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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201003
In a nutshell, the Champion 201003 is a compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Champion 201003
Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the Champion 201003 delivers 120V and offers power and versatility. When gasoline-powered, it benefits from a running wattage of 4,000W and a peak wattage of 5,500W. When propane-powered, it has 3,600 rated watts and 5,500 peak watts. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (ParaLink (opens in a new tab) not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.
The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 61 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation). Its starting mechanisms include a conventional pull-start mechanism and a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). Champion’s EZ Start Dial lets you intuitively start the engine with easy access to all the controls you need.
The running time of the 201003, with its 3.7 gallons fuel capacity, can reach up to 20 hours on a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.19 GPH). With propane, it can reach up to 15 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.31 GPH). Thanks to the Fuel Fill Assist LED, an ingenious LED located near the fuel cap, filling up the unit’s tank is highly facilitated in poor lighting conditions. The LED can illuminate the gasoline filling area simply by pushing a button.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the 201003 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 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy. Since a dual port USB adapter is included with the unit, you will also be able to use the DC receptacle to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready.
Portability
The Champion 201003 is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L24.6 x W19 x H20.9 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
While the generator is considered to be technically 'portable' (in the sense that you can move it), manually lifting and transporting it may be challenging, due to its high weight of 118 lbs. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its set of 2 wheels (⌀5.5") and its telecospic handle, once it is placed on the ground.
Features
The 201003's control panel
To help you monitor the 201003's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a digital Intelligauge data center, giving you information on the frequency, power output, lifetime run hours and voltage. To offer you even more control and easy operation during nighttime, the panel is LED-lit.
In addition to this info, a light indicator serves to show you when the oil level is too low.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Champion 201003 also is packed along with the following accessories: funnel, dual port USB adapter, oil and propane hose. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.
Emissions
The Champion 201003 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.
However, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.
Product Videos
The Champion 201003 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201003 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 118 lbs, the Champion 201003 belongs in the expected weight range for inverters which can produce between 3500 and 4500 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the WEN GN400i, weighing just 66.1 pounds.
- Since the inverter generator's noise is rated at 61 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar type and power. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen4500DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- Since the 201003 boasts with a run time of up to 20 hours at 25% load, it can be safely judged as a device of a higher run time than most inverter generators of a comparable output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Firman W03661OF, which is able to run for up to 25 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.19 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Champion 200988. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.16 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
The bottom line
- Dual Fuel
- Illuminated control panel
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Fuel Fill Assist LED
- Inverter
- High run time
- Decent weight (118 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (61 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No remote start
- Not CARB-compliant
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 4,000 W | 3,600 W |
| Starting watts | 5,500 W | 5,500 W |
| Running amps | 33.3 amps | 30 amps |
| Peak amps | 45.8 amps | 45.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 20 h | 15 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 3.7 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 118 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24.6 x 19 x 20.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 61 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, propane hose, dual port USB adapter, and battery |
| Country of origin | China |
| UPC | 817198024554 |
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 201003 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 | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Total | 3192 W | 4192 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Total | 3190 W | 3780 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 5480 W |
Is it possible to add a wireless remote kit (Asked May 12, 2021)
Unfortunately, there are no official remote start kits for this unit.
Description says there is a fuel gage, review says not. Which is correct? (Asked May 30, 2021)
It must be a misunderstanding, since the description does not mention a fuel gauge.
Does this generator have a provision to shut off fuel to keep the carburetor dry when not in use? (Asked July 14, 2021)
The EZ start dial can be turned to the "gasoline valve OFF" position to let the generator run until there's no more fuel in the carburetor.
Is there usb ports (Asked September 29, 2022)
The unit does not feature USB ports. However, it comes with a USB adapter that can be plugged into its 12V DC automotive outlet.
Is feed and regulator included for propane? Is it long enough to connect to 40 lb propane tank? (Asked June 24, 2023)
The unit comes with LPG hose and regulator. Hose length is 6 ft.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Bought today because of the highest Watts of a good name brand. Only would like a 220 plug and 6000w+ so to at least be able to shut everything off so you could heat some hit water, get water from well etc. Can’t believe the only one out there is the Genwin I believe.
Feel a lot more comfortable knowing you have this bad boy incase it’s needed to keep the lights on.
I’ve owned and tested many brands. Champion is a very high quality generator and is assembled very well. Their customer service and parts is awesome! That alone sells a generator! I’m so impressed with this unit. So far it’s only available at Cabelas/Bass Pro. I highly recommend this unit if it fits what your looking for!
I purchased this from Bass Pro Shop. I ordered it on July 4 and it was delivered on July 6. Very fast shipping. Box was fully intact with no damage. Good Job FedEx. Price was inline with like generators of this watt and amperage. I followed the quick guide, connected the battery, added the oil and connected to my small 20 pound propane tank. Set the choke and hit the start for a few seconds. Turned it to run and hit the starter again and she fired right up. I tested the volts and amps and it does what they say it will. I did let her run with a small load that included an ac that cycled to give it a varying load per the break-in period. I changed my oil after the 5 hour run and did have some fine shavings. I have ordered a magnetic dipstick that I plan to install. I decided to run some 10w-30w synthetic oil. I am going to run it another 5 hours or so and change the oil again. Then she’ll be good to go. Probably don’t need to do this, but just something I want to do. Overall I am very pleased with this inverter generator. She is quiet, provides 30 amps and 3600 watts on propane and this is all I need. Hats off the Champion. I really think had Champion not made this exclusive with Bass Pro Shop and Cabelas they would have sold a lot more of them. If the 4500 watt peak and 3500 watt inverter generator isn’t enough check out this one. I did buy a cover for it and I have 2 – 40 pound tanks and a few smaller 20 pound tanks, so I am set. Just hope we don’t have any storms in the Gulf this year, but if we do I am feeling pretty ready.
It started right up on both gas and propane, of course after I added the oil. It is quiet and has not disappointed me yet. Only dislikes were that the pop up fueling light is powered by a 9v battery instead of off the main battery (one more to keep track of), no gas gauge, and poor sticker application ( a lot of bubbles ). I had it shipped to my local bass pro. Box was actually in good shape but heavy. Unit is 118lbs but in the box it is 140 lbs. Bass pro needs better information for there cs reps. My first order was cancelled buy BP a day later csr had no reason why or when they would be available again. Luckily I received a email from gen bible one night at 230am that it was now available, we placed our 2nd order at 330am. That one went through and was delivered to BP 5 days later.
I do recommend this model.