The Champion 100520 is a powerful open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 7,000 W and a starting wattage of 8,750 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 100520
To sum up, the Champion 100520 is a powerful portable inverter generator tailored for:
- Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
The Champion 100520's core is the 420 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120/240V, it provides a running wattage of 7,000W and a peak wattage of 8,750W.
At a noise rating of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), this inverter generator provides the choice between a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism or a straightforward and intuitive electric starter (battery included) for starting.
The fuel capacity of 4.2 gallons allows the 100520 to operate for up to 10.5 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.4 GPH).
The 100520 ensures a clean sine wave output, boasting <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) to protect your sensitive electronics when connected to its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 5 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle making battery charging a breeze. With the unit, you will also find a dual port USB adapter, allowing for the convenient charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets using the DC receptacle.
As it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 100520 is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.
Portability
At L26.6 x W25.6 x H23.7 in, the standard open frame design of the Champion 100520 delivers stability alongside easy maintenance access to components and good air cooling. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.
As the generator's weight is 149 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 wheels (⌀8") and its folding handle, which allows for convenient shifting once the generator is placed on the ground.
Features
The 100520's control center features an Intelligauge meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings to aid you with the monitoring of its status and activity.
In addition to this info, the generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is overloaded.
The fuel level of the inverter generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during use.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Champion 100520, the following accessories are also included: funnel, dual port USB adapter and battery charging cables. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.
Product Videos
The Champion 100520 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 100520 compare to generators of similar power (between 6500 and 7500 W).
- Regarding weight, the Champion 100520 comes in at only 149 pounds, positioning itself as one of the lighter options among generators spanning from 6500 to 7500 in rated wattage. if you wish to prioritize weight, the Sportsman GEN85KIDF is one of the top contenders in its power category, weighing only 133 pounds.
- Given its rated noise level of 72 dBA, this inverter generator aligns with the average expected noise rating for devices of similar power. If you value reduced noise levels, the Powerhorse 7500i could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 55 dBA.
- As far as autonomy is concerned, providing up to 10.5 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 25% load, the 100520 falls into the low end in comparison with other devices of a comparable power output. For those prioritizing autonomy, the DuroMax XP8500EH could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching up to 25 hours.
- While run time is vital, it hinges on the fuel capacity. To grasp the full picture, we must also factor in fuel efficiency. As this inverter generator uses an estimated 0.4 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the DuroMax XP7500DX, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.29 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 6500-7500W inverter generators, the Champion 100520 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Inverter
- Lightweight for its kind (149 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (72 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No 50-amp output
- No remote start
- No parallel ports
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
Inverter | Yes |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | No |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 420 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
Warranty | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
---|---|
Running watts | 7,000 W |
Starting watts | 8,750 W |
Running amps (@120/240V) | 58.3/29.2 amps |
Peak amps (@120/240V) | 72.9/36.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | Unknown |
Run time @25% load | 10.5 h |
GFCI outlets | Yes |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
Data center | VFT |
Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
Fuel tank | Steel, 4.2 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 149 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 26.6 x 25.6 x 23.7 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 72 dBA |
THD | < 3% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil and overload protection |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Bonded to frame |
Accessories included | Funnel, dual port USB adapter, battery charging cables, battery, and wheel kit |
UPC | 817198081977 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About Champion Power Equipment
Founded in 2003, the Champion Power Equipment is a US based power equipment manufacturer. The relatively small company has made a name for itself both in the portable generator industry, but also the power equipment sector in general, with a particular focus on heavy duty equipment, such as log cutters, snow blowers, chipper shredders, etc. All of their products are engineered in the US. However, the company does not provide information on the origin of their components.
Warranty Information
The Champion 100520 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 Champion generators, please consult Champion's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-877-338-0999.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
---|---|---|---|
At home | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
Radio | 100 | 100 | |
Total | 5587 W | 7062 W | |
For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
Total | 5580 W | 6000 W | |
For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 4210 W | 8710 W |
I read in a review that these types of generators do not have enough compression to adequately operate on Natural Gas. They will do ok with LP but NG requires higher compression for proper operation. Is this correct? (Asked March 01, 2021)
Possible, since this unit is designed to run on gasoline only.
Does the Champion 100520 have the option to add Duel Fuel LP, I saw one supplier say they could add Duel Fuel option for an additional $299 at checkout. Is this a Champion factory addition or sometime the seller was adding. I have not seen anything other than the one supplier offer that for this model 100520. (Asked March 14, 2021)
The unit does not have an official dual fuel option. Beware of third party fuel line modifications, since they could void your warranty and put you in violation of your local emission laws.
how do you keep the battery charged? (Asked August 22, 2021)
The unit charges its own battery while it is running. Outside of operation, you may use a trickle charger.
Can I run two Champion 7000 watt open frame inverter generators in parallel (Asked August 24, 2021)
The unit does not feature parallel ports.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Excellent and clean power capability, with relatively low noise compared to the Briggs 30470 that it’s replacing. The Briggs couldn’t maintain 60Hz for it’s life….though voltage was relatively stable. It was also horrendously noisy, and that’s the “Elite” line from Briggs. This Champion destroys it in every department, with nice convenience additions of an oil drain tube, and both voltage and frequency meter. Very nice package for the price.
Really quiet for a generator of this size with an open frame construction. There are very few generators that provide clean power and are rated at 7000 running watts that are quieter than this generator, and even then, its not by much. Starts my well pump which is 450 feet deep (I *think* it is 3HP?), without any dimming of the lights. Feels much stronger/more capable than the B&S EXL8000 it is replacing. Very fuel efficient, especially on eco mode. Clean power is amazing, there is no hum from the appliances or electronics. I am not sure why they even make generators that don’t have clean power? Unpacking and set up was quick and easy. I love that virtually all the controls are right in front of you on the main panel. Connected to my existing Connecticut Electric 10 circuit / 7500 watt transfer switch via the L14-30 twist lock and an 8 gauge extension cord, and it ran great. No issues with GFCI tripping as others had reported. I didn’t have to disconnect the neutral bonded to the frame. So far very happy with this unit but still have less than 10 hours on it. All the performance of the Honda EU7000is, and at 1/4 of the cost. The only trade off is the noise level, which isn’t bad.