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    Home » The Ultimate Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gas Portable Generator Review
    Generac 5978 Right Side
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    The Ultimate Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gas Portable Generator Review

    April 1, 2022Updated:April 26, 2022No Comments
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    Table of Contents

    • Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator Review
      • Description and Specifications
        • Engine and Power Output
        • Tank Capacity, Fuel Economy, and Runtime
        • Breakdown of the Control Panel and Outlets
        • Dimensions and Weight
        • Noise and Safety
        • Portability of the Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gas Portable Generator
        • Certifications and Warranty
        • Common Problems and Parts
        • Additional Features
        • Price
      • How Does the Generac 5978 Compare With Its Competitors?
      • What Are Consumers Saying About the Generac 5978
        • Additional Resources
      • Is the Generac 5978 for You?
    • Why Choose Generac?
    • FAQs

    In the course of your search for a new portable generator, you may have come across the Generac 5978 GP7500E. In this review, we will give you all the information you need to make an educated decision about whether this is the right generator for you. We will give details about the engine, power output, tank capacity, fuel economy, runtime, dimensions, weight, and much more. We will also show you how this model stacks up against its competitors and what consumers are saying about this specific model. Want to skip the details? See a summary of the Generac 5978 generator here.

    Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator Review

    Generac 5978 Front View
    Generac 5978 Left Side View
    Generac 5978 Right Side View
    Generac 5978 Left Back View
    Generac 5978 Right Back View
    Generac 5978 Control Panel View
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    Description and Specifications

    This generator comes with a single touch electric start for hassle-free and quick startup. There is also a backup recoil pull start. It has an hour meter, low-oil shutdown, and covered outlets. The convenient fold-down locking handle and never-flat wheels make wheeling it around easy and provide compact storage. For added durability, it has a heavy-duty hardened steel cradle. The generator comes equipped with circuit breaker-protected outlets that guard against overloads and a regulation system for the voltage. It also comes with a low-tone muffler to ensure quiet operation.

    Engine and Power Output

    Equipped with Generac’s air-cooled 420cc OHV engine, this generator provides 9,375 starting wats and 7,500 running watts. Its engine runs at 3,600 rpms. The engine is splash lubricated, which increases its performance and lifespan. The power output of this generator is enough to run several large appliances simultaneously. For example, it could easily operate your house lights, refrigerator, TV, and AC all at once. However, it is important to calculate the running and starting wattages of your specific appliances.

    Tank Capacity, Fuel Economy, and Runtime

    This Generac 5978 model comes with a 7.5-gallon fuel tank, which can run for up to 12 hours, and a fuel gauge. The fuel economy is estimated to be around 1.33 gallons per hour at the max output and 0.68 gallons per hour at 50% output.

    Breakdown of the Control Panel and Outlets

    Generac 5978 Control Panel

    The control panel has everything you need to power most appliances and devices. It has a simple layout and includes the following:

    • One 120/240V 30A L14-30R Twist Lock Outlet
    • One 30A 2P
    • Two 120V 20A 5-20R Duplex GFCI Outlets
    • A Battery Charger Input Jack
    • Two 20A 1P Circuit Breakers
    • A Start/Run/Off Switch
    • An Hour Meter

    The hour meter makes it easy to keep track of maintenance intervals, and the battery charger input jacks make it easy to keep the electric battery for the starter charged.

    Dimensions and Weight

    The 7500E is a bit on the heavy side at 197 pounds. The unit has a length of 28.8″, a width of 27.25″, and a height of 25.75″. When extended, its length is 45.38″. This GP7500E is actually a bit lighter than many other models of similar power output and dimensions.

    Noise and Safety

    The noise level for the 7500E has not been tested. However, the low-tone muffler cuts the noise levels down significantly. Some reviewers say that it is a little too loud while others say it is louder than some other models but not irritatingly so. This generator comes with a low-oil shutoff and overload protection that keep it from becoming damaged. The outlets come with a cover to keep them free of debris from the environment and rugged conditions. The generator does not come with a carbon monoxide detector.

    Portability of the Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gas Portable Generator

    This generator is quite large and, at 197 pounds, heavy for a portable generator. But that is to be expected for its power output and size although it is a few pounds lighter than most other models of similar power output and dimensions. The never-flat wheels and folding handle make moving it around your home or campsite or into a trailer fairly easy. The hardened steel cradle provides a strong and convenient way for two people to pick up and move the generator around or place it in the back of a truck.

    Certifications and Warranty

    The GP7500E is CSA certified, meaning that it has been tested against the North American standards for compliance, safety, and accountability. It is not CARB certified, so it cannot be sold or used in the state of California. This model also comes with a two-year limited parts-only warranty and a one-year limited parts and labor warranty.

    Common Problems and Parts

    Some reviews indicate that the screw for the carburetor was loose or the choke was missing. A few other reviewers had issues where the valves would get stuck open, and the generator would backfire, die, and not restart. A very small number of consumers reported that the engine exploded, sending oil shooting out. However, most of the consumers who have reviewed this generator are satisfied with their purchase.

