Best Portable Generators on The Market in 2022
Are you on the market for a new generator but having trouble selecting from the wide berth of choices? Perhaps you need one as back-up power for your home. Or maybe you are going on a trip and urgently need a generator to power your RV. Being able to select a suitable unit comes with an understanding of your needs as well as some knowledge of a generator’s key specifications.
Before purchasing a generator, it is important to ask a lot of questions. Do you intend to use the generator as a daily driver that you can use for months on end? Or will it just be for recreational use? With this in mind, you can select the ideal engine types and power output ratings. In terms of fuel, you can choose from diesel, natural gas, propane, and bi-fuel generators.
Are you ready to shell out more money for an inverter generator or are you happy with a standard and conventional one? Some generators can be smaller, portable devices that are ideal for camping yet they provide limited amounts of power. Others can be more permanent fixtures that can power your entire house.
While it is true that the number of options can leave you overwhelmed, it is possible to buy a generator for just about any need. If you are on the market for the perfect mid-sized inverter generator that is super quiet and efficient, a Predator 3500 generator might just be the perfect one for you!
Specifications
Having a generator that can accommodate all your needs is as important as being able to enjoy the outdoors while camped out. You will need a unit that will provide enough power and not impede your ability to make the most out of your activities. A functional and portable unit, the Predator 3500 generator is a mid-range inverter generator that checks a lot of boxes. Read on and find out why.
Features:
- 212cc air-cooled OHV gas engine
- 6 gallons gasoline fuel tank
- 3500 peak watts; 3000 running watts
- 11 hours of run time at 25% load
- 20 oz oil capacity
- 2 units of 120v AC grounded outlets
- 1 unit of 120v AC twist-lock outlet
- 1 unit of DC 12-volt 2 pin outlet
- 57 dB noise level
- 8 x W17.3 x H20 inches
- 2 lbs
- Clean power output
- Throttle switch for increased fuel efficiency
- Parallel connection capable
- LCD digital screen showing oil information
- Electric start
- Backup pull start
- Automatic low oil shutdown
- Durable copper components
- Overload protection
- Fully-enclosed unit
- Built-in cast wheels for easy transport
Produced by Harbor Freight, the Predator generator 3500 is a super quiet generator rated at 3000 running watts and 3500 watts surge load. Being an inverter type, it produces clean power which means that it is safe to use for sensitive electronics like laptops and mobile devices. With a run time of 11 hours at 25% capacity, you can spend the entire night rested while it powers your entire RV. The generator is also safe for the environment with its emissions control certified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Using the generator is as easy as it is convenient. A digital display shows voltage, amps and watts. It comes with an easy push button electric start, too. Upon purchase, a funnel, a tool kit, an RV adapter, 12-volt output for charging batteries, and cables for charging are included. It also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for up to two years so you are assured of its quality.
In this article, we discuss the different features and specifications of the Predator 3500 inverter to help you decide on it as your perfect generator for your needs.
Power
All electrical equipment that you use run on a specific number of watts. This is determined by multiplying the volts and amps. If you are buying a generator, you should bear in mind the appliances that you will be using on it in order to avoid pushing it to its peak watts. Running it at peak watts for extended periods of time strains the motors and may cause the generator to malfunction.
With a gasoline-fueled 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the Predator generator 3500 gives a running wattage of 3000W and a peak wattage of 3500W. You may wonder what the difference is between running and peak watts. Peak wattage, also known as starting watts, is the wattage needed to get a device to start running. A generator is able to provide this wattage temporarily through a brief surge. This is why the starting watts are also called “surge watts” or “peak watts”.
On the other hand, running watts are the wattage needed to keep a device running over a prolonged period of time. As opposed to the peak wattage, a generator can provide running wattage continuously.
The Predator generator 3500 generates a clean sine wave, reaching less than 5% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD). This means that sensitive electronics can be plugged into the outlets safely. Additionally, it can be linked to a second unit if you require additional power because of its parallel compatibility. It can easily be started owing to its simple traditional pull-start mechanism. It also features a simple and elegant electric starter which has a battery with it.
Runtime
The ability to run for long periods of time is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity. With a full tank, the Predator 3500 inverter can operate for up to 11 hours at 25% load owing to its fuel capacity of 2.6 gallons. While this runtime is not the highest among the mid-sized generators in the same power range, it can still last you a full night without needing to refuel. This 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator is more fuel-efficient compared to traditional generators. Its throttle switch increases fuel efficiency leading to a lower fuel consumption.
Outlets
3 AC outlets are included in the control unit. These include the grounded Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) and a 120V 30A (L5-30R) twist-lock receptacle. A DC outlet is also included which features a 12V 8A pin receptacle. This makes charging your batteries easy. While this Predator generator cannot be considered RV-ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor (included).
Portability
The Predator 3500 has an enclosed design that ensures its externals are well protected. It has dimensions of L22.8 x W17.3 x H20 inches. This 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator looks better than your conventional, open frame generators, too. With a dry weight of 99.2 lbs, you can easily bring it wherever you need to use it- be it a jobsite or at camping grounds. It can also be easily transported and repositioned with its wheel kit and double handle.
Noise Level
Being an inverter generator, the Predator 3500 is one powerful yet extremely quiet piece of machine. Due to the sound dampening mufflers and its enclosed design, it has a very low noise rating of 57 dBA, which is in fact quieter than a typical conversation at home. This means you can catch up with your old pal while standing right next to this 3500 watt inverter generator. You can enjoy nature’s sounds because it won’t get in the way, too!
Added Features
Because of the handy digital data center, you can access information such as the power output, voltage and lifetime run hours. Additionally, the device’s indicators will display if the generator is ready to be used. It will also alert if the oil level is too low and if the generator is overloading.
