Generac GP6500 Spec Review

In a nutshell, the Generac GP6500 is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

• Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
• Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
• Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment

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 GP6500

The Generac GP6500's design includes a gasoline-fueled 389 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 6500W and also a peak wattage of 8125W.

The generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a full tank, the GP6500 can operate for around 10.5 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.66 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 6.9 gallons.

The GP6500 is unsuitable for the powering of sensitive electronic devices due to its relatively high THD (<20%).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 5 AC outlets:

Due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the GP6500 is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.

Portability

The Generac GP6500 has the following dimensions: L27.2 x W27 x H26.5 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

Since the generator weighs 172 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). However, its challenging mobility is solved by its wheel kit (⌀9.5") and its folding handle, which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.

Features

The GP6500's control panel

One of the many GP6500's features is the data center, included in its control panel, which conveniently provides information on the lifetime run hours and thus, helps you monitor its activity and status.

The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its 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.

The GP6500 also benefits from Generac’s COsense® carbon monoxide monitoring. This technology senses and manages CO output and shuts down the unit when necessary, to minitgate CO poisoning. It’s a welcomed additional security feature, but don’t forget to always take your generator outside (opens in a new tab).

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Generac GP6500 also comes with several accessories, including: funnel and oil.

Emissions

The Generac GP6500 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.