Generac has been in the power system business for the last 60 years. It has now become one of the leading manufacturers of home backup generators. Not only this, but Generac generators also provide recreation and work power. They manufacture inverter and portable conventional generators along with standby generators for home, office, and industrial usage. In a nutshell, Generac power units can help you anytime, anywhere.
Award Winner
Generac has won the 2014 Natural Gas Generator Company of the Year Award. The Frost and Sullivan Company gave this award because of its major input in the North American natural gas generator industry.
Also, it won the 2017 PTIA (Pro Tool Innovation Award) because of its XC Professional Series of portable generators.
Generac Generator Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
 | Generac GP3000i 7129 Inverter Generator |
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 | Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator |
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 | Generac 5734 GP15000E Portable Generator |
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 | Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator |
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 | Generac 7690 GP6500 Portable Generator |
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1. Generac GP3000i 7129 Inverter Generator – Generac Inverter Generator under $1000
Generator Type: Generac GP3000i is a portable inverter generator that is ideal for powering recreational appliances.
Engine and Power Output: A 149cc Generac 4-stroke OHV engine generates 2,300 running watts and 3,000 starting watts. You can run a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner, TV, RV microwave, cooker, and a cell phone charger with this output power.
PowerRush Advanced Technology: The best feature of GP3000i is PowerRush Advanced Technology. It allows users to get over 50% more starting capacity to run refrigerators, air conditioners, or other big appliances.
True Power Technology: Get clean and stable power with True Power Technology. Charge your smartphones, tablets, and laptops or power-sensitive tools and appliances.
Its THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) rating is less than 3% that is ideal to power any delicate electronic item.
THD measures the harmonic distortion in a signal.
Parallel Capable: Users can also increase the output power by using parallel operation outlets. All you need is to buy a parallel kit to link another generator.
Tank Size and Runtime: Its 1.06-gallon fuel tank can offer 5.8-hour runtime at 25% rated load (2300 watts). But at 50% rated load, its runtime reduces to 4.5 hours.
GP3000i features an economy mode that saves fuel. It allows the engine to adjust its speed according to the load.
Start System: Only recoil start mechanism
Sound Rating: Its sound rating is not mentioned, but its Quiet Inverter Power maintains a lower decibel rating.
Power Outlets: The control panel is packed with two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets and one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) twist-lock outlet. Also, we have two 5 Volt DC USB outlets.
The presence of an L5-30R receptacle allows you to connect your unit with an RV.
Status Lights: Other than power outlets, there are low-oil, overload, and output ready indicator lights.
The low-oil indicator light turns on when there is less or no oil for the engine. The overload indicator tells your generator is overloaded. And the output indicator notifies that your unit is ready to use.
PowerDial: Its control panel also features a simple-to-use Power dial. It consists of three operation settings: choke, run, and off.
The function of a choke is to provide more fuel to turn on a cold engine.
The run set is used for regular generator operation that slowly reduces the use of the choke function. And the last location turns off the engine by shutting down the fuel flow.
Portability: Generac GP3000i only weighs 59.5 pounds. Also, a built-in carrying handle helps users to carry it effortlessly.
Safety: Spark arrestor stops the emission of sparks from the engine.
Low-oil shutdown turns off the engine to protect it from damages. Also, overload protection breaks the circuit when you apply extra load to your generator.
Warranty: It comes with a 3-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac GP3000i is a reliable inverter generator. It is lighter in weight, gives decent output power, and produces less operational sound. Also, it is parallel capable and features a simple dial with three operation settings.
Cons: Its runtime is relatively low.
2. Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator
Generator Type: Generac iQ3500 is also a portable inverter generator that runs on gasoline.
Engine and Power Output: It is more potent than GP3000i; therefore, it has a 212cc Generac 4-stroke OHV engine that produces 3500 surge watts and 3000 rated watts.
PowerRush Advanced Technology: The same PowerRush Advanced Technology that delivers 50% more starting power. If we compare it with Honda, then it gives 16% more power.
This extra starting capacity allows you to power an RV air conditioner up to 13,500 BTU easily.
True Power Technology: Generac iQ3500 is a perfect choice to power sensitive electronics as it generates a pure sine wave.
Parallel Capable: Link another iQ3500 model to double the output power. But you need to buy a parallel kit separately.
Tank Size and Runtime: At half load, you will be able to power your essentials up to 8.9 hours on a 2.6-gallon tank.
Its economy mode saves fuel and extends runtime.
Start System: Generac iQ3500 comes with an electric mechanism. The battery is included, so you don’t have to purchase it separately.
