Q: We have the Generac GP5500 and am wondering if it is possible to convert it to electric start?
by Mike Clements from Missouri on January 02, 2014
A: Thanks for your inquiry.
Due to the engine configuration the Generac GP5500 cannot be converted to electric start and generac does not offer an electric start kit as an option.
Q: I was interested in buying the Generac GP17500E. I did my homework and believe it is the one for me. The questions I have are:
1. Can I convert it to propane?
2. How long will a 15lb propane tank last on this generator if I'm not powering the whole house and just the bare necessities?
Thank you Ryan by Ryan from New York on October 16, 2013
A: Thanks for your inquiry.
We at Power Equipment Direct do not recommend converting your gasoline portable generator to an alternative fuel and doing so will void the manufacturer’s warranty and may cause damage to the generator itself. These conversions are not recommended by any of the generator manufacturers.
Gasoline has an Ignition Point of 475–536 °F. When a generator is manufactured to run solely on gasoline these temperatures are taken into consideration and the engine components are made to handle these temperatures.
Propane (LP) has an Ignition Point of 920-1020°F and Natural Gas (NG) has an Ignition Point of 900–1500°F. These higher temperatures will cause damage over time on any “gas only” powered engine.
The following guidelines cover Honda engines (Also applies to other engine manufacturers) modified to run on fuels other than the one for which they were designed, such as converting an engine to run on propane (LP) or natural gas (NG).
• Honda gasoline engines are certified to operate on unleaded fuel with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher, containing no more than 10% ethanol (E10).
• Any change to the original configuration of a certified Honda engine is a potential violation of the Clean Air Act prohibition against tampering (40 CFR §1068.101(b)(1)). The tampering prohibition is important because poorly designed and installed modifications can increase emissions.
• The Clean Air Act prohibits anyone from removing or rendering inoperative any device or design element installed on engines in compliance with regulations. These actions are considered tampering, which carries a civil penalty up to $37,500 for each engine or equipment in violation.
• Engines converted by a third party (OEM, dealer, converter, etc.) to run on a different fuel type must be recertified with the EPA on the new fuel to comply with applicable emission standards. The third party must recertify under a new family and notify Honda to not include the modified engines in the original family.
• Converted engines to be sold for use in California must meet CARB requirements and the converter must obtain approval from CARB. EPA certificates or tampering exemptions will not satisfy the requirement for CARB certification.
• Once certified, the third party must remove the Honda emission control label and apply a compliant emission control label for the new fuel indicating the new certifying manufacturer. Honda will no longer assume any responsibility as the certifying manufacturer.
• The Honda Distributor's Limited Warranty does not extend to parts affected or damaged by the conversion to or use of fuel other than the fuel for which the engine was originally designed.
• Honda offers V-twin engines specifically designed and certified for use in LP/NG applications. The engines incorporate special design features that address the higher combustion temperatures and reduced lubrication to the valve guide area (since it is a dry fuel, not liquid). Please contact your sales representative or distributor for additional information.
Disclaimer: The guidance provided is intended for Honda dealer/distributor informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You must contact the appropriate certifying agencies if you require information on how regulations apply to your specific application.
The regulations and additional information can be found at these web sites:
Q: Which transfer switch would you recommend for Generac 5500? by Richie Newfield from New York on September 03, 2013
A: The Generac 5500 watt generators have a 30A 4-Prong 240V twistlock outlet which you would use to connect to a manual transfer switch using a generator power cord.
The following 30A switch kit is a recommendation found under the hand-picked accessories tab available on product page for each generator model....
Q: My Generac 17KW LP stand by generator purchased earlier this year is working great. I'm now considering a GP5500 for another application, but based on reviews, I'm concerned that the alcohol in our gasoline fuels has a detrimental effect on the carburetor floats and internal components of the fuel system.
Many complaints about corrosion and flooding seem to be a common theme. Are there alcohol resistant fuel systems to combat the corrosion issues available for this application as in the Honda line of generators?
by David Berry from Texas on December 06, 2012
A: All of the manufacturers have compensated for the ethanol content in gasoline and have adjusted parts composition using different materials. The issues with carburetors clogging and gumming up is due to old/stale gasoline and not using a fuel stabilizer.
