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Generac GP3250 - 3250/3750W Portable Generator

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.

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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 a nutshell, the Generac GP3250 is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
  • People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
  • 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 sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP3250 in use

The Generac GP3250

The Generac GP3250 houses a 208 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120/240V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 3,250W along with a peak wattage of 3,750W.

This generator is started via a simple traditional 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).

The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the GP3250 is not recommended due to its high THD (<20%).

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:

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

Portability

With its dimensions of L22.75 x W22 x H21 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Generac GP3250 offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 110 pounds. 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

Panel of the Generac GP3250

The GP3250's control panel

The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.

Besides the features previously mentioned, accessory-wise, the Generac GP3250 comes with the usual documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) needed to get you promptly started.

Emissions

The Generac GP3250 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.

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).

  • Considering its dry weight of 110 pounds, the Generac GP3250 is one of the heavier generators producing between 2500 and 3500 running watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, with a dry weight of only 46 lbs.
  • As the GP3250 offers around 9.7 hours run time on a full tank at a 50% load, it falls within the average autonomy range among the generators of a similar power. 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.
  • 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 not fuel efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.36 GPH at a 50% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.22 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Generac GP3250 vs Generac GP3300.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W generators, the Generac GP3250 is on the cheap side of the price range.

It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • Not CARB-compliant
  • On the heavy side (110 lbs)
  • 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.

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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 made in the USA. However, the company provides no information about the origin of their components.

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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