Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
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Brand | Champion Power Equipment |
Wattage | 3400 watts |
Fuel Type | Dual Fuel |
Power Source | Gas, Propane |
Item Weight | 95.7 Pounds |
Voltage | 120 Volts |
Output Wattage | 3400 Watts |
Special Feature | Electric |
Included Components | Inverter Generator |
Color | Yellow/Black |
About this item
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 3400-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (recommended 10W-30) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Convenient Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch – Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot.Noise Level :59 dBA at 23 feet. Frequency 60 Hz
- Ultra-Quiet Operation – 59 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts with up to 7.5 hours run time on gasoline
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics – RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
- Champion Support – Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Customer ratings by feature
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Product guides and documents
Product information
Brand | Champion Power Equipment |
---|---|
Wattage | 3400 watts |
Fuel Type | Dual Fuel |
Power Source | Gas, Propane |
Item Weight | 95.7 Pounds |
Voltage | 120 Volts |
Output Wattage | 3400 Watts |
Special Feature | Electric |
Included Components | Inverter Generator |
Color | Yellow/Black |
Product Dimensions | 25.1"L x 17.3"W x 18.3"H |
Engine Type | 4 Stroke |
Ignition System Type | electric start |
Tank Volume | 0.6 Quarts |
Engine Displacement | 192 Cubic Centimeters |
Runtime | 7 hours |
Frequency | 60 Hz |
Running Wattage | 3100 Watts |
Item Weight | 95.7 pounds |
Manufacturer | Champion Power Equipment |
ASIN | B01FAWMMEY |
Item model number | 100263 |
Customer Reviews |
4.7 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #256,069 in Patio, Lawn & Garden (See Top 100 in Patio, Lawn & Garden) #883 in Outdoor Generators |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
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From the manufacturer
Since 2003 Champion Power Equipment has earned a reputation for designing and producing the finest power equipment. From our headquarters in California Champion has expanded its North American footprint to include facilities in Tennessee, Wisconsin and Canada.
Champion’s product line has expanded to include portable generators, home standby generators, inverter generators, engines, winches and more. With over 2.5 million generators sold, Champion is a leader in the power equipment field.
3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
Power Your Life
Our 3400-watt inverter with electric start features Dual Fuel, allowing the 192cc engine to run on either gasoline or propane. Enjoy a quiet 59 dBA for up to 7.5 hours on gasoline or 14.5 hours on propane, and increase your power with the optional Parallel Kit which includes a 50-amp RV Ready outlet.
- Starting Wattage: 3400W
- Running Wattage: 3100W
- Engine: 4-stroke 192cc OHV
- Fuel Tank: 1.6 Gallon
- Run Time: Up to 7.5 hr. (Gas), Up to 14.5 hr. (Propane)
- Assembly Required: No
- Product Dimensions: 25.1" x 17.3" x 18.3"
- Included Items: Propane (LPG) Hose, USB Adapter, Battery, Oil Funnel
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Champion SupportChampion Support and our nationwide network of service centers will back up your purchase with a 3-year limited and FREE lifetime technical support. |
Parallel ReadyThe optional Parallel Kit provides a quick clip-on connection which allows you to increase output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverters. |
Cold Start TechnologyThe convenient electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. |
Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition SwitchBattery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot |
2000-Watt Ultralight Portable Dual Fuel Inverter Generator | 2500-Watt Ultralight Portable Inverter Generator | 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start | 4250-Watt Wireless Remote Start Open Frame Inverter Generator | 4500-Watt Wireless Remote Start Inverter Generator, Quiet Technology | 8750-Watt DH Series Open Frame Inverter with Electric Start | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.5 out of 5 stars
556
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4.5 out of 5 stars
1,106
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4.7 out of 5 stars
1,994
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4.4 out of 5 stars
316
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4.6 out of 5 stars
834
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4.5 out of 5 stars
571
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Surge Wattage | 2000W | 2500W | 3400W | 4250W | 4500W | 8750W |
Running Wattage | 1700W | 1850W | 3100W | 3500W | 3500W | 7500W |
Start Type | Recoil | Recoil | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric, Wireless Remote | Recoil, Electric, Wireless Remote | Recoil, Electric |
Gasoline Capacity | 1.1 Gallon | 1.1 Gallon | 1.6 Gallon | 2.3 Gallon | 2.3 Gallon | 4.2 Gallon |
