The NorthStar c5500 is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 4,500 W and a starting wattage of 5,500 W. (Read full specs)
Northern Tool 
Amazon | Price history for the NorthStar c5500 |
|---|
| Highest Price $2,199.99 Lowest Price $1,799.99 Current Price $1,999.99 |
Page Content
Description
Zoom on the NorthStar c5500
In summary, the NorthStar c5500 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
The NorthStar c5500's engine, 270 cc Honda GX270 OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120/240V. It provides a running wattage of 4,500W and reaches a peak wattage of 5,500W.
Featuring a noise rating of 70 dBA (just as noisy as a shower), the generator utilizes a manual recoil starter system for ignition.
Featuring a 8 gallons fuel tank, the c5500 can provide power for around 15.1 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with fuel consumption averaging 0.53 gallons per hour).
With a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the c5500 delivers a clean sine wave—essential for safeguarding your delicate electronics when plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 7 AC outlets:
With its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the c5500 is configured to be transfer switch ready, allowing straightforward connection to your breaker box to supply backup power to your home during outages.
Portability
Measuring L41 x W32 x H29 in, the NorthStar c5500 showcases a classic open frame layout, guaranteeing stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
With a weight of 227 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
The c5500's control panel
The control panel of the c5500 includes a handy voltmeter that allows you to easily monitor power output anytime, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.
The built-in fuel gauge of the generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.
It also includes a carbon monoxide sensor. This sensor is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the generator will automatically shut down.
Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, NorthStar also included a funnel in the c5500's packaging.
The NorthStar c5500 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the NorthStar c5500 compare to generators of similar power (between 4000 and 5000 W).
- At 227 lbs, the NorthStar c5500 stands out as one of the heavier generators rated from 4000 to 5000 watts. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the WEN 56477i, with a dry weight of just 72.7 pounds.
- Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this generator with a lowest noise of 70 dBA can be judged as noisy. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the Yamaha EF4500iSE, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 58 dBA.
- Compared to devices of similar power, the c5500 stands out with one of the highest run times, lasting around 15.1 hours at 50% load.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. In terms of fuel efficiency within its wattage range, this generator falls short: it consumes approximately 0.53 GPH at a 50% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the WEN DF480iX, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.27 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 4000-5000W generators, the NorthStar c5500 is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- CO sensor
- GFCI Outlets
- Honda engine
- Clean sine wave
- High run time
- Made in USA
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (227 lbs)
- On the noisy side (70 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 270 cc Honda GX270 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 4 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 4,500 W |
| Starting watts | 5,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 37.5/18.8 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 45.8/22.9 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 15.1 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Voltmeter |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 227 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 41 x 32 x 29 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 70 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Funnel and wheel kit |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Series | Commercial-Grade |
| Other model numbers | 1654400 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About NorthStar
NorthStar is a brand of outdoor power equipment trademarked and sold by the Northern Tool + Equipment company which has been based in Burnsville, Minnesota, USA since being founded in 1981. NorthStar products include log splitters, portable generators, air compressors, and pressure washers. Their line of commercial-grade portable generators is manufactured in the US. With many units powered by Honda engines, NorthStar outdoor power tools make up a large percentage of the product line for the fast-growing Northern Tool company.
Warranty Information
The NorthStar c5500 is covered under a warranty for up to 4 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of NorthStar generators, please contact the NorthStar Customer Support: 1-800-270-0810.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
| Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Total | 3587 W | 5062 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 3595 W | 4015 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 5480 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
