Review of the Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator

Should You Buy It?

Overall, this is a fine portable inverter that has pleased the majority of its owners. There have been a few problems with individual units, but from what we can see this is a very attractive option. It's not the cheapest, but it comes with a variety of useful features that make it stand out from the crowd.

The only consideration, besides it meeting your power needs, is its weight. It's not really the lightweight unit that's advertised and some kind of wheel kit is probably going to be necessary for some potential buyers. And this applies equally to Generac's GP3500iO mentioned below, which the company say also doesn't have such an option. That is a shame.

Key Points about the Generac 7127 iQ3500

Overview of the Generator

The gasoline powered iQ3500 inverter generator is ideal for people who enjoy recreational activities such as tailgating parties and camping trips. It has a durable yet lightweight design, is engineered for practicality and easy portability.

Controls and Features

The control panel is neatly set out and easy to understand at-a-glance. It has an intuitive PowerDial™ that integrates the Choke/Run/Stop functions into one simple-to-use dial. 

The unit has an electric start powered by a battery that comes as standard equipment. 

An Economy Switch lets you select between two engine speeds to significantly reduce noise and fuel consumption, or to maximize power output.

A sensor monitors the engine's oil level and shuts it down when it detects the level is insufficient to operate safely. And you won't be able to start it until you add more oil.

A Digital Smart LCD gives you real time readouts on wattage, run time remaining, generator status, hour meter and fuel level. The hour meter enables you to keep track of when it's time to carry out scheduled maintenance as detailed in the manual, which helps to increase the generator's life.

For appliance connections there is 1x120v 20A 5-20R Duplex outlet, 1x120v 30A L5-30R Twist Lock outlet and 2xUSB ports (1x1Amp and 1x2.1Amp 5v DC).

On its 2.6-gallon tank the iQ3500 runs for up to 8.9 hours at 50% load and 14.1 hours at 25% load (both on Eco Mode). The Eco Mode ensures the quietest operation and improves fuel efficiency. You use this mode when connecting appliances that don't need much power, such as a TV, lights, a radio, or a video game.

Generac's publicity claims its patented PowerRush™ Advanced Technology delivers 16% more power than Honda's EU3000iS, which translates into an additional 500 starting watts.

This generator is EPA Certified and CARB Compliant, so can be used in all 50 states.

According to the specifications, Generac offer a 3-Year Limited Warranty for both residential and commercial use.

Detailed operational information is contained in the Generac IQ3500 manual.

Power Output

The iQ3500 is powered by a 212cc OHV engine producing a starting output of 3500 watts and a running output of 3000 watts. You can double this by connecting a second Generac 3000 or 3500 Series generator in parallel, using this optional kit (7668).

These power outputs can be affected by altitude.

As this model uses inverter technology it produces a clean and stable power output (THD of <3%), so you can safely connect sensitive electronic equipment.

Weight

Generac say the iQ3500 is specifically designed for portability. But at just over 109lbs, it's not really a lightweight. And it's quite a lot heavier than the similar Generac Open Frame GP3500iO.

There is a handle to help you lug it around, but there is no OEM wheel kit you can buy as an optional extra for this model.

Noise Level

Generac don't give out decibel (dB) ratings for any of their generators. But this model incorporates advanced inverter technology, and its durable steel body and enclosure is designed for optimal quiet operation. So much so that Generac claim it's 40% (over 5dB) quieter than Honda's EU3000iS.

What Most Buyers Like

The iQ3500 is very popular with the majority of owners who award it with 4 and 5-stars. They particularly like its looks and quiet operation in Eco Mode, plus the ease of use with the electric starter. It's very economical and the digital readout is excellent in how it provides valuable information. Owners also see the included supply of oil and funnel as a bonus, and the excellent manual makes setting up for the first time a breeze.

What Some Buyers Like Less

Although the iQ3500 is built like a tank it also weighs nearly as much. It's on the threshold of needing two people to carry the unit, and it really needs a wheel kit.

The LCD isn't so easy to read in sunlight and this could be solved by having standard (analog) gauges. 

Several owners think the quality control and customer care could be improved.

One owner remarks that the exhaust pipe doesn't line up with the grill that covers it. They suspect that after a run of several hours the plastic grill will melt where the exhaust pipe is pointing. They also have reservations about maintaining the unit as the oil drain doesn't exit the unit's outside casing. This makes it harder to drain the oil without making a mess on the inside.

Generac could improve the packaging as the unit sometimes gets a beating in transit with commercial carriers.