The Generac XG8000E is among the most popular generators in the 7000 – 10000 watt category.  The XG series along with the XP series of Generac generators are one of the few US made generators utilizing a US made engine.  This Generac unit also comes in the Generac XP8000E.  The best 8000 watt generator on the market?  You decide – I have.

In fact, the engine which Generac calls the OHVI was made specifically for the generator market rather than using cross-over lawn mower motors.  Most generators in this power output use the engines made in China, including some of the lower end Generacs.

It is the oil delivery system that highlights this generator.  Nearly all generators utilize a splash delivery system whereas The XG series utilizes a spin on pressurized oil lubrication system like the type used in automobiles.  This and the cast iron sleeve cylinders means this generac 8000 watt generator was built to last.  You should get several years of reliable service.

You may be using this bad boy for many years to come.

Read on as I detail the many features and benefits that make this the generator of choice when you need all the power that you can get for running your household in an emergency, or as a workhouse on job sites.  Yes the price is a bit more than other generators in this power range, but you’ve heard it before, “You Get What You Pay For.”  It is my intention to provide one of the best Generac generator reviews here, as you’ll see this is the #1 8000 watt generator on the market.

For the price you would expect the electric start feature with included battery.  That’s what the “E” means in Generac 8000e.  You get the right mixture of deluxe plugs, 120V/240V power, an included wheel kit, and even an hour meter.  And there’s more below. The name Generac has been the standard in generators for decades.

According to the company website, the XG8000E can be both CARB compliant for our friends in California with their stringent emissions requirements and non-CARB compliant.  It depends on the model that you choose.  They both go by xg8000e, but they are preceded by Generac 5747 for non compliant and Generac 5846 for CARB compliant.  Make sure you indicate which one you need.

Generac Power Systems, Inc. is located at 845 W29290 Hwy 59, Waukesha, WI 53189.  You can visit their website at Generac.com.

Table of Contents
(click a title to jump ahead!)
1. Power Considerations – Wattage
2. Engine Type and Fuel Considerations
3. Starting Mechanism
4. Oil Usage Considerations
5. Outlets and Meters
6. Noise Level – Portability
7. Warranty
8. What’s in the Box
9. Dimensions/ Weight
10. Pros and Cons
11. Consumer Reviews
12. Price
13. Summary

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The Review…

Power Considerations – Wattage

The Generac XG8000E is rated at 8000 running watts as the model number implies.  It has a whopping 10000 surge/starting watts.  This unit is great for hooking into your home’s power panel via transfer switch, however you may have to adjust the unit’s ground.

Make sure that when comparing the power outputs of portable generators that you check the specs.  In many brands, the model number refers to their surge watts, not their running watts.  This presumably to make them sound like they are more powerful than they are.

For example the DS4000S by Durostar is 3300 running watts and 4000 surge watts.  Similarly, the Yamaha EF2000is inverter generator is 1600 running watts and 2000 surge watts.  Be educated.

The 8000 watts in the XG8000 is enough to run nearly everything in your home in an emergency power outage.  Of course you can’t run everything in your house at the same time, but certainly the essentials can be run simultaneously and continuously (e.g. refrigerator, sump pump, lights, entertainment).

Take a peek at the wattage estimator table on this site.  You can calculate based on these estimated values, how many watts you will be using with what electrical devices you can expect to power with this unit.  Remember, when adding in the calculated surge watts, not all devices will surge at the same time.  A good rule of thumb is to choose your devices, total their running watts, then look to see what the largest surge is for any of those devices and add it to the total.  If near 8000 watts, you have the right choice for your needs.

With 8000 running watts, this generator is a good choice to hook up to your home’s power panel. Remember to hire a certified electrician and purchase a Generac transfer switch (10 circuits recommended). Generac makes a good transfer switch. Be warned, incorrect installation can damage your generator, your home’s electrical hardware, line workers and YOU.  Leave it to a professional.

The goal is, when you need whole house electricity in the wall outlets and light switches, you’d simply start up your unit, flip the breaker on your unit, and activate the transfer switch. No need to run all those extension cords throughout your house.

Of course you will need a good supply of generator cords for function and safety when you use your unit for other uses.  Read about the extension cords that you should consider and how to understand those plug configurations on this site.  In general, choose outdoor rated 20Amp or 30Amp cords depending on if you’re using the 120volt or 240volt.

Like most non-inverter generators, supplying power to your sensitive electronic equipment (computers and medical equipment) is not recommended due to the uneven sine wave AC. Generac states that their XP series of generators (professional grade) can supply 5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).  This is the upper level that you would want to run your sensitive devices without fear of the  unexpected surge that will damage your electronics.  You may want to invest in a good uninterrupted power supply (UPS) device if you want to protect your sensitive equipment.

