How much power does the Pulsar G12KBN give you?
On gas, this model is rated for 9,500 running watts and 12,000 starting watts. Running watts are the power available while your appliances are on. Starting watts are a short burst to help things like refrigerators and pumps turn on. You cannot use that bigger number for appliances that need steady power.
On propane, you get 8,550 running watts. That is 950 fewer watts than on gas.
| Fuel | Running watts | Starting watts |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 9,500 W | 12,000 W |
| Propane | 8,550 W | 10,800 W |
The details for this model
Model: G12KBN. Manufacturer part number: G12KBN. These are published specifications, not results from our own testing. If a detail is missing, we leave it marked rather than use a number from a similar generator.
- How it starts
- Electric and pull cord
- Voltage
- 120/240V
- Gas tank
- 8 gal
- How long it runs
- Not confirmed for this model
- Weight
- Not confirmed for this model
- Size (L × W × H)
- Not confirmed for this model
- Outlets
- Not confirmed for this model
- Generator type
- Conventional
- Power smoothness (THD; lower is generally smoother)
- Not confirmed for this model
- Carbon monoxide shutdown
- Not confirmed for this model
- Noise
- Not confirmed for this model
- Warranty
- Not confirmed for this model
A 120V outlet powers ordinary household plug-in devices. Some pumps and larger equipment need 240V. Inverter models use electronics to control the electricity they supply. THD measures how smooth that electricity is; a lower number generally means smoother power. Check your device instructions before connecting electronics.
Sources: Manufacturer specifications / manual ·
How long will it run?
We have not confirmed a runtime figure that says how much power was being used. The listed gas tank holds 8 gal. The more power you use, the sooner you will need fuel. A runtime measured at 25% load means the generator was only supplying a quarter of its running power, not working flat out.
Propane gives you another fuel option. Follow the manual for the regulator and cylinder size. A small cylinder may not supply enough fuel in cold weather. Read our fuel-storage guide →
What can you run during an outage?
Start by listing the appliances you need most. Check both their running watts and the extra power they need to start. A refrigerator, for example, may need much more power for a moment when its compressor kicks on.
Here is an example, not a test of this generator: a refrigerator using 600 running watts, plus 100 watts of lights and 100 watts for a router and other small devices, adds up to 800 watts. If that refrigerator needs 1,800 watts to start, the total briefly reaches 2,000 watts. Your appliances may use different amounts.
That example is within the listed gasoline running and starting ratings. You still need to check your own refrigerator, each outlet’s limit, and anything else that may turn on at the same time. If you use propane or natural gas, check those ratings separately.
A 1,500-watt heater uses a lot of power on its own. Follow its connection instructions; many portable heaters must plug directly into a suitable wall outlet. For a well pump or central air conditioner, have an electrician check voltage, running power, and startup demand. A 240V outlet alone does not guarantee enough power. Work out how much power you need →
What we like and what to consider
Reasons to consider it
- Runs on gas or propane.
- 9,500 running watts on gas.
- 240V output for compatible appliances or a professionally installed home connection.
Things to keep in mind
- Confirm its weight before planning how to move it.
- Switching to propane reduces running power to 8,550 watts.
- There is no complete noise test to compare with other models.
What owners are saying
We do not have enough owner feedback for this exact model to give a fair summary. Reviews for a similar generator, or another option on the same Amazon page, may describe a different machine. Before buying, check recent reviews for the full model number and find out how the seller handles service and returns.
Starting, moving, and maintenance
The listed starting options are: electric and pull cord. Keep the starter battery charged as the manual recommends. Practice any backup starting method before an outage. Check its weight and size before deciding where to store it.
We have not confirmed the warranty for this exact model. Read the full terms, including whether your seller and intended use are covered. Follow the manual for oil type, oil changes, and storage. Keep track of running hours during a long outage. See our maintenance guide →
Other generators to compare
Westinghouse WGen9500DF →
With 9,500 running watts on gas, this generator is worth a look if you need to power several things at once. It also runs on propane. It is heavy, and its power may not suit every sensitive electronic device, so check your equipment before buying.
9,500 running watts on gas · Dual fuel · 120/240V
Generac GP9500ETF →
The GP9500ETF gives you three fuel choices and enough power to consider for several home circuits. Check that you are buying model G0080631. Generac sells different versions, and their features and specifications can differ.
9,500 running watts on gas · Tri-fuel · 120/240V
Westinghouse WGen9500TFc →
This is a three-fuel alternative to the WGen9500DF if you want a natural-gas option. It makes less power on propane and natural gas than on gasoline. Add up what you need using the rating for the fuel you will actually use.
9,500 running watts on gas · Tri-fuel · 120/240V
Questions about the Pulsar G12KBN
How much running power does it provide?
9,500 watts on gasoline; 8,550 watts on propane. Starting watts are only available briefly, not for steady use.
Is it an inverter generator?
No. It is a conventional generator. A voltage regulator does not make it an inverter. Check your electronics’ power requirements before connecting them.
Can I use it in a garage if it has CO shutdown?
No. Never run a generator in a garage, even with the door open. Use it outdoors at least 20 feet from homes and openings, with exhaust pointed away. Carbon monoxide shutdown is extra protection; it does not make indoor use safe.
Can I connect it to my house?
Its 120/240V output may work with a suitable home connection. Have an electrician choose and install the right transfer equipment and check the generator’s wiring setup. Never connect a generator to a household wall outlet.
Should you consider the Pulsar G12KBN?
The G12KBN runs on gas or propane and has an eight-gallon gas tank. It is worth comparing if power matters more to you than a small, enclosed design. Use the running-watt figures in the manual when planning appliances, especially on propane.
Check Price on AmazonWhere the information comes from
We use the sources below to compare specifications and features. We have not personally tested this generator.
- Manufacturer specifications / manual
- CDC generator safety guidance ↗
- How we put our reviews together