Sound Rating: Its fully enclosed design keeps the operational sound relatively low. It is 40% quieter than Honda.
Power Outlets: Two USB ports allow you to charge your smartphone and tablet. With two 120 Volt AC household outlets, you can power different appliances. And you can use the 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlet to power the RV.
Digital Smart LCD: The unit also features a digital smart LCD that displays watts, generator status, remaining runtime, and remaining fuel level.
PowerDial: Like the power dial of Generac GP3000i, it also has three different settings: choke, run, and off.
Status Lights: Generac iQ3500 also has three status lights: overload, low oil, and output ready.
Portability: It is heavier than GP3000i, but its two carrying handles make it easy to lift.
Safety: Low-oil shutdown and overload protection
Warranty: It includes a 3-year consumer warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac iQ3500 produces clean power. It is tranquil, gives excellent runtime, and quite easy to use. The best part is the power dial and digital smart LCD.
Cons: Wheels are missing.
3. Generac 5734 GP15000E Portable Generator – Most Powerful Portable Generator
Generator Type: Generac GP15000E is the most potent conventional portable generator. It runs on gasoline to power big appliances and power tools.
Engine and Power Output: A 9992cc Generac OHVI engine powers it. It includes full pressure lubrication to extend the engine’s life.
This powerful engine produces 22,500 peak watts and 15,000 rated watts.
Tank Size and Runtime: A 16-gallon plastic tank offers up to 10 hours of continuous runtime at half load.
Automatic Idle Control: It reduces engine speed when there is no load to conserve fuel and extend runtimes.
Start System: Electric start system offers convenience to users. All you need is to press a button to turn on your generator.
Power Outlets: Generac GP15000E has a variety of power receptacles. It includes two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets and two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) GFCI outlets. Also, there are two 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlets, one 120/240 Volt 30 Ampere (L14-30R) outlet, one 120/240 Volt 50 Ampere (L14-50R) outlet, and one 12 volt DC outlet for battery charging.
Hour Meter: An hour meter helps track maintenance intervals.
Portability: 12-inch durable tires and an integrated lifting eye make transportation more comfortable and safer at job sites.
Safety: Its safety features include a low-oil pressure shutdown and an automatic voltage regulator.
This voltage regulator maintains and provides a constant voltage to protect your generator and equipment.
Warranty: Generac GP15000E comes with a 2-year consumer warranty and a 1-year commercial warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac GP15000E has a sturdy design. It produces enormous output power and features a big fuel tank. Also, it offers a wide variety of power outlets and several safety features.
Cons: It is relatively expensive.
Read more: Best 15000 Watt Generators
4. Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator – Standby Generator
Generator Type: Generac 7043 is one of the best home standby generators. It runs on both natural gas and liquid propane.
Construction: It is an air-cooled standby generator made in the USA. It is a robust and durable unit that withstands all weather conditions. The generator is well protected under an anti-corrosive aluminum body. It has three removal sides for easy installation and maintenance.
Engine and Power Output: A pressure-lubricated 999cc Generac G-Force engine provides reliable power for your whole house. It produces 22,000 running watts on liquid propane and 19,500 running watts on natural gas.
True Power Technology: True Power Technology ensures clean and stable power with less than 5% THD rating to help users charge their sensitive electronics during power outages.
Transfer Switch: It includes a 200 amp NEMA 3R smart transfer switch that provides uninterrupted power to your whole house.
Fuel Consumption: If we talk about the fuel consumption, then it consumes 92 cubic feet per hour of liquid propane and 228 cubic feet per hour of natural gas.
Self-Test Mode: It runs around five to twelve minutes during a self-test mode. The generator itself goes into the testing mode, where the engine runs at lower RPM (Revolutions per Minute) to save fuel. Also, during this period, it runs more quietly.
Sound Rating: Generac 7043 operates quietly between 57 and 67 dB (A).
Controller: Its controller has a multilingual LCD display that helps you track maintenance intervals. Also, it displays the battery status.
Remote Monitoring: There is also a remote monitoring facility, but it is sold separately. No matter, wherever you are, you can easily monitor Generac 7043 through your smartphone, PC, or tablet.
Safety Features: The generator offers a variety of safety features. These include automatic voltage regulation, overload protection, low-oil shutoff, and circuit-protecting mechanism.
Warranty: It includes a 5-year limited warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac 7043 is the best home standby generator that produces enormous power. It has a powerful and reliable engine. Also, its maintenance is quite easy and has cooperative customer service.
Cons: No alternator is present for battery charging.
5. Generac 7690 GP6500 Portable Generator
Generator Type: Generac GP6500 is a conventional portable generator. It can be used to power home essentials and small power tools.
