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Description
Zoom on the Cummins Onan P4500i
In a nutshell, the Cummins Onan P4500i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
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
The Cummins Onan P4500i
The Cummins Onan P4500i's design includes a gasoline-fueled 224 cc (7.3 hp) Ducar OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 3,700W and also a peak wattage of 4,500W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (A058M290 parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be increased when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
At a noise rating of 52 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator), this inverter generator can be started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, or a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). Moreover, to offer you even more convenience, the Onan P4500i can also be remotely started (key fob included).
With a full tank, the Onan P4500i can operate for up to 18 hours (fuel consumption around 0.19 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 3.4 gallons.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the Onan P4500i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports with which you may charge electronics, for example mobile phones or tablets, conveniently.
This Cummins generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L24.5 x W18.3 x H20.5 in), the Cummins Onan P4500i, is more esthetical than a typical, open frame generator. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
The Onan P4500i can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 98 lbs. In addition, with its set of 2 wheels (⌀5.5") and its telecospic handle, it may be shifted with ease, once placed on the floor.
Features
The Onan P4500i's control panel
A digital data center, one of the features of the Onan P4500i's control panel, gives you information on the fuel level, lifetime run hours, remaining run time, voltage and power output, and thus, is helpful for the monitoring of its activity and status.
In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is overloaded, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Cummins Onan P4500i also comes with several accessories, including: funnel, oil, tool kit, key fob and battery charger. A storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The Cummins Onan P4500i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.
Product Videos
The Cummins Onan P4500i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Cummins Onan P4500i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- As its weight is 98 pounds, the Cummins Onan P4500i falls in the expected weight range of the inverters in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the WEN GN400i, with a dry weight of just 66.1 pounds.
- Since this inverter generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 52 dBA, it can be considered as one of the most quiet of the products generating similar power.
- The Onan P4500i, offering a run time of up to 18 hours with a full tank at a 25% load, falls within the average autonomy range when compared to its peers. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Firman W03661OF, reaching up to 25 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. Standing at an estimated 0.19 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, this inverter generator is somewhat average in this area compared to other devices, within the aforementioned 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.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 3500-4500W inverter generators, the Cummins Onan P4500i 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
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Remote start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (52 dBA)
- Decent weight (98 lbs)
- Decent run time
- Decent fuel efficiency
The Cummins Onan P4500i doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 224 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,700 W |
| Starting watts | 4,500 W |
| Running amps | 30.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 37.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 15 h |
| Run time @25% load | 18 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours, remaining run time and voltage |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 3.4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Digital |
| Weight | 98 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24.5 x 18.3 x 20.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 52 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, key fob, battery charger, and battery |
| Other model numbers | A058U955 |
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 Cummins
Cummins is a NYSE publicly traded, Fortune 500 corporation dealing in the power sector and heavy industry. Founded in 1919 in Columbus, IN, by William Glanton Irwin and Clessie Cummings, Cummins focused on the development of diesel engines. However, the company truly came to bloom only after the WWII, with the nationwide road expansion and went finally global in the 1960s, with its heavy-duty trucks. Cummins has, over the years, offered a wide variety of power solutions, from actual power plants to RV generators. Yet, the company has only recently dipped its foot into the portable generator market. The company currently offers a small selection of both conventional and inverter generators under the Onan product line, formerly the Cummins Onan brand.
Warranty Information
The Cummins Onan P4500i 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 Cummins generators, please contact the Cummins Customer Support: 1-800-CUMMINS (800-286-6467).
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Security system | 180 | 180 | |
| Total | 2947 W | 3947 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2940 W | 3530 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2910 W | 4010 W |
At what elevation can you use this generator? (Asked August 08, 2020)
Up to 2000 feet without rejetting the carburetor.
Does this generator need to be covered if it rains. (Asked August 11, 2020)
Any portable generator has to be covered. Please refer to our article on rain and snow operation.
can this generator hook up to a manual generator transfer switch wired to a house panel (Asked October 20, 2020)
While it could technically be feasible with the help of a licensed electrician, we do not recommend it. This unit only produces 120V and is not designed for such a permanent connection.
Where is the P4500i Onan generator manufactured. I ask this, because I have had one on order for 3 months now. Is it coming out of China? (Asked November 04, 2020)
The P4500i is manufactured in Asia to Cummins' standards. It is currently on backorder pretty much everywhere.
