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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:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.
Power & Run Time
The Powermate PM3000i is powered by a 149 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 2300W as well as a peak wattage of 3000W.
The inverter generator features a conventional 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).
As the PM3000i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel features 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
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 generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
With a dry weight of 59.5 lbs, the PM3000i can easily follow you wherever your power needs are. Moreover, the convenient handle (molded in the case) greatly enhances the grip, making carrying the PM3000i from A to B always an easy task.
Features
Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and the oil level is too low.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual, letting you start the generator quickly, the Powermate PM3000i also comes with several accessories, including: tool kit, funnel and oil.
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 and thus, may be used 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).
- With a dry weight of 59.5 pounds, the Powermate PM3000i finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 1500 and 2500 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM2000i with only 34.2 pounds.
- As far as autonomy is concerned, providing up to 5.8 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 25% load, the PM3000i falls into the low end in comparison with other devices of a comparable power output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Yamaha EF2800i, which is able to run for up to 14.7 hours.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. 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 are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.08 GPH, the Energizer eZV2200P is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1500-2500W 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
- 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 |
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 |
Warranty | 3 years |
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 | Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 |
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.