Generac RS8000E (Discontinued)

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Generac RS8000EGenerac RS8000EGenerac RS8000E

This product was discontinued. For your convenience, we decided to leave this page up.

Description

Generac’s Rapid Start portable generators with PowerDial, provides back up power with the turn of a dial. The PowerDial streamlines the start-up process by putting all the controls on one convenient dial, so no more separate switches for turning on the engine, opening the fuel valve, or to adjust the choke.

Zoom on the Generac RS8000E

In a nutshell, the Generac RS8000E is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
  • 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 forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.

Power & Run Time

The Generac RS8000E is powered by a 420 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 8,000W as well as a peak wattage of 10,000W.

This generator features a manual recoil starter system, but also a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included). It features Generac's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.

Featuring a 7.5 gallons fuel tank, the RS8000E guarantees continuous power for around 10.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.71 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 5 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle

Equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the RS8000E is engineered to be transfer switch ready, enabling simple hookup to your breaker box to provide backup power for your home during blackouts.

Portability

Measuring L30 x W27.1 x H25.7 in, the classic open frame construction of the Generac RS8000E provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.

While technically classified as 'portable' due to its ability to be moved, the 213.8 lbs of this generator make manual lifting and transportation incredibly difficult. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its wheel kit (⌀9.5") and its folding handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Generac RS8000E

The RS8000E's control panel

The RS8000E's control panel is equipped with a digital data center, furnishing detailed information on the lifetime run hours for you to easily track its activity and status.

Equipped with a built-in fuel gauge, the generator facilitates swift gas level checks.

Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), offering peace of mind throughout operation.

Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the Generac RS8000E's package also includes these accessories: extension cord, battery charger and oil.

Product Videos

The Generac RS8000E versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac RS8000E compare to generators of similar power (between 7500 and 8500 W).

  • At 213.8 lbs dry, the Generac RS8000E is consistent with the standard weight profile for devices ranging from 7500 to 8500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Westinghouse ecoGen10000 appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 147.7 pounds.
  • The RS8000E provides around 10.5 hours of runtime at a 50% load on a full tank, placing it within the average autonomy range among similar generators. If runtime is a priority for you, the Champion 100416 stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing around 12.5 hours of continuous use.
  • While run time is vital, it hinges on the fuel capacity. To grasp the full picture, we must also factor in fuel efficiency. At an estimated fuel consumption of 0.71 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, this generator is a rather fuel-efficient one within its wattage category. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Cummins Onan P9500df, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.6 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
According to our stats, the following comparison is pretty popular: Generac RS8000E vs Generac GP8000E.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Several accessories included
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Electric start
  • Fuel efficient
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (213.8 lbs)
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No 50-amp output
  • No remote start

Do you own the Generac RS8000E 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
Engine420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz
Running watts8,000 W
Starting watts10,000 W
Running amps (@120/240V)66.7/33.3 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)83.3/41.7 amps
Run time @50% load10.5 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerLifetime run hours
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tank7.5 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight213.8 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)30 x 27.1 x 25.7 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THDUnknown
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil, battery charger, extension cord, battery, and wheel kit
UPC696471075823

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 RS8000E 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 wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeSump pump (1/2 hp)10502150
Furnace fan (1/2 hp)8752350
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Electric range21002100
Hair dryer18001900
Slow cooker270270
Radio100100
Total6387 W7862 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
RV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
Blender400850
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total6395 W6985 W
For workTable saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Grinder14002500
Paint sprayer600600
Bug zapper8080
Total5480 W9980 W
What is the noise rating of the RS8000E?

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

Can I power a flat screen TV from an rs 8000e (Asked August 12, 2020)

This unit is not suitable for powering sensitive electronics.

Generac RS8000E
6 Total Score
4 reviews
Add your review
Price
5.8
Value
6.5
Quality
5.8
Performance
5.8

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 0.5
    Price
    10
    Value
    10
    Quality
    10
    Performance
    10

    70 year old female, bought this generator yesterday.
    Powers out, 19°.
    My hubby and I wrestled it out of the car, put it together, got all the extension cords arranged.
    Fired that baby up, plug in the cord…NO POWER.
    I checked everything according to a few you tube videos, tried the drill flashing..nothing.
    We will never be able to lift it back in the car, I called support, they wanted a $5 deposit.
    I really don’t know what to do.
    VERY VERY DISAPPOINTED

    + PROS:
    • None so far
    - CONS:
    • Didn't work out of the box.
    • I'll change my rating pending resolution.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(6)You have already voted this
  2. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    I bought the rs8000e after a 30 hour outage in 20 degree temperatures. I took initially could not start. The problem was that I didn’t wire the fully charged battery. After that senior moment was discovered, it started up right away. I
    wanted too avoid the gasoline/carburetor problem so I bought a propane conversion kit made for the rs8000e. Installs easily and no maintenance emptying the gasoline for storage.

    + PROS:
    • Very well built, reliable and easy to set up.
    - CONS:
    • None
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    (( Generac RS8000E )) Bought 08/22/2020 Great price considering it includes a 25′ Three Way Extension Cord & Oil for the crankcase. I start the Generator every month for 30 min. The Rapid Starter has worked great every time & is simply to operate. The charger that comes with the generator has an Out-Put of 14 volt so it’s more of a battery maintainer. If you are using it as a charger, it will take a couple days to recharge your battery. I use my regular Battery Charger & it only takes an hour to charge it. The included charger is nice for those that don’t have a standard battery charger. I haven’t used my generator since the Mid-West Derecho but it’s ready to go at all times..

    + PROS:
    • The Generac RS8000E is compact and the right size to run your house essentials in an emergency. It Starts & runs great. If you have any question about your Generac Generator. Their Help number is printed on the generator.
    - CONS:
    • Some Generac Generators come with a Fuel Shut-Off. This model does not so I had to add my own. That way I can shut the gas off from the tank and drain the Carburetor for storage so I don't have to start it every month. Also I wish it would have came with a dust cover.
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(2)You have already voted this
  4. Avatar
    Craig Huebner July 26, 2021 at 6:07 pm
    1.4
    Price
    20
    Value
    50
    Quality
    20
    Performance
    20

    Just bought the RS8000E , Put it all together , oil in it , gas in it. Went to rapid start…… NOTHING. I used the battery charger for 6 hours…..NOTHING !!!! Not impressed.

    + PROS:
    • Looks nice
    - CONS:
    • Rapid start doesn't work
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(6)You have already voted this

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