A-iPower SUA3800i - 3500/3800W Inverter Generator
The A-iPower SUA3800i is a portable inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 3,800 W. (Read full specs)
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Amazon | Price history for the A-iPower SUA3800i |
|---|
| Highest Price $659.00 Lowest Price $529.00 Current Price $659.00 |
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Description
Zoom on the A-iPower SUA3800i
In short, the A-iPower SUA3800i is a portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
Featuring a 223 cc (7 hp) Senci OHV 4-stroke engine, the A-iPower SUA3800i operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 3,800W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (IPBS8000 parallel kit not included), this power can be increased when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
Operating at a noise rating of 63 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), this inverter generator starts up with a manual recoil starter system.
The SUA3800i's fuel tank, boasting 2.6 gallons, allows it to operate for up to 12 hours with a full tank (with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.22 GPH).
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the SUA3800i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Additionally, it features 2 DC outlets: there's a 5V USB port (USB-A) ensuring convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets, for connectivity on the go and a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle making battery charging a breeze.
This A-iPower generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor (included). However, it is still not quite RV ready.
Portability
The A-iPower SUA3800i's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L24 x W19 x H22 in) provides an aesthetic advantage and contributes to quieter operation compared to any ordinary, open frame product. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
As the generator's weight is 121 pounds, manually moving it or transporting it may be challenging, despite the fact that it is technically considered 'portable' (movable). However, the lack of maneuverability can be offset with its set of 2 wheels (⌀6") and its telescopic handle, which allows for convenient shifting once the generator is placed on the ground.
Features
The SUA3800i's control panel
For easy status and activity monitoring of the SUA3800i, its control panel integrates a digital data center, offering insights into the fuel level, power output, voltage and lifetime run hours.
In addition to this info, the generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the generator is overloaded, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low.
The inverter generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the A-iPower SUA3800i also is packed along with the following accessories: battery charging cables, RV adapter, oil, funnel and tool kit.
Product Video
The A-iPower SUA3800i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the A-iPower SUA3800i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- At 121 lbs, the A-iPower SUA3800i stands out as one of the heavier inverter generators rated from 3000 to 4000 watts. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- As this inverter generator can emit noise as low as 63 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of power. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 52 dBA.
- Regarding its runtime, the SUA3800i operates for up to 12 hours at a 25% load, positioning it at the lower spectrum among comparable inverters. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Firman WH03662OF, reaching up to 25 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. In fact, this inverter generator is not one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 25% load is around 0.22 GPH. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Champion 201050 is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.15 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W inverter generators, the A-iPower SUA3800i is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Several accessories included
- RV adapter included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Acceptable noise (63 dBA)
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (121 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the A-iPower SUA3800i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 223 cc Senci OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W |
| Starting watts | 3,800 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps |
| Peak amps | 31.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 12 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 5V USB port (USB-A) 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours and voltage |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 2.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 121 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24 x 19 x 22 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 63 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, RV adapter, and battery charging cables |
| UPC | 851217006916 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
About A-iPower
A-iPower, a small company based in the USA, is a fresh face on the generator market. Their product line is comprised of engines, water pumps, pressure washers and of course, generators. The selection of A-iPower generators includes several conventional and inverter portable generators, many of which have an electric starter. The company has several facilities, including headquarters in California and a distribution center in Wisconsin. The production of their devices is, however, outsourced completely overseas, to China.
Warranty Information
The A-iPower SUA3800i is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of A-iPower generators, please contact the A-iPower Customer Support: 1-855-888-3598.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 2792 W | 3792 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 3370 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Total | 2660 W | 3760 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Opted for this generator solely on price comparison. Mostly constantly running a 5000 btu generator and lights during the summer with no appreciable increased load on the motor. Overall it is quiet enough for conversation standing right next to it in eco mode. Certainly it is not ultra quiet like a Honda would be. But considering the price difference, this is a satisfactory compromise for those unwilling to take the Honda plunge.