    Additional Features

    SpecificationValue
    Engine Type4-stroke
    Engine Displacement420cc
    Amperage62.5A @ 120V
    Running Watts7,500
    Peak Watts9,375
    Fuel TypeGas
    Tank Capacity7.5 gal.
    Max. Runtime12 hours
    Dimensions 28.8″ x 26.8″ x 26.0″
    Weight210 lbs.
    Noise Level70-75 dBA
    CertificationsCSA Certified, EPA Approved
    Warranty2-years parts

    Price

    The majority of consumers agree that the price for this generator is reasonable and competitive with generators that have a similar power output. The unit does not come assembled out of the box, so that is something you will want to consider before making a purchase.

    How Does the Generac 5978 Compare With Its Competitors?

    Product Name
    Generac 5978
    Westinghouse WGen7500
    Champion 100161
    TogoPower GG8000
    Generac 7676
    Thumbnail
    Generac 5978 GP7500E 7500 Running Watts/9375 Starting Watts Electric Start Gas Powered Portable Generator - CSA Compliant
    Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start 7500 Rated Watts & 9500 Peak Watts, Gas Powered, CARB Compliant, Transfer Switch Ready
    Champion Power Equipment 100161 9375/7500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start
    Togo Power Portable Generator GG8000, Gas Powerd 8000 Watt Remote Electric Start Backup for Home Use, Rv Ready, Hurricane Supply and Carb Compliant
    Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator, Orange, Black
    Amazon Rating
    -
    -
    -
    -
    -
    Amperage
    62.5
    79
    78.1
    54
    66.6
    Running Watts
    7,500
    7,500
    7,500 (Gasoline), 6,750 (Propane)
    6,400
    8,000
    Peak Watts
    9,375
    9,500
    9,375 (Gasoline) 8,400 (Propane)
    8,000
    10,000
    Max. Runtime
    11 hours
    11 hours
    8 hours
    8.6 hours
    11 hours
    Dimensions
    28" x 27.25" x 25.75"
    27.2" x 26.1" x 26"
    27.8" x 28.7" x 26.4"
    31.2" x 23.4" x 24.3"
    27.2" x 27" x 26.5"
    Weight
    191 lbs.
    196 lbs.
    202.4 lbs.
    197 lbs.
    214 lbs.
    Noise Level
    N/A
    72 dBA
    74 dBA
    N/A
    N/A
    Warranty
    2-years parts, 1-year parts and labor
    3-years limited
    3-years limited
    1-year limited
    3-years limited
    Review
    -
    -
    -
    -
    -
    Price
    Price not available
    $1,014.77
    Price not available
    $699.99
    $1,119.00
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Product Name
    Generac 5978
    Thumbnail
    Generac 5978 GP7500E 7500 Running Watts/9375 Starting Watts Electric Start Gas Powered Portable Generator - CSA Compliant
    Amazon Rating
    -
    Amperage
    62.5
    Running Watts
    7,500
    Peak Watts
    9,375
    Max. Runtime
    11 hours
    Dimensions
    28" x 27.25" x 25.75"
    Weight
    191 lbs.
    Noise Level
    N/A
    Warranty
    2-years parts, 1-year parts and labor
    Review
    -
    Price
    Price not available
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Product Name
    Westinghouse WGen7500
    Thumbnail
    Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start 7500 Rated Watts & 9500 Peak Watts, Gas Powered, CARB Compliant, Transfer Switch Ready
    Amazon Rating
    -
    Amperage
    79
    Running Watts
    7,500
    Peak Watts
    9,500
    Max. Runtime
    11 hours
    Dimensions
    27.2" x 26.1" x 26"
    Weight
    196 lbs.
    Noise Level
    72 dBA
    Warranty
    3-years limited
    Review
    -
    Price
    $1,014.77
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Product Name
    Champion 100161
    Thumbnail
    Champion Power Equipment 100161 9375/7500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start
    Amazon Rating
    -
    Amperage
    78.1
    Running Watts
    7,500 (Gasoline), 6,750 (Propane)
    Peak Watts
    9,375 (Gasoline) 8,400 (Propane)
    Max. Runtime
    8 hours
    Dimensions
    27.8" x 28.7" x 26.4"
    Weight
    202.4 lbs.
    Noise Level
    74 dBA
    Warranty
    3-years limited
    Review
    -
    Price
    Price not available
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Product Name
    TogoPower GG8000
    Thumbnail
    Togo Power Portable Generator GG8000, Gas Powerd 8000 Watt Remote Electric Start Backup for Home Use, Rv Ready, Hurricane Supply and Carb Compliant
    Amazon Rating
    -
    Amperage
    54
    Running Watts
    6,400
    Peak Watts
    8,000
    Max. Runtime
    8.6 hours
    Dimensions
    31.2" x 23.4" x 24.3"
    Weight
    197 lbs.
    Noise Level
    N/A
    Warranty
    1-year limited
    Review
    -
    Price
    $699.99
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon
    Product Name
    Generac 7676
    Thumbnail
    Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator, Orange, Black
    Amazon Rating
    -
    Amperage
    66.6
    Running Watts
    8,000
    Peak Watts
    10,000
    Max. Runtime
    11 hours
    Dimensions
    27.2" x 27" x 26.5"
    Weight
    214 lbs.
    Noise Level
    N/A
    Warranty
    3-years limited
    Review
    -
    Price
    $1,119.00
    Buy at Amazon
    Buy on Amazon

