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 looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
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 GP3250
Generac GP3250 runs on gasoline, powered by a 208 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120/240V, boasting a running wattage of 3,250W alongside a starting wattage of 3,750W.
This generator is equipped with a conventional pull-start mechanism.
The fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons allows the GP3250 to operate for around 9.7 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.36 GPH).
As the GP3250 exhibits a THD of less than 20%, which is high, it is best avoided for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Portability
With its L22.75 x W22 x H21 in dimensions, the open frame structure of the Generac GP3250 provides stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Even at 110 lbs, the generator is categorized as 'portable,' suggesting its movability, although its weight may impede its portability. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.
Features
The GP3250's control panel
Benefiting from its built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows for easy and immediate gas level inspections.
From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), ensuring peace of mind during operation.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Generac GP3250's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which will help you start your generator promptly.
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).
- As its weight is 110 pounds, the Generac GP3250 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 2500-3500 rated wattage category. 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.
- The GP3250, falls within the average autonomy range compared to generators of a roughly same power, with a run time of around 9.7 hours at a 50% load and a full tank. 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 Pulsar PG3250, with around 16 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank's capacity and thus, doesn't say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This generator is rather wasteful, compared to other devices within the aforementioned output range, when it comes to gasoline consumption, as it reaches roughly 0.36 GPH at a 50% load. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.22 gallons per hour.
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 | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 2247 W | 3747 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.
