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Generac GP3600 - 3600/4500W Portable Generator

The Generac GP3600 (7678) is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,600 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W.

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Generac GP3600Generac GP3600Generac GP3600

Description

The GP3600 portable generator is an excellent choice for emergency power when backing up multiple appliances. Featuring PowerRush™ ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, it delivers 40% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less. (source: Generac (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Generac GP3600

In summary, the Generac GP3600 is a portable generator especially useful for:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP3600's design includes a gasoline-fueled 212 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 3,600W and also a peak wattage of 4,500W.

This generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a fuel capacity of 3.7 gallons, the GP3600 may run for around 9.3 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.4 GPH).

Since the GP3600 has a high THD (<25%), it is advisable to not use it for the powering of sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 5 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

This Generac generator isn't quite RV Ready, but it features an L5-30R receptacle, allowing a simple RV connection through an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.

Portability

The design of the Generac GP3600 is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L24 x W22.5 x H21.3 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 105 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.

Features

Panel of the Generac GP3600

The GP3600's control panel

Monitoring of the GP3600's status and activity is made possible by a digital data center, which provides information on the lifetime run hours and is one of the features of its control panel.

Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.

As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.

Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the Generac GP3600's package also includes these accessories: funnel, tool kit and oil.

Emissions

The Generac GP3600 is CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

The Generac GP3600 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac GP3600 compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

  • As its weight is 105 pounds, the Generac GP3600 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN GN400i, standing at just 66.1 lbs.
  • As for its autonomy, the GP3600, with an autonomy of around 9.3 hours at a 50% load, is placed on the low end among the generators of its kind. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Predator 4375, which is able to run for 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 reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.4 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.23 GPH, the Westinghouse iGen4500DF is a device you could look out for.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Generac GP3600 vs Generac iQ3500.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 3500-4500W generators, the Generac GP3600 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
  • Several accessories included
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (105 lbs)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start
  • Relatively low run time

Do you own the Generac GP3600 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
Engine212 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts3,600 W
Starting watts4,500 W
Running amps30 amps
Peak amps37.5 amps
Run time @50% load9.3 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerLifetime run hours
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankSteel, 3.7 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight105 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)24 x 22.5 x 21.3 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THD< 25%
ComplianceCARB
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit
SeriesGP
Other model numbers7678
UPC696471074581

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 GP3600 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 (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 generator sizing calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeDish washer15003000
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Vacuum cleaner10751175
Radio100100
Total2867 W4367 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Electric grill16501650
Total2840 W3430 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W
What is the noise rating of the GP3600?

Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Generac does not provide their units' noise levels.

What make is the engine? (Asked April 19, 2020)

The engine is Generac-branded, but neither engineered nor manufactured in the U.S.

Will this gp3600 run an electric pressure washer ? (Asked August 08, 2020)

A basic electric pressure washer usually has a 12 to 13-amp motor, which operates on 120V. 13x120=1560W.

What type of oil and when does it need to be changed (Asked August 14, 2020)

Recommended oil is SAE 10W-30. Here's the oil change schedule recommended by Generac for the GP3600:
Generac GP3600 Maintenance Schedule

What's the purpose of cleaning the spark arrestor every 50 hours ,unfortunately I bought my unit used so I don't have the manual is supposed to go it also where is the serial number located on the generac 3600 Watt unit and last question how many runtime hours before oil changes please let me know thank you so much (Asked September 05, 2021)

You may find the owner's manual here (opens in a new tab). It should give you the answers to all your questions.

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Generac GP3600
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    So far I got to say I really do like my used generac 3600 watt generator is quieter than a typical lawn mower overall seems like it would be great for camping purposes do you believe I’ll enjoy having it

    + PROS:
    • It was just what I was looking for
    - CONS:
    • No problems with it so far
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