Engine and Power Output: It gives 8,125 watts of peak power and 6500 watts of rated capacity. A durable 389cc Generac 4-stroke OHV engine helps the generator to achieve this power output.
PowerRush Advanced Technology: Get 40% more starting power through PowerRush Advanced Technology.
Tank Size and Runtime: You can continuously run your generator up to 10.5 hours at half load on a 6.9-gallon steel fuel tank.
Start System: You have to start the generator manually. There is no electric system available.
Power Outlets: Four 120 Volt 20 Ampere outlets allow you to power multiple appliances simultaneously. We also have a 120/240 Volt 30 Ampere (L14-30) outlet that you can use to connect your generator to a manual transfer switch.
Hour Meter: With an hour meter, you can keep an eye on runtime and maintenance intervals.
Portability: Fold-down handles and durable wheels make it highly portable.
Safety: It comes with automatic voltage regulation and a low-oil shutdown.
Warranty: The unit offers a 3-year consumer warranty and a 1-year commercial warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac GP6500 produces decent output power. It has a big fuel tank that offers respectable runtime. Also, it is highly portable and features an hour meter that helps track maintenance intervals.
Cons: It is a louder unit. Also, it is not easy to maintain.
Buyer’s Guide
In this buying guide, we are going to guide you on which of the features you must look at before purchasing a Generac generator.
Inverter vs. Conventional vs. Standby
First, decide which type of generator you need. If you need a generator for recreational activities, an inverter generator is ideal for you. For small or mid-size homes with not many appliances to run, go for a portable conventional generator. But to power whole big houses or businesses, a standby generator is a must.
For inverters, you can either go for the iQ Series or GP Series. To buy a portable conventional generator, there are many options available. These include the GP Series and XT Series, along with the XC Series. And for a standby generator, you can have any generator from Guardian Series, PowerPact Series, EcoGen Series, and Protector and QT Series.
Inverter generators are compact and light in weight. Due to their smaller size, they have smaller fuel tanks, but the presence of economy mode makes them fuel-efficient. Also, they make a less operational sound because of in-built special mufflers. Moreover, they produce clean and stable power. However, inverter machines cannot deliver higher power output. Also, they are expensive.
Conventional generators are bigger and heavier, but they are portable as well. They have bigger fuel tanks that give extended runtime. Also, they produce higher output power, but most of the units fail to provide clean AC power. Also, they are louder than inverters.
Standby generators are more powerful. They operate automatically within seconds with the help of a transfer switch. When the utility power goes off, this transfer switch immediately senses it and forces the generator to start and take the electrical load.
Output Power
Make a list of appliances, tools, or electronics that you will power through your generator. This will help you to know how powerful your generator should be.
Generac has a variety of generator models, so you will surely find one to meet your power requirements.
An inverter generator with 3000 rated watts is enough for camping, tailgating, or even to power an RV. For home usage, you can also go for a 3000-watt generator to run limited appliances. But a 4000-watt generator is an ideal choice for small or mid-size homes. For construction sites, at least an 8000-watt generator is required. And to power the whole house, make sure your generator produces more than 12,000 rated watts.
In a nutshell, power output totally depends on the number of appliances you need to power. More appliances and tools, more power is required. Fewer appliances and tools, less power is required.
Fuel Tank Capacity and Runtime
If you need longer runtime, go for a Generac generator with a higher fuel tank capacity. Portable conventional generators are less fuel-efficient; thus, they have bigger fuel tanks. On the other hand, inverter machines have smaller fuel tanks because of their fuel-efficient engines that use less fuel to give similar runtime.
Control Panel
If you are buying a standby unit, you don’t need to worry about the control panel features. Generac standby generators come with all the latest control panel features. Inverters also have advanced and well-equipped control panels. You must make sure that you get an odometer, on/off buttons, choke (for inverters and conventional models), fuel gauges, and warning lights for low fuel, oil, and overloading.
Power Outlets
Power outlets of a generator also need to be checked. For camping and tailgating, make sure your generator has USB ports along with two 120 Volt AC household outlets. To connect your generator with an RV, you must have an L5-30R receptacle. To power home appliances and tools, make sure your generator has at least two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets along with one 120/240 Volt outlet.
Eco Mode
This feature only comes in inverter generators. Eco mode helps you reduce the running cost by adjusting the generator output according to the load applied to it. When the load is low, the output will be reduced, and it will increase as you put more appliances on your generator.
Paralleling Capabilities
If you are buying a Generac inverter, make sure it is parallel capable. It will allow you to connect two same model generators with each other and double the power output. It facilitates in running heavy appliances and provides you with more outlets.
