Portable generators run the gamut from 1800-watt units perfect for camping to 10,000-watt beasts that can run an entire job site crew. A newcomer to the field is Energizer, a brand known for its alkaline batteries. The Energizer eZV7500 and its ilk come from Midland Power, a Canadian company that also sells Hyundai-brand generators.
first impression
At first glance, generators appear to be well-constructed. The frame doesn't give me any worries. I like the 10" wheel size to help get through the job site. However, I didn't actually test them. As one of the first units to leave the aircraft, I was missing a shaft. That said, never flat wheels are the same diameter and width as I've seen from brands like Honda or Briggs & Stratton, so I have no qualms with them.
The handle locks into place and folds down when you don't need it. There's nothing really exciting or disappointing in that category.
Something is missing. One – and this isn't a big deal for every professional – is the lack of a hook for lifting the Energizer generator to a higher level on the job site. Lack of GFCI protection will become a bigger problem.
start
The Energizer eZV7500 Portable Generator features electric start with recoil backup. It's always nice to have an electric start, especially with a generator of this size. You've got it out of the trailer, no need to try harder to start it.
The battery is physically smaller than most units in this class. Midland has opted to use a 12V, 25.6 Wh lithium battery instead of the lead-acid batteries most brands use. That's less capacity than we've seen in the past, although battery makers claim it's equivalent to a 7-9 Ah lead-acid battery.
strength
One of the main things people look for on a generator is what motor it has. The Energizer eZV7500 Portable Generator doesn't have any major brand name, but it has some features we'd love to see. It is a 4 stroke, 15 hp, 420 cc engine with overhead valve design and electronic fuel injection.
As with all petrol engines, the better you maintain it, the longer it will last. Assuming you take care of it the way it should, Midland offers a 3-year warranty on parts and labor for residential use. Commercial use is covered by a 6-month warranty.
How to Maintain Your Generator
This Energizer generator model will give you 7500 watts peak and 6500 watts continuous. That's enough to keep small jobsite workers afloat. It's also a great option for emergency storm power or running a hunting lodge. Of course, everyone's needs are different, so check out our guide on how much power your generator needs.
What size generator do I need?
Midland tells us this generator can handle energy spikes, so you can charge sensitive electronics with confidence.
run
In terms of runtime, you're in pretty good shape. The 6.6 gallon metal tank will run for 7 hours at full load and 15.5 hours at 25% load. The tank is well within the range of its class, and unless you're running at 100 percent, there should be enough fuel in the tank for a full workday.
Editor's Note: We received an early sample, and the specs now show a 5.5 gallon tank.
Outlets
Energizer covers virtually all of your outlet bases. You'll be able to draw 54A at 120V or 27A at 240V. That's enough power to power almost anything on a job site or short-term outages. Here's a list of what you'll get:
- (2) 120V, 20A AC outlets
- (1) 120V, 30A L5-30R
- (1) 120/240V, 30A L14-30R
- (1) 120/240V, 50A NEMA 14-50R
noise level
This is not a quiet generator. At 76 dB(A), it will piss off your neighbors – at least those who don't have their own generators. It's not too loud, though, so just invite them over to enjoy your treat and let them relax after the storm.
price and value
The Energizer eZV7500 Portable Generator is $1,899. While not as high as a Honda with the same features, it's on a high level for its class. The main question will be how well the engine will perform in sustained use on the job site. Considering you can get similar generators starting at around $1000, when hitting the market at that price, the reliability of the engine will make or break the brand.
Other than that, I'd like to see GFCI protection at this price level.
The first shipments have just arrived, and you can find them at Amazon and Home Depot, among several other retailers.
the bottom line
The jury is still out on that question. With an affordable price and no major initial quality issues, it will take more time for the market to see the reliability of the Energizer engine. GFCI protection is the only glaring oversight to an otherwise excellent build.
Energizer eZV7500 Key Features
- Portable variable frequency generator powered by a large 420cc engine with EFI
- Generates 7,500 watts of inrush power and 6,500 watts of rated clean energy with no voltage spikes
- Heavy-duty and portable design makes transporting this generator easy thanks to its built-in wheels and top-mounted collapsible handle
- EcoMode throttle function automatically adjusts the variable frequency generator's motor to prevent unnecessary gasoline use
- Lightweight and durable design makes transport easy thanks to its built-in wheels and foldable handle
Energizer eZV7500 Specifications
- Model: Energizer eZV7500
- Engine: OHV engine, max 3900RPM.
- Engine Size: 420cc 15HP
- Starting system: electric and manual recoil
- Starting wattage: 7,500 W
- Operating Power: 6,500W
- Maximum current: 120/240V 54/27A
- Fuel tank size: 6.6 gallons
- Run time: 7 hours @ 100%, 15.5 hours @ 25%
- Outlets: (2) 120V 20A (5-20), (1) 120V 30A (L5-30), (1) 120/240V 30A (L14-30), (1) 120/240V 50A (14-50)
- Noise level: 76dBA at 25% load
- Weight: 190 lbs
- Warranty: 3 Years Limited (Residential), 6 Months (Commercial)
- Price: $1,899