Generac GP3000i is the ultimate power solution for RV owners, DIY enthusiasts, travelers, and explorers. It is a lightweight inverter machine that produces decent output power. It is easy to operate, works without making much noise, and has multiple safety features and ports.
Features:
Generator Type: Generac GP3000i is a portable inverter generator. It runs on gasoline, and you can use it to power your campsites and tailgates. Also, it is an ideal choice for RV travelers.
Portability: It is a compact generator with 22.2 inches in length, 13.3 inches in width, and 18.4 inches in height. Also, it only weighs 59.5 pounds. Moreover, you have a convenient built-in handle to carry it easily.
Power: GP3000i is powered by a 149cc Generac 4-stroke OHV engine. It delivers 3000 starting watts and 2300 running watts. This power is quite sufficient to run small and large appliances as well as electronics. It has a PowerRush Technology that offers 50% more starting power to help users run their motor-driven appliances. With this generator, you can easily power a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner.
But if this output power is not sufficient for you, then you can make use of its parallel capability feature. This allows you to connect another similar or compatible unit with this generator to double the starting and running watts.
Also, its THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) rating is less than 3%. This makes it an ideal generator to power your sensitive and delicate electronics like tablets, smartphones, TV, and more.
THD is the measurement of the power supply quality. The harmonic component present in the current and voltage waveforms causes waveform distortion. The lesser the distortion is, the ideal the generator will be for powering sensitive electronic items.
Fuel Tank Size and Runtime: The fuel tank capacity of this generator is 1.06 gallons. On a full tank, you will get up to 5.8 hours of runtime at 25% load and 4.5 hours at 50% load. It consumes around 0.18 gallons of gasoline per hour.
The presence of the Economy mode helps you to save fuel and money. It doesn’t allow the engine to run at its full speed all the time. Its role is to help the engine to run according to the load. At 25% load, the engine will run at a slower speed, but at 50% and 75% load, its speed will be higher to meet that load. This not only saves fuel but also increases the life of the engine.
Starting Method: It only features a manual start system, but its pull-cord mechanism is very smooth.
It has a Power dial that offers three operation settings: choke, run, and off.
In winters, always start your generator on a choke setting. It provides more fuel to turn on a cold engine. For normal generator operation, select the run setting. It slowly eliminates the use of the choke. And the off function stops the engine operation by shutting down the fuel supply.
Power Outlets: Its control panel features two 120 Volt 20 Ampere (5-20R) outlets, two 5 Volt USB ports, and one 120 Volt 30 Ampere (L5-30R) outlet.
You can use the 5-20R receptacles to power your appliances and tools. The USB ports are used to charge electronics. And the L5-30R outlet makes the RV connection easier.
Status Lights: Three status lights help users to know the generator’s current status. The overload indicator light tells your generator has an additional load. The low-oil indicator shows that the oil level is quite insufficient to run the engine. And the output ready indicator indicates that your unit is ready to use.
Safety: Generac GP3000i has an automatic voltage regulation system, low-oil shutdown, overload protection, and a spark arrestor.
The auto voltage regulator keeps the generator’s output voltage constant. It doesn’t allow the varying load and operating temperature to affect the set voltage value. The low-oil shutdown and overload protection save engine damages. And the spark arrestor keeps you and your surroundings protected from dangerous sparks that may come out of the engine.
Warranty: It offers a 1-year commercial warranty and a 2-year residential warranty.
Generac GP3000i vs. Honda EU3000IS vs. Briggs & Stratton P3000
| Features | Models | ||
| Generac GP3000i | Honda EU3000IS | Briggs & Stratton P3000 | |
| Peak/Rated Watts | 3000W/2300W | 3000W/2800W | 3000W/2600W |
| Tank Size | 1.06 gal. | 3.4 gal. | 1.5 gal. |
| Runtime | 5.8 hrs (1/4 load) | 20 hrs (1/4 load) | 10 hrs (1/4 load) |
| Noise | Not mentioned | 50-57 dBA | 58 dBA |
| Starting Mechanism | Recoil | Recoil, Electric | Recoil |
| Weight | 59.5 lbs. | 131 lbs. | 84 lbs. |
My Opinion:
Pros: Generac GP3000i produces clean and stable power. It is light in weight, features an easy-to-use power dial, and has multiple outlets to power your appliances and tools. The LED indicator lights tell you the generator status and different safety features that protect the unit and your appliances from damages.
Cons: It has a relatively low runtime. Also, there is no electric start mechanism.
FAQs
What is Total Harmonic Distortion?
THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is the measurement of the harmonic distortion of a voltage or current present in an electrical signal. It must be less than or equal to 5% in a generator to make it safe for powering sensitive electronics.
Is Generac GP3000i a CARB compliant generator?
Yes, Generac GP3000i is a CARB (California Air Resources Board) approved generator. It meets all the standards set by CARB to keep the air free from pollution. So, you can use and ship this generator to all the states of America, including California.
What type of oil is recommended to use in GP3000i?
Above 0⁰C, it is recommended to use SAE 30 oil. For temperatures between 4⁰C and -23⁰C, use 10W-30 oil. If it not possible, buy a Synthetic 5W-30 that works in all temperatures.