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 few words, the Pulsar PG3250 is a compact portable generator perfectly suited for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
Pulsar PG3250 is equipped with a 208 cc (7 hp) Ducar OHV 4-stroke engine, running on gasoline and providing 120V, boasting a running wattage of 2,500W alongside a starting wattage of 3,250W.
The generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 68 dBA (less noisy than background music).
Equipped with a 4 gallons fuel tank, the PG3250 ensures continuous operation for around 16 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel usage approximately 0.25 gallons per hour).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it comes equipped with 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output providing easy battery charging capabilities.
Portability
With its L23.6 x W17.5 x H17.9 in dimensions, the open frame structure of the Pulsar PG3250 provides stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
The PG3250 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 87 lbs. Additionally, the open frame design of the generator ensures easy grabbing and shifting for relocation.
Features
A light indicator allows you to instantly see if its oil levels are insufficient.
The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, providing peace of mind during use.
Besides the features previously mentioned, accessory-wise, the Pulsar PG3250 comes with the usual documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) needed to get you promptly started.
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).
- With a dry weight of 87 lbs, the Pulsar PG3250 sits comfortably within the expected weight range for devices generating 2000 to 3000 rated watts. If you are mindful of weight, the WEN 56280iX is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 41.9 pounds.
- When stacked up against other devices of similar running wattage, this generator's lowest possible noise rating of 68 dBA places it in the louder category. If you value reduced noise levels, the Honda EU3000iS could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 50 dBA.
- As the PG3250 features an autonomy of around 16 hours at 50% load, it has one of the highest run times in comparison to the other generators of its power range.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. With an estimated fuel consumption of 0.25 GPH at a 50% load, this generator aligns with the average gasoline usage range of comparable products. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Cummins Onan P2500i, with a fuel consumption of 0.13 GPH could be in your good books.
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
- No electric start
- 1-year warranty
- 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 | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Total | 1992 W | 2992 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 1980 W | 2430 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 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.