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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The Tool Nut Page Content
Description
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
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
The Powermate PM3000i's engine, 149 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 2,300W and reaches a peak wattage of 3,000W.
This inverter generator utilizes a traditional recoil pull-start mechanism for startup. It features Powermate's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.
The PM3000i can operate for up to 5.8 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 1.06 gallon.
As the PM3000i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
While not classified as 'RV Ready,' this Powermate generator can still provides the advantage of RV connection via its L5-30R receptacle, ensuring power supply to your RV with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
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. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
As the PM3000i's weight is only 59.5 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. Furthermore, moving the PM3000i from A to B is made easier thanks to its convenient handle (molded in the case), which greatly improves grip.
Features
The PM3000i's control panel
The device’s light indicators will display if the generator is on overload, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready.
From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during operation.
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: oil, tool kit 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).
- With a weight of 59.5 lbs, the Powermate PM3000i is notably on the heavier side among inverter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Genmax GM2000i, standing at just 34.2 lbs.
- Autonomy-wise, with up to 5.8 hours on a full tank at a 25% load, the PM3000i is on the low end when compared to other inverter generators of a similar power output. If runtime is a priority for you, the DuroMax XP2300iH stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing up to 13 hours of continuous use.
- 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. Compared to similar devices, this inverter generator is less fuel-efficient than most: it burns around 0.18 gallons of gasoline per hour at a 25% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Westinghouse iGen2800, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.08 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
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
- Several accessories included
- 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 |
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. 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 1837 W | 2837 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Coffee maker | 600 | 600 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 1835 W | 2425 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 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.
