Champion 201281 - 7500/9375W Dual Fuel Generator With Electric Start
The Champion 201281 is a portable open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 7,500 W and a starting wattage of 9,375 W. (Read full specs)
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Ace Hardware | Price history for the Champion 201281 |
|---|
| Highest Price $1,099.99 Lowest Price $959.99 Current Price $959.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201281
In summary, the Champion 201281 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The Champion 201281
Featuring dual-fuel technology, the Champion 201281 provides 120/240V, as well as versatility and power. Running on gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 7,500W and a peak wattage of 9,375W. Alternatively, when fueled by propane, it offers 6,750 running watts and 8,400 peak watts.
Enjoying a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator can be started thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also to an easy-to-use and reliable electric starter (battery included).
In terms of run time, the 201281, boasting a 7.7 gallons fuel tank, can run for around 10 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (with fuel consumption averaging 0.77 gallons per hour). Additionally, it provides around 5.5 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.85 GPH) of operation with propane.
Given the 201281's high Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of less than 20%, it is advisable to avoid using it to power sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
While this Champion generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 201281 is tailored to be transfer switch ready, making it easy to connect it to your breaker box for home power support during outages.
Portability
At L28.8 x W27.7 x H26.1 in, the Champion 201281 boasts a traditional open frame structure, ensuring stability and allowing for convenient maintenance access to components, promoting air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Despite its weight of 205 lbs, the generator is still considered 'portable,' meaning it is movable, although its heftiness may restrict portability in certain environments or require additional considerations for transportation and setup. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀9.5") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
The 201281's control panel
With a digital Intelligauge data center integrated into its control panel, the 201281 provides real-time insights into the frequency, power output, lifetime run hours and voltage, enabling easy monitoring of its status and activity.
The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation. 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.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the Champion 201281 also includes several accessories: funnel, propane hose and oil.
Product Video
The Champion 201281 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201281 compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 7000 and 8000 W).
- At a weight of 205 pounds, the Champion 201281 places in the expected weight range of the dual fuel generators in the 7000-8000 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Sportsman GEN85KIDF, standing at just 133 lbs.
- As this generator can emit noise as low as 74 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Champion 201175, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 61 dBA.
- The 201281, offering a run time of around 10 hours with a full tank at a 50% load, falls within the average autonomy range when compared to its peers. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Firman H07553, with around 12 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. In terms of fuel efficiency within its wattage range, this generator falls short: it consumes approximately 0.77 GPH at a 50% load. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Cummins Onan P9500df, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.6 GPH.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 7000-8000W dual fuel generators, the Champion 201281 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
- Dual Fuel
- CO Shield™ technology
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Decent weight (205 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (74 dBA)
- Decent run time
- No 50-amp output
- No remote start
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Champion 201281 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 439 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 7,500 W | 6,750 W |
| Starting watts | 9,375 W | 8,400 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 62.5/31.3 amps | 56.3/28.1 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 78.1/39.1 amps | 70/35 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h | 5.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 7.7 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 205 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 28.8 x 27.7 x 26.1 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 74 dBA |
| THD | < 20% |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil, overload and Volt Guard™ surge protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Other model numbers | 201277 |
| UPC | 817198026701 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 201281 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Satelite receiver | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 5992 W | 7092 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 5995 W | 6585 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Total | 4800 W | 9300 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Hurricane Francine came rolling into southeast Louisiana yesterday evening, started thinking i need a generator. Ran down to the local Lowe’s & loaded it up in the truck. Very simple set up.
Hands down the generator is 100% worth the money! I cranked it up around 9:00pm and it’s 4:00am in the morning and it only burnt a half tank of gas, I’ve got my inside fridge, garage fridge, AC window unit, deep freezer, 42” industrial fan, smaller industrial fan, lamp, charging flashlights & cell phones, it hasn’t skipped a beat!
Well we are in the middle of Ice Storm Izzy, so I picked it up at Lowes for a grand, knowing nothing of Firman generators but like the duel fuel capability, so I chucked it in the Subaru then went home and went to school to learn all about what I just bought. It’s still in the box, but I feel it will be well worth the price if I need to fire it up. More impressed with the Other users ratings of high quality, and best bang for your buck. I don’t think I will be disappointed!
Amazing performance ! I purchased this generator for hurricane Ida and was blown away with it’s performance. I connected it to a reliance 30 amp transfer switch with 6 beakers and it didn’t miss a beat. 4 window AC’s 3@5000 BTU and 1@ 12,000 BTU , 2 refrigerators, lights and outlets in entire house for 10 hours on a tank of gas. My favorite feature is the carbon monoxide detector. I tried running the unit underneath a covered patio away from my house and the sensor detected it and shut the unit off. Thank God !
Purchased after our Homelite quit working during Hurricane Ida. We are still without power and it is helping to keep us cool in the sweltering heat. We have a refrigerator, freezer, 2 window units, large tv and a surge protector power strip that has my laptop, tel cell phones and a hotspot plugged into it. As soon as we can get the transfer switch in, we will connect it to use to power outlets. Very pleased!
I had the choice out of four generators and the firman was the most expensive one but i give it a try IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT i must say im impressed so far because we are still without electricity but we are comfortable to say the least it took everything i gave it but at the same time i didn’t over do it im a satisfied customer If your looking to purchase a generator please if you can. spend just a few more bucks and give this generator a try you want regret it!
Purchased the firman HO7553 and very pleased with performance and quality a little bit noisy but still very well pleased
After Hurricane Ida slammed New Orleans and surrounding areas I was literally forced to buy a generator because all the power was lost city wide. With sweltering heat I went and bought the first one out of 3 choices which happened to be a Firman, never heard of it but chose it over a Generec generator.. I am pleased I did, I feel I made a wise choice, I like this one I very pleased with my choice.