WE ARE PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT AND IN NO WAY ASSOCIATED WITH MANUFACTURERS. TO STAY UNBIASED, WE DO NOT ACCEPT FREE PRODUCTS. WE EARN FROM ADVERTISING FEES PAID BY AMAZON OR ZORO ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES.

Powermate PM4500 - 3600/4500W Portable Generator

The Powermate PM4500 is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,600 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)

Compare ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 0
Powermate PM4500
Set Price Alert
×
Notify me when the price drops
Set an alert for the Powermate PM4500 - Current lowest price: $606.99
Price History
×
Price history for the Powermate PM4500
Highest Price
$606.99
Lowest Price
$577.99
Current Price
$606.99

Description

The PM4500 features a steel frame and a compact design with integrated wheels and handle that makes it easy to move and put in place. With 4500 starting watts and 3600 running watts, this generator is powerful enough to run small electrical appliances at any picnic, campground or tailgate and versatile enough to power tools for your next DIY project.

Zoom on the Powermate PM4500

To sum up, the Powermate PM4500 is a portable generator tailored for:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.

Power & Run Time

The Powermate PM4500 in use

The Powermate PM4500

Featuring a 224 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke engine, the Powermate PM4500 operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 3,600W and a starting wattage of 4,500W.

This generator utilizes a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism for startup. It features Powermate's PowerDial™, an easy-to-use dial with three operation settings.

The fuel capacity of 5 gallons allows the PM4500 to operate for up to 19 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 5 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

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

Measuring L26.3 x W22.9 x H21.5 in, the classic open frame construction of the Powermate PM4500 provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 105 pounds. However, the limited maneuverability is remedied with its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle, facilitating convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Powermate PM4500

The PM4500's control panel

Featuring a digital data center on its control panel, the PM4500 offers you convenient access to essential information about the lifetime run hours, facilitating effective monitoring of its activity and status.

Thanks to its built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently, and easily check the gas level at a glance.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use.

In addition to the standard documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for prompt setup, Powermate has also included some oil in the packaging of the PM4500.

Product Video

The Powermate PM4500 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powermate PM4500 compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

  • As its weight is 105 pounds, the Powermate PM4500 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN 56432iX, standing at just 52.9 lbs.
  • At 25% load, the PM4500 achieves one of the longer run times compared to devices of similar power, sustaining operations for up to 19 hours. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Firman WH03662OF, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting up to 25 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 its peers, this generator is not exactly fuel-efficient, compared to similarly powerful devices, with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.26 GPH at a 25% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.16 GPH, the Champion 201319 is a device you could look out for.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W generators, the Powermate PM4500 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

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • GFCI Outlets
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (105 lbs)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Powermate PM4500 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine224 cc Generac OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts3,600 W
Starting watts4,500 W
Running amps30 amps
Peak amps37.5 amps
Run time @50% load14 h
Run time @25% load19 h
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerLifetime run hours
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankSteel, 5 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight105 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)26.3 x 22.9 x 21.5 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THDUnknown
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil and wheel kit
Other model numbersP0081200
UPC696471080346

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.

Spec Improvement×

This form does not send us any personal data (not even your IP address)

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 PM4500 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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Hair dryer18001900
Freezer8101750
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total2857 W3857 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
RV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
Slow cooker270270
Radio100100
Total2860 W3450 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W
What is the noise rating of the PM4500?

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.

Ask a question

Your name and email address will not be publicly published. We only need them to be able to answer you directly

Leave a review

Your total score

Generator Bible
Logo
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare

You can compare as many generators as you wish. However, for the best results, we recommend you to compare only 2 generators at a time.

0