The Generac GP18000EFI (8917) is a powerful open frame generator with a rated wattage of 18,000 W and a starting wattage of 22,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Generac GP18000EFI
In a nutshell, the Generac GP18000EFI is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
- Prudent homeowners who want a backup power source in case of a power outage
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
Running on gasoline, the Generac GP18000EFI operates with a 816 cc Generac G-Force OVHI 4-stroke engine, delivering 120/240V, with a running wattage of 18,000W and a peak wattage of 22,500W. The impressive running wattage makes this unit the 2nd biggest portable generator currently on the market, along with the Powerhorse 27000.
This generator is started via a no-fuss and convenient electric starter (battery included).
The Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system enhances the engine's reliability, lowers fuel consumption, improves startup, reduces servicing, boosts stale fuel resistance, and offers better altitude adaptability.
The GP18000EFI's fuel tank holds 14.2 gallons, ensuring uninterrupted operation for around 9 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 1.58 GPH).
As the GP18000EFI produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 7 AC outlets:
While this Generac generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since the GP18000EFI bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of a power outage.
Portability
Measuring L58.5 x W30.9 x H36.5 in, the classic open frame construction of the Generac GP18000EFI provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 442.8 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its wheel kit (⌀12") and its folding handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.
Features
Monitoring of the GP18000EFI's status and activity is made possible by a digital data center, which provides information on the lifetime run hours and is one of the features of its control panel.
Equipped with a built-in fuel gauge, the generator facilitates swift gas level checks.
From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), ensuring peace of mind during operation.
The GP18000EFI 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 usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, Generac also included some oil in the GP18000EFI's packaging.
The Generac GP18000EFI versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac GP18000EFI compare to generators of similar power (between 14000 and 20000 W).
- At 442.8 lbs in dry weight, the Generac GP18000EFI fits well within the typical weight bracket for generators producing 14000 to 20000 rated watts. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Genmax GM17000iE stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 308.6 pounds.
- Regarding its runtime, the GP18000EFI operates for around 9 hours at a 50% load, positioning it at the lower spectrum among comparable products. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Westinghouse WGen14500DFc could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching around 11 hours.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. Compared to similar devices, this generator is less fuel-efficient than most: it burns around 1.58 gallons of gasoline per hour at a 50% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Westinghouse WGen14500DFc, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.95 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 14000-20000W generators, the Generac GP18000EFI is on the expensive side of the price range.
While certainly not the cheapest of its kind, purchasing it would most likely also mean enjoying the reliability of a high-end product.
The bottom line
- COsense® technology
- GFCI Outlets
- 4 different AC outlet types
- G-Force engine made in USA
- Electric start
- Clean sine wave
- Electronic Fuel Injection
- Decent weight (442.8 lbs)
- On the expensive side
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
Inverter | No |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | No |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 816 cc Generac G-Force OVHI 4-stroke |
Starting system | Electric |
Warranty | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
---|---|
Running watts | 18,000 W |
Starting watts | 22,500 W |
Running amps (@120/240V) | 150/75 amps |
Peak amps (@120/240V) | 187.5/93.8 amps |
Run time @50% load | 9 h |
Run time @25% load | Unknown |
GFCI outlets | Yes |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | No |
Data center | Lifetime run hours |
Indicators | No |
Fuel tank | 14.2 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 442.8 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 58.5 x 30.9 x 36.5 in |
Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
THD | < 5% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Bonded to frame |
Accessories included | Oil, battery, and wheel kit |
UPC | 696471101324 |
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.
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 GP18000EFI 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 | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
Total | 14392 W | 15867 W | |
For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
Table saw | 1800 | 4500 | |
Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 14380 W | 18880 W |
What is the noise rating of the GP18000EFI?
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.