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Description
Zoom on the Firman W02981
In summary, the Firman W02981 is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
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 W02981's core is the 171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 2900W and a peak wattage of 3200W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (Firman parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.
Enjoying a noise rating of 58 dBA (less noisy than rainfall), this inverter generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
With a full tank, the W02981 can operate for up to 10 hours (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1.8 gallon.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the W02981 produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease and a 5V USB port allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Firman generator is RV Ready.
Portability
The Firman W02981 is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L23.2 x W17.8 x H17.9 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
The W02981 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 84 lbs. Moreover, its set of 2 wheels (⌀5") and its folding handle will allow you to effortlessly shift it once it's on the ground.
Features
The W02981's control panel
The W02981 and its control panel include a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours. This feature comes handy when monitoring its status and activity.
In addition to this info, several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is ready, the generator is on overload and the oil level is too low.
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.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Firman W02981 also is packed along with the following accessories: tool kit, funnel, oil and battery charging cables.
Emissions
The Firman W02981 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.
Product Video
The Firman W02981 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Firman W02981 compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- Weight-wise, the Firman W02981 has only 84 lbs, which renders it one of the lighter generators which produce 2500 to 3500 rated watts. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above mentioned power range is the Generac GP3300i, with a dry weight of just 59.5 pounds.
- As its lowest possible noise is rated at 58 dBA, this inverter generator qualifies as one of the more quiet of the products of similar power. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU3000iS with only 50 dBA.
- Regarding its autonomy, the autonomy of the W02981, reaching up to 10 hours at a 25% load, can be considered as low end, compared to other products of a roughly equal output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Champion 200954, which is able to run for up to 22 hours.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator has an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.18 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Energizer eZV3200P, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.13 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W generators, the Firman W02981 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
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight for its kind (84 lbs)
- Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No electric start
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2900 W |
| Starting watts | 3200 W |
| Running amps | 24.2 amps |
| Peaks amps | 26.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 10 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle 1x 5V USB port |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 84 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 17.8 x 17.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 58 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Series | Whisper |
| Other model numbers | W3200i |
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 W02981 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
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2192 W | 3192 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 2315 W | 2905 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Drill | 600 | 900 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2080 W | 3180 W |
How much oil does my firman w3200i take (Asked July 19, 2020)
Oil capacity is 20.3 oz.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
