The Champion 201501 is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,650 W and a starting wattage of 4,550 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201501
To sum up, the Champion 201501 is a compact portable generator tailored for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
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
The Champion 201501 is powered by a 224 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 3,650W as well as a peak wattage of 4,550W.
The generator is rated for a noise of 68 dBA (less noisy than an office). Its starting mechanism is based on a manual recoil starter system.
The fuel capacity of 4.7 gallons allows the 201501 to operate for around 14 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.34 GPH).
The quite high THD (<20%) of the 201501 makes it unsuitable for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 4 AC outlets:
Thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready, making it ideal for powering recreational vehicles.
Portability
Measuring L23.2 x W18.3 x H20 in, the Champion 201501 showcases a classic open frame layout, guaranteeing stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
While technically classified as 'portable' due to its ability to be moved, the 103 lbs of this generator make manual lifting and transportation incredibly difficult.
Features
For convenient monitoring of its status and activity, the control panel of the 201501 includes an Intelligauge meter, showing voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours metrics.
The built-in fuel gauge of the generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind. 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 201501 also is packed along with the following accessories: funnel and oil.
Product Video
The Champion 201501 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201501 compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- At 103 lbs in dry weight, the Champion 201501 fits well within the typical weight bracket for generators producing 3500 to 4500 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM4600iAEFIC with only 58.4 pounds.
- Given its rated noise level of 68 dBA, this generator aligns with the average expected noise rating for devices of similar power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 52 dBA.
- In terms of run time, the 201501 surpasses similarly powerful devices, boasting one of the higher run times at around 14 hours. 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 Predator 4375, with around 16 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This generator has an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.34 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.23 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W generators, the Champion 201501 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
- CO Shield™ technology
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- High run time
- Decent weight (103 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (68 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No electric start
Features and Specifications
Inverter | No |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | Yes |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil |
Warranty | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
---|---|
Running watts | 3,650 W |
Starting watts | 4,550 W |
Running amps | 30.4 amps |
Peak amps | 37.9 amps |
Run time @50% load | 14 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 | 103 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 18.3 x 20 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 and funnel |
Other model numbers | 201119 |
UPC | 817198028507 |
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 201501 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 | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
Radio | 100 | 100 | |
Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
Total | 2912 W | 3912 W | |
For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
Total | 2895 W | 3485 W | |
For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
Total | 1800 W | 4500 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.