- AC Rated Output(Running/Starting): 1600/2000 Watts; AC Rated Voltage: 120V
- PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy-to-use dial
- PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used; Electronic Fuel Gauge displays remaining fuel; Runtime Display show how much time is left before refueling
- Fuel Capacity: 1.06 Gallons; Runtime (50% - 25% Load): 5.7 - 7.7 hrs; Full Load Fuel Consumption (gallons/hour): 2.85; Displacement: 80 cc; Oil Type: SAE 10W-30
- Economy, Standard, and Turbo modes of operation saves fuel and reduces noise
- Parallel 2 units together for twice the power (parallel kit model 6877 sold separately); Storage Cover model 6875 sold separately
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The iQ2000 uses a different type of alternator than standard generators. A digital inverter module converts the raw power produced from DC to AC power. Engine speed varies depending on electrical demand — which significantly reduces noise levels. (source: Generac)
When we think about a generator, the first thing that comes into our mind is the noise. The large majority of generators we buy are pretty loud, especially if they are put on their highest capacity.
Generac saw an opportunity and instantly act upon it by making a super quiet portable generator. So good news for you, if you absolutely can’t tolerate generator noise. Generac’s new model 6866 IQ2000 is super quiet, lightweight, and with decent power output.
The IQ2000 model used some fantastic modern materials and technology to ensure that it’s as quiet as a generator possibly can be. In fact, this IQ2000 generator was particularly designed to be quieter than its Honda competitors.
If you’re looking for a powerful and portable generator with almost no noise, the Generac IQ2000 is top of the line. Generac is known for manufacturing quality home-standby inverter generators.
They offer an amazing range of generators with a mix of modern design, performance, and a price that makes it even more attractive.
IQ2000 is an extremely advanced generator. Read on for the Generac IQ2000 review. Here, we will take a close look at it and dive into its technical specs, features, real-time power and run time, portability, pros and cons, and some user reviews. This guide will help you to find out if IQ2000, in fact, is the perfect generator for you.
Generac IQ2000 At A Glance
The Generac 6866 IQ2000 is a strong competitor in the 2000 watts inverter generator category. In fact, in the generator market, Generac has become quite a competitor of Honda and Yamaha.
This generator comes with a few different operating levels – economy, standard, and turbo and these three modes let you adjust the power output to the connected load. It’s rare having three modes in similar inverter generators, so this feature is pretty eye-catching.
Another noticeable feature of this Generac IQ2000 is its sleek and useful LED display. Even a lot of high-end generator models in Honda don’t have this feature. This feature makes monitoring super easy. The display is easy to read and use, which makes it perfect for professional use.
Inverter generators are better than conventional generators as we all know. Generac IQ2000 portable inverter-generator produces AC power according to the demand load, then converts the power into raw DC (Direct Current) power, then again turning it back into a cleaner, AC power, which is what the appliances runoff.
The IQ2000 inverter generator also scores well on portability, run time, and ease of use. This generator’s easy-start technology gives user higher control by allowing to switch on three different modes. This feature hikes up the rating in how user-friendly and portable this generator is.
Another cherry on the top feature of this generator is its parallel capability. 2000 watts may not be enough for many of us. So keeping this in mind, Generac added a parallel kit in this model. As the generator is super lightweight and highly portable, carrying two of them is very much doable.
This is not the most powerful inverter generator, so users who go for this model are likely to keep their parallel capabilities in mind. It is a very portable inverter generator, so carrying two of them around is still doable.
This unit from Generac also comes with a status light. This is to inform the user of everything they need to know whilst the generator is running. The status meter displays ready, low oil, overload, and overheat alerts. So, it eliminates the trouble of guessing when the generator is going to run out of fuel.