Gasoline goes bad in 30 days from the date it leaves the refinery and when using a fuel stabilizer it will keep the fuel fresh for 6 months to a year and when a generator is properly maintained by using a fuel stabilizer and running it every couple of weeks the issues disappear.
Q: I have owned the Generac GP 5500 for a year now and have not lost power. I follow the long term storage directions and have less then an hour of run time. Is there a synthetic oil that can be used in the teens and above forty degrees, so that i don't have to change the oil every season hardly used? by Tom from New York on October 04, 2012
A: Any Synthetic oil can be used all season as long as you are using the recommended 5W30 synthetic.
A 5W30 synthetic oil is multi-weight with the 5 covering the low temperature end and the 30 covering the high temperature end.
Synthetics offer better high-temp resistance and better low-temp flow, and they leave nearly no deposits. Hence the high cost for a better product.
Q: I own a townhouse with small backyard. Where should I consider placing my new Generac GP5500 portable emergency generator while I experience power outage please? The weather may be quite inclement like a thunderstorm or a blizzard? Or is it simply a bad idea to use it? by Igor from Maryland on July 01, 2012
A: The best case scenario it to wait out the bad weather before you run the generator, but if it is a must, then you will need to have some type of roof over the unit whether it would be a lean-to or building a roof with a minimum of 3 exposed sides for proper cooling and exhaust.
You can place the generator anywhere outdoors as long as you are a minimum of 5 feet from any window, door or ventilation opening to prevent fumes from entering the building.
Unfortunately, not all generator manufacturers publish the decibel ratings for their generators. Currently, there are no industry standards or requirements for generator manufacturers to follow when testing their generators for noise.
Due to this, manufacturers can test the noise level under any conditions they choose and, therefore, the results are not very reliable as each company will test under conditions that are favorable to their products.
At this time there are no db(A) ratings available on this model.
Q: I already have a Gen-Tran switch (6 switches) wired to my house and need a new generator to hook into it for home power outages and emergencies. Is the Generac GP5500 a good choice? Does it come with a cord that plugs into the Gen-Tran switch? by MissH from Massachusetts on September 01, 2011
A: Yes, the Generac GP5500 is a good choice because it features a 30-Amp Twistlock outlet.
As long as your transfer switch has a 30-AMP instead of 20-AMP outlet, you're fine.
You'll still need to buy the cord (and possibly a power inlet box) separately from the generator.
Q: I am looking to buy a good generator for home emergencies. I live in Westchester, New York so we don't get many power outages, and when we do they usually get power back to us quickly (within 1-2 days at most).
I just need to power a refrigerator and maybe a small window ac unit and a few lights and small electronics.
I am looking at the Generac XG4000 or the Generac GP5500. The GP seems much bigger and heavier and may be more than I need, but it's cheaper than the XG.
What are the main differences between the two lines? Should I go for the cheaper more powerful one? by Donato Signore from New York on August 27, 2011
A: If you will only use your generator for emergency backup, go with the larger and less expensive GP model.
The GP series is designed to backup homes during a power outage.
The XG series can also backup a house. But, it is designed for the person who will also be doing projects that require a generator to run power tools. by Mike, Product Expert
Q: I intend to use this generator during outages typically caused by bad weather such as snow or rain. Is this generator suitable for use outdoors in these kind of conditions? If not, is there a accessory cover available which will allow operation of the generator in these conditions? by Paul Hitte from Maryland on April 07, 2011
A: Portable generators are not intended for use in bad weather. The control panels are not water tight and electrocution can happen if run in bad weather.
We do offer an outdoor enclosure which is designed to house a generator while running which keeps it out of the bad weather. This item is called a Gen-Shed and for pricing and additional info please see link below.