Run Time at 25% Load | Up to 11.5 hr. (Gas), Up to 34 hr. (Propane) | Up to 11.5 hr. | Up to 7.5 hr. (Gas), Up to 14.5 hr. (Propane) | Up to 14 hr. | Up to 14 hr. | Up to 10.5 hr. |
Engine Displacement | 79cc | 79cc | 192cc | 224cc | 212cc | 420cc |
Noise Level at 23 ft. | 53 dB(A) | 53 dB(A) | 59 dB(A) | 64 dB(A) | 61 dB(A) | 72 dB(A) |
Parallel Capability | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Outlets | Two 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive, Parallel | Two 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive, Parallel | 120V 30A RV Outlet (TT-30R), Two 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive, Parallel | 120V 30A RV Outlet (TT-30R), Two 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive, Parallel | 120V 30A RV Outlet (TT-30R), Two 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive, Parallel | 120/240V 30A Locking RV Outlet (L14-30R), Four GFCI 120V 20A Household Outlets (5-20R), 12V DC Automotive |
Item Weight | 39 lb. | 39 lb. | 96 lb. | 101 lb. | 90 lb. | 155 lb. |
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Product Description
The Champion Power Equipment 100263 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is the perfect combination of versatility and convenience whether you need power for your home, RV or project. The convenient electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. Connect your sensitive electronics with confidence since this inverter produces only Clean Power (˂ 3% THD). Designed for safety with a low oil shut-off sensor, this inverter has a 0.6-quart oil capacity (recommended 10W-30). Operate your Dual-Fuel generator right out of the box on gasoline or propane, and easily switch fuels with a quick turn of the fuel selector dial. Using gasoline, the 192cc Champion engine produces 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts, and will run for 7.5 hours at 25% load. It produces 3060 starting watts and 2790 running watts, and will run for 14.5 hours at 25% load when using a 20-pound propane tank. Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy. Included are a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter, plus a propane hose with a built-in regulator. Operates at 59 dBA from 23 feet – about the same noise level as normal conversation. The optional Parallel Kit provides a quick clip-on connection which allows you to increase output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverters. Also included is a standard 50-amp RV outlet with power to start and run two 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners. Fully assembled with foldaway handle for easy storage and built-in handles and never-flat tires for easy transport. Buy this EPA certified and CARB compliant generator with confidence – Champion Support and our nationwide network of service centers will back up your purchase with a 3-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support.
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This Item Champion Power Equipment Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart Add to Cart | ||
Price | Currently unavailable. | $753.99$753.99 | -15% $536.42$536.42 List: $629.00 | -20% $1,999.00$1,999.00 List: $2,499.00 | -27% $986.74$986.74 List: $1,359.00 | $2,799.00$2,799.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3 | Get it Thursday, Apr 4 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it Apr 3 - 11 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Maneuverability | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | — | 4.4 | 3.8 |
Noise level | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.4 | — | 4.6 | 4.5 |
Portability | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.6 | — | — | 4.0 |
Sold By | — | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | MaxTool |
fuel type | Dual Fuel | electric | Gasoline | electric | Gasoline, Propane (LPG) | Gasoline |
power source | Gas, Propane | gas-powered, propane-powered | Fuel Powered | Gas Powered | Fuel Powered | Fuel Powered |
engine type | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke |
output wattage | 3400 watts | 4500 watts | — | 8500 watts | 4500 watts | 3200 watts |
runtime | 7.5 hours | 9 hours | 12 hours | 14 hours | 14 hours | — |
tank volume | 0.6 quarts | 2.2 gallons | — | 5.3 gallons | 0.6 quarts | 5 gallons |
wattage | 3400 watts | 4500 watts | 2550 watts | 8500 watts | 4500 watts | 3200 watts |
voltage | 120 volts | 120 volts | 120 volts | 12 volts | 120 volts of alternating current | 120 volts |
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the performance, portability, noise level and battery life of the electric generator. They mention that it runs well without any real serious issues, is very portable and easy to lug around. They appreciate the quiet operation and the fact that it has plenty of power to run a space heater, fridge and TV. Customers also like the electric starter, instructions, and dual fuel. However, some customers differ on quality.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the generator. They say it runs well without any serious issues, starts and runs flawlessly each time, and does everything they need. Some customers also mention that the electric starter has been working great and is excellent.
