Duromax XP12000EH Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

The Duromax XP12000EH is the perfect solution for heavy-duty portable ac power needs, whether working at a remote job site, enjoying the great outdoors, or responding to emergencies. Here’s what sets it apart from other portable generators:

• More power – the Duromax XP12000EH features a 457 cc, 23 hp overhead valve engine that provides 12,000 starting watts and 9500 running watts. This means you’ll have more than enough power to run household appliances, home air conditioning units, and electric-hungry power tools.   
• Longer running time – the Duromax XP12000EH operates up to eight hours on a full tank of gas. Plus, its dual fuel design lets you switch to propane upon demand for extended operating periods.
• Rugged all-metal construction – stands up to wear and tear and even the occasional hard knock. Dependable rubber tires will never go flat.
• MX2 power boost feature – doubles the standard 120 V power output, making the Duromax XP12000EH the perfect choice for large appliances and RVs.
• Simple push-button start – so you can get the unit up and running with minimal effort. Four cycle engine provides quieter and more dependable operation than two-cycle designs.
• Lighted instrument panel – so you can operate the generator easily in low-light conditions.

More Electrical Outlets to Serve Every Need

The Duromax XP12000EH has five separate power outlets, including:

• Two 120V GFCI household outlets (5-20R) for standard appliances and tools
• One 120V 30 amp twist-lock outlet (L5-30R) ideal for high-powered tools and RV connections
• One 120/240V 30 amp outlet (L14-30R) perfect for transfer switch connections
• One 120/240V 50 amp heavy-duty outlet (14-50R) for maximum power transfer to home circuits

The power panel also has a 12V DC outlet to charge external batteries or power 12V devices. There’s even an analog voltmeter to monitor electric potential and ensure stable power output.

These multiple outlet options make the XP12000EH exceptionally versatile, allowing you to power everything from sensitive electronics to heavy-duty appliances. The 50 amp outlet is particularly valuable for home backup situations, as it can connect directly to a transfer switch to power essential home circuits during outages.

Quiet, Safe, and Friendly to the Environment

• The Duromax XP12000EH has an idle control system that manages the unit’s RPMs, reducing fuel usage and enabling quieter operation at approximately 74 dB – comparable to the sound of a vacuum cleaner at a distance.
• The low oil shutoff feature automatically detects when oil levels drop too low and shuts down the engine to prevent damage, protecting your investment and extending engine life.
• Easy access oil plug and maintenance-friendly design facilitate regular generator maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.
• The Duromax XP12000EH is both EPA and CARB approved for use anywhere in the United States, including California with its strict emissions requirements. Duromax engineers incorporate multiple anti-emission features into their design to safeguard our shared environment.
• The generator’s dual fuel capability contributes to its environmental friendliness, as propane burns cleaner than gasoline, producing fewer emissions and leaving less carbon buildup in the engine.
• Automatic voltage regulation helps protect sensitive electronics by providing stable, clean power output, reducing the risk of damage to your devices.

Why Propane and Gas

The Duromax company’s single mission is to provide rugged, safe, reliable power anywhere on earth. That’s why the Duromax XP12000EH is designed to run on both propane and regular gasoline, offering significant advantages:

Propane Benefits:

• Clean-burning with fewer emissions and less engine carbon buildup
• Longer shelf life (virtually indefinite) compared to gasoline that degrades within months
• Generally less expensive per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated
• Easier to store safely in portable tanks
• Works well in various weather conditions, including cold environments
• 80 to 90% of propane used in the US is harvested from domestic sources, helping to reduce our trade deficit

Gasoline Benefits:

• Higher power output (12,000 starting watts vs. 11,400 on propane)
• Widely available at gas stations nationwide
• No need for additional equipment like propane tanks
• Familiar fuel for most users

The ability to switch between fuels provides unmatched flexibility during emergencies when one fuel type might be unavailable or in short supply. With runtime of up to 19 hours at 25% load on gasoline and 14 hours on propane, you can choose the best fuel option for your specific situation.

See our “propane vs. gas generator” post to learn about each fuel’s pros and cons.

XP12000EH Specs

Physical Specifications:

• Dimensions: 29″ L x 30″ W x 26″ H
• Weight: 238 lbs (shipping weight)
• Dry Weight: 224 lbs
• Wheel Type: Metal hub with 10-inch diameter

Engine Specifications:

• Engine Size: 457cc DuroMax OHV
• Engine Type: 4-stroke, air-cooled
• Engine Speed: 3600 RPM
• Starting System: Electric key start with recoil backup
• Idle Control: No-load low idle for fuel efficiency

Power Output:

• Gasoline: 12,000 peak watts, 9,500 running watts
• Propane: 11,400 peak watts, 9,025 running watts
• Running Amperage at 120V (Gasoline): 79.17 amps
• Running Amperage at 240V (Gasoline): 39.58 amps

Fuel System:

• Fuel Capacity: 8.3 gallons of gasoline
• Propane Connection: Standard for 20/30/40 lb tanks (40 lb minimum recommended)
• Average Runtime (Gasoline): 19 hours at 25% load, 8 hours at 50% load
• Average Runtime (Propane): 14 hours at 25% load, 7 hours at 50% load

Noise Level: 74 dB

Additional Features:

• All copper windings for improved conductivity and performance
• Automatic voltage regulator for stable power output
• Automatic low oil shutdown protection
• Full metal frame construction with cast iron sleeve for durability
• Includes: Oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, wheel & handle kit, DC charging cables, propane regulator, and owner’s manual
• Warranty: 3 years

Final Thoughts on the Duromax XP12000EH

In short, the Duromax XP12000EH is a versatile solution for all your off-grid power generation needs. Its combination of high power output, dual fuel flexibility, and comprehensive outlet options make it an excellent choice for emergency backup power, job site applications, and recreational use.