Q: I just received the generator I purchased from you (Generac GP5500 - 5500 Watt Portable Generator) and it comes with a bottle of oil. It does not say on the bottle what type it is. 30 weight or 10w30? Do you know so that it is the proper oil to use for the current temperature. Thanks, Larry by Larry from Ohio on March 26, 2011
A: Generac uses 10W30 in their kits that get sent with the portable generators. by Mike, Product Expert
Q: Hi,
I have two home sump pumps that I would need to run with the generator I buy. Would this (Generac 5500 Watt Portable Generator) be a big/good enough one for the job? by Mary Maurath from Illinois on March 06, 2011
A: This really depends on the starting loads of the sump pumps. 5500 Watts is a good size but it is best to use the following formula to calculate the wattage needed.
Starting Amps x Volts = Watts
This way you make sure the generator isn't undersized in case you decide to run lights or any additional items such as your refrigerator. by Mike, Product Expert
Q: Jim: I want to buy a protective cover for my Generac 5623 6500W portable generator (33.5" x 26.5" x 27.5"). Any recommendations for a cover that will fit this model of generator? by John G. Smith from Maryland on February 27, 2011
A: The Classic Accessories Large Cover will fit up to 8000 watts. We have tested these covers on all of the Generac GP model generators and other manufacturers.
Note: It is important to not include the wheels when measuring the width as the generator covers are not meant to cover them.
Q: I'm considering a portable generator (Genrac 5500 most likely) and my challenge is that I want to run the generator about 50 ft from the house transfer plug that will be near the front of the house. How long can the generator plug run? (30amp, 4 prong style).
Thanks by John from Massachusetts on February 21, 2011
A: A 50 foot 30 amp cord can be purchased for this, so you would be able to run the generator further away from your house without a problem. There is a possibility to have a slight voltage drop, but not enough to make a difference. by Mike, Product Expert
Q: What weight of oil do I put in my Generac model 5500 generator? by Buddy from Oklahoma on January 31, 2011
A: All oil should meet minimum American Petroleum Institute (API) Service Class SJ, SL or better. Use no special additives. Select the oil's viscosity grade according to the expected operating temperature.
• Above 40° F, use SAE 30 • Below 40° F and down to 10° F, use 10W-30 • Below 10° F, use synthetic 5W-30 by Mike, Product Expert
Q: What is the best type and least expensive generator for a pop up camper and home use?
by Mike from Virginia on January 25, 2011
A: Generator sizing is based on the starting amperage of the equipment you plan on powering which will determine the size generator needed.
Proper sizing of the generator is based on 80% of the generators running capacity, so when a large load kicks in the unit has enough flexibility to handle it and still provide clean voltage output.
To calculate the wattage, the following formula will help convert starting amps to watts - Starting Amps x Volts = Watts
Q: Hi Jim i need to know about the noise level of this one does it have a special rectangular muffler by Shirley Bolling from California on January 17, 2011
A: Unfortunately, Generac, like many other generator manufacturers, do not publish the decibel ratings for their generators. This unit does come equipped with a Low Tone Muffler for Quiet Operation but do not have a decibel rating to give you. Currently, there are no industry standards or requirements for generator manufacturers to follow when testing their generators for noise. Due to this, manufacturers can test the noise level under any conditions they choose and, therefore, the results are not very reliable as each company will test under conditions that are favorable to their products. by Mike, Product Expert
Generac manufactures a 5000 watt and 5500 watt portable generator.
We sold a bunch of the 5000 watt version last year during hurricane season.
The generators ran like a champ. Very solidly built at an affordable cost.
This year, Generac came out with a 5500 watt version for the same price.
So, instead of carrying last year's version, we decided to discontinue it and carry this model with an extra 500 watts.
You can find cheaper generators, but no where near the quality of... more
Generac manufactures a 5000 watt and 5500 watt portable generator.
We sold a bunch of the 5000 watt version last year during hurricane season.
The generators ran like a champ. Very solidly built at an affordable cost.
This year, Generac came out with a 5500 watt version for the same price.
So, instead of carrying last year's version, we decided to discontinue it and carry this model with an extra 500 watts.
You can find cheaper generators, but no where near the quality of Generac.
Mike Recommends This Model
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18939
M. J. Middletown, NJ
97 Helpful Votes
Most Helpful Positive Review
REVIEWED
NOV.