"...So it is a perfect starter generator, LOVE the dual fuel, really nothing to complain about, highly recommended!" Read more
"...This was purchased primarily to have backup power at home. Initial review is very good. Seems solid. Put in oil (VERY IMPORTANT!)..." Read more
"...easy to solve - you can find them for $7 on Amazon, waterproof, no batteries needed, just wrap a wire around your spark plug cord and you're done...." Read more
"Great product, feature-packed, quiet, powerful, and compact at a reasonable price (especially compared to Honda). Package arrived in good shape...." Read more
Customers like the noise of the product. They say that it is very quiet and runs smooth.
"...or motors, but Champion put some real thought into making their quiet, powerful generator user-friendly. Five stars!..." Read more
"...I am impressed with how quiet it is - it's comparable to my Honda eu2000i while providing 1k+ more watts...." Read more
"Great product, feature-packed, quiet, powerful, and compact at a reasonable price (especially compared to Honda). Package arrived in good shape...." Read more
"...The ability to run on gas or liquid propane, RV ready, quiet, safe for my sensitive electronics, portable, light weight, and affordable, With dual..." Read more
Customers find the instructions for the electricity generator to be clear and easy to follow. They also say the setup of the generators was moderately easy, and the product is easy to use and maintain. Customers also mention that the generator is very quiet and starts easily. They are impressed with how simple and easy it is to run and to hook up the tank.
"...Assembly is super easy..." Read more
"...It's a snap to install with no cutting...." Read more
"...Pretty easy to use and maintain; the newer models have an oil drain tube which is very convienent given the clearence is so low that you would need..." Read more
"...Package arrived in good shape. Contents packed well in box. Set up instructions were good...." Read more
Customers like the portability of the generator. They mention that it is well designed, compact, and easy to lug around. The weight is manageable, and the wheels and handle are more than adequate. It fills the bill nicely as a portable unit, and it easily fits through the door for storing during transport.
"...And final bonus: it is a small square shape where a small piece of plywood sits nicely on top; I am able to store mine in a small area in my garage..." Read more
"...The built-in folding handle and wheels allow easy transport of this near 100-pound machine on smooth surfaces...." Read more
"...That is why I bought this exact model. As a plus, the Champion is light enough for one guy to lift into a vehicle and has a functional handle and..." Read more
"...The battery is fairly easy to get to, just a little low on the unit so if you have a bad back like me you may be grunting a bit on your hands and..." Read more
Customers like the battery life of the generator. They say it has plenty of power to run a space heater, fridge, and TV. Some say it's the right power range for their needs and that it can power some cooking appliances. They also mention that it runs and provides electricity, and that is a more fuel-efficient way to go.
"...So it certainly will be powerful enough to run a space heater, a fridge, and a TV to pass the time during a winter storm..." Read more
"...we use one of these to power our booth - it's quiet enough and has plenty of power to show off our wares on the flea market tables...." Read more
"...We have found that this generator can actually power up ALL six circuits at one time...." Read more
"...DOWNSIDES: The battery must be kept charged if you use gasoline--the pull rope will NOT work if the battery is low!..." Read more
Customers like the electric starter of the generator. For example, they say it's perfect, the unit fires right up, and it starts immediately on propane. Some say they've had the generator for over 10 years and it always starts and runs good.
"...propane bottle (that I normally use for my grill), and the unit fired right up. It is fairly quiet, but gets louder under load...." Read more
"...I've upped the rating to five stars. The genny has fired up easily every time and has been rock solid. I did buy the hour meter...." Read more
"...The engine would not start with choke engaged using propane. Turned off the choke and started right up (temperature about 50F)...." Read more
"...The performance of the generator is excellent, starting up immediately on propane. The unit was wired to the house and tested...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the dual fuel capability of the generator. They mention that it can run on either gasoline or liquid propane. Some appreciate the quiet operation and the fact that it's RV-ready. Overall, most are happy with the product's dual fuel option.
