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Description
Zoom on the Generac iQ3500
In summary, the Generac iQ3500 is a compact portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- 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
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from and any relevant emission compliance details.
Power & Run Time
The Generac iQ3500
The Generac iQ3500 houses a 212 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 3000W along with a peak wattage of 3500W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (iQ3500 Parallel kit not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.
This inverter generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). It features Generac's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.
With a full tank, the iQ3500 can operate for up to 14.1 hours (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 2.6 gallons.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the iQ3500 produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).
- For camping/tailgating: 1 rice cooker, 1 coffee maker, 1 DVD player, 1 slow cooker, 1 satelite receiver, 1 radio and 1 cell phone charger
- At home: 1 waffle iron, 1 rice cooker, 1 printer, 1 mixer and 1 pair of small speakers
- For work: 1 electric fence (25 miles), 1 drain cleaner and 1 bug zapper
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Additionally, it features 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
Even though this Generac generator isn't quite RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle allows an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
The Generac iQ3500 is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L23.7 x W18 x H21.7 in. Thus, it is more esthetical than conventional, open frame products. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 109.1 pounds.
Features
The iQ3500's control panel
Monitoring of the iQ3500's status and activity is made possible by an illuminated data center, which provides information on the remaining run time, lifetime run hours, power output and fuel level and is one of the features of its control panel.
In addition to this info, when the oil level is too low, the generator is overloaded and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
Besides the usual set of documentation and user manual to get you promptly started, Generac also included a funnel in the iQ3500's packaging.
Emissions
The Generac iQ3500 is CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.
Product Video
The Generac iQ3500 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac iQ3500 compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- As its weight is 109.1 pounds, the Generac iQ3500 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 2500-3500 rated wattage category. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above mentioned power range is the Honda EG2800i, with a dry weight of just 66.6 pounds.
- Thanks to an impressive running time of 14.1 hours at 25% load, the iQ3500 benefits from a higher run time than many generators of a similar output. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Honda EU3000iS, reaching 20 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. As this inverter generator uses an estimated 0.18 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.13 GPH, the Energizer eZV3200P is a device you should look out for.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this dynamic chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W generators, the Generac iQ3500 is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- High run time
- Decent weight (109.1 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No remote start
- No spark arrestor
Where to buy the Generac iQ3500?
Amazon 
eBay 
The Home Depot | Price history for the Generac iQ3500 | |
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| Latest updates:
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Features and Specifications
General
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
Power
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3000 W |
| Starting watts | 3500 W |
| Running amps | 25 amps |
| Peaks amps | 29.2 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.9 h |
| Run time @25% load | 14.1 h |
Features
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R) |
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours and remaining run time |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 2.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
Misc
| Weight | 109.1 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | N/A |
| THD | < 3% |
| Emissions | CARB |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | No |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel |
| Warranty | 3 years |
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.
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 iQ3500 is covered under a warranty for up to 3 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. Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-888-GENERAC (888-436-3722).
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