Skip to Main Content
Sam's Club
Sam's Club
All Departments
All Services
Customer reviews for Generac 8917 GP18000EFI 18,000-Watt Gas-Powered Electric-Start Portable Generator for
Generac 8917 GP18000EFI 18,000-Watt Gas-Powered Electric-Start Portable Generator
4.6 out of 5 stars
stars
1,715 ratings1,715 reviews
  1. 5 stars78% (1,346)
  2. 4 stars15% (250)
  3. 3 stars2% (40)
  4. 2 stars1% (20)
  5. 1 star3% (59)

Member photos

  • +110 images
Sort by |
Showing 161-170 of 1,715 reviews
Dec 11, 2025
Reviewer name: ashleyk748a_1644
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Reliable and easy to setup!

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I received the Generac GP5500 Single-Fuel (50-State) from Influenster and Generac in exchange for an honest review, and after using it during a recent outage and for a few home projects, I'm genuinely impressed with its performance. The GP5500 has power to spare. It ran all of my essential home items—refrigerator, freezer, Wi-Fi, several lights, and even the microwave—without any strain or noticeable fluctuations. I've also used it to power a couple of heavier tools for outdoor projects, and it handled everything smoothly. Starting it is surprisingly effortless. The recoil start consistently comes to life on the first or second pull as long as the basics (fresh fuel, clean oil) are in order. It's refreshingly straightforward for a generator of this size. In terms of noise, it's about what you'd expect from an open-frame unit—comparable to a lawnmower at a reasonable distance. Audible, yes, but not disruptive or harsh. The fuel efficiency is another standout. One full tank carried me comfortably through an evening and overnight stretch, which was especially appreciated during the outage. If I had to point out a downside, it would be the weight. Even with the wheel kit, maneuvering it across uneven ground takes a bit of strength. Once it's in place, though, it's rock-solid. Overall, the Generac GP5500 is a reliable, well-designed generator that delivers exactly what you need during an outage or for demanding projects. It's straightforward, dependable, and built to last—qualities that matter most when you're relying on backup power.

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Dec 11, 2025
Reviewer name: alyssajo04_5794
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Big and durable

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] It's been very cold in Wisconsin so I did not have the time to assemble the generator onto its wheels, but I will get to that soon and update my review if needed! This is a very sturdy, powerful and durable piece of machinery. I'm happy to have this for peace of mind if we were to need to use a generator!

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Dec 30, 2025
Reviewer name: melaniel239_9802
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Quality Generator

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Generac 5500 generator was very simple and easy to put together. Adding oil and fuel easy as well. Start-up with manual startup was fairly easy. This unit also comes with a battery for an electric start which is pretty cool. The load can handle several small appliances such as a refrigerator, freezer and a TV or you can use it to run a single 220 volt HVAC system by itself. Moving the unit is a breeze as it comes with a handy handle that folds up and down for easy storage. Overall I highly recommend this unit and Generac is well known for their reliability and quality.

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Nov 7, 2025
Reviewer name: lindsayc228_4096
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Highly recommend

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This generator works great! Has a long battery life too which is incredible. Easy to use and start thankfully. It has a lot of power to it. Also has wheels to move around which is great because it's heavy otherwise.

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Dec 31, 2025
Reviewer name: hunvera_9127
4 out of 5 stars
4 out of 5 stars review

Nice generator

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This geneator will be great when we are boondocking with our RV! It requires gasoline which is a minus for me because of the smell but at the same time, it is easy to find and purchase. This is a very heavy item, and you will need a friend to move it around!

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Oct 27, 2025
Reviewer name: barebear_8361
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Must Have!!

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Thank you so much for the opportunity to test out this generator! It was incredibly easy to use. I did need a bit of help setting it up since it's quite heavy, but once we got it on the wheels, it was a breeze to move around. That feature alone makes it so convenient to take out of storage when it's needed. The generator runs beautifully, and without jinxing myself, I'm actually looking forward to using it when the time comes. It has more than enough power to keep all my essential appliances running during an outage. I really can't say enough good things about it!

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Nov 25, 2025
Reviewer name: Buyer beware
3 out of 5 stars
3 out of 5 stars review

needless waste of my time to resolve warranty issu

Originally purchased unit from a general distributor. The product did not work as it should. Spent months trying to get that resolved. The process was gruesome and useless. Finally after months & hours of my time a resolution was determined to replace the unit with a new one. This unit appears to perform as advertised and expected. So long story short, replacement made but after months of aggravation. Not what I ever bargained for.

Review from generac.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Nov 30, 2025
Reviewer name: Anonymous
4 out of 5 stars
4 out of 5 stars review

I'm sold on this generator

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] If you want a generator that's strong, reliable, and not hard to figure out, the Generac GP5500 is a great choice. I was scared of this generator at first.  I am glad to have it for power outages and outdoor use, and it really delivered.  With a bit of help I was able to get it up and running.  Let's talk about the pros and cons and why it may be a good choice for you.  Pros     •    Plenty of power for the essentials — fridge, freezer, lights, fans, and small appliances.     •    Runs for hours on one tank.     •    Easy to start, even with the pull cord.     •    Sturdy build with wheels that make it easier to move.     •    Very dependable with the items I plugged into it.  Cons     •    It's heavy, so expect to roll it instead of lifting it.      •    A little loud — not sure what's normal.   If your power is out or you are outside and it works the noise doesn't matter.     •    Not the best for sensitive electronics like high-end computers.  Plug in the things you need the most during an outage.  Ease of Use Super simple. Just:     •    Add fuel     •    Check oil     •    Turn the switch     •    Start it That's all. Very beginner friendly.  I feel more secure knowing that I am prepared for an outage. I would recommend.    

  • +1 image
Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Nov 24, 2025
Reviewer name: Speedracer1559
4 out of 5 stars
4 out of 5 stars review

Great features.

I bought this one, it served me well during these power outages they have here in Tennessee. Powered my fridge, two bedrooms ( t/v's and boxes), electric fire places. Filled it up at night, it would run all night. (8+ hours). It served me well. I have the whole house one now.

Review from generac.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214
Dec 8, 2025
Reviewer name: meaganw41_3168
5 out of 5 stars
5 out of 5 stars review

Lifesaver

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Down here in southeast Louisiana, you learn real quick that having a generator isn't a luxury — it's a necessity. I picked up the Generac GP5500E mainly for hurricane season, and let me tell you, it has already earned its keep. The electric start is a lifesaver when the power's out and it's hot, humid, and you're trying to get things running fast. It fired right up with no fuss. It's got plenty of power for what we need: fridge, freezer, a few fans, lights, Wi-Fi, and even the window A/C. During an outage, we barely noticed any strain on it. It's not whisper-quiet, but honestly it's about what you'd expect from a generator this size — steady and reliable. Fuel efficiency is solid too. I ran it overnight during a storm-related outage, and it sipped gas slower than I thought it would. Maintenance is also pretty simple, and the wheel kit makes it a whole lot easier to move around the yard. If you live anywhere that the weather can flip your power off anytime, the GP5500E is a great peace-of-mind purchase. Dependable, strong, and easy to use — exactly what you want when the lights go out.

Review from influenster.com
Helpful?698EZRGTDSV513631905214