Champion 201085 - Spec Breakdown

In summary, the Champion 201085 is a portable generator especially useful for:

• RV travellers looking for even more independence
• Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
• Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
• Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
• Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working

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 201085

With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile Champion 201085 provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 5500W along with a peak wattage of 6875W. While propane-powered, it provides 5000 rated watts and 6250 starting watts.

The generator is rated for a noise of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher). Its starting mechanism is based on a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a fuel capacity of 7.7 gallons, the 201085 can operate for around 11 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.7 GPH), or for around 6.5 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.72 GPH) using propane.

The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the 201085 is not recommended due to its relatively high THD (<20%).

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 5 AC outlets:

As the 201085 holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.

Portability

The design of the Champion 201085 is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L28.3 x W27.4 x H25.6 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

Since the generator weighs 172 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). However, this lack of maneuverability is compensated by its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle, with which you can conveniently shift it, once it's on the ground.

Features

The 201085's control panel

The 201085 and its control panel include an Intelligauge meter showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours. This feature comes handy when monitoring its status and activity.

The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use. Champion's built-in surge protector (Volt Guard™) safeguards your equipment and appliances against voltage spikes.

The unit also benefits from the CO Shield™ technology, which monitors accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) gas produced by the engine's exhaust when the generator is running. If CO Shield™ detects elevated levels of CO gas, it automatically shuts off the engine and illuminates a red LED. It’s a welcomed additional security feature, but don’t forget to always take your generator outside (opens in a new tab).

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Champion 201085 also comes with some accessories: funnel, oil and propane hose are included.

Emissions

The Champion 201085 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.