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)

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Generac GP3250Generac GP3250Generac GP3250Generac GP3250

This product was discontinued. For your convenience, we decided to leave this page up.
It was replaced by the Generac GP3600.

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 in use

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:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120/240V 20A (L14-20R) receptacle

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

Panel of the Generac GP3250

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

STRENGTHS:

The Generac GP3250 doesn't have any specs that exceed those of other generators of its class.

AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (110 lbs)
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • 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

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine208 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz
Running watts3,250 W
Starting watts3,750 W
Running amps (@120/240V)27.1/13.5 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)31.3/15.6 amps
Run time @50% load9.7 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationNo
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120/240V 20A (L14-20R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerNo
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankSteel, 3.5 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight110 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)22.75 x 22 x 21 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THD< 20%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedWheel kit
UPC069647159823

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 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?
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
Radio100100
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total2272 W3747 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
RV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
Radio100100
Total2590 W3180 W
For workGrinder14002500
Milk cooler11001800
Bug zapper8080
Total2580 W3680 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.

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