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Description
Zoom on the Powermate PM3000i
In a nutshell, the Powermate PM3000i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Powermate PM3000i's core is the 149 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 2300W and a peak wattage of 3000W.
This inverter generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism. It features Powermate's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.
With a fuel capacity of 1.06 gallon, the PM3000i may run for up to 5.8 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH).
The PM3000i generates a clean sine wave: providing <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
This Powermate generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. However, it is still not quite RV ready.
Portability
Since the Powermate PM3000i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L22.2 x W13.3 x H18.4 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
With a dry weight of 59.5 lbs, the PM3000i can easily follow you wherever your power needs are. Moreover, shifting it is an easy task, as the PM3000i features a nifty handle (molded in the case), improving your grip greatly.
Features
The PM3000i's control panel
The device’s light indicators will display if its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is overloaded and the generator is ready.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Powermate PM3000i also comes with some accessories: tool kit, funnel and oil are included.
Emissions
The Powermate PM3000i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.
The Powermate PM3000i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powermate PM3000i compare to generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- Having a dry weight of 59.5 lbs, the Powermate PM3000i belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 1500 to 2500 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Champion 200949, with a dry weight of only 38.6 lbs.
- The PM3000i’s autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its power range, as it reaches only up to 5.8 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 Westinghouse WGen2000, which is able to run for up to 26 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. 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 0.18 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Predator 2000, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.08 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
The bottom line
- Several accessories included
- Inverter
- Decent weight (59.5 lbs)
- No data center
- No electric start
- No parallel ports
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 149 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2300 W |
| Starting watts | 3000 W |
| Running amps | 19.2 amps |
| Peaks amps | 25 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 4.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | 5.8 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.06 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 59.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 22.2 x 13.3 x 18.4 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 3% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, and tool kit |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Other model numbers | PM0080600 |
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 Powermate
Powermate’s history is somewhat enigmatic, but they claim to have been on the market for over 40 years, selling portable generators and various outdoor power equipment. What we know for sure is that in 2009, they have signed under what they call “partnership” (more accurately ownership) with the Italian PRAMAC. As of 2020, it would seem that Generac has now taken over the manufacturing of Powermate's portable generators.
Warranty Information
The Powermate PM3000i 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 Powermate generators, please consult Powermate's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-445-1805.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 1837 W | 2837 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| DVD player | 350 | 350 | |
| Total | 1830 W | 2250 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1730 W | 2830 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
