The Powermate PM3800 is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,000 W and a starting wattage of 3,800 W. (Read full specs)
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The Tool Nut | Price history for the Powermate PM3800 |
|---|
| Highest Price $357.99 Lowest Price $239.99 Current Price $439.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Powermate PM3800
In summary, the Powermate PM3800 is a compact portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
The Powermate PM3800's core is the 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 3,000W and a peak wattage of 3,800W.
This generator gets running thanks to a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism. It features Powermate's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.
Featuring a 5 gallons fuel tank, the PM3800 guarantees continuous power for up to 21 hours on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.24 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 4 AC outlets:
Portability
Measuring L23.8 x W18.1 x H19.1 in, the classic open frame build of the Powermate PM3800 delivers stability and easy maintenance access to components, facilitating air circulation. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Weighing 96 lbs, the PM3800 is practical, ensuring it can follow you wherever power is required. Moreover, the open frame structure of this generator makes it easy to grab and relocate.
Features
The PM3800's control panel
A digital data center, one of the features of the PM3800's control panel, gives you information on the lifetime run hours, and thus, is helpful for the monitoring of its activity and status.
The inclusion of a built-in fuel gauge in the generator streamlines gas level checks for quick and convenient assessments.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
Beyond the regular documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for quick start, Powermate has included some oil in the packaging of the PM3800.
Product Video
The Powermate PM3800 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powermate PM3800 compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- With a dry weight of 96 pounds, the Powermate PM3800 finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 2500 and 3500 rated watts. if you wish to prioritize weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is one of the top contenders in its power category, weighing only 46 pounds.
- At 25% load, the PM3800 boasts a higher run time than most similarly powerful products, reaching up to 21 hours. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the DuroStar DS4000S, reaching up to 26 hours.
- While run time is vital, it hinges on the fuel capacity. To grasp the full picture, we must also factor in fuel efficiency. Compared to similar devices, this generator is less fuel-efficient than most: it burns around 0.24 gallons of gasoline per hour at a 25% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Energizer eZV3500P, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.13 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 2500-3500W generators, the Powermate PM3800 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- High run time
- Decent weight (96 lbs)
- No electric start
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,000 W |
| Starting watts | 3,800 W |
| Running amps | 25 amps |
| Peak amps | 31.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 14 h |
| Run time @25% load | 21 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 96 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.8 x 18.1 x 19.1 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil |
| Other model numbers | P0081100 |
| UPC | 696471080339 |
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 PM3800 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 |
| 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 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 3480 W |
What is the noise rating of the PM3800?
Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Powermate (Generac) does not provide their units' noise levels.
Can this power an air compressor? (Asked June 22, 2022)
It is unfortunately not feasible to answer this question without more specifics. A 1/2 HP air compressor may be powered, but a 1HP compressor may require more than the 3800 starting watts provided by this unit. Wattage requirements also vary depending on brands and models. We recommend reading our guide on how to calculate the running and starting watts of your appliances.
Can this supply 220 power for my well? (Asked November 02, 2024)
The unit only provides 120V. You may check this list of unit providing 240V.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