This Generac unit unit does NOT come with a DC charging ability.  That is, don’t expect that you can directly charge your car battery.  You can only charge the included 12Volt DC (10Ah) starting battery with the included charging cable.  You need to plug the included cord in to a standard wall outlet and into the generator’s DC port.  THIS then charges your starting battery.  It is protected by a 1.5 Amp in-line fuse.

The problem here is that there is no indicator that the battery is being charged.  That is, no charging light that indicates when the battery is fully charged, or even charging at all.  If the battery is not charging for whatever reason, you won’t know it until the electric start just won’t crank.

The battery is NOT charging when the unit is running.  You must charge it externally.  According to the Generac XG8000e manual, the battery DOES come fully charged but without the positive lead attached.  You’ll need to connect this before you can use the electric start feature.

The battery is located in an inconvenient place if you need to access or replace it.  You must remove the side panel AND the gas tank to get at it.  Is this a design flaw?  The engineers must have had a reason.  I should ask them!

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Engine Type and Fuel Considerations

The image above is from generac.com.  It does a much better job pointing out the innovation in the aforementioned OHVI generac engine.  Click on the image for a larger view.

Nothing but nice things to say about the OHVI engine.  Generac deserves kudos for this one.  It is only available in the XG and XP models 6500watts and above.  The hallmark is its oil system.  It is just like the type you find in your car.

The Generac XG8000E comes with the 4 cycle,14.5 horsepower, 410cc OHVI engine.The unit comes equipped with an Automatic Voltage Regulator.  The rated amperage at 120V is 66.7A and 33.3A at 240V.  The maximum is 88.3A at 120V and 41.6 at 240V.  Don’t go this high.

The gas tank is steel and holds 9 gallons (34 Liters), and has a fuel gauge.  Just fill the oil reservoir, add the gas and you’re ready to run.  You’ll fill the tank with 87 octane minimum gasoline.

Be aware, when its new, you must fill the tank at least 1/2 full in order for it to start.  Several consumer reviews noted that and Generac agrees.

You’ll be able to run on one tank for 10 hours at 50% load.  That’s .73 gallons per hour.

You’ll find the fuel valve and choke and on/off switch conveniently placed on the front panel.

The air filter is the fluted paper in a molded holder.  Not one of those squishy sponges. The spark plug is Champion RC14YC.  And I LOVE this, you get an extra spark plug, extra air filter, extra oil filter INCLUDED.  Your first yearly maintenance is covered.  Nice touch Generac!

When you want to store the unit, standard precautions apply.  The easily removed gas tank makes draining for storage easy.  If storing for one or two months, just add fuel stabilizer, but if you use it rarely, drain it.  Your don’t want it gumming up the fuel lines and carburetor. It is recommended to shut off the fuel supply and run the engine until it stops. Another good idea is to store with fresh oil after removing the old.

Some consumers complained that the fuel line was kinked upon receipt, not allowing the engine to start.  Still others complained that there was fuel leakage from the carburetor and even through the air filter.  These seem to be isolated incidents and may be related to factors other than faulty equipment.

Generac Comparison Chart

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Starting Mechanism

The Generac XG8000E includes the electric start feature or can be manually started with the easy pull recoil start rope.  Electric starts are not just for the weak.  They are so darn convenient.  If you don’t have the arm strength, you don’t have to go ask a neighbor to start it for you.

All that is required is to open the fuel valve, pull out the choke, and push the button.  Usually within a second or two your are in business. The non-electric start model have a simple on/off toggle.  The electric start has start/run/stop.  By pressing ‘start’ the engine cranks.  Once you release pressure, it returns to ‘run’.  Then when you’re finished, just press stop.

If the engine labors when trying to start, check the charge on the battery (included when you purchase the unit).  Let it run for a minute or two and plug in whatever you heart desires.  Remember, to not have any devices plugged in or turned on when starting a portable generator.  That makes it harder to start and can damage your property.

The battery does NOT charge when the motor runs, so if necessary, you might have to manually start if the battery needs charging.

The recoil starter is a nice backup.  Well made and you should be able to get the unit running in a single pull when broken in.  Generac prides themselves in their “low effort” one pull starts.

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Oil Usage Considerations

As mentioned earlier, the hallmark of the OHVI engines from Generac is the spin-on oil filter and the pressurized oil delivery system.  Most generator engines are splash oil types where the moving parts “dip and deliver”.  This is acceptable for small engine uses, but the pressurized system has many advantages in longevity.

