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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.

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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. (source: Pulsar (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Pulsar PG3250

In summary, the Pulsar PG3250 is a compact portable generator especially useful for:

  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
  • Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The Pulsar PG3250 in use

The Pulsar PG3250

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 a normal conversation), the generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism.

The fuel capacity of 4 gallons allows the PG3250 to operate for around 16 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.25 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which charging your batteries is made easy.

Portability

The dimensions of the Pulsar PG3250, which are L23.6 x W17.5 x H17.9 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

The 87 lbs of the PG3250's dry weight enables you to use it anywhere you will ever need. Moreover, grabbing and moving this product is made even easier by its open frame design.

Features

Panel of the Pulsar PG3250

The PG3250's control panel

A light indicator serves to show you when the oil level is too low.

Thanks to a 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 overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.

Regarding its accessories, besides the aforementioned features, the Pulsar PG3250's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start it right off the bat.

Emissions

The Pulsar PG3250 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.

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).

  • Having a dry weight of 87 lbs, the Pulsar PG3250 belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 2000 to 3000 rated watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN 56360i, standing at just 46.3 lbs.
  • If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this generator with a lowest emitted noise of 68 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Honda EU3000iS. With just 50 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
  • With a run time of around 16 hours at 50% load, the PG3250 has one of the highest run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers.
  • 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. As this generator uses an estimated 0.25 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Cummins Onan P2500i. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.13 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 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (87 lbs)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • Not CARB-compliant
  • 1-year warranty
  • On the noisy side (68 dBA)

Do you own the Pulsar PG3250 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
Engine208 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty1 year
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts2,500 W
Starting watts3,250 W
Running amps20.8 amps
Peak amps27.1 amps
Run time @50% load16 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A output
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tank4 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight87 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)23.6 x 17.5 x 17.9 in
Noise (lower limit)68 dBA
THDUnknown
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedNo
UPC819699010364

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 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?
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 generator size calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeElectric fry pan15001500
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Slow cooker270270
Total1962 W2962 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Toaster oven800800
Total1990 W2580 W
For workGrinder14002500
Electric fence (25 miles)250250
Drain cleaner250250
Bug zapper8080
Total1980 W3080 W

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Pulsar PG3250
9 Total Score
2 reviews
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Price
7.5
Value
8.5
Quality
10
Performance
10

User Reviews

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  1. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Paid 299 plus tax.
    Excellent performance.
    Run my refrigerator, water heater, TV/Internet.
    Not noise. Strongly recommended!

    + PROS:
    • Price
    • Run time
    - CONS:
    • Only 2 120V outlets
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 4
    Price
    50
    Value
    70
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Bought this generator at advance auto store for $469.00. I paid too much.

    + PROS:
    • 16 hour run time
    - CONS:
    • No electric start
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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