Pulsar PG3250 - 2500/3250W Portable Generator
The Pulsar PG3250 is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 2,500 W and a starting wattage of 3,250 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Designed for bigger portable jobs, this 3250 peak watt generator is large enough to operate a major appliance and small enough to take to a job site or outdoor events such as hunting, fishing, camping, tailgating or even on a boat. Operating for up to 16 hours on 4.0 gallons of gasoline at only 68 dB of noise, the PG3250 has two 120V and one 12V outlet to power anything from battery chargers to refrigerators, yet this unit is light enough to carry and compact enough to fit in the trunk of many cars.
Zoom on the Pulsar PG3250
In a nutshell, the Pulsar PG3250 is a compact portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- 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 Pulsar PG3250 houses a 208 cc (7 hp) Ducar OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 2,500W along with a peak wattage of 3,250W.
With a noise rating of 68 dBA (less noisy than background music), the generator features a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
The PG3250's fuel tank, boasting 4 gallons, allows it to operate for around 16 hours at 50% load with a full tank (with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.25 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output providing easy battery charging capabilities.
Portability
Measuring L23.6 x W17.5 x H17.9 in, the classic open frame build of the Pulsar PG3250 delivers stability and easy maintenance access to components, facilitating air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Weighing 87 lbs, the PG3250 is easily handled, ensuring it can go wherever your power needs are. In addition, it is even easier to grab and move the generator around thanks to its open frame design.
Features
A light indicator on the device will signal if its oil levels are insufficient.
Thanks to its built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently, and easily check the gas level at a glance.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.
As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the Pulsar PG3250 also comes with the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), allowing you to start it right away.
The Pulsar PG3250 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG3250 compare to generators of similar power (between 2000 and 3000 W).
- At 87 lbs in dry weight, the Pulsar PG3250 fits well within the typical weight bracket for generators producing 2000 to 3000 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the WEN 56280iX, weighing just 41.9 pounds.
- Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this generator with a lowest noise of 68 dBA can be judged as noisy. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU3000iS, whose lowest noise levels reach just 50 dBA.
- The PG3250 provides one of the highest run time among similarly powerful devices, reaching around 16 hours at 50% load.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. The generator burns fuel at a rate of around 0.25 GPH when running at a 50% load, which is consistent with the average fuel usage of models of comparable power output. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.13 GPH, the Cummins Onan P2500i is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 2000-3000W generators, the Pulsar PG3250 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 (87 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- 1-year warranty
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (68 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 208 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,500 W |
| Starting watts | 3,250 W |
| Running amps | 20.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 27.1 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 16 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A output |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 87 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.6 x 17.5 x 17.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 68 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | No |
| UPC | 819699010364 |
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.
About Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar PG3250 is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 1962 W | 2962 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 1990 W | 2580 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1980 W | 3080 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.




User Reviews
Paid 299 plus tax.
Excellent performance.
Run my refrigerator, water heater, TV/Internet.
Not noise. Strongly recommended!
Bought this generator at advance auto store for $469.00. I paid too much.