Introduction
As a product reviewer, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Generac GP5500 generator and I have to say, I was impressed. This powerful generator has a lot of features that make it a great option as a backup power source for homes. In this post, I’ll go through my personal experiences with the generator and give a detailed review of all its features.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the Generac GP5500 is its sturdy build and compact design. The all-metal construction gives it a really durable feel and the large wheels make it easy to move around. Whether you need to take it from one side of the house to the other, or bring it with you on a camping trip, this generator is built to take on any terrain.
Power Output and Performance
With a 5500-watt power output, the Generac GP5500 has no problem powering multiple appliances at once. The different outlets (120/240V) are compatible with a wide range of devices, from laptops and phones to larger appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. During a recent power outage, I was able to keep all my essential appliances running without any issues.
Outlets and Compatibility
The generators outlets are perfect for various devices. For instance, the 5-20R 120V is perfect for standard household devices like blow dryers or power tools. Also, the L14-30R 120/240V is perfect for larger appliances like air conditioners or dryers.
Ease of Use and User-Friendly Features
Setting up the Generac GP5500 is easy thanks to its easy-to-follow instructions. The control panel is conveniently placed and easy to use, with clear labels for each outlet. I particularly appreciated the hour meter feature, which helps me keep track of how long the generator has been running.
Low Oil Shutdown Feature
The low oil shutdown feature is a great safety mechanism that ensures the generator won’t run without the proper amount of oil. This prevents damage to the engine and increases the lifespan of the generator.
Maintenance and Support
Like all generators, the Generac GP5500 requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. However, the maintenance requirements are fairly minimal and easy to follow. In addition, Generac offers excellent customer support to help with any issues that may arise. The Home Depot team is also available for support on this product.
Price and Value
Compared to other generators in its price range, the Generac GP5500 is a great value. It’s affordable, robust and versatile in terms of its capabilities. However, it may not be the right generator for everyone depending on their needs.
Pros
– The Generac GP5500 has a rugged design and can withstand harsh terrain.
– It has a 5500-watt power output that can handle multiple appliances at once.
– The control panel is user-friendly and easy to use.
– The hour meter helps track usage and maintenance intervals.
Cons
– This generator is on the heavier side, which means it may not be easy to move for all buyers.
– Some customers may require more power than what the Generac GP5500 can offer.
Conclusion
Ultimately, my experience with the Generac GP5500 has been positive. For homeowners looking for an affordable and reliable backup power source, this generator is a great option. It’s easy to use, versatile, and built to last. I would definitely recommend it to anyone in the market for a new generator.
List of 10 home depot generac gp5500 generator
- 9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
- Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
- BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: The Jackery Explorer 240 portable power station has been featured as the "Best Portable Power Station for use in the outdoors" by Digital Trends. A classic choice for your pick.
- EASY TO CARRY: This entry-level portable power station is equipped with a 240Wh lithium-ion battery pack, weighing only at 6.6 pounds. The solid handle makes it easy to carry around for outdoor adventures such as Tent Camping, Road Trip, Backyard Camping, etc.
- VERSATILE POWER SOURCE: 1* Pure Sine Wave AC outlet (110V 200W 400W Peak), 2* USB-A ports (5V, 2.4A), and 1* 12V DC car port to charge your road trip essentials such as smartphones, laptops, cameras, fans, lights and so on. Pass-through charging is supported.
- GREEN POWER SUPPLY: The power station can be recharged by the Jackery SolarSaga 60 solar panel or SolarSaga 100 solar panel. Its built-in MPPT controller enables the solar panel to operate at its max power point for the power station to be recharged at its highest efficiency. TWO alternative ways to recharge: through the wall outlet or the car outlet.
- WHAT YOU GET: 1* Jackery Explorer 240 portable power station, 1*AC adapter, 1* car charger cable, 1* user guide.
- Scheduled maintenance kit is for standby home generators
- For use with the 20kW and 22kW air cooled standby generators from 2013 or later (999cc engine)
- Maintenance is recommended every 200-hours or 2-years
- Includes a pre-cleaner, air filter, oil filter, oil funnel, (2) spark plugs, blue cloth, instruction manual and maintenance sticker
- Oil must be purchased separately
- All-new control center with a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface allowing you to change your fuel type in seconds! The digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance
- This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Equipped with DuroMax “CO Alert Technology” that will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected
- Built using a powerful 500cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years
- The fully loaded power panel includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!
