The Champion 201489 is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,375 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201489
In summary, the Champion 201489 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
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
Champion 201489 runs on gasoline, powered by a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, boasting a running wattage of 3,500W alongside a starting wattage of 4,375W.
The generator is rated for a noise of 68 dBA (less noisy than an office). Its starting mechanisms include a manual recoil starter system and an easy-to-use and reliable electric starter (battery included). Furthermore, the 201489 can be remotely started, providing users with added ease of use (key fob included).
The 201489's fuel tank holds 4.7 gallons, ensuring uninterrupted operation for around 12 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.39 GPH).
Since the 201489 has a high THD (<20%), it is advisable to not use it for the powering of sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 4 AC outlets:
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT standing for 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready, perfectly suited for powering recreational vehicles.
Portability
Measuring L24.8 x W23.6 x H22.4 in, the classic open frame build of the Champion 201489 delivers stability and easy maintenance access to components, facilitating air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 116 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.
Features
To facilitate status and activity monitoring, an Intelligauge meter, showing voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours metrics are embedded in the control panel of the 201489.
The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, 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.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Champion 201489 also is packed along with the following accessories: key fob, oil and funnel.
Product Video
The Champion 201489 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201489 compare to generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- Having a dry weight of 116 lbs, the Champion 201489 belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 3000 to 4000 rated watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, standing at just 46 lbs.
- The generator can be considered average in its noise for its power category, as it is rated at 68 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 50% load, the 201489's around 12 hours of runtime on a full tank fall within the average autonomy range for similarly powerful generators. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Predator 4375 could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching around 16 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 generator is somewhat less fuel-efficient than devices of comparable output: its estimated fuel consumption reaches 0.39 GPH at a 50% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.22 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W generators, the Champion 201489 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
- Decent weight (116 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (68 dBA)
- Decent run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
Inverter | No |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | Yes |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Warranty | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
---|---|
Running watts | 3,500 W |
Starting watts | 4,375 W |
Running amps | 29.2 amps |
Peak amps | 36.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | 12 h |
Run time @25% load | Unknown |
GFCI outlets | No |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | No |
Data center | VFT |
Indicators | No |
Fuel tank | Steel, 4.7 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 116 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24.8 x 23.6 x 22.4 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 68 dBA |
THD | < 20% |
Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
Security | Low oil, overload and Volt Guard™ surge protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Oil, funnel, key fob, battery, and wheel kit |
Country of origin | Vietnam |
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 201489 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 | |
Total | 2760 W | 3350 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.