Champion 201285 - 1200/1500W Portable Generator

The Champion 201285 is a compact and lightweight open frame generator with a rated wattage of 1,200 W and a starting wattage of 1,500 W. (Read full specs)

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Zoom on the Champion 201285

To sum up, the Champion 201285 is a compact and lightweight portable generator tailored for:

• Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools

In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.

Power & Run Time

The Champion 201285

Running on gasoline, the Champion 201285 utilizes a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine to deliver 120V, offering a running wattage of 1,200W and a starting wattage of 1,500W.

At a noise rating of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), the generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a fuel capacity of 1.46 gallon, the 201285 can run for around 10 hours at 50% load when the tank is full (fuel consumption is approximately 0.15 gallons per hour).

Due to the high THD (<20%) of the 201285, it is advised against using it for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel is equipped with the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Portability

With its L18.1 x W14.1 x H16.9 in dimensions, the open frame structure of the Champion 201285 provides stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

The 201285 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 58 lbs. Additionally, the open frame design of the generator ensures easy grabbing and shifting for relocation.

Features

The 201285's control panel

The 201285's control center features an Intelligauge meter, displaying voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours information to aid you with the 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.

From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), 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.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Champion 201285 also comes with some accessories: oil and funnel are included. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.

Product Video

The Champion 201285 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201285 compare to generators of similar power (between 1000 and 2000 W).

• At 58 lbs, the Champion 201285 stands out as one of the heavier generators rated from 1000 to 2000 watts. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 24 pounds.
• When compared to other units producing a similar running wattage, this generator and its lowest emitted noise of 65 dBA stand out for being on the louder side. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Honda EU2200i appealing. It's rated at 48 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
• Compared to devices of similar power, the 201285 stands out with one of the higher run times, lasting around 10 hours at 50% load. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Pulsar PG2200R, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 12 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 generator has an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.15 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.09 GPH, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a device you could look out for.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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 201285 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

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