GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter review: our full analysis

What will a 5,500-watt generator run?

The GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter delivers 3,800 W continuously and up to 5,500 W for a few seconds to start motors. 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.

GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter3,800 running W · Gas inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price

Runtime and fuel

The fuel tank holds 0.9 gallons of gasoline. The manufacturer quotes 4 hr 50 min at a quarter load. At half load, count on roughly 3 hr (our estimate from the quarter-load figure). That is about 0.30 gallon per hour at half load, or 7 gallons for a full day of running, so plan your fuel storage for a multi-day outage.

62 dB(A): how loud is it?

The manufacturer rates the GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter at 62 dB(A), usually measured at 23 feet (7 m) and a light load. That is about the level of a conversation or a dishwasher: acceptable at a campground.

Outlets: home, RV and tools

Its panel offers 2 × 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.

Start type, CO shutoff and warranty

It starts with a remote key fob or the electric push-button, 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 $500–$800: good value per watt?

Relative to its running watts, the GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter scores 6.3/10 on value: an average result. 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.

GENMAX GM5500iHD Hybrid Inverter3,800 running W · Gas inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price