Firman P03601 - 3650/4550W Portable Generator

Description

Zoom on the Firman P03601

In summary, the Firman P03601 is a compact portable generator especially useful for:

• RV travellers looking for even more independence
• People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
• Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials

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 Firman P03601

The Firman P03601's engine, 208 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 3650W and reaches a peak wattage of 4550W.

At a noise rating of 67 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation), the generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

The fuel capacity of 5 gallons allows the P03601 to operate for around 14 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.36 GPH).

The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the P03601 is not recommended due to its relatively high THD (<25%).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 4 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

This Firman generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').

Portability

With its dimensions of L23.2 x W17.8 x H18.6 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Firman P03601 offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 101.5 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Thus, you may also want to consider purchasing its official wheel kit (opens in a new tab).

Features

The P03601's control panel

The P03601's status and activity may be monitored conveniently via the control panel, as it features a convenient meter showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.

In addition to this info, a light indicator serves to show you when the oil level is too low.

The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Firman P03601 also comes with several accessories, including: oil, funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.

Emissions

The Firman P03601 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.

Product Video

The Firman P03601 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Firman P03601 compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

• As for its weight, the Firman P03601 weighs only 101.5 pounds, making it one of the lighter generators in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN GN400i, standing at just 66.1 lbs.
• Since the generator's noise is rated at 67 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar power. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Cummins Onan P4500i with only 52 dBA.
• Thanks to an impressive running time of around 14 hours at 50% load, the P03601 benefits from a higher run time than many generators of a similar output. 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.
• 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. Standing at an estimated 0.36 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, this generator is somewhat average in this area compared to other devices, within the aforementioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Cummins Onan P4500i. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.23 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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 FIRMAN Power Equipment

Founded in 1999, Firman Power Equipment is a company with a short, but established history in the power equipment industry. Based in Arizona, the company offers an immense range of products, including power tools, automotive equipment, storage utilities, work wear, but most importantly, a wide selection of generators of all sizes, designs and outputs. Interestingly, Firman is a wholly owned subsidiary of the China National Machinery Industry Corporation - a somewhat well renowned company in China and acts as a de facto distributor of their products in the US.

Warranty Information

The Firman P03601 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 Firman generators, please consult Firman's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-844-FIRMAN1 (844-347-6261).

Questions & Answers

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