Technical Specs of Generac IQ2000
| Wattage: 2000 Starting / 1600 Running Watts | Outlets: 12V DC Outlet, USB port | ||
| Noise Level: 53 dB @ 25% load | Weight: 46.2 lbs | ||
| Fuel Type: Gasoline | Dimensions: 20 x 12.6 x 16.9 inches | ||
| Fuel Tank Capacity:1.1 gal | Engine: Generac OHV 80cc | ||
| Run Time:7h @ 50% load, 10.75h @ 25% load | Starting Method: Manual recoil |
Power & Run Time
Generac IQ2000 is an extremely advanced generator. The first thing about the Generac IQ2000 is that it is an inverter generator. And this will be a smart choice for many reasons because it is a far more efficient choice of the generator.
Firstly, you will get plenty of power in a compact 46 pound package. It has a starting output of 2000 watts and then a running output of 1600 watts. This sounds like a huge supply of power, but it uses way less fuel this way.
Even with this lot of power, inverter generators are also a lot quieter. So it’s way more convenient for day-to-day use. The fuel capacity of this generator is 1.06 gallons. Like all inverter generators, this IQ2000 extremely fuel-efficient too.
We should clarify that the official runtime is 7.7 hours at 25 percent of power. But in our test run, we have found out it lasts for up to 10 hours at 25 percent of it’s rated load.
Generac estimates that IQ2000 will run for 5.7 hours at 50 percent of its rated load. This would, of course, be the case if you were using the generator for smaller things. At 120 volts, its rated amps are 13.3 amps.
Conventionally, every generator produces AC (Alternating-Current) power directly, which actually wastes a lot of fuel. The engine turns a DC alternator and inverts the current to AC with a computer-controlled inverter module. This generator has a rated AC voltage of 120 VAC, with a frequency of 60 Hz.
Outlets
As mentioned above, Generac IQ2000 has a standard 3-Prong plug – 120 volts. And rated AC voltage of 120 VAC, with a frequency of 60 Hz.
It also has a 30-Amp 120V twist-lock Receptacle (L5-30R), and you can use a 30A RV TT-30R adapter (Sold Separately) for RV applications.
Portability
Thanks to its compact design, the Generac IQ2000 generator is 20 x 12.6 x 16.9 inches and may barely fit under a truck bed. So take this fact into consideration whether this could be an issue for you.
But heaviness should not be a concern for clients as the generator is super lightweight. It weighs only 46.2 pounds without 1-gallon of Petrol. When full, it weighs 55 pounds. Thus it’s highly portable.
IQ2000 can be easy to use on the go as it can be easily picked up and move around, and one person is enough to move it using its handle. It doesn’t have built-in wheels, probably because you don’t need them.
Features
One of the main advantages of the Generac IQ2000 portable inverter generator is its reliability. This portable generator has an excellent design, and it could be a simple choice for you, even if you have never used a portable inverter generator before.
LED Display
One of the coolest features this model offers is its vivid LED display. On display, there is a fuel gauge so that you can see how much fuel you’ve used and how much you have left. This LED feature displays the fuel gauge and power output.
It makes monitoring more accessible and easy by allowing you to switch between three different modes (Turbo, Standard, and Economy). And the vivid screen is easy to read; it’s perfect for professional use.
Fuel Gauge
The Generac IQ2000 a fuel gauge. You might think this would be a common feature. It, in fact, isn’t included on a lot of generators. This is as helpful as you don’t need to guess when the generator will run out of fuel. You’ll always have power!
PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used electronic fuel gauge displays, remaining fuel, Runtime Display show how much time is left before refueling.
Status Light
The iq2000 has a power bar. The wattage meter shows you the wattage you are currently using and how much it is still available. It also shows what you have plugged into the generator and the percentage of the generator’s capabilities that you’re using at any one time.
That gives you the idea of how much time you have left of charge. It also warns you when there’s a danger of overheat and over load issues.
Easy Start Technology
The EasyStart technology includes a pull start and easily located knobs on the side. Which is right below the pull cord of it’s recoil manual system. There is a power dial with start, run, and stop functions that offer excellent control. Then, back on display, a simple button allows you to pick between the three settings.