Oil is meant to lubricate moving parts and dissipate heat yes, but much more.  The particulate matter is suspended in the oil.  This includes eventually the fine particles from the engine, including the cylinder.  That’s what makes regular changing of the oil so critical.  Suspended impurities wear on the very parts the oil is intended to protect.

The spin-on pressurized replaceable oil filter removes the impurities ongoing.  Thus, with regular maintenance, helping to keep your generator purring for many years.

The manual recommends SAE-30 oil for most operating temperatures.  This may not be the best per several consumer comments and Generac themselves.  Most recommend 5W-30 instead.  When you buy the Generac XG models, they come with two quarts of SAE-30.  Save it for your warm months.

The oil capacity is 1.5 quarts with a new filter, 1.2 quarts otherwise.  It is recommended to change the oil after the first 30 hours, then every 100 hours or every season thereafter.  Of course check the oil level before every use.

Because it is a pressurized oil system, there is no low oil warning light.  Instead there is a low pressure shut-off when the oil pressure falls to 5psi.  The hour meter serves as a reminder and will warn you when you reach 30 hours and each 100 hours thereafter.  Nice, huh?

Filling the oil is standard in an easily accessible filling orifice with a color coded cap. Oil draining is by removing a hex nut, also easily accessible. The oil drain hole is high enough on the Generacs so that more than just the shallowest drain pans can be used. Kitty litter makes a great absorbent.

Generac thinks of you, their customer by providing what you need in excess.  They even give you a funnel to fill the oil.  But don’t get excited.  It is a one time use fiber funnel.  You’ll still want to invest in a long neck funnel, gas can, cover and proper extension cords if you don’t already own them.

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Outlets and Meters

The power panel of the XG800E is similar to the other XG series and is pictured above.  Click on the image to see an enlarged image.  The layout is clean and easily accessible.  The starting features are grouped on the left while the DC battery charging port is on the right.

The first thing that you notice is the “power bar”.  This is a set of led lights that glow red in sequence from left to right.  Full output shows red lights all the way across.  Any less and you are not using the produced watts at full capacity.  I wouldn’t consider this anything but a confidence feature.  If you really want to know the wattage draw, get yourself an inexpensive wattage meter.

One feature that I’ve not reviewed in any other model is the LED lighted panel.  These light up the control panel when the unit is running.  You won’t have any trouble seeing the panel in low light.  This is an example of how Generac thinks of you the consumer in their design.

The power receptacles also go the extra mile for you on the XG models.  Each of the receptacles are protected by covers for added insurance when storing or operating in dirty, dusty conditions.  Of course this is not to protect from water.  Never operate a portable generator in wet conditions.  You can read about the safe use of portable generators on the article on this website.

There are two duplex, total 4 standard three pronged 5-20R GFCI receptacles.  That’s right, GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) for added safety of your investment and the health of your electrical devices.  They are complete with the ‘test’; and ‘reset’ buttons.  This type of receptacle is designed to shut off in 1/40 of a second when it senses differences in outgoing and returning current.

Hey Generac,  Thank you.

And finally there is the four pronged L14-30R for use at 120 or 240V.  This is the one that you’ll usually use with 240V output.  Get yourself a 30-50 Amp rated generator cord with multiple receptacles on the other end.  It will come in handy.  And this is the outlet that you’ll use if you plan to connect your unit to your household power via your transfer switch.

Each duplex is protected by a 20Amp circuit breaker.  The 30Amp receptacle is protected by two circuit breakers to protect your investment from electrical overload.

On this model, the grounding attachment is on the base of the frame.  On most other brands, the grounding attachment is on the control panel.  The unit is grounded neutral.

The hour meter not only resets, but also flashes warning when it is time to make your 30 hour oil change and your 100 hour changes.  It also flashes at the 200 hour main service interval.  Keeps you from having to log hours each time you use it.

The start/run/stop toggle is conveniently located on the panel, and since this model is electric start, the start feature is on this same toggle, just without the ‘run’.

As mentioned before, there is no DC feature and therefor no DC outlet.

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Noise Level – Portability

The Generac XG8000E has a spark arrested muffler.  This is a requirement of the Forestry Service if you plan to take it camping (do yourself a favor and get an small inverter for camping or tailgating instead).  The noise is not officially rated and is not listed in decibels by the Generac Power Equipment. This is NOT a quiet generator.  In fact some consumers call it down right loud.  Since there is no industry standard on how to measure the noise in decibels for portable generators, there is none report.

