Generac GP6500 Spec Review

In summary, the Generac GP6500 is a portable generator especially useful for:

• Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
• Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
• 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 engine, 389 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120/240V. It provides a running wattage of 6500W and reaches a peak wattage of 8125W.

This generator features a conventional 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 following 5 AC outlets:

Because the GP6500 is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.

Portability

With its dimensions of L27.2 x W27 x H26.5 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Generac GP6500 offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough 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). Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀9.5") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

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.

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

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, 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: oil and funnel.

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, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.