This technology boosts the rating of the Generac IQ2000 model and shows how user-friendly the inverter is. PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy to use dial
Easy to carry
The Generac IQ2000 model is a lightweight and small in size, can be easily picked up and move around, and one person is enough to move it using its handle. It’s less than 50 pounds, which is a plus for transportation. It can easily be the ideal source of power for camping trips and other outdoor adventures.
Low Noise
Well, if you’re looking for a super quiet generator, you can’t get much better than this. In fact, the Generac iQ2000 was mainly designed to be quieter than its direct competitor Honda EU3000is. Honda EUi generators are said to be the most quieter generators but Generac can win the game in terms of noise.
It runs at 53 dB with a 25 percent load. Of course, it will be a bit nosier if you’re running at a higher load, which is almost 60dB, and that’s nothing compared to other portable generators. So if you’re looking for a quiet generator for camping, you really can’t get much better than this. Overall, the model will be an excellent addition to your home if you enjoy peace.
Power Output
The Generac IQ2000 model comes with a maximum power capacity of 2,000 watts. It produces 1,600 running watts when put to action. It also produces an additional 400-surge watt for running appliances like refrigerators, electric ovens, and dishwashers requiring additional power.
However, the power drops out and normalizes once it started. But while running different gadgets, the total power consumption should not exceed 1600 watts.
Fuel-Efficient
The Generac IQ2000 inverter generator is a fuel-efficient generator. Although the fuel consumption depends on its usage and electricity load, switching between the modes gives you more control over fuel consumption.
When the generator is in the economy mode, it generates lower electricity outputs and uses less fuel. However, on turbo mode, its fuel capacity goes over one gallon offers nine hours of running time.
Run Time
The official runtime at 25 percent power is 7.7 hours. But in our test run, we have found out it last for up to 10 hours at 25% capacity. Generac estimates that IQ2000 will run for 5.7 hours at 50 percent of its rated load.
That’s is why Generac IQ2000 is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, DIY projects, and job sites as it’s power sensitive to all your electronics and appliance.
Parallel Capability
If you think that you will need more energy than this can provide, you can add another Generac IQ2000 to run alongside the one you are currently using. This parallel-ready is a very convenient feature, especially when you need the supply of a bigger load for your side job, DIY project, or RV camping. The use of a parallel kit lets you gain even more runtime.
Digital Module Inverter
Another eye-catching feature of the Generac IQ2000 is its ability to convert raw power through a built-in module inverter. You can monitor the power consumption in real-time.
Easy To Maintain
With regular standard servicing, the Generac IQ2000 can be last for years. It comes with a comprehensive user manual, helpful instructions, and information that makes the maintenance pretty easy.
Control Panel
- Idle Control Switch: Turbo, Standard, Economy
- Economy mode automatically adjusts fuel consumption and extends run time and is ideal for not putting as much pressure on the generator. It’s best for the less demanding load.
- Turbo mode allows the user to take full advantage of what this model has to offer.
- Standard mode is the ideal middle point where the user will get the best of both worlds whilst not using as much fuel. It’s best for general loads.
- 2x 120VAC Power Outlets and 1x 12V DC Power Outlet
- Run time remaining display: Shows how much time left before you need to refuel
- Status lights: Alert you to low fuel, low oil, and overload or overheat.
- Power bar: monitors and instantly displays wattage use.
- Parallel ready outlet: Allow the user to connect two inverter generator for twice the power with an IQ2000 parallel kit (sold separately)
- The built-in fuel gauge allows the user to check the fuel level easily.
- For safety concerns, the generator can be used with peace of mind. It has the safety feature of overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil level shut-off.
Emissions
The Generac IQ2000 is EPA-approved CSA and CARB-compliant. Therefore, it can be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California. The generator also meets all USDA standards. Moreover, it can be used in forested areas, meaning it is safe and eco-friendly to take on an RV adventure or camping trip.
Potential Problems / Known Issues
Several people have reported that they had trouble with the generator while running at higher altitudes. This a widespread issue that affects almost all generators. Some generators may adjust for higher altitudes, but the Generac doesn’t have the ability to auto-adjust with the high altitudes.
