The Champion 201184 is a compact inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201184
The Champion 201184 replaced the 200987. It's a compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
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
Champion 201184 is equipped with a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, running on gasoline and providing 120V, boasting a running wattage of 3,500W alongside a starting wattage of 4,500W. Furthermore, the parallel capability (ParaLink (opens in a new tab) not included) offers the advantage of increasing power output when connected to another similar or compatible unit, delivering expanded energy capacity and flexibility for various applications.
At a noise rating of 61 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office), this inverter generator provides the choice between a conventional pull-start mechanism or a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included) for starting. Champion’s EZ Start Dial lets you intuitively start the engine with easy access to all the controls you need. Moreover, the 201184 boasts remote starting functionality, adding another layer of convenience (key fob included).
Thanks to a fuel capacity of 2.25 gallons, the 201184 can operate for up to 14 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.16 GPH).
As the 201184 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 features the following 3 AC outlets:
Moreover, it boasts 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries. 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.
The inclusion of a TT-30R receptacle (TT for 'Travel Trailer') makes this Champion generator RV Ready, ideal for providing power to recreational vehicles.
Portability
Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L23.2 x W17.7 x H20.1 in), the Champion 201184 not only offers superior aesthetics but also operates with reduced noise levels compared to a typical, open frame generator. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 101 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Still, once it is on the ground, its set of 2 wheels (⌀5") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
Features
The 201184's control panel is equipped with a digital Intelligauge data center, furnishing detailed information on the power output, voltage, lifetime run hours and frequency for you to easily track its activity and status.
In addition to this info, the device's light indicator will illuminate to indicate if its oil levels are insufficient.
With its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during operation.
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.
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Champion 201184 ships with supplementary accessories: dual port USB adapter, key fob, oil, funnel and tool kit.
The Champion 201184 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201184 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 101 lbs, the Champion 201184 belongs in the expected weight range for inverters which can produce between 3000 and 4000 rated 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.
- The inverter generator can be considered average in its noise for its type and power category, as it is rated at 61 dBA. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen5000DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- At a 25% load, the 201184's up to 14 hours of runtime on a full tank fall within the average autonomy range for similarly powerful inverter generators. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Firman W03661OF, as it provides up to 25 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. This inverter generator is one of the more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.16 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.13 GPH, the Energizer eZV3500P is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W inverter generators, the Champion 201184 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
- CO Shield™ technology
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Remote start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (101 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (61 dBA)
- Decent run time
The Champion 201184 doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
Inverter | Yes |
---|---|
Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
RV ready | Yes |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Warranty | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
---|---|
Running watts | 3,500 W |
Starting watts | 4,500 W |
Running amps | 29.2 amps |
Peak amps | 37.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | Unknown |
Run time @25% load | 14 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 | 2.25 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 101 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 17.7 x 20.1 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 61 dBA |
THD | < 3% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, key fob, dual port USB adapter, and battery |
UPC | 817198025902 |
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 201184 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 | 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 | |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 2740 W | 3840 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Nice Generator. Purchased off Amazon. Purchased the manual start and a wireless remote start was delivered. Definitely not complaining about that.