For whole-house backup electricity, the DuroMax XP13000HX is a fantastic and reasonably affordable option. It’s also a very popular jobsite generator. Few portable generators can match the power output of 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts.
This is a dual fuel generator, capable of running on gas or propane. Dual fuel capabilities have their advantages, especially during a hurricane, or any natural disaster, when the gas pumps often run dry. Environmentalists also prefer propane as it is a cleaner burning fuel, which is better for the environment.
It’s little wonder that the colossal DuroMax XP13000HX is one of the best-selling large portable generators on the market. Compared to others in its class, the top DuroMax HX generator is not that expensive, and the brand has come a long way as a trusted name in the mid-priced generator arena.
This review intends to reveal if the 13,000-watt DuroMax dual fuel generator is worth buying.
DuroMax XP13000HX Review
Specs & Features:
- 13,0000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts (gas)
- 12,350 peak watts and 9,975 running watts (propane)
- 500cc OHV engine
- CO alert
- Dual fuel
- Runtime: 17 hours @ 25% load; 8.5 hours @ 50% load (gas). 13 hours @ 25% load; 6.5 hours @ 50% load (propane).
- 40 LBS minimum suggested propane tank.
- Gas tank capacity: 8.3 gallons
- Electric and recoil starter
- GFCI outlets
- Automatic voltage regulator
- 10-inch metal hub wheels.
- Fold down handles
- RV and transfer switch ready
- Outlets: 5-20R X 4, L5-30R X 1, L14-30R X 1, and 14-50R.
- Voltmeter and hour meter
- EPA and CARB certified (50 states legal).
- Noise level: 74 dB
- Weight: 240 LBS
- Warranty: 5 years
Review:
The DuroMax XP13000HX is at the top of the HX series, offering extraordinary power, comparable to some standby generators that don’t have the benefit of portability. In addition to this, it is one of the most powerful dual fuel generators around.
In the early days, DuroMax had a rather unimpressive reputation for reliability. This has changed to some degree, especially with the larger models. While I’m not suggesting that the DuroMax XP13000HX is in the same league as really expensive machines like Honda or CAT, they are pretty trustworthy generators at a much more affordable price than the high-end brands.
When it comes down to watts vs dollars, DuroMax generators offer amazing value for money. Possibly the closest competitor to this gennie would be the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF. Despite being a less powerful dual fuel generator, the WGEN9500DF is a wonderful machine. It is my personal first choice for a large, powerful open frame hybrid generator.
While I’m particularly fond of the top Westinghouse dual fuel generator, it doesn’t provide the same wattage as the mighty DuroMax 13,000-watt generator. Making the DuroMax a unique and enticing option.
500CC Engine
At the heart of any generator is the engine. To this end, the 500cc variant powering the DuroMax XP13000HX is a reliable and well-made powerplant. In general, larger DuroMax engines tend to be more robust and reliable than the smaller engines used for their cheaper generators. This is certainly the case with this engine.
While DuroMax V-Twin engines are, in my opinion, their best achievements, this single-cylinder 4-stroke beast with an overhead valve is powerful, fuel-efficient, tough, and wonderfully reliable.
It has a cast iron cylinder sleeve which reduces wear from piston friction, lasting a lot longer than aluminum, or cylinders that don’t utilize a sleeve. The stainless-steel bearings are also remarkably robust.
Operating at 3,400 RPM, with forced air cooling, this engine will purr away, quite merrily all day without overheating, spluttering, or breaking down. Okay, purring may not be the best description. This is a large open frame generator, without the luxury of sound insulation. At 74dB, the sound might better be described as a gentle roar.
When the generator is not supplying load, the idle RPM is reduced, saving fuel, and allowing the engine to run cooler, thereby extending its lifespan. The low idle RPM also reduces noise levels.
Probably the main concern with any generator owner, is runtime and fuel consumption. The DuroMax XP13000HX may not be as good as Westinghouse or Honda in this regard but is still one of the less thirsty machines out there.
Fuel efficiency is well above average, and the large metal, 8.3-gallon gas tank makes for very convenient runtimes. At 25% load (2,625W), the DuroMax XP13000HX will run for 17 hours. At a more realistic average power usage of around 5,000W (50% load), you still get a very respectable 8.5 hours runtime.
Propane is never as good as gas when it comes to runtime. Using a 40-LBS propane tank, you can expect 13 hours runtime at 25% load and 6.5 hours at 50% load.
CO Alert
Like most generator manufacturers, DuroMax has realized the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and has addressed this issue with CO monitoring sensors on most of their generator engines.
CO Alert will shut the engine off when high levels of carbon monoxide are detected. A great safety feature, especially if you use your generator in the garage in wet weather.
Control Panel
I really like the uncluttered simplicity of the DuroMax XP13000HX control panel. Neatly grouped into clearly marked sections, you have all the control functions and outlets you need on a generator of this size.
The “Control Center” encompasses a stop/start button for the electric starter and shutting the engine off. It also has a recoil starter on the engine for those times when the battery might not have sufficient power to start the engine. It has a battery charging light and low oil alert. The engine will shut off when the oil level is too low and the warning light will ignite, alerting you to the cause of the problem.
To the left of these functions is a comprehensive digital display providing output voltage, hertz (frequency), and runtime hours. A two-pole main AC circuit breaker is placed adjacent to this.
At the bottom of the control panel, two sections house the 120V/240V and 240V outlets. Separated to avoid any confusion. On the left, is a 120V 30A L5-30R outlet, with 4 X 120V 20A (5-20R) receptacles with GFCI protection next to it. The 120V/240V outlets comprise a 30A L14-30R and a 50A 14-50R receptacle.
The 20A and 30A outlets have designated push-to-reset circuit breakers below the corresponding outlets. The 120/240V 50A outlet is supplied directly from the main 2-pole breaker. If you intend to use a transfer switch to supply power directly to your home electric panel, the 50A outlet will of great value.
I’m a little disappointed that it does not have a 12V battery charging port, as this can be very handy when charging deep cycle leisure batteries. However, since the DuroMax 13000HX is not intended to be used as a camping generator, it’s a bit too big for this, you probably won’t be needing a 12V charging port as much.
Portability
Contractors, requiring a large 50A jobsite generator will certainly appreciate the 10”, metal hub wheels with all-terrain tires. It’s quite easy to move the DuroMax around on these wheels, even on dirt, gravel, and mud. Two fold-down handles, with rubber grips, make it just as easy to maneuver this gargantuan machine.
Weight is obviously a bit of a problem with a generator of this size, especially when you factor in the robust metal frame and protection panels. At 240 pounds, you won’t be lifting this beast without some assistance. It’s relatively simple to attach straps to the frame if you plan on using a winch to lift the generator.
The Final Word
I’m of the unwavering opinion that the DuroMax XP13000HX is a great dual fuel generator for the price. It has a wonderfully solid feel and should be a reliable workhorse for many years.
If you have any doubt regarding its durability, the 5-year warranty should put your mind at ease. This is a tough machine with heaps of power.
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