DuroMax XP5500EH Review – Best For Jobsite
When DuroMax first sent me their XP5500EH, I wanted to review it quickly so that I could return it due to lack of space in my RV. But, I began to like this one, so decided to use it for 6 months, then review it.
So after using DuroMax XP5500EHfor 6 months in my garage and on multiple camping trips in the woods, finally finished gathering actual data for this review and I was amazed by the performance it displayed in different scenarios
Quick Review Of DuroMax XP5500EH
DuroMax XP5500EH Review
The younger brother of DuroMax XP12000EH and DuroMax XP13000EH, DuroMax XP5500EH is equally reliable, durable, powerful, and fuel-efficient.
This variant is especially used in camping and RVs due to its portable and compact frame. It is equipped with an EPA and CSA-certified hybrid engine to allow the user to switch between gasoline and propane.
The power output of gasoline is 4500 rated watts and that of propane is 4225 rated watts. The difference is only 225W.
I would advise using propane because it burns cleaner and doesn’t clog the carburetor.
This dual-fuel generator is RV-ready; you can choose to operate at 120V and 240V simultaneously or just at 120V at full power.
Like other models in the same series, this one also has an eco-mode with minimum environmental harm. The eco-mode is very important for modern generators.
Nobody is going to tolerate a dirty machine releasing a ton of CO2 and CO in the air, and besides, eco-mode allows the generator to lower the RPM level to reduce noise and save fuel when the load is low.
Unboxing Experience:
I received the generator within 5 days. The unit was undamaged, and the installation required little to no effort. I purchased the battery separately.
After setting it up, I poured the oil like said in the manual and started the generator using the electronic switch. The generator started smoothly within 5 seconds.
My first impression of the noise level was that it was normal. I was expecting a quieter performance.
I received the following things from the box:
- Oil funnel
- Spark plug wrench
- Wheel and handle kit
- Toolset
- User manual
- User manual
Design:
Out of all the Duromax generators I have reviewed, this one is my favorite because it is just big enough to run a decent amount of load in your house during outages, and it is just small enough to be taken on a camping trip.
The dry weight of the unit is around 124 pounds, so you are not going to be able to lug it around without the help of those wheels and handles.
The robust metal frame has cushions for engine mounting to suppress the vibrations.
DuroMax XP5500EH has a start button and manual recoil. You have to purchase the battery separately.
The control panel features two 120V 20A standard outlets, one 120V 30A twist lock, an MX2 switch, a propane inlet, and an analog voltmeter. MX2 allows getting the maximum out of both 120V receptacles. The control panel has different indicators as well.
I tested the analog voltmeter, and it is 94% accurate, which is fine for a non-inverter generator.
8.9/10 for the design.
Noise Test of DuroMax XP5500EH:
The manufacturer claims its noise level is close to 69 dB, but it doesn’t mention the distance or load. I conducted a little noise test of mine by putting it under 50% load on eco-mode.
- From a distance of 20 feet away, at 50% load on eco-mode, the noise was 71 dB.
- From a distance of 30 feet away, at 50% in eco-mode, the noise was 68 dB.
Honestly speaking, I was expecting a quieter performance, but considering it is not an inverter generator, I am satisfied.
7.8/10 for the noise.
Runtime (Fuel-efficiency) Test of DuroMax XP5500EH:
DuroMax generators have been known for better fuel efficiency compared to the competition for a long time. Being a nerd, I conducted a little runtime test of my own because my DuroMax XP5500EH review is based on data instead of fictional theories.
- On gasoline at 50% load (2250W), the generator lasted for 9.3 hours.
- On propane at 50% load (2138W), the generator lasted for 8.2 hours.
These are very good results. If you use eco-mode, the generator might run for a few extra minutes.
9/10 for the runtime.
Load Test:
So the main test for me to recommend a generator or power station is the load test. If a generator can get close to its rated watts, it means it is quality.
For the test, I ran a heater and a few heat lamps to get to 4500W.
- On gasoline, the generator was able to generate 4498W.
- I pushed it a bit further by adding another heat lamp, and DuroMax XP5500EH fluctuated between 4510 to 4518 rated watts before overload protection stopped the generator.
- On propane, I gave a total load of 4225W and the unit was able to generate 4221W.
- I added another heat lamp on propane as well, and the final result was 4231W before the overload sensor shut off the machine.
DuroMax XP5500EH dual-fuel generator passed and surpassed the load test on both fuels.
9.8/10 for the load test.
What is the Performance of DuroMax XP5500EH?
This is a full-time 30-amp, RV-ready generator. You can switch from 120V to 240V with a single switch.
These DuroMax generators are equipped with an OHV active cooling system to prevent overheating. This feature comes in handy when you have to run your generator for 8 to 10 hours without a break.
During my DuroMax XP5500EH Review, I ran it for like 9 hours at 60% load nonstop in the past. I didn’t notice any excessive overheating.
DuroMax XP5500EH is specially designed for job sites, camping, and tailgating. I haven’t been tailgating with this generator yet, but I have used it for camping, and tools. I was able to run the following things in my garage.
| Appliances | Starting watts | Running watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table Saw | 4500 | 1800 |
| Circular saw | 2300 | 1400 |
| Electric drill | 600 | 600 |
| Portable air compressor 1HP | 4500 | 1600 |
| Chainsaw | 1500 | 1500 |
| Bench grinder | 2500 | 1400 |
So this model has the low oil shutoff option as well which will automatically shut down the engine if the oil levels are critically low.
I once had a SANCO generator that didn’t feature a low-oil sensor. Once I forgot to change the oil on time and I kept running it. As a result, the engine was damaged due to internal friction caused by the burned low oil.
DuroMax XP5500EH works like a charm on propane. You will see the difference in noise levels compared to gasoline. A special hose is given with the package to fill the tank with propane.
You will also get a special cable to charge the 12V battery using the 12V socket of the generator.
It is a bit pricier compared to the competition, but the quality and the performance are excellent. Hybrid generators tend to be expensive.
The extra money you pay will ensure a longer lifespan and lesser maintenance. All you have to do is to change the oil on time.
9/10 for the performance.
Should I Buy DuroMax XP5500EH Dual-Fuel Generator?
If you are looking for a quality mid-sized portable dual-fuel generator for the campsite, worksite, or tailgating, you should buy DuroMax XP5500EH. This generator can generate 4500 rated watts of gasoline and 4225 rated watts of propane. The runtime on propane is 8.2 at 50% load, and 9.3 at 50% load on gasoline.
What I Like
What I don’t
Alex Black is a seasoned electrical engineer with a remarkable 8-year track record specializing in appliances, generators, and transfer switches. With extensive hands-on experience in the field, Alex possesses a deep understanding of electrical systems and their intricate workings. Throughout their career, Alex has consistently demonstrated expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining various electrical appliances.