Powermate PM3000i - 2300/3000W Inverter Generator
The Powermate PM3000i is a compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,300 W and a starting wattage of 3,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
The Powermate PM3000i portable inverter generator provides ample power for a variety of outdoor settings and festivities. The PM3000i provides clean, stable power to sensitive electronics, tools and appliances for optimal operation.
Zoom on the Powermate PM3000i
In a nutshell, the Powermate PM3000i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.
Power & Run Time
Running on gasoline, the Powermate PM3000i operates with a 149 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 2,300W and a peak wattage of 3,000W.
This inverter generator utilizes a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism for startup. It features Powermate's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.
The PM3000i boasts a fuel tank capable of holding 1.06 gallon, allowing it to run continuously for up to 5.8 hours (with fuel usage averaging around 0.18 gallons per hour).
The PM3000i produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel is equipped with the following 3 AC outlets:
Even if this Powermate generator isn't quite RV Ready, it still allows for an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor, thanks to its L5-30R receptacle.
Portability
As the Powermate PM3000i is an inverter generator, its encased design (L22.2 x W13.3 x H18.4 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
The PM3000i can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 59.5 lbs. In addition, the PM3000i's easy transport is aided by its convenient handle (molded in the case), ensuring a secure grip.
Features
The device's light indicators will illuminate to indicate if the generator is overloaded, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the Powermate PM3000i also includes several accessories: tool kit, oil and funnel.
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 inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- Considering its dry weight of 59.5 pounds, the Powermate PM3000i is one of the heavier inverter generators producing between 1500 and 2500 running watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Genmax GM2000i, standing at just 34.2 lbs.
- As for its autonomy, the PM3000i, with an autonomy of up to 5.8 hours at a 25% load, is placed on the low end among the generators of its kind. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the DuroMax XP2300iH could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching up to 13 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. Among generators of similar output, this inverter generator ranks somewhat poorly in fuel efficiency, with an estimated consumption of 0.18 GPH at a 25% load. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the DuroMax XP2300iH, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.08 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Powermate PM3000i 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
- In the expected price range
- Inverter
- No data center
- No electric start
- No parallel ports
- On the heavy side (59.5 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 149 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,300 W |
| Starting watts | 3,000 W |
| Running amps | 19.2 amps |
| Peak 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% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, and tool kit |
| Other model numbers | PM0080600 |
| UPC | 696471078916 |
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 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. In 2009, they have signed under what they call “partnership” (more accurately ownership) with the Italian PRAMAC. In 2014, Generac acquired Powermate from PRAMAC.
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 |
What is the noise rating of the PM3000i?
Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Powermate (Generac) does not provide their units' noise levels.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.


