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
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Description
Zoom on the A-iPower SUA3800i
In summary, the A-iPower SUA3800i is a portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
The A-iPower SUA3800i houses a 223 cc (7 hp) Senci OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 3,500W along with a peak wattage of 3,800W. Additionally, the parallel capability (IPBS8000 parallel kit not included) facilitates increasing of power output when linked to another similar or compatible unit, offering enhanced energy capacity and reliability for diverse requirements.
Featuring a noise rating of 63 dBA (just slightly more noisy than background music), the inverter generator utilizes a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism for ignition.
The SUA3800i's fuel tank holds 2.6 gallons, ensuring uninterrupted operation for up to 12 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.22 GPH).
As the SUA3800i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's a 5V USB port (USB-A) designed for hassle-free charging of various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring uninterrupted usage and a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
While this A-iPower generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor (included).
Portability
With its enclosed inverter generator design (L24 x W19 x H22 in), the A-iPower SUA3800i offers superior aesthetics and operates with minimized noise levels, distinguishing itself from standard, open frame generators. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
Since the generator weighs 121 lbs, it could be potentially be difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). Still, once it is on the ground, its set of 2 wheels (⌀6") and its telescopic handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
Features
The SUA3800i's control panel
Included in the control panel of the SUA3800i, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the voltage, fuel level, power output and lifetime run hours.
In addition to this info, the device’s light indicators will display if the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is on overload.
Thanks to its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator allows you to quickly, conveniently, and easily check the gas level at a glance.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, offering peace of mind throughout operation.
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the A-iPower SUA3800i ships with supplementary accessories: funnel, battery charging cables, RV adapter, tool kit and oil.
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).
- With a weight of 121 lbs, the A-iPower SUA3800i is notably on the heavier side among inverter generators in the 3000-4000 rated wattage range. If you are mindful of weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- The inverter generator can be considered average in its noise for its type and power category, as it is rated at 63 dBA. If you value reduced noise levels, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 52 dBA.
- Regarding its autonomy, the SUA3800i can run for up to 12 hours at a 25% load, aligning it with the lower performers in its type and power range. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Champion 200977 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching up to 22 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. At a 25% load, the inverter generator consumes an estimated 0.22 gallons of gasoline per hour, falling within the average consumption range of units with similar output. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Champion 201050, with a fuel consumption of 0.15 GPH could be in your good books.
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)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (121 lbs)
- Relatively low run time
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 consult A-iPower's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-855-888-3598.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2787 W | 3787 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2790 W | 3380 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.