The generator’s ability to run essential home appliances—including refrigerators, freezers, well pumps, and air conditioners—provides peace of mind during power outages. Its rugged construction ensures reliability even in challenging conditions, while features like electric start and low oil shutdown protect your investment.

For those comparing generator options, the XP12000EH offers an excellent balance of power, features, and value. While newer models like the XP12000HX offer additional features such as CO sensor shutdown and more GFCI outlets, the XP12000EH remains a proven performer with thousands of satisfied users nationwide.

See for yourself by checking out the thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon! Or look for it on eBay.

And while you are at it… check out the other 12,000 Watt Duromax Generators, including the Duromax XP12000HX, Duromax XP12000DX, and our Duromax 12000HX vs. 12000EH post.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Duromax XP12000EH

How much power does the Duromax XP12000EH generator produce?

The Duromax XP12000EH delivers 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts when using gasoline. When operating on propane, it produces 11,400 starting watts and 9,025 running watts. This power output is sufficient to run household appliances, home air conditioning units, and power-hungry tools simultaneously.

What’s the difference between starting watts and running watts?

Starting watts (also called peak watts) are the extra power needed to start motor-driven appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and power tools. Running watts are what’s required to keep those devices operating continuously. The Duromax XP12000EH provides both high starting watts (12,000W) for initial power surges and substantial running watts (9,500W) for continuous operation.

How long can the Duromax XP12000EH run on a full tank?

When using gasoline, the Duromax XP12000EH can run up to 8 hours at 50% load and up to 19 hours at 25% load on its 8.3-gallon tank. When using propane, it can run for approximately 7 hours at 50% load and up to 14 hours at 25% load with a 40-pound propane tank.

What are the benefits of the dual fuel capability?

The dual fuel capability allows you to use either gasoline or propane, offering several advantages:

• Flexibility during emergencies when one fuel type might be unavailable
• Propane has an indefinite shelf life compared to gasoline that degrades within months
• Propane burns cleaner, producing fewer emissions and less engine carbon buildup
• Gasoline provides slightly higher power output
• You can choose the most cost-effective or available fuel option based on your situation

What size propane tank should I use with this generator?

While the Duromax XP12000EH can connect to standard 20, 30, or 40-pound propane tanks, the manufacturer recommends using at least a 40-pound tank for optimal performance and runtime. The generator includes a propane regulator for easy connection to these standard tanks.

Can the Duromax XP12000EH power my whole house?

Yes, the Duromax XP12000EH can power most essential home appliances during an outage, including refrigerators, freezers, well pumps, and air conditioners. With 9,500 running watts, it can handle multiple appliances simultaneously. For whole-house connection, you’ll need to connect it to your home’s electrical system using a transfer switch, utilizing the generator’s 50-amp outlet for maximum power transfer.

What’s the MX2 power boost feature?

The MX2 power boost feature doubles the 120V power output by allowing you to draw the full power from each leg of the generator. This makes the Duromax XP12000EH particularly suitable for powering large 120V appliances and RVs that require significant power at standard household voltage.

How loud is the Duromax XP12000EH during operation?

The Duromax XP12000EH operates at approximately 74 decibels (dB), which is comparable to the sound of a vacuum cleaner from a distance. The idle control system helps manage the unit’s RPMs, enabling quieter operation when the generator isn’t under full load.

What safety features does the Duromax XP12000EH include?

The generator includes several safety features:

• Automatic low oil shutoff that protects the engine from damage
• GFCI-protected outlets for electrical safety
• Automatic voltage regulation for stable power output
• Full metal frame construction for durability and protection
• Spark arrestor for fire safety

How do I maintain the Duromax XP12000EH?

Regular maintenance includes:

• Changing the oil after the first 20 hours of operation and every 100 hours thereafter
• Checking and cleaning the air filter every 50 hours
• Inspecting and cleaning the spark plug every 100 hours
• Checking fuel lines and connections regularly
• Keeping the generator clean and free of debris
• Running the generator at least 30 minutes monthly when not in regular use

Can I use the Duromax XP12000EH in California?

Yes, the Duromax XP12000EH is both EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) approved, making it legal for use in all 50 states, including California with its strict emissions requirements.

What’s the warranty on the Duromax XP12000EH?

The Duromax XP12000EH comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

How does the electric start work?

The Duromax XP12000EH features a simple push-button electric start system that operates similar to starting a car. It also includes a recoil backup starter (pull cord) in case the battery is depleted. The generator has a built-in battery charging system that recharges the battery during operation.

What’s included with the Duromax XP12000EH?

The generator comes with an oil funnel, spark plug wrench, tool set, wheel and handle kit, DC charging cables, propane regulator, and owner’s manual. You’ll need to purchase engine oil separately for the initial setup.

How does the Duromax XP12000EH compare to newer models like the XP12000HX?

While the XP12000EH offers excellent performance and reliability, newer models like the XP12000HX include additional features such as CO sensor shutdown (which automatically turns off the generator if carbon monoxide levels get too high) and more GFCI outlets. However, the core power capabilities remain similar, and the XP12000EH continues to be a popular choice due to its proven reliability and value.