07
2012
Reliable "work Horse"
I bought this last year after Hurricane Irene and installed a Reliance transfer kit.
We lost power after Hurricane Sandy for 4 days, I had this running for 4 days with no issues at all. Make sure to check the oil.
It is loud but it worked well with the Reliance Control switch and I was able to have heat, sump pump, refrigerator, couple of HE lights, plasma TV, DirectTv receiver and DVD.
I built a cover using 2x4's (see the attached picture). I had it covered when the generator was running and it worked well.
I bought this last year after Hurricane Irene and installed a Reliance transfer kit.
We lost power after Hurricane Sandy for 4 days, I had this running for 4 days with no issues at all. Make sure to check the oil.
It is loud but it worked well with the Reliance Control switch and I was able to have heat, sump pump, refrigerator, couple of HE lights, plasma TV, DirectTv receiver and DVD.
I built a cover using 2x4's (see the attached picture). I had it covered when the generator... more
Was this review helpful?
9722
Kurt
Purchased 5/30/11
26 Helpful Votes
Most Helpful Critical Review
REVIEWED
JUL.
08
2014
Loud
It starts every time. The problem with this unit is that it's loud. I'm sure they had a engineer from Harley Davidson design it. It does run good can't complain on that.
Pros:Easy To Use, Price, Reliable
Cons:Heavy
Kurt Recommends This Generac Product
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268
Isaac
44 Helpful Votes
REVIEWED
NOV.
18
2012
Very Happy
I ordered my Generac 5500 two days before Sandy. My invoice said it was on backorder but fortunately a day later, I received an email from Electric Generators Direct.com that it had shipped.
Two days later I went to pick it up from the freight company in Burlington, NJ on the Tuesday following Sandy. Although I had no power I did not hook it up since I wanted to connect a transfer switch and run the line for an inlet box outside of my house, toward the backyard.
I am very happy with the communication and shipping time from Electric Generators Direct.com.
I ordered my Generac 5500 two days before Sandy. My invoice said it was on backorder but fortunately a day later, I received an email from Electric Generators Direct.com that it had shipped.
Two days later I went to pick it up from the freight company in Burlington, NJ on the Tuesday following Sandy. Although I had no power I did not hook it up since I wanted to connect a transfer switch and run the line for an inlet box outside of my house, toward the backyard.
I bought this generator as a home backup. I've had it for 22 months and besides the monthly start ups, I've only had to use it once for about an hour. Total hours today (8.5) It starts every time with ease and usually with only one pull... except for the last time. After pulling on the cord a dozen times I removed the breather and I hear a piece fall and hit the concrete floor. It turns out the choke assembly in the carburetor is put together with plastic and it basically fell apart.
After contacting Generac I was told that I would have to buy a new carburetor because they don't make extra parts for the carburetor. I reached out to a few parts dealers and was told the same thing. So I spent $55.00 on a new carburetor because a 50 cent plastic part broke. I wonder how many carburetors I'll end up buying over the next 10 to 20 years? I will also add that I did replace the carburetor and it started with one pull. If you need a generator and you have a small budget, this would be the one to buy. If you can afford something of higher quality, do so.
I bought this generator as a home backup. I've had it for 22 months and besides the monthly start ups, I've only had to use it once for about an hour. Total hours today (8.5) It starts every time with ease and usually with only one pull... except for the last time. After pulling on the cord a dozen times I removed the breather and I hear a piece fall and hit the concrete floor. It turns out the choke assembly in the carburetor is put together with plastic and it basically fell apart.
I've used the generator only once for an electrical outage, and it started well after sitting for an extended period of time. The main thing we lack during an outage is water, and I was concerned if this generator would be horse enough to start and run our submersible pump, because it is a 1-1/2 horse motor for a 350 foot deep well. It works!! I run it once in a while to be sure it will still start and perform when needed. Satisfactory unit.
Pros:Easy To Use, Reliable, I'd Buy It Again, Easy To Store
John Recommends This Generac Product
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144
Marilyn L. Gillette, NJ
Purchased 6/13/12
16 Helpful Votes
REVIEWED
JUL.
