This is our comprehensive review of the DuroStar DS4000s Generator.
After a lot of research about the DuroStar DS4000S Portable generator, I’m here to help you decide whether this portable generator is a perfect fit for you or not.
Dexin is the real owner of Durostar. The company started manufacturing high-quality and budget-friendly portable generators in 1912.
DuroStar DS4000S portable generator is a power-loaded generator with starting watts of 4,000 peak. The running power of this generator is 3,300 watts.
Along with an affordable price range, this portable generator is EPA and CARB-approved. It also comes with a low oil shutoff feature.
This generator can be an excellent solution for RVs, camping trips, tailgating, and emergency backup needs.
However, you can’t just make your decision based on some facts. You might want to know;
Is this generator durable?
Does this produce too much noise?
Is DuroStar DS4000S Portable a good generator brand?
Is a 4000-Watt generator the right choice?
Is DuroStar a good generator brand?
Keep reading…
Durostar DS4000S Generator Review
Durostar DS4000S comes packed with a 208cc DuroStar Air Cooled OHV Engine. Durostar generator engine is built according to Durostar’s specifications overseas in countries like China.
If you are looking for a user-friendly portable generator then Durostar DS 4000S is the perfect choice for you.
Power Output and Fuel Capacity
The power output gives an idea of how many electronic appliances one can operate with the help of a generator.
You can eliminate numerous problems just by knowing the exact power output needed for your requirement.
Durostar Workhorse is a power-filled generator that works at 4000S at its peak. Moreover, the running watts range between 3000 to 3300 watts of power.
This range of power is enough to run a sump pump, refrigerator, air conditioner, portable heater, and other power tools at your home. It can also power heavy-duty equipment at your job site.
More features in the main control panel will be advantageous for you. This generator has a power panel with power outlets, an engine switch, an oil warning light, a voltmeter, and an oil shutoff switch.
A low oil indicator protects your engine from incurring damage by running on low fuel.
A wide variety of outlets adds to operation ease. This generator comes with a duplex 20A 120V power outlet i.e. mainly for household use. Meanwhile, the twist-lock outlet i.e. 120V power with 30A is used to power your travel trailer.
The size of the tank is 3.9 gallons. DuroStar 4000-watt generator is powerful and has a good fuel consumption rate.
Fuel Efficiency and Fuel Capacity
It’s best to buy a generator that has steady power delivery. Choose a generator that produces at least 20% more than your power requirements. That’s why I suggest this portable generator.
When running at half load this Durostar generator can run up to 12 hours. It is a good choice for people who want a fuel-efficient generator.
The power of the generator keeps on decreasing after some hours. Most users are worried about tank leakage, which can be a severe problem. Call the company to get this problem fixed if you have a warranty.
While camping, this generator operates only for 5 to 7 hours at full load with a full tank.
It can provide 4000 surge watts. This power range is ample to operate most of your house appliances. Extra power saves your generator from power surges.
The Durostar generator uses standard gasoline, which is readily available everywhere. It is 87-octane unleaded gasoline. However, during the early stages, this generator has high fuel consumption.
Changing the oil after regular usage can leave you tired. But, it is necessary to make oil changes so that your portable generator works efficiently.
Moreover, draining the oil for this generator is a big task. The thing that makes the whole situation even more challenging is the location of the valve. It is present precisely at the bottom of the frame.
Safety Features
I would say even a teenager can operate this generator without any issues. Different generator brands use features to enhance user and generator safety.
The Durostar DS4000s manual covers all the basics. Thus, it is safe for even those who don’t know how to operate any generators.
All portable generators produce harmful gases other than electrical power.
That’s why you might have to place this generator somewhere away from your home or workplace. So, you might have to spend some extra bucks on the extension cords.
EPA and CARB guidelines ensure that your generator emissions are within safety standards.
EPA is Environmental Protection Agency and CARB is California Air Resource Board.
All DuroStar generators are both approved by the EPA and CARB. They follow strict guidelines to ensure that generators are as environmentally friendly as possible
There are some complaints about the fuel tank not working correctly and sometimes gasoline leaks. In such circumstances, turn off the unit immediately.
Call a professional for help and assistance to avoid any mishaps. Check the DuroStar 4000S manual for further queries.
The packaging of this Durostar generator is a bit poor and highly unlikeable. Moreover, Durostar generators offer only a one-year commercial warranty and a 3-year residential warranty.
This generator comes with GFCI outlets. GFCI is Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This protects you from any electrical incidents.
Quiet Operation
This unit has a heavy-duty frame and superior noise insulation because of the oversized noise-reducing muffler.
