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Generac GP2500i - 2200/2500W Inverter Generator

The Generac GP2500i (8251) is a compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,200 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W. (Read full specs)

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Generac GP2500i
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Price history for the Generac GP2500i

Current price is in the mid range.
Lowest price $489
Highest price $679
Current price $599
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Description

An affordable solution for recreational applications, the GP2500i is the perfect size for tailgating,camping and power on the go.

Zoom on the Generac GP2500i

In short, the Generac GP2500i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:

  • Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
  • Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP2500i in use

The Generac GP2500i

Generac GP2500i runs on gasoline, powered by a 98 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, boasting a running wattage of 2,200W alongside a starting wattage of 2,500W. Additionally, the parallel capability (7118 parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) facilitates doubling of power output when linked to another similar or compatible unit, offering enhanced energy capacity and reliability for diverse requirements.

This inverter generator starts operation using a conventional pull-start mechanism.

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

The <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the GP2500i ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.

Outlets

The control panel is equipped with the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Furthermore, it showcases 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (1 x USB-A) with which you may charge electronics, for example mobile phones or tablets, conveniently and a 12V 8A receptacle making battery charging a breeze.

Portability

With its enclosed inverter generator design (L19.7 x W11.4 x H17.9 in), the Generac GP2500i offers superior aesthetics and operates with minimized noise levels, distinguishing itself from standard, open frame generators. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

The GP2500i's weight, at just 48 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. Moving it around should pose no challenge for a single person, allowing for power availability wherever you go. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.

Features

Panel of the Generac GP2500i

The GP2500i's control panel

When the generator is overloaded, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

The GP2500i also benefits from Generac’s COsense® carbon monoxide monitoring. This technology senses and manages CO output and shuts down the unit when necessary, to protect you from CO poisoning.

Alongside the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for quick setup, the Generac GP2500i is bundled with additional accessories: funnel, oil, tool kit and battery charging cables.

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).

  • With a dry weight of 48 lbs, the Generac GP2500i sits comfortably within the expected weight range for inverters generating 1500 to 2500 rated watts. if you wish to prioritize weight, the Genmax GM2000i is one of the top contenders in its power category, weighing only 34.2 pounds.
  • Regarding its autonomy, the autonomy of the GP2500i, reaching up to 8 hours at a 25% load, can be considered as low end, compared to other inverters of a roughly equal output. If runtime is a priority for you, the DuroMax XP2300iH stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing up to 13 hours of continuous use.
  • Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator doesn't excel in fuel efficiency when compared to others of its kind: it consumes approximately 0.13 GPH at a 25% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.08 gallons per hour.

Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, 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
  • COsense® technology
  • Several accessories included
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (48 lbs)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • 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 (USB-A)
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%
ComplianceEPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables
Other model numbers82512
UPC696471003946

We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.

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 sizer.
Item Running Watts Starting Watts
At home Microwave (1000 watts) 1500 1500
Satelite receiver 250 250
Total 1750 W 1750 W
For camping RV AC (11,000 BTU) 1010 1600
RV refrigerator 180 600
Blender 400 850
LED TV 150 150
Total 1740 W 2330 W
For work Demolition hammer 1260 1260
Electric fence (25 miles) 250 250
Bug zapper 80 80
Total 1590 W 1590 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.

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.

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Generac GP2500i
6.2 Total Score
4 reviews
Add your review
Price
6.8
Value
6.8
Quality
4.8
Performance
6.5

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 0.65
    Price
    20
    Value
    10
    Quality
    10
    Performance
    10

    These machines are crap. Probably not just brand generic probably all inverter generators if you’re not a mechanic. If you just need a one time use out of the box ok but don’t count on it after first use.

    + PROS:
    • None
    - CONS:
    • Unless your a mechanic with tiny tools it won’t work for you after the first use.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 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
  3. 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(1)You have already voted this
  4. 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(2) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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