Portability
All Generac units (inverters and conventional) are highly portable. In conventional models, you get high-quality wheels and handles. Inverters come with carrying handles. Such features help you move your generator from one place to another and are really helpful at worksites. They come in handy for recreational and worksite use.
Noise Level
Noise pollution has already done severe damages to our environment. It is our responsibility to limit its devastating effects. So, by purchasing a quiet generator, we can play our part in reducing noise pollution.
Inverter generators produce less operational sound than conventional portable generators. Also, there are many home standby generators, which operate without making much noise. So, it is suggested to go for a unit that has a less decibel rating.
Safety
Make sure that your generator offers all the safety features. It must come with surge voltage protection, overload, and low fuel shutdown. All these features are present in standby units. People buying conventional or inverter generators must keep an eye on safety features.
Warranty and Certifications
Generac offers 1-5 years of warranty on different models. Standby generators come with more warranty compared to inverters and conventional generators. Make sure you read the terms and conditions before starting the generator for the first time. You must also look for certifications from EPA and CARB (only for the state of California).
Price
Generac generators are fairly priced. With Generac, you get the best price to power and feature ratio. For all the people on a budget, a Generac generator is the best.
FAQ
Can I use a Generac generator for my whole house?
Yes. Generac makes the best whole house generators. You can use standby generators to power your entire home. For people with smaller homes/apartments or low power needs, a large portable generator can be used as a whole-house backup unit.
Is the automatic transfer switch required for a home standby generator?
Many of the home standby generators come with a transfer switch. If it is not included in the package, you have to purchase one to get uninterrupted power all the time. When the utility power goes out, this automatic transfer switch turns on the generator within seconds to provide temporary electrical power.
What can I run on a Generac generator?
Generac generators come in different shapes and sizes. You can use them to power heavy machines and sensitive devices. Any appliances having a starting wattage less than the generator’s maximum power output can be run on it.
Is Generac a good brand for RVs?
Yes. Generac generators are best for RVs and outdoor uses. Most of the models come to RV ready.
How to maintain and safely use a Generac generator?
The maintenance and safety needs of a Generqac unit are the same compared to other units. For conventional and inverter generators, make sure you never run your generator on a non-flat surface and always use fresh gas. It is best to maintain a distance of at least 15 feet from your home/RV/camping site and never run your generator near windows or doors. It is best to avoid refueling/moving, or operating a hot generator. You must store your generator in a safe, dry place and protect it with a generator cover. It is best to test run your generator after 15-20 days and ensure there is no gas in it while it is stored. For standby generators, you must hire a professional for periodic maintenance and upkeep of your unit.
How frequently should I change the oil of my Generac generator, and what type of oil is recommended to use?
It is essential to change the oil after the first 20 hours of operation. After that, you can change it every 100 hours. However, it is suggested to check the oil level and its viscosity from time to time.
You can use SAE 30 for temperatures above 32 ⁰F. But for temperatures between 40⁰F and -10⁰F, you must use 10W-30. Above all, use synthetic 5W-30, which is ideal to use in all temperatures.
How to avoid generator theft for inverters and conventional generators?
To keep inverters safe from thieves, use metal brackets. For conventional generators, cable locks along with heavy-duty chains are the best option.
Shall I go for one big generator or two inverters?
The answer to this question depends on your usage pattern. If you plan to buy a generator for your home or worksite, go for one big conventional generator. However, if you want two generators for different purposes and don’t usually run heavy machines on generators, buying two parallel capable inverters is a better idea. You can connect them with each other and double the power output and outlets.
Where are the Generac engines made?
If we talk about Generac OHV engines, then they are not made in the U.S. But Generac G-Force and OHVI engines are engineered and manufactured in the U.S. state of Wisconsin.
What are the limitations of Generac Generators?
Generac generators are heavy as compared to other models with the same power output. You may need an additional pair of hands to move the medium-sized models. Generac doesn’t offer dual fuel generators.
Conclusion
If you are tight on a budget but still need a high-quality generator, look no further. Generac has got you covered. You will get a quality generator in every category. Generac generators are durable and will last for 10-12 years without any issues.
I assume you’re a salesman for Generac. I need a fairly quiet Standby Generator that is fueled by Natural Gas.
1. What concerns with A natural Gas powered Standby Generator.
2. So given we have hurricanes. What should I assume to last 3 days?
To calculate what I need assuming 3 days of lost Electricity How do I calculate what I need? ;
Add up Wattage of lights and Air Conditioner and Refrigerator and gas stove. Multiply by 24 hours / day x 3 days = my Watt hours required.
So how do I determine from Generator specs what I need.