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Pulsar PG2000iS Compact Portable Inverter Generator Review

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A large portable generator is not always necessary for basic home and road use. If you need backup power for emergencies, a camping/outdoors generator, or even a small generator for lightweight power tools, then it could be worth looking at a model that produces between 1500W and 2000W of peak power.

If size and weight is a major concern, then a smaller generator will definitely appeal to your needs.

The Pulsar PG2000iS is a smaller generator that still packs in some decent power, and it’s also one of the easiest generators for the average consumer to use.

If you have lightweight needs from an outdoor or backup generator, then this is one review that you don’t want to overlook.

Product Showcase

Size and First Impressions

Upon first glance, you might not even notice that the Pulsar PG2000iS is a generator. It looks similar to a portable battery or even a large gas canister, and it’s not until you take a closer look that you will see just what an interesting and compact generator this is.

The design could be described as modern or even futuristic. It has an incorporated carry handle, and all controls and switches are laid out clearly on the front.

This would not look out of place being used on a boat, an RV, or a campsite, and it would definitely fit in with your other powered appliances in your garage or in your garden storage shed. Overall, the design is refreshing, while also being quite similar to models like the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 and Ryobi 2200 RYI2200.

Overall, the design is perfect for a generator of this size, and it could even be described as appealing and good looking. The construction quality feels excellent, and first impressions will definitely leave you with a good sense of what this small unit is capable of.

Total dimensions for this unit are 17.9 x 11.2 x 19.8 inches, and it weighs just 40 pounds, making it one of the most portable generators on the market.

How is it Powered

Being so small, some might assume that this generator is a simple backup battery/inverter. It is, in fact, a full service gas powered generator, and it runs on unleaded gasoline, just like many of its larger relatives.

The motor is 80cc in total displacement, and it includes a 1.18 gallon (4.5L) fuel tank.

What is the Power Output of the Pulsar PG2000iS?

Power output is respectable for a generator of this size.

The Pulsar PG2000iS can output 2000W at peak surge, and is rated for 1600W of continuous. Some appliances, particularly power tools and appliances that use compressors, will have a much higher peak load (when starting) compared to the continuous load.

A relatively generous 2000W means that this generator could be used for powering refrigerators or freezers during blackouts. It would also be suitable for small hand operated power tools like wrenches and drills.

What is the Running Time?

At half load, you will get an impressive 8 hours from this inverter generator. For lighter loads, especially when running in economy mode, it could be possible to get up to 12 hours of usage.

Real-world values will depend entirely on what is being used with the generator. Some power tools or larger appliances could consume a full tank of gas in a relatively short 4 – 8 hours.

Charging consumer electronics will only cause a light load on the engine, which could mean running time of around 10 hours.

The running time is impressive for a generator of this size, and it adds a lot of flexibility for outdoor use, or for when using this as a backup power generator during a blackout or a storm. While it’s not the right generator for powering a whole home, it will do an excellent job of keeping the essentials running.

What is the Noise Rating of this Generator?

The small size of the Pulsar PG2000iS will leave the impression that it is relatively quiet to run.

In reality, this is about as noisy as a generator that provides twice the power output. This is not necessarily a bad thing, and the noise is in no way excessive.

Average operating noise totals 59 dB, which is around the same as normal conversation volume. For comparison, it is quieter than the average air compressor, and is significantly quieter than a busy street or open public environment.

Maintenance Requirements

Such a small unit would suggest that there are few maintenance requirements. This is true, however, there are still some steps that would need to be taken care of to ensure that the generator stays in peak condition, and that it remains fuel efficient.

High quality fuel should always be used, which means using unleaded gasoline from your local filling station (e.g. BP, ESSO, Chevron, Shell etc.).

A fuel stabilizer can also be used if you will be storing fuel for extended periods of time. Oil top up will also be required, as will the cleaning and changing of the air filter.

Even if you don’t have any previous experience with a gasoline generator, you will find that the Pulsar PG2000iS is relatively easy to maintain.

The user manual contains a comprehensive maintenance schedule, including when to check engine oil, when to service or replace the spark plug, and when to check, clean, or replace the air filter.

The manual also lists the generic replacement parts, such as the standard spark plug. It’s also nice to see that the manufacturer has included a spark plug replacement tool with the package.

The user manual also includes a breakdown of the ideal oil to use for your temperature conditions. A Synthetic 5W-30 oil is ideal for all conditions, or for warmer environments (such as Florida or Southern California) you could use an SAE 30 oil at any time of the year.

Click here to have a look at the comprehensive user manual online.

Applications for the Pulsar PG2000iS

Knowing what you can use a generator for will be key to deciding whether it’s the right one for you.

The Pulsar user manual contains a comprehensive breakdown of common devices and appliances, and the rated and surge watts that they require. We’ll include a few examples here so you can decide whether the Pulsar PG2000iS would suit your needs.

A small refrigerator or freezer would use between 700W – 800W to operate, and around 2000W peak surge power. Check your refrigerator rating before trying to power it from the Pulsar inverter generator.

A space heater would use around 1800W, and a kitchen electric range would use 1500W – 2000W for a single large 8” element. Washing machines and clothes dryers would exceed the rating of this generator, and you should not attempt to power them from the Pulsar.

For electronics, all of your devices would comfortably run from this generator.

A 27” television would use just 500W, and a video game console would use between 40W and 100W.

Lighting will average 75W per bulb (check the rating on the bulb glass), and a personal desktop computer with a monitor would use around 500W – 700W, depending on the components.

Charging cell phones and laptops from this generator will be simple and well within the limitations, and there’s even a convenient USB charging port on the device for direct charging.

While this generator is not going to power a whole home, it’s a great option for emergency use or outdoor use.

