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Generac Holdings has been in the business of making portable generators since the 1980s and has had decades since to hone its craft. Considered one of the best and most trusted generator brands in the business, Generac produces quality backup power sources for industrial, residential, and commercial purposes. The company’s dedication to making excellent backup generators is seen clearly in the model we’ll be showing you today: the Generac GP3500iO.
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Generac GP3500io Portable Inverter Review
The GP3500iO is the perfect portable inverter generator to have on the go or in an emergency.
It can provide clean, uninterrupted power to all of your essential electronics, and its lightweight frame makes it simple to carry to where it needs to be.
In addition, the Generac GP3500iO runs 50% quieter than previous models, making it the ideal generator to help you perform sensitive work on the road without getting distracted by generator noise.
Pros
- Provides clean energy to allow for use on the most sensitive electronics.
- Very quiet while in use, producing a much less disruptive sound than similar models.
- Features the PowerRush™ option for a temporary boost in energy draw in emergencies.
- Compatible with a parallel kit to allow for a connection between two units.
- Can run up to 11 hours on a full tank.
- Has a warning light and an automatic shutoff for when the oil level is low.
- 25% lighter than similar generators, allowing for ease of portability and storage.
- Comes packaged with a funnel, tool kit, and oil.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with an electric start.
- Lower fuel efficiency in comparison to similar models.
Specifications
Generac GP3500iO
Model: | GP3500iO |
Engine Brand: | Generac |
Engine Type: | 212cc Generac OHV 4-stroke |
Ideal: | Household essentials, camping equipment, RV appliances |
Running Watts: | 3,000 |
Starting Watts: | 3,500 |
Peak Amps: | 29.2 amps |
Running Amps: | 25 amps |
Outlet: | 2 AC outlets, 2 DC outlets |
Starting System: | Recoil |
Sound Levels (dBA): | Not provided (unofficially 40db to 48db) |
Recommended Oil: | 10W-30 or Synthetic 5W-30 |
Low Oil Shutdown: | Yes |
Fuel Type: | Gasoline |
Fuel Shutoff: | Automatic |
Fuel Tank Capacity: | 2.37 US gal |
Run Time at 25% Capacity: | 11 hours |
Run Time at 50% Capacity: | 8 hours |
Overload Protection (Circuit Breaker): | AC circuit protector |
Emissions: | 50 State Compliant (EPA/CARB certified) |
Warranty : | 3-year limited warranty |
Length : | 19.3in |
Width: | 16.9in |
Height : | 16.4in |
Weight : | 74.3lbs |
Key Features And Benefits
Start Type – The Generac GP3500iO uses a traditional manual pull cord as the starting mechanism. Also included in the generator is Generac’s PowerRush™ technology, which allows you to temporarily pull a higher burst of power at startup for equipment that needs a stronger current at startup.
Fuel Efficiency And Runtime – The GP3500iO uses a 212cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine that runs off gasoline. With a fuel capacity of a little over 2 gallons, the generator boasts an impressive runtime of up to 11 hours on a full tank at 25% load. With its automatic shutoff that activates when oil runs low and a spark arrestor that prevents the generator from sparking in volatile environments, this generator provides peace of mind while it’s in operation.
Control Panel – The control panel includes an economy switch, a grounding location, a built-in hour meter, a PowerDial™ that controls the PowerRush™ feature, and three indicator lights: one that flashes when the fuel is running low, one for when the generator is overloaded, and one for when the generator is ready for use. The GP3500iO control panel also includes five outlets: two duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) AC outlets for regular appliances, one 120V 30A (TT-30R) AC outlet for hookup to an RV trailer, and two 5V USB ports that function as convenient charging stations for phones or tablets.
Power Output – The Generac GP3500iO has an output of 120 volts and provides a running wattage measured to be around 3000W with a peak wattage of 3500W. Additionally, this portable generator is compatible with parallel kits, allowing it to be linked with other generators for added power draw. The GP3500iO provides more than enough energy to get any household amenity, camping equipment, or work tool running for as long as you need it.
