- Wattage (Gas): 3,800 W / 3,000 W
- THD: Unspecified
- Noise Level: Unspecified
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- RV Ready: No
- Run Time@ 25% load: 21 h
- Run Time@ 50% load: 14 h
- Weight: 96 lbs
Table Of Contents
We are proud of our independence and have no ties to manufacturers. To maintain our objectivity, we do not accept free products. Our income is generated by advertising fees paid by retailers for qualifying purchases.
Description
The 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine of the Powermate PM3800 runs on gasoline and can put out 120V. It has a running power of 3,000W and a maximum power of 3,800W. The pull-start mechanism on this generator is standard. It has Powermate’s PowerDialTM, a dial that is easy to use and has three settings for how it works. The PM3800 can run for up to 21 hours on a full tank of 5 gallons of fuel (fuel consumption is approximately 0.24 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel has the following four AC outlets: two 120V 20A duplexes (5-20R).
Features
The data center on the PM3800’s control panel is one of its many features. It tells you how many hours it has been running for and lets you keep track of its activity and status. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas is in the machine. As for safety features, the device has a circuit breaker for overheating and an automatic shut-off for low oil, so you can use it without worry. In addition to the usual paperwork and owner’s manual to get you up and running quickly, Powermate also included some oil with the PM3800.
Mobility
The Powermate PM3800 is 23.8 inches long, 18.1 inches wide, and 19.1 inches high. Together with its traditional, open-frame design, they support the generator and allow it to be raised above the ground. The device was made to work well in harsh conditions and in the great outdoors. With a dry weight of only 96 pounds, the PM3800 can go with you wherever you need power. Also, the generator’s open frame makes it easier to hold and move from one place to another.
Product Videos
The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Powermate-PM3800 compare to other generators with the same power output.
**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.
Specifications
Generic
| Inverter | No |
| Fuel efficiency | 0.238 gal/kWh |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
Power
| Gasoline | Propane | |
| Running watts | 3,000 W | n/a |
| Starting watts | 3,800 W | n/a |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 25 amps | n/a |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 31.7 amps | n/a |
| Run time @50% load | 14 h | n/a |
| Run time @25% load | 21 h | n/a |
Control Panel
| GFCI outlets | No |
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulator | No |
| AC outlets | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
Mixed
| Weight | 96 lbs |
| Approx. dimen. (L x W x H) | 23.8 x 18.1 x 19.1 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unspecified |
| THD | Unspecified |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Oil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
- We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
- For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
- Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.
About the Manufacturer
While Powermate’s past is a little mysterious, they assert to have been selling portable generators and other outdoor power equipment for over 40 years. In 2009, they negotiated a contract for what they refer to as “collaboration,” but is actually ownership with the Italian company PRAMAC, which Generac later purchased from PRAMAC in 2014.
Warranty Information
There is a warranty on the Powermate PM3800 for up to 3 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Powermate’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Powermate generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-800-445-1805. Check Powermate Website for more information.