Another recurring problem is the fuel leaking issue of IQ2000. But this often happens if the carburetor drain isn’t closed.
This and other issues (if you face any other potential issue) are covered in the user manual of Generac.
But with the suggested regular maintenance, this generator can function smoothly for years. We recommend checking the oil after every use, and also, you should clean or replace the air filter every 50 hours.
We always recommend thinking of your generator like a car and put in some effort to maintain it regularly. Because when you don’t give it the regular care it deserves, frustrating things can happen.
Product Video
Price
All things considered, the Generac IQ2000 is an excellent generator for the money you pay, HONESTLY. It’s hard to believe that a generator so cheap can be as good as expensive generator brands. It is extremely quiet, highly portable, and very fuel-efficient compared to other inverter generators of similar power rating categories from competing brands.
It looks great and is a joy to use, and it costs half as much as a Honda EUi generator while also being covered by a 3-year residential and commercial warranty on the whole generator, including the engine.
Generac has become quite popular recently, and you can easily find a couple of their registered service centers in most cities. Generac doesn’t just take some parts off the shelves and put them together and stick up their badge on top of it.
They made sure the build-in quality of this generator is top-notch, and there’s hardly any difference with high-end generators. The engine and alternator also have been designed completely in-house.
So you can be sure that this unit from Generac will keep you happy, and you’ll find that it’s absolutely worth every penny!
Online Customer Reviews & Ratings
At the time of publishing this post, of the 488 reviews of the general iq2000 on amazon.com, over 72 percent of reviews are a perfect 5-stars of the customers were satisfied and happy to use this generator and have given the product a 5-star rating, giving the Generac IQ2000 an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Most users praise it for being quiet, compact, and easy to use.
About Duromax
Founded in 1959, Generac was the first to engineer affordable home standby generators, the first engine developed specifically for the rigors of generator use, and now the #1 manufacturer of home backup generators.
Generac manufactures the widest range of global power products, including portable, residential, commercial, and industrial generators. We are also the leading designer and manufacturer of manual and fully automatic transfer switches and accessories for backup power applications up to 2 MW.
Generac Mobile line of powerful, high-quality light towers, trailer-mounted mobile generators, and combination units are designed and built for various industries and the most demanding environments.
Generac also pioneered the residential power washer category, putting the power to clean into homeowners’ hands. Today, Generac features a full line of innovative, industry-leading power washers suitable for virtually any application, including the toughest commercial and industrial environments.
At Generac, we protect the things that power your life by providing quality, affordable power solutions.
Warranty Information
Generac has a solid reputation for excellent customer service. This generator comes with a 3 year warranty for commercial and residential use. It seems like the manufacturers are confident of the product they’ve made too.
The customer support team is always ready to help if you have any inverter generator issues. You can say this one’s in it for the long haul.
Download Generac IQ2000 Manual
Generac IQ2000 vs Honda EU2000I
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Generac IQ2000 vs Generac GP2200i
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Generac IQ2000 Versus Other Generators
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Conclusion: Should You Buy This Inverter Generator?
Generac IQ2000 is one of the most iconic inverter generators that is booming the online market. Even though there are numerous generators that can be counted into your choice list but Generac IQ2000 should be considered as your prime selection among the other models of the same brand. Nevertheless, the generator has achieved huge popularity among consumers for its comparatively low budget and great features and functionalities. We hope this review will make you take your decision confidently to put it into your cart.
Questions & Answers
What can a Generac iQ2000 run?
Generac iQ2000 inverter generator can power essential home appliances and is also suitable for powering sensitive electronic devices. A Generac IQ2000 can power a mid-sized deep freezer, refrigerator, coffeemakers, computer, TV, and other heating and cooling devices. But maybe not at the same time; as long as you make proper calculations, you can use this generator in peace during power outrage.
Are Generac engines any good?