I would be surprised if this model came in at less than 70 decibels.  These ratings are usually taken at just over 20 feet away or 7 meters.  For a guide on what decibels are and how you might rate the noise of portable generators, check out my article on “What is the Quietest Generator.” . I don’t think you’ll consider this unit “quiet”.

This is a large watt generator and is accordingly heavy. At 258 pounds, it should and does come with a transportation kit. The kit is easily assembled by following the simple directions in the manual. The wheels are 9.5 inch semi-solid ‘never-flat’ wheels.  This type of wheel is sturdy, but sometimes not the best at rolling over steps.

The frame is a full 1-1/4 inch tubular steel which is thicker than most.  Vibration is not a concern and not mentioned by reviewers.  The locking handle flips out and is ergonomically designed for comfort and functionality.

The bolts and fasteners are easily accessible for when you need to do routine maintenance or trouble-shooting.

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Warranty

The Generac XG8000E is backed by an industry standard 2-year limited warranty for consumer use and 1 year for commercial or rental use.

The consumer warranty is different than the commercial warranty as might be expected. Household or recreational use warrants parts and labor for 1 year from the date of purchase and parts for 2 years from date of purchase.  Proof of purchase receipt necessary. For income producing uses (commercial), the warranty stops at 1 year for parts and labor from the date of purchase.

Transportation of the unit to and from the repair facility (must be Generac authorized) is the responsibility of the purchaser.

The maintenance schedule is standard:

• Check oil before each use. Change oil and oil filter at 30 hours and every 100 hours or yearly.
• Check and clean the cooling features before each use.
• Check and clean the air filter regularly and replace after 100 hours or every year.
• Check and clean the spark plug after 100 hours and replace every year.

Be sure to register when you purchase it, or Generac Power Systems will start the assumed warranty period from the date of manufacture which could be many months before you purchased it.

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What’s in the Box

• Generac XG8000E Portable Generator
• Wheel Kit including tires, handles/grips, mounting feet/pads
• Tool kit (to assemble wheel kit)
• Replacement oil filter
• Replacement air filter
• Replacement Spark Plug and wrench
• 2 each SAE 30 (20 oz.) motor oil
• Oil fill funnel
• DC charging cord
• Wiping Cloth
• Manual easy to ready illustrated with colored pictures.

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Dimensions/Weight of the Generac XG8000E

Dimensions:

• L – 31.5 inches
• W – 25.5 inches
• H – 28 inches

Weight:

• 258 pounds
• 263 pounds shipping weight

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Pros and Cons

PROS:

• OHVI Engine
• Oil filtration
• Electric Start – battery included
• Wheel Kit
• LCD hour run time meter
• GFCI outlets
• Automatic Voltage Regulator
• Low Oil Pressure Shutoff
• Cast iron cylinder sleeves
• LED lighted panel
• 2 Qt. oil included
• Replacement oil filter included
• Replacement air filter included
• Replacement spark plug included
• 120V240V output
• Year parts warranty (consumer)
• spark arrester
• 1-1/4 inch frame

CONS:

• No DC charging
• No battery charge indicator light
• Hard to reach battery
• No voltage meter

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Consumer Reviews

With the popularity of the Generac XG8000E, due mostly to the brand name and the innovative OHVI engine, you can rest assured that it is a good choice even at it’s price point above its competitors.  The fact that it remains a bestseller over the years shows that consumers are happy with this generator and are not afraid to tell others. Most consumer complaints point at the service of the Generac approved repair facilities.

Users love the dependability and ease of use with the electric start feature. Many of these Generac reviews praised the generator as exceeding their expectations. In fact on Amazon, at the time of this writing, in over 80 reviews, 40 gave it a 5-Stars.

Read more consumer reviews directly from Amazon here: Generac XG8000E Reviews

Average Rating: 3.7 Stars

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Price

The price of the Generac XG8000E varies depending on where you buy it but Amazon tends to have the lowest price.

Check current pricing discounts:

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Summary

After reviewing the Generac XG8000E generator,, I confirm that it’s a great choice for someone looking for a dependable portable generator in the 7000 to 10,000watt range. Whether used for household or job site, this unit should last for many years with it’s pressurized oil filtration  system.  It will be ready when you need it most. During the many days of power outages during recent hurricanes the ability to wire this into your home’s power supply make this a smart choice. The electric start feature is a blessing for the variety of users who need one. Generac has been THE brand for generator power for several decades. The reputation is well earned.

It’s a great choice for the home or commercial use. It has enough power to run your A/C and the rest of your RV.  You get versatility and peace of mind. You want it to be ready when you need it.

You will not be disappointed with this portable generator.

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Filed under: $1000 & over • Generac • Reviews