How Fuel Efficient is the Pulsar Inverter Generator?

Gasoline is the preferred fuel for consumer grade generators, thanks to wide availability and clean burning. This generator is highly fuel efficient, which is made clear by the long running time that is offered. If you are worried about emissions and fuel efficiency, then this is a good model to choose.

The inverter on this model also produces clean power, which means that there will be no risk of damaging connected components.

Ease of Use

Being small and with few controls, we can confirm that this is an easy generator to use.

In fact, because of the low maintenance requirements and the simple portability, it’s actually one of the simplest inverter generators that we’ve reviewed here at Power Tools Ninja.

The addition of the USB port is evidence that this is a device aimed squarely at consumers, particularly those who don’t have previous experience with generators.

If you had previously thought that a generator would be difficult to own and use, the Pulsar PG2000iS is proof that you can get a simple and straightforward device that still packs plenty of power.

What Power Outlets Are Included?

The power outlets included on the panel are critically important, because they will determine just how useful this generator is.

Although this generator is small and compact, it doesn’t cut corners when it comes to connectivity options. It has already been mentioned that this model comes with a USB charging port, and it also includes two standard household style outlets for directly connecting devices, or for running an extension cord or multiple power adaptor.

Unlike some more expensive models, it also includes parallel connection ports for daisy chaining the generator with a parallel kit, although these likely won’t be used by the average consumer. There’s also a 12V DC 1A output for even more connectivity options.

For a unit of its size, the options here are seriously impressive.

Does it Come with Warranty Coverage?

Pulsar offers a limited two-year warranty, broken up into two coverage periods.

The first year is a limited coverage warranty for generator components and labor, and the second year of warranty extends to cover the generator engine and electrical components, but only covers parts without labor costs.

Some online sellers may offer their own warranty program, so it’s important to confirm this before purchasing.

Country of Origin

Pulsar inverter generators like the PG2000iS are manufactured in China.

What do Consumers Say About This Generator?

Consumer feedback is important when taking a look at any product, and there are some insights that can be gained from looking at reviews of the Pulsar PG2000iS.

One important point to note is that this is a relatively new model to the market, so consumer feedback is not extensive. However, even from limited review numbers, the generator does average a high review rating.

Owners have commented positively about the simplicity of the design and the ease of operation. Owners have also been positive regarding the availability of Pulsar-specific parts, thanks to a large network of dealers across North America.

Owners have compared it positively to similarly sized Honda generators, which is high praise if you know anything about the reputation of Honda.

Some owners have commented about the generator whine sound, which can be distracting but is not a major downside. Owners have also noted that the whine will die down after use, and will not be noticeable after the generator has been run for more than one session.

Technical Specifications

Rated Wattage:                                                             1600W

Surge Wattage                                                              2000W

Rated Voltage:                                                              120V 13A.

Rated Frequency:                                                          60Hz.

Phase:                                                                          Single

DC Output Voltage:                                                        12 V

Amperage:                                                                    8.0 A

Assembled Product Dimensions:                                      17.91 x 11.22 x 19.7 inches.

Engine Type:                                                                  OHV.

Displacement:                                                                80cc.

Fuel Type:                                                                     Unleaded Gasoline.

Fuel Capacity:                                                               4.5L (1.18 gal.)

Running Time on 50% Load:                                          Up to 8 Hours.

Noise Level:                                                                 59dB.

Weight:                                                                       40 pounds.

How Much Does It Cost?

The Pulsar PG2000iS is often found around the $400 price range.

Click here to get the latest price and offers on Amazon.

Starting Procedure

  1. Place generator on level service and ensure no electrical devices are connected.
  2. Turn off the economy mode.
  3. Turn the fuel cap vent to the on position.
  4. Change the start switch to ‘CHOKE’ setting.
  5. Pull the recoil line until you feel resistance, and then pull rapidly. Repeat this until the engine starts.
  6. Wait at least half a minute before changing the start switch to the ‘RUN’ setting, and then wait a further two minutes before connecting any devices.

The PG2000iS Portable Inverter Generator Review: Final Thoughts

The Pulsar PG2000iS is a small generator, but it’s not priced for the entry level market.

The quality of this unit makes it a long term investment, which means that it will usually be priced a bit high.

For some, this price might seem expensive for the size, but it needs to be taken into account that there are only a few generators that are as small or as reliable as this. It has been designed for long lifetime, and is easily serviceable.

If a small generator is what you need, then this is one model that would meet your needs. The big question is whether it’s worth the money, and in most cases you could find something comparable for half the price. During sales this generator is definitely worth buying, but at $1000 it’s hard to recommend, especially when compared to models like the Westinghouse iGen2200.

Pulsar PG2000iS Power Generator Summary Review

IMPORTANT FEATURES
PROS & CONS
-Dimensions 17.9 X 1.2 X 19.8 inches
-40 lb weight
-Gas powered 80cc engine
-1.8 (4.5L) gallons tank capacity
-Maximum power 2200W, Continuous 1600W
-Fuel efficiency 8 hrs running time from 1.8 gallon, at 50% load
-59 db noise production
-Minimum maintenance
-Ease of use
-2 120V outlets, 12V DC 1A connection, USB connection
-Capability for daisy chaining generators
PROS
-Small and lightweight design means you can literally take this device anyway
-Few maintenance requirements and user-friendly control layout
-Plenty of connectivity options
-Enough power for small household appliances and electronics
-Long running time for such a small unit
-Runs on readily available unleaded gasoline

CONS
-Not quite powerful enough for a large family refrigerator, especially with the limited 2000W surge rating
-Proprietary design and parts mean finding generic replacement parts could be difficult
-Fast oil burn time (similar for most small generators)
-Some generator whine while operating

Click Here to Check Price And Availability on Amazon

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