This muffler keeps the noise level of this generator as low as possible. Durostar DS4000s have an efficient quiet muffler with a built-in spark arrestor.
The heavy-duty steel frame has four-point fully isolated motor mounts, making operating conditions easy.
A loud generator can steal your peace of mind. You might get uninvited complaints from your neighbors with a noisy generator.
Numerous customers are enjoying this generator. However, there are also some complaints about the generator producing a loud noise that is constantly troubling buyers and their neighbors.
When connected with the PA system (Public Address), it generates a lot of noise. So, It is not a suitable option for this purpose.
The noise level of this portable generator is less than 69 DB. This noise level is comparable to a running vacuum cleaner.
If you want to enjoy the calm environment. Just place this generator a bit far from your area.
Durability & Portability
The DuroStar DS4000S has a cast-ironed sleeved DuroStar engine for maximum durability.
This unit has a 5 to 7-hour run time when the tank of gasoline is filled. If the gasoline tank is not complete, it also affects the power output.
Even at the toughest job sites, this generator is a reliable power source for mega power delivery and continuous power delivery. The DuroStar 4000-watt generator is user-friendly and easy to operate.
There are some reports of generators blasting due to overheating. Durostar has smartly found the solution to this problem. By adding a cooling system.
Yes, this portable generator has a built-in cooling system. Due to this built-in cooling system, your portable generator will not overheat.
Also, Engine valves can stop working without any warning. It’s hard to find spare products for this portable generator. You might have to pay extra bucks from your pocket for this purpose.
The recoil start is that simple. I won’t hesitate to say that it’s easier operating DuroStar DS4000s than using a lawnmower.
It’s safe to say that this is a reliable power source. It offers superior performance with an efficient muffler and solid steel construction.
The weight of this generator is 94 pounds. Installing and moving it from place to place can be a problematic task.
Also, the handle of this generator is comparatively light. The picture shows this portable generator with wheels. However, there are no wheels on the package.
But, you can buy a wheel kit just by paying a few extra bucks.
Weight: 94 lbs
Dimensions: 23” x 16” x 18” (L X W X H)
This generator is ready to use out of the box within minutes. Start by opening the package and adding fuel. You can start using this DuroStar DS4000S generator instantly.
Other Features
You can use this generator for several purposes. You can operate your television, refrigerator, and numerous other electrical appliances during emergency times.
Quick Setup
For starters, understanding the basics of generators can be a complex task. Are you also one of those people who do not like complex tasks?
Then the Durostar portable generator is the perfect option for you.
What’s in the box
You will get a generator tool kit, oil funnel, and spark plug wrench along with the generator. A manual to understand how to operate this portable generator is also in the box.
Electric Start
Electric start removes the hassle involved in starting a generator. This Durostar DS4000s generator does not have an electric start feature.
So, you have to use a recoil starter for starting this generator.
Customer Support
Another thing that bothers me is the response time of Durostar. Numerous other customers are not satisfied with the customer service provided by Durostar.
Alternatives:
Even though the DuroStar 4000S portable generator has features that might impress you.
But, your backup power need might be a completely different use case.
You might need a generator with additional features such as lower engine noise, dual fuel generator, inverter generator, etc.
So, I have listed a few alternatives based on features, user reviews, and recalls.
1. Westinghouse WGen7500 – Extra Power
Portable generators by Westinghouse are manufactured in a way that they can optimize work efficiency to a great extent. Moreover, it is fully loaded with high-quality features.
Westinghouse WGen7500 portable generator can produce enough electric power for all the appliances in times of emergency. Starting this generator is a piece of cake compared to other portable generators.
This generator comes with a push-button electric start feature. With one press, you can start it. There is no need to tense your muscles in pulling the cords of a portable generator.
Furthermore, it produces a noise of about 72 DB. The noise rating is equivalent to using a vacuum cleaner.
This portable generator has the power to produce running watts of about 7500. Meanwhile, the surge watts of this generator is 9000 watts on gasoline.
The fuel tank of Westinghouse WGen7500 is 6.6 gallons. With this fuel tank, your generator can run for almost 11 hours at half-load.
Weight: 196 lbs
Dimensions: 27.2” x 26.1” x 26” (L X W X H)
The customer service of Westinghouse Power Equipment is incredible. The company loves the positive response they are getting from customers.
There are adjustable options. They can be activated to save power, such as an automatic voltage regulator.
Westinghouse Power Equipment has been around for a century now. These portable generators are affordable and reliable.
So, if you need an all-in-one package with excellent performance and durability in this power range. Then this generator can be the best option for you.
