Make staying powered easy on your camping trip, work site or around the home, thanks to the Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator. Noted as being 50% quieter and 20% lighter than regular generators with the same wattage, this generator features a new, innovative technology that keeps the sound to a minimum.
You can move this generator around with the two large side wheels and foldable handle for steering. It runs on oil and will tell you when its 1.2 quarts are running low, thanks to the sensor that indicates when it’s time for a refill.
Pros
- Has two wheels and foldable handle Wheels for easy moving
- 50% quieter than regular generators
- Has a low-oil shutoff sensor
Cons
- On the expensive side
What to Consider When Buying an Inverter Generator
In the market for an inverter generator? Before you hit “add to cart” on an option, consider what you’re looking for and what you’re hoping to get out of it.
The biggest factor to consider when buying an inverter generator is its intended use or how much power you will need. Different inverter generators have different power strengths, so pick one that’s capable of powering your specific items. And ensure a long lifespan by keeping up with generator maintenance.
A portable generator for occasional use to power up a toaster or slow cooker when camping might not be the same generator needed to power an entire RV, camper or home.
Types of Inverter Generators
The different types of inverter generators all have to do with their size and intended use. Some inverter generators are used specifically for handheld devices while others are used to power a camping vehicle.
Regardless of the type of inverter generator you choose, always remember to place these items in an open area (never inside) at least 20 feet away from your home. This ensures no harmful CO levels are emitted.
- Compact inverter generators: Need to charge your cell phone or another small battery-powered device? A compact inverter generator produces around 1,000 watts and is ideal for carrying around for charging convenience.
- Small inverter generators: Otherwise known as “recreational” inverter generators, a small inverter generator produces from 1,500 to 2,500 watts and can be used for camping, fishing, boating or other recreational trips.
- Medium inverter generators: Another must-have size for camping, a medium inverter generator contains enough power for a toaster oven, RV or camper, as well. Since they produce anywhere from 2,500 to 5,000 watts, your camping equipment can stay powered for a home-like feel.
- Large inverter generators: Best to have for home blackouts, larger inverter generators are different from the rest, especially since these can be connected to your electrical panel. Producing more than 5,000 watts of power, a large inverter generator is what you need for a rainy day—literally.
How We Found the Best Inverter Generators
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like, and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
What is the advantage of an inverter generator?
Inverter generators may come with a larger price tag than regular generators, but their benefits far outweigh the cost. They’re ultra-efficient and adapt to the power needed to use fuel more efficiently than regular generators, which tend to run full throttle during every use, which can drain the tank faster.
Another perk to using an inverter generator is its run time. While their engines may be smaller than regular generators, inverter generators’ run time can be up to 3,000 hours, thanks to their wattage.
What is the difference between a regular generator and an inverter generator?
One of the most noticeable differences is sound. Inverter generators are much quieter, due to their compact sizes and smaller engines. Regular generators have a larger fuel tank and are much more powerful than inverter generators, so they are going to have more power and produce more noise.
Other differences between these two are their intended uses. Regular generators have a strong engine that is typically used to power strong working equipment or home appliances. Since inverter generators are more compact, they’re geared toward heaters, smartphones and recreational activities, like camping.
How long can you run an inverter generator continuously?
The exact time your inverter generator should run continuously depends on the model, though the basic rule of thumb is anywhere from six to 18 hours. Most inverter generators can run up to 10 hours continuously.
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