Generac Generator Reviews: Top 8 Picks Based on Category
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Generac is one of the most trusted generator producers in the United States. They gain brand loyalty through releasing high quality products at an affordable price.
The company is best known for their home standby generators but they bring a wide range of options to the market, from extremely portable and quiet generators for camping to high capacity commercial portable generators, too.
Generac continuously comes with new versions but the following list shows the best options available online today.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are a top choice for camping trips because they are so compact and generally more quiet. Generac produces several versions that are worth your attention.
Generac 6901 iQ2000
The IQ2000 is one of the more technologically advanced models which you can guess just by looking that the cool LED control panel. From this well lit dashboard you can check the remaining run time, fuel levels, power usage, monitor the oil level and switch between modes.
This lightweight inverter delivers an impressive run time of 7.7 hours on a 25% load when it is in Standard Mode. This model lets you switch between 3 modes, Standard, Economy and Turbo, so you have more control over it fuel-efficiency.
One of the best aspects is that it is significantly more quiet compared to many other brands in the same power category. Generac markets it as being quieter than the famous Honda EU2200i.
This device is parallel capable so you can connect another IQ2000 and have double the power. This model has 2000 watts surge power and 1600 watts running power which is a standard capacity for this type.
- Quieter than Honda. Smarter. Portable. Run Time (50% Load)-5.7 hrs. Fuel Capacity-1.06 Gallons. AC Rated Output Running Watts-1600
- PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy-to-use dial / PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 2000 watts |
| Running Power | 1600 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.06 gallons |
| Run Time | 7.7 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Quiet
- 3 modes
- LED control panel
- Significant loss of run time at heavier loads
- Reported chance of fuel leak
Generac 7117 GP2200i
The GP Series is one of the more popular because each product delivers great power, regardless of their capacity. The 7117 GP2200i is the 2200-watt inverter model in the series which is great for outdoor activities.
This is a user-friendly model with a simple control panel. It has warning lights for low oil and low fuel, a power turning knob and covered power outlets (USB port, 12 volt DC and 120 volt AC) for extra safety.
It can run the entire day with a rated run time of nearly 11 hours which is impressive for its small lightweight design and 1.2 gallon fuel tank. Make use of its parallel capabilities and you will have enough power for tailgating.
Other interesting features are the 3 power modes that keeps Generac generators fuel-efficient. This model also has TruePower Technology which minimizes harmonic distortion making it safe for direct charging of sensitive electronics like DSLR cameras, mobile phones and laptops.
- Quiet, Compact, Easy to use. AC rated output running Watts: 1700, AC maximum output starting Watts: 2200. Rated 120 VAC Amperage-14.1
- Truepower technology provides clean, stable power ideal for sensitive electronics, tools and appliances while the 1.2 gallon fuel tank allows 10.75 hours of run time at 25% load
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 2200 watts |
| Running Power | 1700 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.2 gallons |
| Run Time | 10.75 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Long run time
- Quiet
- TruePower Technology
- Complaints of engine issues right after opening
- Unstable power output
Generac GP3000i
The most powerful inverter featured on this list is the Generac GP3000i. This device is capable of 3000 watts starting power thanks to the PowerRush Technology which increases the surge capacity by 50%.
At nearly 60lbs, this model is slightly heavier than the other inverters but it is still easy enough to carry thanks to the built-in carrying handle. It is also pretty quiet so that it does not disturb you neighbors when you are camping.
This version also has the TruePower Technology so that you can connect it to sensitive devices without having to worry about damaging them. There are 2 USB ports on the control panel so you can charge 2 electronic devices simultaneously.
Many inverters are parallel capable and that is also the case with the GP3000i. Hooking up a second inverter gives you nearly the same amount of power as many larger and bulkier portable generators so this is a good choice if you want your power source to be compact.
- PowerRUSH Technology - Delivers over 50% more starting capacity-allowing you to do more with less
- Quiet inverter power - reduces sound emissions and provides optimal performance
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3000 watts |
| Running Power | 2300 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.6 gallons |
| Run Time | 5.8 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- High starting power with PowerRush Technology
- TruePower Technology
- Parallel Capable
- Short run time
- Heavy for an inverter
Portable Generators
This is the most versatile type because you can use them as emergency backup power at home but there are also several designs that are suitable for tailgating or even on a RV. These are the best portable models by Generac with differing capacities.
Generac GP Series 3250
Looking for a home backup generator but don’t have very high power requirements or perhaps want to stay within a certain budget? The 5982 GP3250 comes at a friendly price and has just enough power for all the household essentials like the refrigerator and AC.
This is a heavy-duty design with 8 inch never-flat tires and a steel frame which makes this just also suitable for the odd-job handyman that needs electricity for power tools. With a run time of over 10 hours at a 25% load this is a reliable off-grid power station.
One great aspect is the 208cc OHV engine with splash lubrication which ensures a longer engine and also makes maintenance easier. The automatic shutoff whenever the oil levels are dangerously low is another feature that protects the engine.
