Generac GP17500E (Discontinued)

The Generac GP17500E (5735) is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 17,500 W and a starting wattage of 26,250 W. (Read full specs)

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Zoom on the Generac GP17500E

To sum up, the Generac GP17500E is a powerful portable generator tailored for:

• Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
• Prudent homeowners who want a full backup power source in case of a power outage

The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP17500E

With a 992 cc Generac OHVI 4-stroke engine, the Generac GP17500E operates on gasoline, providing 120/240V, with a running wattage of 17,500W and a starting wattage of 26,250W.

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

With its 16 gallons fuel tank, the GP17500E can operate for around 10 hours at 50% load when fully fueled (with fuel usage averaging 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 is equipped with 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

Furthermore, it showcases 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.

Even if this Generac generator isn't quite RV Ready, it still allows for an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor, thanks to its L5-30R receptacle. Besides, as the GP17500E holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.

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. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

Even at 390 lbs, the generator is categorized as 'portable,' suggesting its movability, although its weight impede its portability. Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀12.3") and its handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.

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

Designed with a digital data center, the control panel of the GP17500E grants you access to crucial data on the lifetime run hours, ensuring practical monitoring of its status and activity.

The built-in fuel gauge of the generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.

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

Beyond the regular documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for quick start, Generac has included a tool kit 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. Weight-conscious users may find the Westinghouse WGen14500TFc appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 348.3 pounds.
• At a 50% load, the GP17500E offers around 10 hours of runtime on a full tank, placing it within the average autonomy range among generators of similar power level. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Westinghouse WGen20000, with around 11 hours.
• Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. 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

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