Honda 5000 EM5000S Generator Review: What It Can Power, Specs, Pros/Cons & More

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Honda 5000 EM5000S Generator Overview

With 5000 watts, your options are far from limited. To make things even better, this model can jump to 7000 watts for up to 10 seconds to start larger equipment. What makes this such an appealing generator is that not only do you gain the ability to run appliances for extended periods of time with it, the added power helps to get any machine around you going, even in less than ideal conditions.

With a multitude of places to plug in, running multiple appliances or machines is slight work for the EM5000S. Even on other powerful generators, one of the most common problems we’ve encountered is not having enough outlets to take full advantage of the machine. With the Honda 5000 generator, that problem has become a thing of the past. Whether you want to run a single appliance or a half dozen, you can do so without any additional rigging.

Running at maximum efficiency, this generator can run for around 11 hours. As you add more and more appliances on, run time will begin to gradually decrease. Running at maximum capacity, the 6-gallon engine will run for around 8 hours.

There is an internal battery included with this generator. While it helps to add stability, you’ll see the largest benefit of this addition at start. One way to identify if the battery is failing is if you’re having difficulty with the electric start. Luckily, replacing the battery is a simple process.

A lot of how smoothly the EM5000S runs depends on how well you keep up with maintenance. By regularly cleaning the carburetor and air filter, you are promoting the overall health of the generator. Keep up in these two main areas and you’ll have a machine that runs well for years to come.

Despite its 200+ lb. frame, transporting the EM5000S is a breeze thanks to a built-in handle and wheels. The only time you might have an issue is lifting it in and out of your vehicle. When the time comes for this, always make sure to have a few people pitching in.

What can the EM5000S power?

On their website, Honda gives a sampling of what just 2900 running watts includes. At startup, these machines require 5300 watts. Adding much more to the equation would be pushing the limits of the EM5000S. It is important to note that if you start these appliances at different times you will never hit the full 5300 watts. Basically, in order to maintain minimal usage, start and use appliances only as you need them.

Okay so back to that example. At the wattage mentioned above, you can run a refrigerator, small furnace, five lights, a television and microwave at once. Not too shabby for a single generator.

Some other things around your household that the EM5000S can power are furnace fans, garage door openers and air conditioners. In general, it will be difficult to find an appliance around your home or in your RV that this generator cannot power. Again, one of the main features that attract people to this model in particular is the power it offers. No paralleling, no running multiple generators—this one takes care of all your needs.

Specs

  • Engine—Honda iGX390
  • Displacement—389cc
  • AC Output—120/240V 5000W max. (41.2/20.8A) / 4500W rated (37.5/18.6A)
  • iAVR Output—7000W (58.3/29.2A) for 10 sec.
  • Receptacles—20A 125V GFCI Duplex (2), 30A 125V Locking Plug, 30A 125/250V Locking Plug
  • DC Output—12V, 100W (8.3A)
  • Starting System—Electric & Recoil
  • Fuel Tank Capacity—6.2 Gallons
  • Run Time per Tankful—8.1 hrs.@ rated load, 11.2 hrs. @ 1/2 load
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) —41.1″ x 27.8″ x 28.3″
  • Noise Level—66 dB(A) @ rated load; 63 db(A) @ 50% load
  • Dry Weight—232 lbs.

Related: Honda Generators

More information on Honda generators. Read more about the basics of buying a generator as well as what the best generator brands are.
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Mark is a senior editor and retail/deals enthusiast at TheDealExperts.com. He specializes in finding the best deals available in-store and online. In his spare time, mark enjoys taking his pups on hikes, camping, fishing and getting on the road.

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