- Maximum starting watts: 3750 watts
- Rated running watts: 3250 watts
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3750 watts |
| Running Power | 3250 watts |
| Tank Size | 3.35 gallons |
| Run Time | 10.25 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Heavy duty design
- High running watts compared to starting watts
- Affordable
- Not CARB compliant so does not ship to California
- Overly simple control panel does not have monitoring features
Generac 5978 GP7500E
Looking for a heavy duty dependable generator with good run time? Then consider the 5978 GP7500 which delivers great power, is fuel efficient and made for outdoor use thanks to its large never-flat tires and hardened steel frame.
It has 7500 watts continuous power and surge power rated at 9375 watts which is great for larger electronic appliances and devices or running an entire household during long power cuts. It has a 7.5 gallon fuel tank which when full is enough to run a whopping 11 hours at a 50% load, proving how fuel-efficient this model is.
The control panel has 5 different power outlets, an hour meter for monitoring maintenance requirements, circuit breakers and a simple on/off switch. Overall, this is a simple control panel which makes it more manageable for construction sites but also for household use.
- Generac 420cc OHV engine for long engine life and consistent power
- Single touch electric start provides hassle-free start-up
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 6875 watts |
| Running Power | 5500 watts |
| Tank Size | 7.2 gallons |
| Run Time | 10 hours on 50% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Fuel efficient
- High starting power
- Straightforward control panel
- Electric start
- Expensive for capacity
- Runs hot
Generac 5734 GP15000E
This powerful portable generator is marketed by Generac as delivering high performance but with low maintenance requirements. It has a 992cc OHVI engine with an output of 22,500 watts surge power and 15,000 watts continuous power.
This is a true workhorse since it can run for a full 10 hours at a 50% load thanks to its large 16 gallon fuel tank. It holds enough power to run most household appliances but it is also sturdy enough with the hardened steel cradle and rough track tires for use at construction sites.
This is also a user-friendly design thanks to the clear and simple control panel, electric start and a full-pressure lubrication system that helps keep the engine in good condition for a longer lifespan. Though it is not the cheapest option out there, the amount of power that it can deliver make this model a good alternative to home standby generators which are even more expensive.
- Generac 992cc OHVI engine incorporates full pressure lubrication with automotive style spin on oil filter for a longer life engine
- Electric start with battery (included) and plug-in battery charger jack
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 22,500 watts |
| Running Power | 15,000 watts |
| Tank Size | 16 gallons |
| Run Time | 10 hours on 50% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Big power output
- Sturdy design
- Simple to run
- Relatively expensive
- Not fuel efficient
Home Standby Generators
If you live in an area with frequent power cuts then this is an investment that you should consider. Generac is one of the favorite brands for home standby generators with one of its great advantages being the affordable price range.
Generac 7033 Guardian Series
This home standby generator is actually in the same price range as the more powerful 5734 GP15000E so why should you get the 7033 instead? If you are not mechanically inclined and want a device that is as easy as possible then a standby generator which automatically turns on with a power cut is the simpler hands-off choice.
11,000 watts is still enough to power a small household with several household appliances running at the same. The beauty is that you do not have to fuss about anything because the technician installs everything for you, including the connection to the home’s LP supply so that you never have to worry about refueling.
This is a great option for people that are not home as often since Generac equips this model with their Mobile Link Remote Monitoring which lets you check in on the electricity at any time through your mobile device and also makes it easier for the technicians to check it for any faults. It also has minimal harmonic distortion which makes it a trustworthy and safe power source for sensitive electronics.
- True Power Technology delivers best-in class power quality (less than 5% THD) for smooth operation of sensitive electronics and appliances
- Includes a 200 Amp NEMA 3 (indoor / outdoor rated) whole house smart transfer switch
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 11,000 watts |
| Running Power | 10,000 watts |
| Tank Size | Connected to LP / Natural Gas Supply |
| Run Time | Unlimited |
| Fuel | Liquid Propane or Natural Gas |
Pros and Cons
- Affordable standby generator
- Mobile Link Remote Monitoring System
- No need for refueling
- Only suitable for smaller household loads
- Pricey installation and maintenance
Generac 70432 Guardian Series
The larger alternative is the 70432, an equally popular home standby generator but with nearly double the capacity with 22,000 watts surge power and 19,500 watts continuous power. This is enough for most households to sit out a power outage for an unlimited amount of time since it is directly connected to the home natural gas or LP supply.
This model has all the Generac characteristic features like TruePower Technology which minimizes harmonic distortion, Mobile Link Remote Monitoring and the RhinoCoat for a durable coating. The Guardian Series is very popular among homeowners since it is a dependable power source with several financing options.
This model also has a multilingual LCD control panel which is protected by the RhinoCoat casing that is resistant to all weather conditions.
- 5-Year limited Warranty for automatic standby generators.
- Powers 16-circuits of your home with the 200-amp, NEMA 3R (indoor or outdoor rated) transfer switch with Aluminum enclosure
Last update on 2020-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 22,000 watts |
| Running Power | 19,500 watts |
| Tank Size | Connected to LP / Natural Gas Supply |
| Run Time | Unlimited |
| Fuel | Liquid Propane or Natural Gas |
Pros and Cons
- Mobile Link Remote Monitoring
- TruePower Technology
- High quality materials
- Expensive installation costs
- Expensive spare parts