2. Champion 4000-3500 Watt generator- Versatile and Durable
Champion Power Equipment is a trusted brand of portable generators. Champion 100302 4000 watt is an open-frame, RV-ready portable generator.
This generator uses a reliable 4-stroke 224cc champion engine for maximum durability. It produces 4000 peak watts and 3500 running watts.
It comes with a 2.9-gallon gasoline tank. It can operate for 17 hours at a 25% load on a single tank of gas. It produces clean power essential for sensitive electronic devices and equipment.
It has a noise level of 64 DB. This noise level is lower than Durostar DS4000s. It does not have an electric start and relies on a recoil manual start.
Check out our review of the Champion 4000-watt generator.
If you need an electric start feature. Another model with the same specs and wireless remote start is also available. The Champion 100573 model is a gasoline generator without dual-fuel capability.
Check the current price of the Champion 100573 4000-watt wireless remote start model.
A dual-fuel model with the same specs is also available. So if you need a dual-fuel portable generator, you might want to check this out.
Check the current price of Champion 100574 4000-watt dual fuel open frame generator.
This generator is also parallel-ready. So, you can combine two generators using a parallel connection kit to get double power.
A parallel kit does not come with the generator so you have to buy it separately.
This generator is EPA and CARB certified. It has a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support.
Weight: 122 lbs
Dimensions: 23.8” x 20” x 18” (L X W X H)
This portable generator comes in many configurations and lets you choose the features you want in your generator. This Champion generator is for anyone who is looking for an affordable yet reliable solution.
3. Wen 56380i – Compact & Lightweight
Wen 56380i is a reliable and durable portable inverter generator from WEN products. This generator uses a reliable 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
This generator produces 3800 peak wattage and 3400 running wattage on gasoline. It has a fuel tank capacity of 2.2 gallons.
It has approx an 8-hour run time at half load when running on gasoline.
This inverter generator produces clean power for sensitive electronic equipment such as computers. Clean power is free of voltage spikes and drops and ensures the safety of your devices.
It has parallel compatibility and comes with an economy mode switch. Eco-mode lowers engine speed during lower power usage to reduce fuel consumption.
It also has a low oil shutdown feature. This feature turns off the engine when low oil is detected. This extends engine life.
This generator produces a noise level of 57 DB at quarter load. It has a much lower noise level compared to Durostar DS4000s.
This generator is very compact and lightweight. With better portability, you can easily carry and move this generator using the handle.
It comes with 2-year warranty coverage.
Weight: 99.2 lbs
Dimensions: 23.2” x 18” x 20.1” (L X W X H)
Even though we have mentioned all the best alternatives for the Durostar DS4000s portable generator, we suggest “You see what works best for you”.
Keep your requirements in mind and go with the option that provides maximum benefits and serves your power needs well.
Our Verdict On Durostar DS4000S Generator
DuroStar is a budget-friendly and high-quality portable generator manufacturer.
This Durostar DS4000s generator is a rugged workhorse that perfectly gives power to low and high-amperage power tools during power outages.
Durostar is lightweight and easy to move around, which enhances the portability of this generator.
This DuroStar 208cc OHV engine of a portable generator has plenty of power for job sites, workplaces, and homes. It’s EPA and CARB-compliant generator i.e. more environment friendly.
DuroStar DS4000s generator has a power panel with oil warning, engine switch, power outlets, and circuit breaker.
However, this portable generator’s power panel lacks an amp meter. Moreover, the toolkit is cheap, and there are no appropriate items to add the oil.
The running time of this portable generator is a bit less than mentioned on the site.
The run time for the Durostar DS4000s is relatively less as compared to other portable generators.
The fuel tank of Westinghouse WGen7500 is almost 6.6 gallons. And surprisingly, this portable generator can work for nearly 12 hours.
But, if you need a portable generator that is quieter, has an electric start, or has other features added.
Then you might want to check the alternatives.
For example, Westinghouse WGen7500 has enormous power with optimum reliability and fuel efficiency. So if you need more power then this can be the best shot for you.
Check out the price of the Westinghouse WGen7500 portable generator
DuroStar DS4000S Gas-Powered Generator lacks inverter technology. Inverter generators are usually more efficient, eco-friendly, and silent and provide a continuous supply of power.
WEN 56380i comes with inverter technology. The inverter technology generates clean power. Power generated has a pure sine wave that efficiently and safely runs all the highly sensitive appliances.
So, it can also be an excellent solution in this power range. So select this Wen generator if you are looking for an inverter generator at the best price.
Check out the price of the Wen 56380i portable inverter generator.
We have compiled some of the best portable generators for you.
The smart choice would be to buy a portable generator under your budget and the one that fits your requirement best.