08
2014
Works Well And Easy To Use
We purchased our generataaor just before Hurrricane Sandy. Unfortunatey, my husband had just had major back surgery and was unable to be physically active at that time. With his supervision and help with hook-ups, I was able to add the gasoline and start the motor. We were without electric for 10 days, so the generator was a blessing. The product had been recommended by our next door neighbor.
Pros:Easy To Use, Price, Reliable, High Quality
Marilyn Recommends This Generac Product
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167
Curtis B. Framingham, MA
12 Helpful Votes
REVIEWED
JUL.
08
2014
Great Move!
Several years ago I bought t a Generac 5500 generator with pull start. If it didn't start in the first 3 or 4 pulls I couldn't start it because my arm didn't have the strength to keep pulling. I would advise most men over 70 to get the electric start, it's great!
Pros:Easy To Use, Reliable, I'd Buy It Again
Cons:Heavy
Curtis Recommends This Generac Product
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123
Robb E. Manchester, MA
Purchased 12/5/14
REVIEWED
DEC.
27
2014
Egd Rocks
I researched generators on the web for a while and wound up at the Electric Generators Direct site reading reviews on 5500w generators that could potentially power my critical sump pumps during a power outage that is frequent in my my town during any given time during the year that has high winds and rain.
The October 24th 2014 New England "Nor Easter" was no exception, lots of rain, power out for 24 hours - long enough for my entire first floor to be inundated with 2" of water. Procrastination time is over. After cleaning up and vowing never to go through THAT again, I ordered a Generac generator from EGD and now I don't have to worry about the next outage.
The freight company ABF was awesome and the driver was friendly and very helpful. I unpacked the unit the same day it was shipped and followed all the instructions etc., filled it with oil and it fired right up. I ran a few things off of it just to make sure it worked. Now I am saving up for the transfer switch and electrician work to make it even easier to power stuff. Many years to come using this unit, but now I have some peace of mind. Very happy with the price and process!
I researched generators on the web for a while and wound up at the Electric Generators Direct site reading reviews on 5500w generators that could potentially power my critical sump pumps during a power outage that is frequent in my my town during any given time during the year that has high winds and rain.
The October 24th 2014 New England "Nor Easter" was no exception, lots of rain, power out for 24 hours - long enough for my entire first floor to be inundated with 2" of... more
Pros:Easy To Use, Price, High Quality, Durable
Robb Recommends This Generac Product
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52
John C. Concord, NH
Purchased 12/1/14
REVIEWED
DEC.
23
2014
Best Generator
This is the second Generac we have purchased, and have found it to be superior to any other brands that are higher in price. It's easy to maintain, easy to start, and quiet running. Just a superb unit that powers the entire house. EXTREMELY satisfied.
Pros:Price, Reliable, High Quality, Features
John Recommends This Generac Product
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52
Paul M. Spicewood, TX
Purchased 8/15/14
REVIEWED
SEP.
05
2014
Perfect
Right size, right price, delivered when I asked it to be delivered and started up on first pull (after I turned the switch to "on").
Pros:Easy To Use
Cons:Heavy, More Noisey Than Expected But Not Bad
Paul Recommends This Generac Product
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41
Jim L. Castle Dale, UT
Purchased 5/12/11
REVIEWED
JUL.
10
2014
Good Generator For The Price
I like the way it works . It starts good and will run everything that I intended it to . I use it for my camper and it is a bit loud in campgrounds but as I said it will run everything I want.
Pros:Easy To Use, Price, Reliable, Durable
Cons:A Little Loud
Jim Recommends This Generac Product
Jim's Experience With Electric Generators Direct
Web Site
5/5
Service
5/5
Shipping
4/5
"Shipping was a bit of a problem because of where I live."
Shop for the Generac GP5500 - 5500 Watt Portable Generator at Electric Generators Direct. Research Generac 696471059397 portable generators online. Find Generac GP5500 portable generators & Generac GP 5500 features and specifications. Get the best deal; compare Generac 5939 prices now. Buy the GP5500 direct and save.
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