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Powermate CX3500 - 3500/4375W Portable Generator

The Powermate CX3500 (PMC143500) is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,375 W.

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Description

Trust in the portable power of Powermate’s CX Series generators. Featuring extended run times and sturdy framework for stable mobility, the CX Series are ideal for a variety of occasions like camping, picnics, tailgating and emergency home backup. CX Series generators are easy to power up, and their compact design takes up minimal storage space.

Zoom on the Powermate CX3500

In summary, the Powermate CX3500 is a portable generator especially useful for:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Powermate CX3500 in use

The Powermate CX3500

The Powermate CX3500 houses a 208 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 3,500W along with a peak wattage of 4,375W.

This generator gets running thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism.

With a full tank, the CX3500 can operate for around 12.2 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.37 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 4.5 gallons.

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 4 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

This Powermate generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').

Portability

The dimensions of the Powermate CX3500, which are L25.6 x W23.8 x H21.6 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

As the generator's weight is 108 pounds, manually moving it or transporting it may be challenging, despite the fact that it is technically considered 'portable' (movable). Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.

Features

Panel of the Powermate CX3500

The CX3500's control panel

The CX3500 and its control panel include a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours. This feature comes handy when monitoring its status and activity.

The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Powermate CX3500 also comes with several accessories, including: oil, tool kit and funnel.

Emissions

The Powermate CX3500 is 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.

Product Video

The Powermate CX3500 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Powermate CX3500 compare to generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).

  • As its weight is 108 pounds, the Powermate CX3500 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 3000-4000 rated wattage category. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO with only 46 pounds.
  • As the CX3500 features an autonomy of around 12.2 hours at 50% load, it has a higher run time than an average generator of its power range. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Predator 4375, as it provides around 16 hours.
  • While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. In fact, this generator is not among the most fuel efficient, within the aforementioned wattage range : its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.37 GPH. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Pulsar PGD40iSCO. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.22 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 3000-4000W generators, the Powermate CX3500 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (108 lbs)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Powermate CX3500 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 readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine208 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts3,500 W
Starting watts4,375 W
Running amps29.2 amps
Peak amps36.5 amps
Run time @50% load12.2 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tank4.5 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight108 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)25.6 x 23.8 x 21.6 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THDUnknown
ComplianceCARB
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit
UPC696471620764

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 CX3500 is covered under a warranty for up to 2 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 homeDish washer15003000
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Vacuum cleaner10751175
Total2767 W4267 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Microwave (1000 watts)15001500
Radio100100
Total2790 W3380 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W
What is the noise rating of the CX3500?

Due to the lack of standardization in noise emission measurement, Powermate (Generac) does not provide their units' noise levels.

Can I run two refrigerators and a portable air conditioner? (Asked August 01, 2020)

At first glance, it should be fine. But wattage consumption varies from fridge to fridge, and from portable A/C to portable A/C. We recommend checking the actual wattage consumption of your appliances, and then insert these values in the "custom appliances" section of our generator sizer.

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Powermate CX3500
4.3 Total Score
1 review
Add your review
Price
7
Value
5
Quality
3
Performance
2

User Reviews

  1. 2.15
    Price
    70
    Value
    50
    Quality
    30
    Performance
    20

    Price is cheap, you get what you pay for. Our started to burn oil after 500 hours. Don’t buy. They won’t fix or replace

    + PROS:
    • Works good for about two weeks
    - CONS:
    • Doesn't last
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this

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