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Generac GP2500i - 2200/2500W Inverter Generator

The Generac GP2500i (8250) is a compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,200 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W.

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Generac GP2500iGenerac GP2500iGenerac GP2500i

Description

An affordable solution for recreational applications, the GP2500i is the perfect size for tailgating,camping and power on the go. (source: Generac (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Generac GP2500i

In a nutshell, the Generac GP2500i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:

  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
  • Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

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 GP2500i in use

The Generac GP2500i

The Generac GP2500i houses a 98 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 2,200W along with a peak wattage of 2,500W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (7118 parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.

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

The GP2500i can operate for up to 8 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.13 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 1 gallon.

Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the GP2500i generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

It also sports 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets and a 12V 8A receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

Portability

As the Generac GP2500i is an inverter generator, its encased design (L19.7 x W11.4 x H17.9 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.

Labeled a lightweight portable generator, the GP2500i weighs just 48 lbs. The device can be easily moved by just one person and thus, its power may be enjoyed on-the-go. In addition, a handle (molded in the case) lets you carry it easily and further increases its convenience.

Features

Panel of the Generac GP2500i

The GP2500i's control panel

The light indicators show you if the generator is on overload, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready.

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 GP2500i's package also includes these accessories: tool kit, battery charging cables, funnel and oil.

Emissions

The Generac GP2500i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.

Product Video

The Generac GP2500i versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac GP2500i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).

  • At a weight of 48 pounds, the Generac GP2500i places in the expected weight range of the inverter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Genmax GM2000i, standing at just 34.2 lbs.
  • The GP2500i's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its type and power range, as it reaches only up to 8 hours at 25% load on a full tank. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, boasting with up to 13 hours.
  • Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This inverter generator is not fuel efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.13 GPH at a 25% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the DuroMax XP2300iH, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.08 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Generac GP2500i 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

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • Several accessories included
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (48 lbs)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • Relatively low run time
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Generac GP2500i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine98 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts2,200 W
Starting watts2,500 W
Running amps18.3 amps
Peak amps20.8 amps
Run time @50% load4.5 h
Run time @25% load8 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
DC outlets2x 5V USB port
1x 12V 8A receptacle
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank1 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight48 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)19.7 x 11.4 x 17.9 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THD< 3%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables
Other model numbers8250
UPC696471080308

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 GP2500i 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 homeMicrowave (1000 watts)15001500
Satelite receiver250250
Total1750 W1750 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Blender400850
Game console150150
Total1740 W2330 W
For workDemolition hammer12601260
Drain cleaner250250
Bug zapper8080
Total1590 W1590 W
What is the noise rating of the GP2500i?

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

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Generac GP2500i
7.8 Total Score
3 reviews
Add your review
Price
8.3
Value
8.7
Quality
6
Performance
8.3

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 3.4
    Price
    70
    Value
    70
    Quality
    60
    Performance
    70

    It works well but support from Generac for the small portables is pathetic. I won’t buy another one.

    + PROS:
    • Lightweight
    - CONS:
    • Difficult to service and find replacement parts at reasonable cost.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 4.75
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    100

    I lost power due to a storm bought this 2500 to get me through great little generator. I ran my refrigerator my furnace, my fish tank and a couple of lights ran 4 1/2 hours until the power came back on and only used a half a tank of gas. For the money great product.

    + PROS:
    • Light weight portable not to heavy
    - CONS:
    • I didn’t have any
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. 3.65
    Price
    80
    Value
    90
    Quality
    40
    Performance
    80

    Drinks gas at anything past idle which is any load over 5 amps
    EXTREMELY NOISY!! Even with light load. I placed it 30 ft from my camper with the exhaust pointed away and it kept me up all night. If I could get all my money back on this, I would do it and buy a better one that wasn’t so noisy. Had one years ago that was so quiet I couldn’t hear it at all from 30 ft

    + PROS:
    • 20 amp outlet
    • Lightweight
    - CONS:
    • Drinks gas at anything past idle which is any load over 5 amps
    • EXTREMELY NOISY!! Even with light load. I placed it 30 ft from my camper with the exhaust pointed away and it kept me up all night. If I could get all my money back on this, I would do it and buy a better one that wasn't so noisy. Had one years ago that was so quiet I couldn't hear it at all from 30 ft
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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