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. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Powermate CX3500
In summary, the Powermate CX3500 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- 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
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 CX3500
Powermate CX3500 runs on gasoline, powered by a 208 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, boasting a running wattage of 3,500W alongside a starting wattage of 4,375W.
This generator features a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
The CX3500 can operate for around 12.2 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.37 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 4.5 gallons.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 4 AC outlets:
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT standing for 'Travel Trailer'), this Powermate generator is RV Ready, perfectly suited for powering recreational vehicles.
Portability
With dimensions of L25.6 x W23.8 x H21.6 in, the standard open frame design of the Powermate CX3500 provides stability and easy maintenance access to components, as well as good air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Since the generator weighs 108 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). 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
The CX3500's control panel
To facilitate status and activity monitoring, a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings are embedded in the control panel of the CX3500.
The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Powermate CX3500 ships with supplementary accessories: tool kit, oil and funnel.
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).
- Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 108 lbs, the Powermate CX3500 belongs in the expected weight range for devices which can produce between 3000 and 4000 rated watts. If you are mindful of weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- At 50% load, the CX3500 achieves one of the longer run times compared to devices of similar power, sustaining operations for around 12.2 hours. 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 one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.37 GPH. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.22 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, 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
- Inexpensive
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- High run time
- Decent weight (108 lbs)
- No electric start
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 208 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W |
| Starting watts | 4,375 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps |
| Peak amps | 36.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 12.2 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 4.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 108 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 25.6 x 23.8 x 21.6 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit |
| UPC | 696471620764 |
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 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Total | 2767 W | 4267 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2790 W | 3380 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2740 W | 3840 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.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
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