Generac GP17500E - 17500/26250W Portable Generator With Electric Start

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Generac GP17500EGenerac GP17500EGenerac GP17500E

Description

The most powerful portable generator on the market is an exceptional value. Powerful enough to start many 5-ton air conditioning units and can provide power for up to 16 circuits.

Zoom on the Generac GP17500E

In summary, the Generac GP17500E is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:

  • Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
  • 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, and the extra features it benefits from.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP17500E in use

The Generac GP17500E

Generac GP17500E runs on gasoline, powered by a 992 cc Generac OHVI 4-stroke engine, delivering 120/240V, boasting a running wattage of 17,500W alongside a starting wattage of 26,250W. The impressive running wattage makes this unit the 3rd biggest portable generator currently on the market.

Its starting mechanism relies on a convenient and efficient electric starter (battery included).

The GP17500E can operate for around 10 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 1.6 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 16 gallons.

Due to the high THD (<20%) of the GP17500E, it is advised against using it for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 8 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
Two 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacles
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle
120/240V 50A (14-50R) receptacle

Additionally, it offers 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A receptacle offering a convenient battery charging option.

Even though this Generac generator isn't quite RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle allows an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since it boasts a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the GP17500E is engineered to be transfer switch ready, ensuring easy integration with your breaker box to provide backup power to your home during outages.

Portability

At L48.5 x W31 x H39.5 in, the Generac GP17500E boasts a traditional open frame structure, ensuring stability and allowing for convenient maintenance access to components, promoting air circulation. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

Despite its weight of 390 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀12.3") and its handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.

A lift hook, which is on the top of the frame, serves as an extra safety feature for the transport, unloading and loading of the device.

Features

Panel of the Generac GP17500E

The GP17500E's control panel

Included in the control panel of the GP17500E, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the lifetime run hours.

The inclusion of a built-in fuel gauge in the generator streamlines gas level checks for quick and convenient assessments.

Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation.

In addition to the standard documentation and the user manual for prompt setup, Generac has also included accessory] in the packaging of the GP17500E.

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).

  • Considering its weight, the Generac GP17500E registers at a modest 390 pounds, placing it among the lighter generators in the 14000 to 20000 rated wattage selection. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM17000iE, with a dry weight of only 308.6 lbs.
  • The GP17500E's runtime of around 10 hours at a 50% load on a full tank positions it within the average autonomy range compared to other generators with similar power. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Westinghouse WGen14500DFc could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching around 11 hours.
  • Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. In terms of fuel efficiency within its wattage range, this generator falls short: it consumes approximately 1.6 GPH at a 50% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse WGen14500DFc. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.95 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Impressive quantity of AC outlets
  • 5 different AC outlet types
  • Electric start
  • Lightweight for its kind (390 lbs)
  • Made in USA
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No recoil back-up
  • No remote start
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Generac GP17500E and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine992 cc Generac OHVI 4-stroke
Starting systemElectric
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts17,500 W
Starting watts26,250 W
Running amps (@120/240V)145.8/72.9 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)218.8/109.4 amps
Run time @50% load10 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 2x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R)
DC outlets1x 12V 10A receptacle
Data centerLifetime run hours
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tank16 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight390 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)48.5 x 31 x 39.5 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THD< 20%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedTool kit, battery, and wheel kit
Country of originUSA
Other model numbers5735
UPC696471057355

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.

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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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeSump pump (1/2 hp)10502150
Furnace fan (1/2 hp)8752350
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Clothes dryer54006750
Electric range21002100
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
Washing machine9001650
Total13967 W15442 W
For workElectric welder90009000
Table saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Grinder14002500
Bug zapper8080
Total13880 W18380 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.

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Generac GP17500E
8.8 Total Score
1 review
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Price
7
Value
8
Quality
10
Performance
10

User Reviews

  1. 4.4
    Price
    70
    Value
    80
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Great product
    - CONS:
    • Tires
    Helpful(6) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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