The Generac generators are terrific power solutions for your home, commercial, or industrial needs. They offer a wide array of portable models, including the Generac GP17500E, to help in an emergency power outage or supply temporary electricity to your job site. 

With over 60 years of experience, Generac is the #1 choice in home backup generator products with consumers across the country. Read on to learn more about the features and benefits of the GP17500E portable generator model features and benefits and if it will suit your power needs. 

Features and Benefits

Not all generator products are the same, and many will include alternative features to suit different applications. Here, we take a more in-depth look at the elements of the Generac GP17500E portable generator. 

Power Output, Run Time 

The Generac GP17500E model has an AC maximum output of 26,250 watts when starting and an AC-rated output running power of 17,500 watts. This volume of power makes light work of providing emergency power to a home or temporary electricity for commercial and industrial applications. 

This portable generator has a run time of ten full hours, contingent on a full tank of fuel, and no mechanical or maintenance situations.  

Outlets, Hook-Up Provisions, and Possibilities 

Because of the extensive output capacity, this unit has offered a wide range of outlets for the hook-up of various devices. Examining the GP17500E, you will see these options:

• One 12-volt DC 10A outlet
• One 125/250-volt 14-50R outlet
• One 125/250-volt 30A L14-30R Twist Lock outlet 
• Two 120-volt L5-30R 30A Twist Lock outlets 
• One 120-volt 20A 5-20R GFCI Duplex outlet 
• One 120-volt 20A 5-20R Duplex outlet 

While the 120-volt outlets are sensitive enough to power your sensitive electronics, this generator also offers twist-lock outlets for more industrial uses. 

Starting, Remote Start 

The GP17500E model uses an electric start for easy operation with its Generac OHVI engine. Users can start this generator in only five easy steps: 

• Open the fuel shut-off valve.
• Turn the idle control switch to the off position
• Turn the choke knob to the full position
• Press and hold the Start/Run/Stop switch in the start position until the engine starts, then move it to run.
• Move the choke knob to the half position until the generator runs smoothly, then move to the run position. 

Although starting this Generac portable generator is simple, they do not offer a remote starting option with this model.  

Portability, Dimensions, Weight 

The Generac GP17500E classifies as a portable generator; however, the total dry weight of this unit is 390 pounds. It measures 48.5 inches long, 31 inches wide, by 39.5 inches high. 

This significant size does not allow for easy portability for weekend camping trips. However, it does include an integrated lifting eye for simple transportation to the job site. 

Other Features

Generac provides several additional features that make owning their products a good choice in some circumstances. 

Paralleling with Other Generators 

Users can double their power output by incorporating a Generac Transfer Switch Kit with their GP17500E models. Often, using parallel generators can be less expensive than purchasing a larger unit while also being easier to transport to a location. 

Control Panel Features 

The onboard control panel includes several options for ease of use. These features include: 

• Idle control switch: for starting and running operations
• Hour meter: for monitoring usage for routine maintenance
• Seven various circuit breakers: for protection of the many power outlets
• Seven different power outlets: to support multiple device types 

Security, Alarms, Accessories 

Generac produces durable and safe alternative power solutions for many situations. Their GP17500E model incorporates many of the safety features that you can find in other generator units. 

• The low-oil pressure shutdown feature protects the engine from damage if the oil level runs too low.
• Its Generac OHVI engine uses full-pressure lubrication to ensure a long engine life.
• It contains a winter/summer valve to help prevent icing up during cold weather operations.

Emissions Details 

The Generac GP17500E portable generator’s emissions configuration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is for 49 states. In addition, the built-in idle control helps minimize operational noise and conserves fuel for better efficiency. 

Manufacturer’s Warranty 

This model from Generac is suitable for home, commercial, and industrial applications, so there are alternating warranty options, depending on the usage. 

The GP17500E generator comes with a 2-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects for residential users. Alternatively, it has a 1-year warranty to cover any manufacturing defects for commercial users. 