Does remote control also turn it off? (Asked December 06, 2020)
The unit can be remotely started and stopped.
Will the generator run at 5,000 feet? I go in hi elevations sometimes (Asked March 25, 2021)
You will probably have to rejet it/use an altitude kit. We recommend reading our article on operation in high altitudes.
Who is the manufacturer of the engine used in the P4500i, I was told its Briggs and Stanton. (Asked April 14, 2021)
The engine is manufactured by Ducar.
Where is the serial number located. (Asked April 26, 2021)
At the back of the unit, below the battery access cover. See picture below:
Does this generator have a CO sensor and shut-off if unsafe levels are detected? (Asked June 08, 2021)
The current version of the P4500i does not feature a CO sensor. You may have a look at our list of units with a CO sensor.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Note: the Cummins P4500i looks the same as Westinghouse IGEN 4500, It’s not. The Cummins has a better inverter….OK, let’s start…I own two Honda EU3000is and two other Honda’s. By far the best generator (abut the same as the Yamaha) and so quiet. But… I had to buy a different generator because it doesn’t have enough power to run all I need on my toy hauler camper. I thought my roof AC was 13,500 btu, buts it’s 5,000 btu with easy start. When running the AC, refrigerator and microwave or coffeemaker the circuit breaker/power trips on the generator if eco mode is on. If you run with eco mode off, runs all, and I don’t like manual turning off and on the eco mode. I but the Cummins Onans P4500i what I just bought, works good for my needs now, but…. About 8DB louder (real world testing) and very noticeable. And the oil change on the Honda so easy, but the Cummins very hard and will make a mess, since poor oil change design. Hope Honda can made come out with a 4500watt Generator that can keep the same design as the eu3000is. See my Youtube video for the reviews under BenGrilling.
Have purchased 2 of these for my sons. Both ran perfectly after adding oil an have performed flawless ever since. Like them enough that I may buy another to replace my smaller generator.
I bought this POS in Marion, Illinois. Remote keybfob is missing. Owner has tried to get me one, but so far no go. Generator backfires when starting and acquiring any load. Local Cummins dealer, Rocky Mountain Cummims says they are a Westinghouse POS and will have to be shipped back to the manufacturer to be replaced. Real POS. Waste of money and time. Cummins call center is worthless and gives major runaround. Impossible to deal with. Lies and excuses. Please dont waste your hard earned money on this POS.
I bought mine in February 2021 worked for about 50 hrs only and started surging pretty bad. So I took it to the retailer that I got it from. They did honored the warranty but it took them a month to replace the carburetor. So after I got it back I been using it for about 2 months now without issues
PLEASE READ, DON’T BUY. I bought a P4500I last month and am totally dissatisfied. I am very surprised Onan put their name on this Chinese crap. I have owned many generators from living off power in the Hawaiian Islands for over 40 years now and this one is the most disappointing I have ever experienced. Started off with a DKD 7.5 Onan and it was great. Needed more amps and went to Northern Lights, 16KW. No longer needed that and switched to Honda EU3000ie and it was also great. Also use a Honda 2200I and was not disappointed either. So I started looking at these new 4500s that are out by Onan, Westinghouse, and others and they are crap. I use mostly for powering my house for big items and this P4500I doesn’t do it. This is a generic generator made in China and they are all the same. They change the color and a couple of handles and put a different brand on it. I had a westhinghouse 4500 also and it was the same. I sent it back as soon as I could. The packaging is the same with all the same include items.A quart of oil, wrench, plastic funnel, all exactly the same. They don’t deliver the amps and wattage they boast. If I start a blender, food processor, coffee machine of any other appliance the light dim and the TV knocks out every time. My house ran better on the Honda 2200. These gens can’t take a surge or demand. Gas consumption, they boast 15 hours on 3 gallons. Yes if you don’t run anything and it’s idling. If I put my pool pump on the hours go down to half. The oil change is also difficult. The oil plug to drain is hard to reach and put back on. The best thing about this gen and all the others is the remote control, on/off. I wish I could return it and get a Honda.
They are just too expensive, but they deliver what they say. I wish I had better things to say on my first ever review.