"...So it is a perfect starter generator, LOVE the dual fuel, really nothing to complain about, highly recommended!" Read more
"...The ability to run on gas or liquid propane, RV ready, quiet, safe for my sensitive electronics, portable, light weight, and affordable, With dual..." Read more
"...He was amazed that this small unit was quiet, ran on propane and actually powered up all six of our key house circuits...." Read more
"...Pros:fuel flexibility with gas or propane.gas shut off to empty the carburetorelectric start makes it easy to get going..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the quality of the generator. Some mention that it's well built, has high quality, and is reliable. That said, some complain about the break in process, and the flimsiness of the product. They say the unit arrived damaged, with small broke plastic pieces.
"...Initial review is very good. Seems solid. Put in oil (VERY IMPORTANT!) Connected battery and propane tank. Hit the start button...." Read more
"...It also has two sturdy handles to make it easier to lift up in to pickup beds and the like...." Read more
"...It's fine for a stationary machine, but much too flimsy for road warriors, work sites or campers. A tarp offers superior protection...." Read more
"Great product, feature-packed, quiet, powerful, and compact at a reasonable price (especially compared to Honda). Package arrived in good shape...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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Like many, I was attracted to the Hondas, but there was a recall on some and others do not accept propane. I REALLY wanted a propane option to avoid messing with old gasoline, stabilizers, gummed-up carburetors and fumes. Propane's energy output is 10% lower than gasoline, but I'm willing to take the hit for a clean engine.
Eventually I discovered the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel Inverter Generator with Electric Start at half the price of a comparable Honda. Amazon delivered this bad boy in five days and it comes ready to rock and roll with minimal setup. You connect the (included) battery, add 20 ounces of oil for the initial five hour break in and it's good to go. I found small 20 ounce bottles of 10-30 weight oil at Home Depot, eliminating leftovers or over- or under-filling the reservoir.
ACCESSORIES: The Champion 3400 dual fuel is a feature-rich machine, but I added a few goodies. For some reason almost no generator sports an hour meter. I found the Docooler® Inductive Hour Meter on Amazon for under ten bucks. It's a snap to install with no cutting.
I replaced the standard dipstick with an nicely-machined aluminum dipstick tipped with a powerful magnet for keeping the oil free of metallic shards.
I don't own an RV, so I can't use the RV outlet on the Champion 3400. Yet half the generator's power diverts to this socket. I picked up the rugged five dollar Camco PowerGrip Durable Electrical Adapter that even matches the yellow color scheme. I ran a 12 amp, 1440 watt electric lawnmower off it for 30 minutes and it didn't even get warm (I checked). An alternative suggestion is the Epicord RV Y Cable Adapter that feeds two 15 amp standard outlets from the RV outlet. Sweet!
The Champion Weather-Resistant Storage Cover is kinda "meh." It's fine for a stationary machine, but much too flimsy for road warriors, work sites or campers. A tarp offers superior protection.
FIRST EXPERIENCE: After adding oil and connecting the propane tank I followed the simple instructions for the electric start. The generator wouldn't quite catch--I figure the battery might be a bit sluggish from storage. I used the manual pull rope and the generator fired up.
DOWNSIDES: The battery must be kept charged if you use gasoline--the pull rope will NOT work if the battery is low! If you only use your generator for emergencies the battery should be kept on a trickle charger. I keep an inexpensive Black & Decker charger connected to mine.
The built-in folding handle and wheels allow easy transport of this near 100-pound machine on smooth surfaces. I wish it offered a bit more ground clearance for rough surfaces, however; the bottom drags when tall guys (I'm 6-foot) lift the handle too high.
NOISE: I was surprised at the quiet purr of the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel. Seriously, you can hold a normal conversation standing six feet from the running generator! I placed it about 40 feet from the house and I could barely hear it with the door closed.
POWER: This thing runs like a (excuse the pun) champ. During the five hour break in period, I connected my refrigerator (7 amps, 840 watts) and ran the generator on the economy setting for hours. It easily powered my 12 amp, 1440 watt electric lawnmower through the RV adapter plug when I mowed the lawn. My 1000 watt microwave worked fine.
I changed the oil after the five hour break in period. Champion improved this model so you can now drain the oil through a flexible tube instead of out the bottom. You still need to tilt the body to get the last few drops, though.
The Champion 3400 Dual Fuel Inverter generator is precisely what I was looking for. I have little experience with generators or motors, but Champion put some real thought into making their quiet, powerful generator user-friendly. Five stars!
--------------------UPDATE AFTER TEXAS ICE STORM!---------------------
O.K., Texas just suffered a near-total collapse of our power grid for almost a week. I live in Houston, so don't get me started.