- DUAL FUEL: Operate your 4500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (10W-30 oil included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- ELECTRIC START: Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
- QUIET OPERATION: 61 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 4500 starting watts and 3500 running watts with up to 14 hours run time on gasoline
- CLEAN POWER: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
- CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
- Generator cover is made of 600D durable polyester fabric with an added water-resistant laminated undercoating. 5 Sizes available. Can be used in storage.
- Water-resistant backing keeps your generator completely dry. And full cover with seam sealing tape make it 100% waterproof.
- Two stacks of fabric at one side make the cover weather resistant, but ventilated. Velcro at another side allow easy install and remove.
- Elastic hem cord and bottom strap allows for a Custom secure fit, especially during high winds and severe weather.
- Protect generator from rain, snow, UV rays, dust, tree sap. 3 year warranty.
- Clean and Unlimited Solar Energy: 100% green energy with smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency. The power station can be fully charged with 2 Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels (Should be bought separately) within 6 hrs or only 5.5 hrs via AC wall outlet charging. Ideal for your camping or family emergency storage.
- Easy to Use: The ergonomic shape of the handle grants an ease grip. And use in one touch with simple and speedy setup within 60s to enjoy outstanding charging efficiency.
- Safe & Reliable for Outdoor Camping: Features industry-leading cylindrical batteries (popular with manufacturers of Electric Vehicles) that meet UL safety standards. Certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test (withstanding 3 drops from 0.9m height on any surface). The pure sine wave inverter delivers constant voltage that protects equipment from damage.
- Power Pretty Much Anything: Power 90% home appliances with 1002Wh (1000W AC output power) and 8 outlets (3*AC outlet, 1*USB-A , 1*USB-A quick charge 3.0, 2*USB-C PD, 1*Car outlet). Ideal for outdoor off-grid activities and home backup power to power refrigerator, TV, mini cooler, electric grill, fan, and more for your outdoor and home needs.
- Quiet & Strong: At a such large capacity, this Explorer will leave you with VERY LITTLE to NO noise, giving you the peace and power all at once. Extra bonus for the built - unlike most other portable generators, this supports pass-through charging while its battery life is protected.
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine..With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
- 4500 Peak Watts and 3700 Rated Watts at Less Than 3% THD; Telescoping Handle; Gas Powered; Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start
- Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 Amp Outlet and Two USB Outlets – Great Choice for Travel Trailers or Home Use – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
- Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
- Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and Up to 18 Hour Run Time on a 3. 4 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- DUAL FUEL: Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- ELECTRIC START: Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch, battery included
- INTELLIGAUGE: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals
- POWERFUL: At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts on propane, trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads
- CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
People also ask
What is the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator is a portable gas-powered generator designed for use during power outages, outdoor activities, or on job sites.
What are the features of the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator features a 389cc OHV engine, 5.5 gallon fuel tank, 10 hours of run time at 50% load, low-oil shutdown, circuit breaker protection, and four 120V AC outlets and one 120/240V twist-lock outlet.
How much does the generac gp5500 generator weigh?
The generac gp5500 generator weighs 180 pounds.
What is the noise level of the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator produces a noise level of 72 decibels at 23 feet.
What is the warranty on the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
How do I start the generac gp5500 generator?
To start the generac gp5500 generator, turn the fuel valve to the on position, set the choke lever to the choke position, turn the engine switch to the on position, and pull the starter rope. Once the engine starts, slowly move the choke lever to the run position.
What types of fuel can be used in the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator is designed to run on unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. It is not recommended to use E85 or diesel fuel in this generator.
What can I power with the generac gp5500 generator?
The generac gp5500 generator can power a variety of appliances and tools, including refrigerators, freezers, sump pumps, lights, power tools, and more.
How often should I change the oil in the generac gp5500 generator?
The oil in the generac gp5500 generator should be changed after the first 30 hours of use, and then every 100 hours or once per year, whichever comes first.
What accessories are available for the generac gp5500 generator?
Accessories for the generac gp5500 generator include a cold weather kit, maintenance kit, and a wheel kit for easier mobility.