Firman P03601 Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Firman P03601

In a nutshell, the Firman P03601 is a compact portable generator mostly geared towards:

• RV travellers looking for even more independence
• People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
• Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Firman P03601

The Firman P03601's core is the 208 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 3650W and a peak wattage of 4550W.

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

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

Since the P03601 has a somewhat high THD (<25%), it is advisable to not use it for the powering of sensitive electronic devices.

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

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Firman generator is RV Ready.

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.

While the generator is considered to be technically 'portable' (in the sense that you can move it), manually lifting and transporting it may be challenging, due to its high weight of 101.5 lbs. To enhance the generator's mobility, it is worth considering purchasing an official wheel kit (opens in a new tab).

Features

The P03601's control panel

To help you monitor the P03601's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours.

In addition to this info, when its oil levels are insufficient, you will be informed by the featured light indicator.

A built-in fuel gauge allows for a quick, easy and convenient check of the fuel level of the generator.

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.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Firman P03601 also comes with some accessories: tool kit, oil and funnel are included. 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).

• In terms of its dry weight, the Firman P03601 stands at only 101.5 lbs, meaning that is one of the lighter devices of 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.
• The generator can be considered average in its noise for its power category, as it is rated at 67 dBA. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Cummins Onan P4500i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 52 dBA.
• With a run time of around 14 hours at 50% load, the P03601 has one of the higher run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Honda EB4000X, reaching 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 reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.36 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse iGen4200. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.17 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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