The Generac engine is as good as Honda. Generac engines are built with high-quality components. That’s why they are super durable and reliable, and they give optimum performance even in the harshest environment.
What brand of an engine is in a Generac generator?
Generac G-FORCE and OHVI engines are designed and manufactured by Generac Power Systems Inc.
How long can a Generac generator run non-stop?
Depending on the load Generac generators can run non-stop for up to 10 hours if you hook up a 50% load. If you go for a more powerful model, then it will give you 30 hours of continuous and stable power supply on a full tank.
How often should a Generac generator be serviced?
Like all standby generators, Generac generators should be serviced every 6 months. Other than that, Generac generators also require periodic monthly maintenance such as oil and filter changes, check-up of the coolant level to ensure maximum level performance for years.
How much does it cost to service a Generac generator?
Generac generators require annual maintenance to ensure maximum level performance for years. Generac offers a $200 service contact that checks up all the parts of the generators. You can also take care of the yearly check-up by some professionals, which will cost lesser $70 to $150
How do I reset my Generac generator after the oil change?
Resetting the Generac generator is pretty easy. After changing the oil, put the generator into the ‘off’ mode, and then you have to hit the enter key twice. This will clear out the fault and leave the generator sitting in the off mode. But if you have no experience resetting the generator before, you are not recommended to do it.
How long should a battery last in a Generac generator?
Generac generator should last for 2-3 years without any problem. But battery replacement is a must after 3 years.
Generac IQ2000 Generator Review
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Performance(4)
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Design(3)
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Noise Level(4.5)
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Ease of Use(3.5)
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Price(4.5)
Summary
The Generac IQ2000 is a popular choice for a reason. I personally love how it is super quiet than most of the generators. As far as portable generators go, this would be the best choice weight and noise-wise. Also, it is very reasonable for portable inverter generators. Generac IQ2000 delivers an ultra-quiet and ultra-clean supply of power with high efficiency and minimal noise (almost silent).
Normally running generators at full power is not recommended, as it can cause serious damage and shorten the life-span of the machine. However, one reviewer said he charged his Tesla car with a Generac iQ2000, drawing 12 amps of current. The maximum amount that it can supply is 13.3 amps, we can see that this means the man was using the generator around 90% of it’s rated load (or 1440 watts). It has a simple and straightforward interface.
I really like how the vital settings are on the dashboard. It makes it easier for me to read out the fuel level. The fuel cap and the engine compartment can be opened easily. That’s why refueling and repairing the generator is very easy and can be done quickly and relatively clean. Apart from that, the Generac IQ2000 is pretty easy to start as well. It only takes one firm yank to get the generator purring. The digital interface of this generator automatically adjusts output to fit in what devices are plugged in.
So that the generator does last longer by cutting down power. This is the feature I admire as most of the generators cannot hook up a wide range of modern devices and automatically adjust the power supply accordingly. This IQ2000 model is made of lightweight material. I can single handily pick up the generator and cart around. The compact design of this generator looks great, feels smooth, which is also very economical. I can fit it about any corner, so I would say it’s pretty easy to store. It provides good value at this price point. Overall very satisfied with this purchase.
Overall
3.9Pros
- Impressive engine interface and power setup
- Smart LED dashboard to regulate every operation
- Technologically advance
- Very simple to use and easy to operate
- Runs with high efficiency
- Unbelievably quietest
- Affordable price
- Smooth carriage
- The compact design needs little storage space
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Can power big gadgets one at a time.
- Minor fuel leaking issue (for some users)
Feel The Power
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Do you own a Generac IQ2000 generator and agree or disagree with these Pros and Cons? Let us know and write your own review.
I’m James Martin and I live in Arizona. I work as a civil engineer and love the great outdoors. I enjoy being off the grid and survivalist culture fascinates me. Over the years, I’ve used many portable generators as a backup power source for emergencies or the main power source for mobile living and other temporary sounds/light installations. This website was started to share my honest inverter generator reviews and I hope this will help you to find the best portable generator for your needs. Start with the list of my favorite generators!