This was the first time I've given the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel a real-world workout. The engine started the first time I pressed the button and ran for almost a week in sub-freezing temperatures and a little blowing ice/rain. I was able to keep my lights on, refrigerator running, cook with the microwave and make coffee with absolutely no issues. I also ran a 100' 13-amp line to my neighbor whose wife is on an oxygen machine, so I've made a good friend.
On maximum power the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel typically went though a bottle of propane every 5-6 hours. On "Eco" mode, it ran an astonishing 17-18 hours per tank. That was fine for normal use, but remember to buy extra tanks. I could hear the generator running at night since I kept it on the patio out of the rain, but the noise wasn't bad at all. In better weather (after a hurricane, for instance) I'll place it out in the yard and probably not hear it at all.
I'm still delighted with my purchase and it keeps the 5 stars! A literal life-saver.
Reviewed in the United States on May 17, 2019
Like many, I was attracted to the Hondas, but there was a recall on some and others do not accept propane. I REALLY wanted a propane option to avoid messing with old gasoline, stabilizers, gummed-up carburetors and fumes. Propane's energy output is 10% lower than gasoline, but I'm willing to take the hit for a clean engine.
Eventually I discovered the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel Inverter Generator with Electric Start at half the price of a comparable Honda. Amazon delivered this bad boy in five days and it comes ready to rock and roll with minimal setup. You connect the (included) battery, add 20 ounces of oil for the initial five hour break in and it's good to go. I found small 20 ounce bottles of 10-30 weight oil at Home Depot, eliminating leftovers or over- or under-filling the reservoir.
ACCESSORIES: The Champion 3400 dual fuel is a feature-rich machine, but I added a few goodies. For some reason almost no generator sports an hour meter. I found the Docooler® Inductive Hour Meter on Amazon for under ten bucks. It's a snap to install with no cutting.
I replaced the standard dipstick with an nicely-machined aluminum dipstick tipped with a powerful magnet for keeping the oil free of metallic shards.
I don't own an RV, so I can't use the RV outlet on the Champion 3400. Yet half the generator's power diverts to this socket. I picked up the rugged five dollar Camco PowerGrip Durable Electrical Adapter that even matches the yellow color scheme. I ran a 12 amp, 1440 watt electric lawnmower off it for 30 minutes and it didn't even get warm (I checked). An alternative suggestion is the Epicord RV Y Cable Adapter that feeds two 15 amp standard outlets from the RV outlet. Sweet!
The Champion Weather-Resistant Storage Cover is kinda "meh." It's fine for a stationary machine, but much too flimsy for road warriors, work sites or campers. A tarp offers superior protection.
FIRST EXPERIENCE: After adding oil and connecting the propane tank I followed the simple instructions for the electric start. The generator wouldn't quite catch--I figure the battery might be a bit sluggish from storage. I used the manual pull rope and the generator fired up.
DOWNSIDES: The battery must be kept charged if you use gasoline--the pull rope will NOT work if the battery is low! If you only use your generator for emergencies the battery should be kept on a trickle charger. I keep an inexpensive Black & Decker charger connected to mine.
The built-in folding handle and wheels allow easy transport of this near 100-pound machine on smooth surfaces. I wish it offered a bit more ground clearance for rough surfaces, however; the bottom drags when tall guys (I'm 6-foot) lift the handle too high.
NOISE: I was surprised at the quiet purr of the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel. Seriously, you can hold a normal conversation standing six feet from the running generator! I placed it about 40 feet from the house and I could barely hear it with the door closed.
POWER: This thing runs like a (excuse the pun) champ. During the five hour break in period, I connected my refrigerator (7 amps, 840 watts) and ran the generator on the economy setting for hours. It easily powered my 12 amp, 1440 watt electric lawnmower through the RV adapter plug when I mowed the lawn. My 1000 watt microwave worked fine.
I changed the oil after the five hour break in period. Champion improved this model so you can now drain the oil through a flexible tube instead of out the bottom. You still need to tilt the body to get the last few drops, though.
The Champion 3400 Dual Fuel Inverter generator is precisely what I was looking for. I have little experience with generators or motors, but Champion put some real thought into making their quiet, powerful generator user-friendly. Five stars!
