Generac GP3250 (Discontinued)
The Generac GP3250 (5982) is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,250 W and a starting wattage of 3,750 W. (Read full specs)
This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.
It was replaced by the Generac GP3600.
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Description
An affordable solution for recreational applications. Perfect size for tailgating,camping and power tool use.
Zoom on the Generac GP3250
In short, the Generac GP3250 is a portable generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
The Generac GP3250
The Generac GP3250 is powered by a 208 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 3,250W as well as a peak wattage of 3,750W.
This generator gets running thanks to a manual recoil starter system.
Featuring a 3.5 gallons fuel tank, the GP3250 guarantees continuous power for around 9.7 hours at 50% load on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.36 GPH).
Due to the high THD (<20%) of the GP3250, it is advised against using it for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel is equipped with the following 3 AC outlets:
Portability
At L22.75 x W22 x H21 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Generac GP3250 ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 110 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
Features
The GP3250's control panel
A built-in fuel gauge allows for a quick, easy and convenient check of the fuel level of the generator.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, providing peace of mind during use.
Regarding its accessories, besides the aforementioned features, the Generac GP3250's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start it right off the bat.
Product Video
The Generac GP3250 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac GP3250 compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- Having a dry weight of 110 lbs, the Generac GP3250 belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 2500 to 3500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Pulsar PGD40iSCO appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 46 pounds.
- At a 50% load, the GP3250's around 9.7 hours of runtime on a full tank fall within the average autonomy range for similarly powerful generators. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Predator 4375, as it provides around 16 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 fact, this generator is not one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.36 GPH. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.22 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
The bottom line
The Generac GP3250 doesn't have any specs that exceed those of other generators of its class.
- Decent weight (110 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- No electric start
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Generac GP3250 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 208 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,250 W |
| Starting watts | 3,750 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 27.1/13.5 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 31.3/15.6 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 9.7 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 3.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 110 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 22.75 x 22 x 21 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 20% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Wheel kit |
| UPC | 069647159823 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 GP3250 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 |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 2595 W | 3695 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2590 W | 3180 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Milk cooler | 1100 | 1800 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2580 W | 3680 W |
What is the noise rating of the GP3250?
Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Generac does not provide their units' noise levels.
What is the gap setting on the valves on a Generac 3250 engine? (Asked May 25, 2020)
Valve clearances are the following: Intake 0.10mm ± 0.02/0.004" ± 0.0008 (cold) — Exhaust 0.15mm ± 0.02/0.006" ± 0.0008 (cold)
Is the output a pure sine wave? (Asked August 25, 2020)
No. This unit's THD is <20%.
What should the spark plug gap be on a 3250 Generac (Asked December 14, 2021)
Spark plug gap should be 0.030 inch.
