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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Zoro | Price history for the Generac GP2500i |
|---|
| Highest Price $679.47 Lowest Price $468.44 Current Price $468.44 |
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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 a few words, the Generac GP2500i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Amateur DIY lovers
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
Running on gasoline, the Generac GP2500i operates with a 98 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 2,200W and a peak 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 is equipped with a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
The GP2500i's fuel tank, boasting 1 gallon, allows it to operate for up to 8 hours with a full tank (with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.13 GPH).
Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the GP2500i generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (1 x USB-A) ensuring convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets, for connectivity on the go and a 12V 8A receptacle offering a convenient battery charging option.
Portability
The Generac GP2500i's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L19.7 x W11.4 x H17.9 in) provides an aesthetic advantage and contributes to quieter operation compared to any ordinary, open frame product. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
Considered a lightweight portable generator, the GP2500i weighs just 48 lbs. With its manageable weight, one person can easily move it around, ensuring power wherever needed. Adding to its convenience, the handle (molded in the case) enables easy carrying.
Features
The GP2500i's control panel
The device's light indicators will illuminate to indicate if the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is overloaded.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during use.
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.
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: funnel, oil, battery charging cables and tool kit.
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).
- Having a dry weight of 48 lbs, the Generac GP2500i belongs in the expected weight range for inverter generators which produce 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.
- As far as autonomy is concerned, providing up to 8 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 25% load, the GP2500i falls into the low end in comparison with other inverters of a comparable power output. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the DuroMax XP2300iH, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting up to 13 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. Compared to its peers, this inverter generator is not exactly fuel-efficient, compared to similarly powerful devices, with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.13 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen2800c, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.
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 cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- COsense® technology
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Decent weight (48 lbs)
- 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
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 98 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,200 W |
| Starting watts | 2,500 W |
| Running amps | 18.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 20.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 4.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | 8 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 48 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 19.7 x 11.4 x 17.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables |
| Other model numbers | 82512 |
| UPC | 696471003946 |
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.
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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1482 W | 2482 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 1750 W | 2170 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Drain cleaner | 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.
User Reviews
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.
It works well but support from Generac for the small portables is pathetic. I won’t buy another one.
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.
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