In terms of security, this 3500 watt inverter generator features an automatic low oil shut-off capability and an overload protection (circuit breaker). Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in areas where there is danger of fire, such as in parks and forests. The Predator 3500 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant, which means that the generator can be bought and sold in each of the 50 states. You can definitely enjoy your vacation and have peace of mind as you use this generator.
Maintenance
This 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator is quite easy to maintain. The manual it comes with provides instructions on the care and maintenance of the said equipment. Additional care includes inspecting and changing worn out items and lubricating parts as needed.
If you want to get the most out of this 3500 watt inverter generator, performing the first service on time within the conditioning period and doing scheduled maintenance will keep your Predator 3500 in superb shape for a long period of time. It will also keep your warranty intact.
Inclusions
Upon purchase of the generator, a basic documentation and an owner’s manual are included so that you can use the generator as soon as you buy it. The Predator 3500 also comes with accessories such as the funnel which can help you put the oil easier, battery charging cables, RV adapter and tool kit. You may purchase a storage cover separately.
Pros
- Portable with built-in wheels
- Lightweight at only 99.2 lbs
- Quiet due to a lower decibel level at 57 dB
- Comes with a 30 amp adapter for RV
- Easy to use with an electric start
- Digital data center shows fuel, output, and overloading
- Has oil gauge to indicate oil levels
- Can power AC units up to 15,000 BTU
- Easy to maintain
- Safe for the environment
Cons
- Relatively limited run time due to smaller fuel tank
- Average fuel efficiency
- No remote start
- No CO detection sensors
- Smaller wheels are not ideal for transport in rougher terrains
Why do you need a generator?
A generator provides power when you most need it. A permanently installed automatic standby one provides backup power protection during a power outage. This gives you peace of mind that you can go about your daily activities or that there will be little disruption to your business operations. With a standby generator, there’s no need to manually fuel or start it. Sizes depend on how much power you need for your area, be it an entire house or a large office.
On the other hand, a portable generator is a good temporary and mobile source of power. As opposed to standby generators, you will need to refuel with gasoline or propane. Some are fueled by solar energy. As back-up solutions on an emergency basis, they are enough to power a handful of devices only and are perfect for camping. Just note that gas-powered models may pose the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when used indoors. Solar battery-powered ones are safer to use indoors and outdoors.
How does a generator work?
By capturing motion, generators are able to convert mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy. Essentially, a generator is an electrical motor working in reverse.
Smaller generators rely on traditional fuel sources like diesel, gas, and propane to create mechanical power. This power is forced into a circuit to induce an electrical current. This electrical current is then directed to copper wires to provide power to external devices and systems. Modern generators work due to electromagnetic induction. When a conductor moves in a magnetic field, electrical charges could be created which then permit a flow of current.
What is inverter technology?
Inverter technology is relatively new to generators. Made of specialized electronic circuitry and magnets, the inverter unit takes power from a source and inverts it into cleaner energy. Regular AC power produces block waves. Inverter power is composed of sine waves yielding total harmonic distortion (THD) responsible for lower peak currents, less electronic heating, low electromagnetic emissions, and low probability of core loss in motors. The THD plays a crucial role in allowing your high-tech devices to be plugged into inverter generators.
Inverters provide a constant flow of volts to your devices. This protects sensitive electronics such as laptops and mobile phones. Also due to this constant flow of energy, inverter generators are more fuel-efficient. Instead of running at constant speed like the traditional ones, the inverter’s engine speed adjusts to the required power flow.
Is an inverter generator powerful enough for my needs?
Because they are smaller and more portable, the amount of power produced by an inverter generator can be quite limited. This is pegged between 1000 to 4000 watts. While this might not be enough for heavy-duty use, they provide just the right amount of power for back-up or occasional recreational use. This is perfect to power your RV, for camping, and for hunting.
Why is an inverter generator quiet?
Because of its electronics, an inverter generator will automatically lower engine speed when running a lighter load of power. This leads to a reduction in noise. Relative to conventional generators, inverter generators are also quieter due to the specialized mufflers and technology incorporated in the engines that help dampen sound.
Conventional generators have power output that is continuously fluctuating, which then causes lots of noise (imagine a chainsaw). In contrast, inverter generators can be as quiet as a normal conversation or a running air conditioner. The encased design of inverter generators also greatly helps dampen the sound as opposed to the open-frame ones common in traditional generators.
Over the years, the low noise levels have been a huge selling point for inverter generators. People who like camping and enjoying the tranquility of nature hugely benefit from this technology.
Why is an inverter generator costlier than a conventional one?
Inverter generators are more expensive because you are paying a premium for key benefits. For one, it is more fuel-efficient than your traditional generators owing in part to its good design. The power is constant and clean, which means your sensitive electronics will not experience damage. With quiet operation and added portability, they offer the flexibility to be used anywhere.
To summarize….
Now that you now have an understanding of inverter generators and the benefits that they offer, you might see that the Predator 3500 inverter is the unit that can fulfill all your needs. While not exactly providing the highest running time in the mid-sized range, the Predator 3500’s running watts still gives you plenty of power to run your basics and essentials while off the grid. Best of all, this generator produces clean power so you can be confident no damage will happen to your sensitive electronics. Its decent cost and the fact that it comes with plenty of features are pretty huge selling points.
Compact and quiet, you can readily plug this 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator into your RV and enjoy all that nature has to offer. You can use it as a home backup power, too. With its very low noise levels, your neighbors will certainly appreciate it.
Like the many users who love the Predator 3500 inverter, you can be assured that this versatile machine will take care of your power needs and live up to your expectations.