About the Manufacturer 

For over 60 years, Generac has been the name that many residential and business customers call when they need alternative power solutions. Their reliable products are affordable and an excellent choice for various requirements. 

Their generators are reliable and stable enough to power your sensitive electronics during a power outage or industrial lights at a job site. 

FAQs About the Generac GP17500E Portable Generator 

If you have any other questions about the GP17500E model from Generac, we have some frequently asked questions below. 

What Can a 17,500-Watt Generator Run? 

The Generac GP17500E generator is powerful enough to run a 5-ton air conditioner, plus other electrical devices. This model will help power your fridge and hot water tank along with other small appliances during a power outage, as long as it is not overloaded. 

Who Makes Generac Engines? 

The Generac OHVI engines you find in their portable generators are made from within Generac Power Systems in Wisconsin, U.S.A. 

How Many Kilowatts Does the GP17500E Generator Have? 

With proper operation, users can expect to receive 17.5 kW of power. 

Considerations Before Purchasing a Generac GP17500E Generator

If you are considering the purchase of a Generac GP17500E portable generator, you must be aware of its capabilities and what applications in which it will work best. 

Best Suited For 

The Generac GP17500E generator is the best solution for an emergency backup power source for your home to avoid food spoilage and keep your house warm during winter storms. 

In addition, small and medium business owners can put this model to good use on the job site with enough power for tools, lighting, and more. 

Reasons to Buy

Homeowners who require a reliable generator in an emergency can depend on the GP17500E model. These products will run effectively when you need them, with proper storage methods and regular maintenance to keep them in proper condition. 

Commercial businesses that need a portable generator that is durable and strong enough to haul to and from job sites will be satisfied with how tough and long-lasting the Generac GP17500E model is. 

Strengths, Average Specs, and Weaknesses 

Of course, there will be some terrific elements to a product and some weaknesses that may not be suitable for some consumers as a possible choice. 

Pros 

• Offers a winter/summer valve for cold-weather operation 
• Includes a low-oil pressure shut-off feature for engine protection 
• It has a hassle-free electric start for easy operation 

Cons

• It weighs too much to use as a recreational generator 
• It does not include a recoil start 
• It only uses one type of fuel 

Standard Features 

• The idle control feature helps reduce operation noise and conserves fuel for a more efficient generator.
• Its hardened 1-¼” steel tube cradle protects and reinforces this generator for better stability and durability.
• The large-capacity fuel tank aids in longer run times 

What Current and Previous Consumers Say About the GP17500E

After combing through the many reviews and user forums regarding the Generac GP17500E, most of the results are quite favorable. Naturally, not every consumer will be satisfied with their purchase, but this model is rated highly on average. 

• Florida homeowner A.J.M. boasts about how this GP17500E model can power their entire home during a storm without issues. They comment on how it is significantly cheaper than larger alternatives, making it a more affordable choice for them.
• Jon, another Amazon customer who lives in cold weather, remarked how little fuel this generator uses, even when powering his home furnace to keep his family warm during a storm. He compared other alternative fuel generator models and determined this one was more cost-efficient for his needs.
• SM from VA mentioned how his GP17500E ensures that the fuel lines are empty once the generator turns off for safe storage. It fits well in his garage under a workbench without any storage issues when not in use. 

Related Products

Unfortunately, finding a generator that compares similarly in power and reliability is challenging for the Generac GP17500E model. The closest option we could find was the Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen12000DF Ultra Duty Portable Generator. 

It includes similar features, including the low-oil shutdown and hour meter for monitoring maintenance. However, this unit pales in comparison to power output. The Westinghouse model weighs more than the Generac option, but it does include a remote fob starting option that you will not get with the GP17500E. 

In Conclusion

When shopping for a stable and reliable power solution for your home or business, the Generac GP17500E portable generator is more than capable of delivering what you need. 

This model includes many standard features and some additional elements that make it a terrific choice for an emergency backup power option for your home or at a job site. You can click here to check out more on the Generac GP17500E generator model and view the pricing in your area.