Model RYi6522Ryobi 5,500W Gas Generator Review
The Ryobi RYi6522 is a 6500-watt open frame inverter generator designed to provide reliable power for various applications, including RVs, home backup, and job sites. It features a 298cc OHV engine delivering 6500 starting watts and 5500 running watts, CO Detect carbon monoxide shutdown sensor for added safety, and Pure Sine Wave Technology to safely power sensitive electronics.
At a Glance
- Running Watts5500W
- Starting Watts6500W
- Fuel TypeGasoline
- Runtime (50%)8.5h
- Noise Level72.3 dB
- Weight118 lbs
Where to buy
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Is this the right generator for you?
Here's the quick tradeoff view — what this model does well, and where it may not fit.
Pros
- 298cc OHV engine delivering 6500 starting watts and 5500 running watts
- CO Detect carbon monoxide shutdown sensor for added safety
- Pure Sine Wave Technology to safely power sensitive electronics
- RV Ready with 120V 30A MAX Outlet
- Flat-Free Wheels for easy transportation
Cons
- Heavy weight at 118 pounds
- No electric start feature
Summary
The Ryobi RYi6522 is a gasoline generator built around 5,500 running watts and 6,500 starting watts. That combination gives it the headroom to handle steady loads while also supporting higher startup demands when equipment first kicks on.
Because it runs on gasoline, the RYi6522 pairs its wattage figures with a familiar fuel choice for portable power, making it a straightforward option for users who want a gas-powered generator with clearly defined running and starting output.
Power & Runtime
With 5,500 running watts and 6,500 starting watts, the RYi6522 is set up to supply consistent power while still accommodating brief surges at startup. Its inverter design is paired with a 5 percent THD rating, which speaks directly to power quality for devices that benefit from cleaner output.
Noise is rated at 72.3 dBA, giving a concrete reference point for how present the generator will sound while operating. For runtime, Ryobi lists 8.5 hours at 50 percent load, and it carries a 4 gallon fuel tank, tying that mid-load endurance to a defined tank size for planning refueling intervals.
Portability
At 118 lbs, the RYi6522 is a substantial unit, and that weight is a real factor when deciding how often it will be moved versus kept in a set spot. Its dimensions of 24.4 x 20.9 x 22.5 inches help clarify the footprint it will take up in storage or when placed for operation, making it easier to judge fit in a garage corner, shed, or cargo area.
Features
Starting is handled through a recoil system, keeping operation simple and fully manual. The generator includes indicators, which helps with at-a-glance status checks while it is running.
On the safety and usability side, the RYi6522 is RV-ready, includes a spark arrestor, and uses covered outlets along with GFCI outlets, aligning the outlet area with added protection features. It also includes AVR, which supports voltage regulation during operation, and it is listed as EPA compliant. Ryobi backs the unit with a 3-year warranty, adding a defined coverage period to the overall package.
Recommended Audiences
- RV owners needing RV-ready power
- Owners of sensitive electronics seeking clean inverter power
- Shoppers who prefer gasoline-powered generators
- Homeowners needing whole-house or jobsite backup power
Score Breakdown
- Inverter+1
- Watts/$
- Surge/$
- Runtime/$
- Warranty
- THD (lower=better)
- Build Quality
- Noise (lower=better)
- Portability
- Outlet Variety
- Feature Points
What this generator can power
At a Glance
- Continuous:5,500W(recommended usable: 4,400W)
- Surge:6,500W
- Output:120V only
- Inverter:Yes (clean power for electronics)
Big-item compatibility
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Example setups
Essentials
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- Furnace Blower
- Sump Pump (1/3 HP)
Est. running: 1,800W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Essentials + Comfort
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- TV + Entertainment System
- Microwave
- Window AC (10,000 BTU)
- Space Heater
Est. running: 4,400W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Jobsite / Tools
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Circular Saw (7 1/4")
- Air Compressor (1 HP)
Est. running: 3,100W
Peak surge (single motor): 4,500W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
These are estimates using typical wattage assumptions. Real appliances vary. Startup surges can be 2–6× the running wattage for motor-driven loads. 240V loads require a 120/240V generator and proper connection. Use a transfer switch or interlock kit; never backfeed a panel.
About Ryobi
Ryobi is a renowned brand known for its affordable and innovative power tools and outdoor equipment, including generators for residential and light commercial use.
Warranty
Power by fuel
| Fuel | Running | Starting | Runtime @50% | Runtime @25% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 5500W | 6500W | 8.5h | — |
Full Specifications
Power
| Running Watts | 5,500 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 6,500 watts |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 6,500 W |
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 5,500 W |
Engine
| Engine | 298 cc OHV 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 298 cc |
| Spark Arrestor | Yes |
| Emissions Compliance | EPA |
Electrical
| Voltage (AC) | 120 |
|---|---|
| Voltage (DC) | 5 |
| Running Amps | 45.8 A |
| Peak Amps | 54.2 A |
| AC Frequency | 60 hz |
| GFCI Outlets | Yes |
| Neutral | Yes |
| USB Outlets | USB-A |
| DC Outlets | 5V USB port |
| AC Outlets | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI; 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R); 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 5 % |
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 24.4 x 20.9 x 22.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 118 lbs |
Other
| Emissions Compliance | EPA |
|---|---|
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulator | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | Yes |
| Commercial Warranty | 3 years |
| Covered Outlets | Yes |
| Electric Start | No |
| Fuel Gauge | No |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4 gallons |
| Included Accessories | Oil, tool kit, and wheel kit |
| Indicators | Yes |
| Inverter | Yes |
| Noise Level | 72.3 dBA |
| Overload Protection | Low oil and overload protection |
| Parallel Capable | No |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| RV Ready | Yes |
| Starter Type | Recoil |
| Starting System | Recoil |
| UPC | 46,396,052,193 |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Wheels | Yes |
Core
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|---|
Runtime
| Runtime @ 50% | 8.5 hours |
|---|---|
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Gasoline) | 8.5 hours |
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