    What Are Consumers Saying About the Generac 5978

    Most consumers report that they are happy with the overall quality for the price. Some said it was too loud but not excessively so. People were generally happy with the power output of this model and reported that it makes a great backup generator when there is a power outage or when out camping. The power output of the GP7500E is enough for most outdoor activities or job sites.

    Here are some of the pros and cons reported by those who have bought the GP7500E.

    Pros
    • Easy to use
    • Good portability system
    • CSA Compliant
    • Large fuel tank
    • Solid steel frame
    • Foam air filter that can be washed
    • Easy to access in-line starter fuse
    Cons
    • A bit loud
    • Not CARB compliant
    • Heavy
    • Does not charge the starter battery
    • Does not include an extra fuse

    Additional Resources

    • Owner’s Manual
    • Warranty

    Is the Generac 5978 for You?

    If you are looking for a portable generator that has a higher output but a competitive price point, then this generator might be just right for you. It is easy to use and start and comes with basic safety features, like low-oil shutoff and circuit breaker-protected outlets to shield the generator from damage. It does not have a carbon monoxide detector, and it is not CARB compliant. So, if you live in California, this generator is not for you.

    It is on the heavy side. The fuel efficiency is decent for a generator of this size. Overall, this generator provides good value for the price and can power several large appliances. The portability kit that comes with it makes wheeling it around easy despite its weight, and you won’t ever have to worry about a flat tire thanks to the solid 9.5″ never-flat wheels.

    If you only need to power a few things that do not require many watts, you may want to look into a model with less power output. This will offer you a lower price and better fuel efficiency in most cases. When choosing a generator, it is important to know what the total running and starting watts are for the appliances you want to power. After you have these numbers, choosing a generator becomes a bit easier.

    Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
    Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
    Buy on Amazon
    Generac 5978 7500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator
    Buy on Home Depot

    Why Choose Generac?

    Generac has been specializing in emergency power generation for more than 50 years. Since 1959, the company has strived for consistent innovation. This has led to advanced technological solutions for more efficient and reliable generators. The high quality, reliability, and competitive price points have led many mission-critical industries such as hospitals, data centers, and emergency services to choose only Generac generators for their portable and emergency power needs.

    Generac offers solutions for home, commercial, and industrial power needs. The manufacturer has taken what it has learned about the needs of homeowners and applied some of the features from its line of industrial generators to residential models. This has led to innovative at-home generators that homeowners can count on. Their portable generators are great for both at-home backup power and power on the go. The versatility, quality, and reliability of the Generac brand have made it the go-to brand for backup power needs.

    Generac Logo
    Generac
    Learn more about Generac, their history, portable and standby generators, and the technology behind manufacturing world-class products.
    • Amazon Generac Store Page
    • The Home Depot Generac Store Page
    • Abt Generac Store Page
    • Northern Tool Generac Store Page
    • Zoro Generac Store Page

    FAQs

    What is the recommended oil for the Generac 5978 GP7500E?

    Generac states that only 10W-30/SAE30 oil should be used in the GP7500E.

    What size are the wheels on this model?

    The wheels on this Generac 5978 model are 9.5″. They are solid, never-flat wheels that ensure reliable portability.

    What is the run time of the Generac 5978 GP7500E?

    The maximum run time of the GP7500E is 11 hours at 50% output. It can run much longer than this if you are using less than 50% of its max power output. At 50% power usage, this generator will consume about 0.68 gallons of gasoline per hour.

    What type of gas can be used in this generator?

    Any type of regular gasoline can be used in this generator. You should not put mixed gas or diesel into this generator.

    Are Generac generators testing in the factory after assembly?

    Yes. All generators manufactured by Generac are tested in the factory. The engines are oiled before they leave the facility.

    Can this generator power multiple appliances at one time?

    Yes, with 7,500 running watts and 9,375 starting watts, this generator can power several large appliances. To know what you can run with this generator or what size generator you need, you will need to sum up the starting watts and running watts of each appliance you want to run on the generator and ensure the total of each is less than the max output of the machine.

    Does this generator charge its own battery while running?

    No, you must charge the battery regularly in order to maintain efficiency. The generator does not charge its own battery while running.

    How many volts is the electric starter battery?

    The electric starter battery for this model is 12 volts.

    Is the Generac 5978 GP7500E CARB certified?

    No, this Generac model is not CARB compliant and cannot be sold or used in the state of California.

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