mufflers to further reduce the noise.
• The inclusion of a replaceable spin-on oil filter, accessible engine layout, and a rubber oil drain line for less messy oil changes were praised for making maintenance easier.
• Even though some users found the generator to be fairly loud, they were able to mitigate this by positioning the generator in strategic locations such as under a deck.
• Last but not least, users appreciated the value for money that the Generac GP17500E offers.

Negative Aspects of Generac GP17500E

• Short lifespan compared to other brands, with high failure rate after the warranty period.
• Same stator used in the 15Kw model, leading to possible overwork and early failure in the 17.5Kw model.
• Difficulty starting the generator due to poor choke throttle calibration.
• Maintenance required after the first 50 hours of runtime, potentially incurring extra costs if the user is not comfortable with engine adjustments.
• Issues with oil leaks in newer models, suggesting a decline in quality of components over time.
• Reports of fuel shut-off leaks, dead batteries, and fuel running out from the exhaust pipe upon first use.
• Inability to power certain appliances at full capacity, leading to potential damage to those appliances.
• Excessive heat production causing safety concerns and prompting users to modify the product.
• Instances of the generator only working for a very short period before failing.
• Poor customer service from Generac, with lack of assistance in warranty claims and addressing product defects.
• Product delivery issues, including arrival of units covered in oil, cracked batteries, and units delivered by a single person without proper equipment.

User reviews of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Summary of Positive User Reviews for Pulsar G12KBN-SG

• Many users appreciated the reliable and steady power supply that the Pulsar G12KBN-SG provided during power outages, even in rural areas and during storms.
• Users reported that the generator was able to power a variety of appliances, including air conditioners, fridges, TVs, and entire homes, with some houses as large as 2600 square feet.
• The generator was praised for its long run-time, with experiences of up to 16 hours before refuelling was necessary.
• The generator’s noise level was deemed manageable by most users, with some even describing it as quiet compared to other models.
• Several users complimented the easy assembly and start-up process of the generator.
• Some users highlighted the generator’s versatility, including the ability to run on either gas or LP and its suitability for various climates and seasons.
• The Pulsar G12KBN-SG received praise for its simplicity and robustness, with one user noting the lack of “fancy switches that can and will break”.
• While a few users noticed that the generator did not come supplied with engine oil, they did not consider this a major drawback.
• The customer service of Pulsar was commended by a user who received prompt help when the front plastic of their generator was broken upon arrival.

Critical User Reviews of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

• Customers reported significant problems with customer service, including not receiving a replacement after the generator backfired and failed, and lack of response to enquiries.
• Users complained about a persistent propane smell that they were unable to locate or fix, even with the absence of any visible leaks.
• There was confusion and dissatisfaction about the generator’s electric start feature; some users reported that it did not work or was not present as advertised.
• It was noted that while the generator functioned adequately for worksites, it was not suitable for home use due to loud noise, voltage fluctuations causing light flickers, and restarting of devices when a large load was introduced.
• Some users mentioned that the generators ran well for a short time, but then began to stall and cut out regularly, requiring constant restarts.
• Several customers reported their generators arrived damaged or stopped producing power after just a few days of use.
• Users also highlighted that the product was louder than advertised, making it unsuitable for use during power outages due to the noise.
• Despite these issues, some customers found value in the product, praising its easy operation, durability, and overall performance once initial problems were resolved.

Pros and Cons of the compared products

Pros and Cons of Generac GP17500E

Pros	Cons
Powerful performance and longevity with usage reported for over 6 years	Short lifespan compared to other brands, with high failure rate after the warranty period
Features built-in elapsed-hours meter for oil change determination	Same stator used in the 15Kw model, possibly leading to overwork and early failure in the 17.5Kw model
Capable of powering an entire house, including large appliances	Difficulty starting the generator due to poor choke throttle calibration
Easy assembly and maneuverability	Maintenance required after first 50 hours of runtime, potentially incurring extra costs
Fuel efficient, especially on low load	Issues with oil leaks in newer models
Sound reduction features, including a quiet muffler	Reports of fuel shut-off leaks, dead batteries, and fuel running out from the exhaust pipe upon first use
Includes replaceable spin-on oil filter, accessible engine layout, and a rubber oil drain line for easier maintenance	Inability to power certain appliances at full capacity, possibly leading to appliance damage
Users could mitigate noise by positioning the generator strategically	Excessive heat production causing safety concerns and prompting users to modify the product
Offers good value for money	Instances of the generator only working for a very short period before failing
	Poor customer service from Generac, especially in addressing warranty claims and product defects
	Product delivery issues, including arrival of units covered in oil, cracked batteries, and units delivered by a single person without proper equipment

Pros and Cons of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Pros	Cons
Reliable and steady power supply, even during power outages in rural areas and storms	Significant problems with customer service, including lack of response to enquiries and issues with replacements
Capable of powering a variety of appliances, even entire homes up to 2600 square feet	Persistent propane smell that users were unable to locate or fix
Long run-time of up to 16 hours before refuelling	Confusion and dissatisfaction with the generator’s electric start feature
Noise level is manageable, with some users describing it as quiet compared to other models	Not suitable for home use due to loud noise, voltage fluctuations causing light flickers, and restarting of devices when a large load was introduced
Easy assembly and start-up process	Generators stalling and cutting out regularly, requiring constant restarts
Versatility including the ability to run on either gas or LP, and suitability for various climates and seasons	Generators arriving damaged or stopped producing power after just a few days of use
Simplicity and robustness with lack of “fancy switches that can and will break”	Louder than advertised, making it unsuitable for use during power outages due to the noise
Appreciated customer service that provided prompt help for damaged items

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between the Generac GP17500E and the Pulsar G12KBN-SG, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs. The Generac GP17500E, with its higher output wattage and robust design, is an excellent choice for those needing high levels of power for security or job sites. On the other hand, the Pulsar G12KBN-SG provides great versatility with its dual fuel capability and is more suitable for residential use. Both generators offer reliable performance and extended run times, ensuring a continuous power supply when you need it the most. Your decision should depend on your power requirements, budget, and whether portability or dual fuel capability is a priority.