Portability And Size – Unlike other models of inverter generators, the Generac GP3500iO is built for ease of transport. It’s 25% lighter than previous generators, weighing in at only 74lbs. Its dimensions are L19.3 x W16.9 x H16.4 inches. This size, plus the open-frame design, culminates in a stable unit that can be stored safely in an elevated position and used with minimal fuss in rough or uneven terrains.
Noise Level – The Generac GP3500iO runs 50% quieter than similarly sized 3000W generators, making, as the manufacturer insists, the ideal unit for noise-sensitive environments. Generac doesn’t provide official decibel levels, but, according to owner reviews and comparisons to similar models, the GP3500iO lies between 40db and 48db, making this generator one of the quietest on the market.
Warranty – Under Generac’s policies, this item comes with a three-year warranty that covers repair, returns, or refunds if the generator is damaged during shipping.
Best Suited For?
The Generac GP3500iO is one of the most versatile inverter generators on the market, and its most key features provide reliable benefits in many situations.
A compact frame measuring L19.3 x W16.9 x H16.4 inches allows the generator to be easily stored in more convenient locations around the home than standard models. The unit is light enough to be handled by one person, so it’s a simple matter of moving it from where it has been stashed to where it can power your essential electronics in the event of an emergency. It even has two UVB ports that can be used to charge a phone or a tablet, providing energy clean enough that it can reliably run through even more sophisticated technologies.
The GP3500iO’s 25% lighter frame makes for easy transport to outdoor locales as well. The TT-30R receptacle makes this generator RV-ready, providing enough power to keep the air conditioning and refrigerator running at full efficiency. This portability makes it the ideal power source to take on camping trips for long nights under the stars. And its long runtime makes it a reliable source of power for any who regularly attend concerts, festivals, or other outdoor events.
Lastly, the GP3500iO generator makes very little noise, designed to be 50% quieter than similar models. Hobbyists and DIY builders will benefit the most from this feature. The sounds that this generator does make are slight enough to not be disruptive to meticulous work. For craftspersons who want to take their handcrafting tools on the go, there are few better options for power than the GP3500iO.
Reasons To Buy
The main reason to purchase the Generac GP3500iO generator is its versatility and stability in rough environments. The power output is good for up to 11 hours on a full tank of gas, and the generator can directly provide energy to regular appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, and air conditioning. It’s also able to do the same for more sophisticated technology like smartphones or tablets. This – and the ease in which the GP3500iO can be moved – makes it a reliable generator suitable for sudden blackouts, RV trips, or roughing it on a camping trip. No matter the circumstance, the Generac GP3500iO is capable of handling any family’s electricity needs.
Additionally, the GP3500iO is compatible with a parallel kit, allowing it to be hooked to another inverter generator for twice the power it could pull alone. This is particularly useful to users whose households have more electricity-intensive needs or expect to be on the road for an extended period. The connecting cable doesn’t come with the GP3500iO, so you should consider acquiring one if you foresee a situation where more power will be required.
Previous portable generators from Generac are estimated to last around 2,000 hours if run continuously with regular oil changes and proper periodic maintenance. With infrequent use, the life cycle of those generators could be stretched to one or two decades. However, the GP3500iO’s lighter frame and smoother operation than previous models produce less wear and tear on the unit over time. So, with proper maintenance using the tool kit provided in the box, this inverter generator could potentially last up to 2,500 to 3,000 hours with continuous use. And if used for 100 hours per year, the GP3500iO potentially could last for up to 22 years.
Summing Up
In summary, if you are in the market for a portable inverter generator, the Generac GP3500iO is an excellent and long-lasting investment. It’s lightweight and compact for easy handling during transport but provides enough power to run household essentials, camping equipment, RV appliances, and more sensitive electronics like a smartphone or a flat-screen TV. With an engine 50% quieter than competing generator brands and an automatic shutoff for when it’s low on fuel, the GP35000iO is built for peace of mind in a variety of situations.
Generac GP3500iO
Portable Inverter Generator
- Provides clean energy
- Can run up to 11 hours on a full tank
- Features the PowerRush™
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