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
Zoom on the Pulsar PG3250
To sum up, the Pulsar PG3250 is a compact portable generator tailored for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Amateur DIY lovers
- 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
The Pulsar PG3250's design includes a gasoline-fueled 208 cc (7 hp) Ducar OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 2,500W and also a peak wattage of 3,250W.
Operating at a noise rating of 68 dBA (less noisy than an office), this generator starts up with a manual recoil starter system.
With a fuel capacity of 4 gallons, the PG3250 can run for around 16 hours at 50% load when the tank is full (fuel consumption is approximately 0.25 gallons per hour).
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
Portability
At L23.6 x W17.5 x H17.9 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Pulsar PG3250 ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Weighing 87 lbs, the PG3250 is easily handled, ensuring it can go wherever your power needs are. Additionally, the generator’s mobility is enhanced by its open frame design, as it can be easily grabbed and shifted.
Features
The PG3250's control panel
When the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicator.
The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a 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.
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.
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 pounds, the Pulsar PG3250 finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 2000 and 3000 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Westinghouse iGen2800 with only 46.3 pounds.
- This generator, with its lowest noise level at 68 dBA, is noisier than most generators of comparable running wattage. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Honda EU3000iS. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 50 dBA.
- The PG3250 provides one of the highest run time among similarly powerful devices, reaching around 16 hours at 50% load.
- Run time is crucial, but it heavily relies on the fuel tank's capacity. Thus, considering fuel efficiency alongside is essential. Among devices of similar power, this generator has one of the better fuel efficiency, with consumption rates of around 0.25 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Cummins Onan P2500i, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.13 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
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
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (87 lbs)
- 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 |
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 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.