Champion 201273 - 4000/5500W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

The Champion 201273 is a compact dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 4,000 W and a starting wattage of 5,500 W.

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Picture of the Champion 201273

Description

Zoom on the Champion 201273

In summary, the Champion 201273 is a compact portable inverter generator especially useful for:

  • RV travellers looking for even more independence
  • Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the Champion 201273 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.

At a noise rating of 61 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), this inverter generator can be started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, or 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.

As for its running time, the 201273, along with its 3.7 gallons fuel capacity, can run for up to 20 hours with a full tank filled with gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.19 GPH). If propane is used, it can operate for 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 201273 produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 5 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

This Champion generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').

Portability

As the Champion 201273 is an inverter generator, its encased design (L24.6 x W19 x H20.9 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. 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 121.5 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its set of 2 wheels (⌀5.5") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

To help you monitor the 201273's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a digital Intelligauge data center, giving you information on the power output, voltage, lifetime run hours and frequency. To offer you even more control and easy operation during nighttime, the panel is LED-lit.

In addition to this info, a light indicator allows you to instantly see if the oil level is too low.

As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.

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.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Champion 201273 also comes with several accessories, including: oil, funnel and propane hose. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.

Emissions

The Champion 201273 is neither EPA approved nor CARB-compliant..

However, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.

In addition, the unit meets the ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 safety and performance requirements.

Product Video

The Champion 201273 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201273 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

  • At a dry weight of 121.5 pounds, the Champion 201273 is one of the heavier inverters which can produce between 3500 and 4500 running watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the WEN GN400i, with a dry weight of only 66.1 lbs.
  • As this inverter generator can emit noise as low as 61 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of 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.
  • Thanks to an impressive running time of up to 20 hours at 25% load, the 201273 benefits from a higher run time than many inverter generators of a similar 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.
  • Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency 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 fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Champion 200988, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.16 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Dual Fuel
  • Illuminated control panel
  • CO Shield™ technology
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • Electric start
  • Parallel capable
  • Fuel Fill Assist LED
  • Inverter
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Acceptable noise (61 dBA)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No remote start
  • No EPA or CARB compliance
  • On the heavy side (121.5 lbs)

Do you own the Champion 201273 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyYes
FuelDual Fuel (gasoline/propane)
Engine224 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty3 years
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Power
GasolinePropane
Running watts4,000 W3,600 W
Starting watts5,500 W5,500 W
Running amps33.3 amps30 amps
Peak amps45.8 amps45.8 amps
Run time @50% loadUnknownUnknown
Run time @25% load20 h15 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
Data centerPower output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tank3.7 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight121.5 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)24.6 x 19 x 20.9 in
Noise (lower limit)61 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceANSI/PGMA G300-2018
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, propane hose, and battery
Country of originChina

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 201273 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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeDish washer15003000
Electric fry pan15001500
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Total3192 W4692 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Mixer200200
Total3190 W3780 W
For workTable saw18004500
Reciprocating saw730960
Drain cleaner250250
Total2780 W5480 W

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