Generac iQ3800DF - 3000/3800W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator With Electric Start
The Generac iQ3800DF (8946) is a portable dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,000 W and a starting wattage of 3,800 W. (Read full specs)
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| Price history for the Generac iQ3800DF |
|---|
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Highest Price
$1,095.00
Lowest Price
$1,049.00
Current Price
$1,049.00
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Page Content
Description
Zoom on the Generac iQ3800DF
In a few words, the Generac iQ3800DF is a portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120V, the Generac iQ3800DF is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 3,000W and a starting wattage of 3,800W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 2,700 running watts and 3,400 starting watts. In addition, as it is parallel capable (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 can be started thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism, but also to an intuitive and practical electric starter (battery included).
Concerning its running time, the iQ3800DF, featuring a 3.28 gallons fuel tank, can continuously run for up to 20 hours with a full gasoline tank (consuming fuel at approximately 0.16 gallons per hour). Alternatively, when utilizing propane, it offers up to 19 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.25 GPH) of runtime.
Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the iQ3800DF generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 5 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (1 x USB-A and 1 x USB-C) allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
This Generac generator isn't quite RV Ready, but it features an L5-30R receptacle, allowing a simple RV connection through an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
The Generac iQ3800DF's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L24.6 x W20.3 x H22.4 in) provides an aesthetic advantage and contributes to quieter operation compared to any ordinary, open frame product. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
With a weight of 107 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. Despite the restricted maneuverability, its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle provides a solution, allowing for convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.
Features
The iQ3800DF's control panel
Included in the control panel of the iQ3800DF, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the lifetime run hours, power output and fuel level.
In addition to this info, light indicators on the device will signal if the oil level is too low and the generator is on overload.
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.
The iQ3800DF 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 iQ3800DF also comes with some accessories: funnel, oil, tool kit and propane hose are included.
The Generac iQ3800DF versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Generac iQ3800DF compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- A weight of 107 lbs makes the Generac iQ3800DF one of the heavier inverters in the 2500-3500 rated wattage range. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, with a dry weight of only 46 lbs.
- Among its inverters with similar power, the iQ3800DF offers one of the higher run times, running for up to 20 hours at 25% load. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Champion 200977, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting up to 22 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. This inverter generator has a better fuel efficiency than other units in the aforementioned output range, consuming approximately 0.16 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Honda EU3200i. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.14 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 2500-3500W dual fuel inverter generators, the Generac iQ3800DF 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
- Dual fuel
- COsense® technology
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- USB-C port
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- On the expensive side
- No remote start
- On the heavy side (107 lbs)
Do you own the Generac iQ3800DF 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 | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,000 W | 2,700 W |
| Starting watts | 3,800 W | 3,400 W |
| Running amps | 25 amps | 22.5 amps |
| Peak amps | 31.7 amps | 28.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 13 h | 16 h |
| Run time @25% load | 20 h | 19 h |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A and USB-C) |
| Data center | Power output, fuel level and lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | Low oil and overload |
| Fuel tank | 3.28 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Digital |
| Weight | 107 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24.6 x 20.3 x 22.4 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, propane hose, and battery |
| Country of origin | Vietnam |
| Other model numbers | 8944, 8946 |
| UPC | 696471103793 |
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 iQ3800DF 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 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 2392 W | 3392 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 2800 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 3480 W |
What is the noise rating of the iQ3800DF?
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.