--------------------UPDATE AFTER TEXAS ICE STORM!---------------------
O.K., Texas just suffered a near-total collapse of our power grid for almost a week. I live in Houston, so don't get me started.
This was the first time I've given the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel a real-world workout. The engine started the first time I pressed the button and ran for almost a week in sub-freezing temperatures and a little blowing ice/rain. I was able to keep my lights on, refrigerator running, cook with the microwave and make coffee with absolutely no issues. I also ran a 100' 13-amp line to my neighbor whose wife is on an oxygen machine, so I've made a good friend.
On maximum power the Champion 3400 Dual Fuel typically went though a bottle of propane every 5-6 hours. On "Eco" mode, it ran an astonishing 17-18 hours per tank. That was fine for normal use, but remember to buy extra tanks. I could hear the generator running at night since I kept it on the patio out of the rain, but the noise wasn't bad at all. In better weather (after a hurricane, for instance) I'll place it out in the yard and probably not hear it at all.
I'm still delighted with my purchase and it keeps the 5 stars! A literal life-saver.
This was purchased primarily to have backup power at home. Initial review is very good. Seems solid. Put in oil (VERY IMPORTANT!) Connected battery and propane tank. Hit the start button. After a couple of seconds of cranking to get fuel through the system, it cranked right up and stabilized. Set in eco mode. Plugged in a 500 watt halogen work-light. The engine surged and then settled back down. Plugged in a second identical light and same thing. No problem
I have a very old 5kw gasoline generator. It is loud, hard to start and no matter how much I try to keep gas fresh, the carb gets gummed up. It's in for the second rebuild right now. It's a back breaker to lift. I need to sell that one to a contractor, or someone else who can run a loud generator frequently to keep it in good shape. Why is that pertinent to this review? I'm glad you asked me that! If I have my way, this new Champion generator will always be run on propane. No chance of gumming up the carb that way. However, in a pinch, it can be run on gasoline. That is why I bought this exact model. As a plus, the Champion is light enough for one guy to lift into a vehicle and has a functional handle and wheels arrangement.
I've seen comments that "It's not as quiet as a Honda". Really, I don't care. For my use, it's quiet enough. I could run this without making the neighbors mad. The sound difference between this and a Honda will not be enough to cause a problem in any situation I see. And for only a few bucks more than a Honda 2000 watt, this makes over 3000 watts. Compare a 3000 watt Honda and you are nearly double the price. Similar to the other brand, this Champion can be paired with a second one doubling the power output.
So, it will all come down to reliability and service if necessary. There is no doubt that quiet red brand sets a gold standard there. Only time will tell about the reliability of the Champion generator is. Hopefully service will not even be an issue because it proves reliable.
I'll update this review after I put the generator through its paces.
UPDATE 9/17/2017: I ran the generator on propane for an hour and a half yesterday, varying the load from no load to 500 watts, to 1000 watts and briefly at 2600 watts and it performed exactly as expected. In eco mode it stayed mostly at low idle at 1000 watts. It finally cranked up at 2600 watts. The 500 and 1000 watt tests were with 1 or 2 500 watt halogen flood lights. The 2600 watt test added a 1600 watt blow dryer. I know, not exactly lab grade testing, but close enough. I'll be running similar exercises over the next few weeks as I try to get it to the 5-hour mark so I can change the oil after the break-in period.
UPDATE 10/16/2017: Still have not hit the 5 hour mark. We had an event in a local park for which quiet power was needed to run a sound system. They were going to use a 5000 red generator down over a hill. I volunteered the Champion instead. With the other generator there as a backup (critical event), we fired up smaller Champion and it performed like a champ (pun intended). One other thing is becoming clear. At least at the power levels I'm using, this thing seems to sip propane. The tank I'm working on started at about 1/4 on the gauge, and after about 2.5 hours, the gauge has not moved perceptibly. I've upped the rating to five stars. The genny has fired up easily every time and has been rock solid. I did buy the hour meter. After the break in oil change, I'll install that to keep track of maintenance intervals. The way I use a generator, it will be hard to put 20 hours a year on it. I'll probably change the oil annually anyway. I'll post any other comment as necessary.
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I have delt with champion in the past for service with another generator i had before and there customer service is really amazing, honestly companys these days with good customer service is very rare, and its awsome to see how champion takes pride in there products and service, and have extremely competitive prices.