Generac iQ3800 DF (G0089440, 49ST) review: our full analysis

What will a 3,800-watt generator run?

The Generac iQ3800 DF (G0089440, 49ST) delivers 3,000 W continuously and up to 3,800 W for a few seconds to start motors on gasoline. On propane, the manufacturer rates it at 2,700 running watts (3,400 W starting), 10% less. It handles 12 of the 14 loads on our typical list one at a time; add up the running watts of everything you run together, plus the extra starting watts of the biggest motor. As an inverter, it produces clean power suited to laptops, TVs and furnace control boards.

Typical figures; check the label of your own appliances. One load at a time: add up everything you run together.

Generac iQ3800 DF (G0089440, 49ST)3,000 running W · Dual fuel inverter · typical price $800–$1,200 Check best price

Fuel tank and runtime

The fuel tank holds 3.3 gallons of gasoline. The manufacturer quotes 20 hours at a quarter load. At half load, it runs about 13 hours on a full tank. That is about 0.25 gallon per hour at half load, or 6 gallons for a full day of running, so plan your fuel storage for a multi-day outage. On propane, a standard 20 lb tank holds about 4.7 gallons of LP; propane does not go stale, which makes it the easiest fuel to stock.

Noise level

The manufacturer does not publish a noise figure for this model. Open-frame generators of this size typically run around 70 to 76 dB(A) at 23 feet; our noise score treats a missing figure as below average.

Outlets and home connection

Its panel offers 4 × 120 V household outlets (5-20R), L5-30R 30 A 120 V twist-lock, USB ports. It has no 240 V outlet: it runs plug-in appliances through extension cords, not hardwired circuits or a 240 V well pump. It is parallel capable: linked to a second compatible unit with a parallel kit, the two outputs combine.

Starting, safety and warranty

It has electric push-button start, with a recoil cord as backup. A CO shutoff sensor stops the engine if carbon monoxide builds up around it; it does not replace distance (20 feet from the house) and CO alarms indoors. It is listed as EPA compliant; check California availability if you live there. The warranty runs 3 years (residential use).

Typical price $800–$1,200: good value per watt?

Relative to its running watts, the Generac iQ3800 DF (G0089440, 49ST) scores 4.8/10 on value: a high price per watt, which its other strengths may justify. Inverters always cost more per watt than open frames: compare it with other inverters. Generator prices on Amazon move a lot, especially before hurricane season: check the current price before you buy.

Generac iQ3800 DF (G0089440, 49ST)3,000 running W · Dual fuel inverter · typical price $800–$1,200 Check best price