Firman W02981 - 2900/3200W Inverter Generator

The Firman W02981 is a quiet and compact inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,900 W and a starting wattage of 3,200 W. (Read full specs)

CompareShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 71

Firman W02981Firman W02981Firman W02981Firman W02981

Description

The W02981 is an inverter generator, having low THD (clean power for electronics and sensitive equipment), quiet operation and fuel-efficient economy mode. It’s ergonomic encasing and integrated wheel kit makes it easy to transport for those weekend camping getaways. This generator features 3200 starting watts and 2900 running watts, with a reliable recoil start system. (source: Firman (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Firman W02981

In a few words, the Firman W02981 is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:

  • Amateur DIY lovers
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
  • RV travellers looking for even more independence

The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.

Power & Run Time

The Firman W02981 in use

The Firman W02981

Running on gasoline, the Firman W02981 utilizes a 171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke engine to deliver 120V, offering a running wattage of 2,900W and a starting wattage of 3,200W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (Firman parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.

With a noise rating of 58 dBA (less noisy than rainfall), the inverter generator's starting mechanism is centered around a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

Featuring a 1.8 gallon fuel tank, the W02981 can provide power for up to 10 hours on a full tank (with fuel consumption averaging 0.18 gallons per hour).

Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the W02981 generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities and a 5V USB port enabling convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets.

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

Portability

As an inverter generator, the Firman W02981 showcases a closed design (L23.2 x W17.8 x H17.9 in), enhancing aesthetics and ensuring quieter operation compared to conventional, open frame models. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

The W02981's dry weight of 84 lbs lets you use its power anywhere needed. Moreover, its set of 2 wheels (⌀5") and its folding handle make it easy to shift the generator once it's on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Firman W02981

The W02981's control panel

The control panel of the W02981 is equipped with a convenient meter, displaying voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours information, aiding in monitoring its status and activity.

In addition to this info, when the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.

Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Firman W02981 ships with supplementary accessories: battery charging cables, funnel, tool kit and oil.

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 inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).

  • At 84 lbs dry, the Firman W02981 is consistent with the standard weight profile for inverters ranging from 2500 to 3500 rated watts. if you wish to prioritize weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is one of the top contenders in its power category, weighing only 46 pounds.
  • With a lowest noise rating of 58 dBA, the inverter generator is one of the more quiet of the generators of similar type and power. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the Honda EU3000iS, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 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 inverters of a roughly equal output. If runtime is a priority for you, the Champion 200977 stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing up to 22 hours of continuous use.
  • 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. With an estimated fuel consumption of 0.18 GPH at a 25% load, this inverter generator aligns with the average gasoline usage range of comparable products. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Energizer eZV3500P, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.13 GPH, could be an option to consider.

Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (84 lbs)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start
  • Relatively low run time

Do you own the Firman W02981 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts2,900 W
Starting watts3,200 W
Running amps24.2 amps
Peak amps26.7 amps
Run time @50% loadUnknown
Run time @25% load10 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A receptacle
1x 5V USB port
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank1.8 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight84 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)23.2 x 17.8 x 17.9 in
Noise (lower limit)58 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables
Country of originChina
SeriesWhisper
Other model numbersW3200i
UPC840876129814

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.

Spec Improvement×

This form does not send us any personal data (not even your IP address)

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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizer.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Hair dryer18001900
Desktop computer200200
Total2192 W3192 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
Toaster oven800800
Cell phone charger2020
Total2300 W2720 W
For workGrinder14002500
Paint sprayer600600
Bug zapper8080
Total2080 W3180 W
How much oil does my firman w3200i take (Asked July 19, 2020)

Oil capacity is 20.3 oz.

Does this invertor have an inline gas shut off? (Asked October 03, 2021)

The unit has a fuel valve knob. Turning it off will allow you to let the generator run until it stops from lack of fuel, and to dry out all remaining fuel in the carburetor.

What kind of oil mine did not come with oil (Asked January 16, 2022)

For general, all-temperature use, SAE 10W30 is recommended.

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.

Ask a question

Your name and email address will not be publicly published. We only need them to be able to answer you directly

We would love to know your opinion

Leave a review

Your total score

Generator Bible
Logo
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare

You can compare as many generators as you wish. However, for the best results, we recommend you to compare only 2 generators at a time.

0