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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.

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Price History
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Price history for the Generac GP2500i
Latest updates:
  • $599.84 - September 27, 2023
  • $606.29 - September 25, 2023
  • $644.99 - September 23, 2023
  • $612.74 - August 6, 2023
  • $644.99 - July 21, 2023
Data source: ebay.com
Since: July 21, 2023
  • Highest Price: $644.99 - July 21, 2023
  • Lowest Price: $599.84 - September 27, 2023

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:

  • Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
  • Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The Generac GP2500i in use

The Generac GP2500i

The Generac GP2500i's design includes a gasoline-fueled 98 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 2,200W and also 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.

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

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the GP2500i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Furthermore, it has 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 with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

Portability

Since the Generac GP2500i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L19.7 x W11.4 x H17.9 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

The GP2500i is a lightweight, portable generator, as it only weighs 48 lbs. The product’s power can be enjoyed on-the-go, as it can be moved by a single person without trouble. It can also be carried without effort with a featured handle (molded in the case), further improving its convenience.

Features

Panel of the Generac GP2500i

The GP2500i's control panel

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

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).

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.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Generac GP2500i also comes with some accessories: tool kit, funnel, oil and battery charging cables are included.

Emissions

The Generac GP2500i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 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).

  • Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 48 lbs, the Generac GP2500i belongs in the expected weight range for inverters which can produce between 1500 and 2500 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM2000i, with a dry weight of only 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. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, which is able to run for up to 13 hours.
  • 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 is rather wasteful, compared to other devices within the aforementioned output range, when it comes to gasoline consumption, as it reaches roughly 0.13 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the DuroMax XP2300iH, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.08 GPH, may be the right generator for you.

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
  • COsense® technology
  • 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 (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%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables
Other model numbers8251
UPC696471099942

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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