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Description
Zoom on the Generac GP17500E
In summary, the Generac GP17500E is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
- Prudent homeowners who want a backup power source in case of a power outage
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.
Power & Run Time
The Generac GP17500E
The Generac GP17500E's design includes a gasoline-fueled 992 cc Generac OHVI 4-stroke engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 17,500W and also a peak wattage of 26,250W. The impressive running wattage makes this unit the 3rd biggest portable generator currently on the market.
This generator is started via a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included).
With a fuel capacity of 16 gallons, the GP17500E may run for around 10 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 1.6 GPH).
The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the GP17500E is not recommended due to its high THD (<20%).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 8 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
While this Generac generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, as it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the GP17500E is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.
Portability
The Generac GP17500E has the following dimensions: L48.5 x W31 x H39.5 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 390 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀12.3") and its handle, once it is placed on the ground.
Further safety during transport, loading and unloading of the device is provided by a lift hook, which is placed on the top of the generator's frame.
Features
The GP17500E's control panel
One of the many GP17500E's features is the data center, included in its control panel, which conveniently provides information on the lifetime run hours and thus, helps you monitor its activity and status.
Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, Generac also included a tool kit in the GP17500E's packaging.
Emissions
The Generac GP17500E is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.
However, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.
Product Videos
The Generac GP17500E versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac GP17500E compare to generators of similar power (between 14000 and 20000 W).
- As far as its dry weight is concerned, the Generac GP17500E weighs just 390 pounds and thus, it is one of the lighter 14000 to 20000 rated wattage generators. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Generac GP15000E, weighing just 363 pounds.
- Given that the GP17500E reaches an autonomy of around 10 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the Westinghouse WGen20000, boasting with around 11 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. Standing at an estimated 1.6 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, this generator is somewhat average in this area compared to other devices, within the aforementioned wattage range. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Generac GP15500EFI, with a fuel consumption of 1.29 GPH could be in your good books.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 14000-20000W generators, the Generac GP17500E is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- GFCI Outlets
- 5 different AC outlet types
- Electric start
- Lightweight for its kind (390 lbs)
- Made in USA
- Decent run time
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- Not CARB-compliant
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 992 cc Generac OHVI 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 17,500 W |
| Starting watts | 26,250 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 145.8/72.9 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 218.8/109.4 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 10A receptacle |
| Data center | Lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 16 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 390 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 48.5 x 31 x 39.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 20% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Tool kit, battery, and wheel kit |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Other model numbers | 5735 |
| UPC | 696471057355 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About Generac
Generac Power Systems is an American based generator and power equipment manufacturer, founded in 1959. As its name suggests, the main focus of Generac are power generators, and other related electric equipment, such as switches, paralleling systems and small engines. The company has several manufacturing facilities based in the US, thus, their products are engineered and built in the USA. However, their components can be a mix of domestic and foreign parts.
Warranty Information
The Generac GP17500E is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Generac generators, please consult Generac's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-888-GENERAC (888-436-3722).
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 13967 W | 15467 W | |
| For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 | |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 13880 W | 18380 W |
What is the noise rating of the GP17500E?
Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Generac does not provide their units' noise levels.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
GP17500E purchased 2016 is a Great Product in all respects.
EXCEPT TIRES.
Tires are rated for maximum load of 320 Lbs.
The generator weighs 390 Lbs.
Gas is 6 Lbs a gallon. It holds 16 Gal of gas. 6×16=96Lbs.
390+96 Lbs= 496 total weight
What is up with that?
That may be why my tires keep going flat. My generator is stationary and not moved, sitting on concrete pad.
Generac replaced two wheels and they sent the exact same wheels with tires.
No help they go flat also.
Found out yesterday from GENERAC parts, they are now going to use solid wheels which will fit my generator.
However, I am concerned about excessive vibration with solid wheels not handling the vibration as like the tubeless tires I have.