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)
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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.
Zoom on the Firman W02981
In short, the Firman W02981 is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The Firman W02981
Firman W02981 runs on gasoline, powered by a 171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke engine with cast iron sleeve, delivering 120V, boasting a running wattage of 2,900W alongside a starting wattage of 3,200W. Moreover, the parallel capability (Firman parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) allows for doubling of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and reliability for diverse needs.
With a noise rating of 58 dBA (less noisy than a refrigerator), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a traditional recoil pull-start mechanism.
Featuring a 1.8 gallon fuel tank, the W02981 provides continuous power for up to 10 hours on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH).
The <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the W02981 ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease and a 5V USB port perfect for conveniently charging mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
Thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'), this Firman generator is RV Ready.
Portability
Since the Firman W02981 is an inverter generator, its closed design (L23.2 x W17.8 x H17.9 in) not only provides an aesthetic advantage but also contributes to reduced noise levels compared to conventional, open frame devices. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
With a dry weight of 84 lbs, the W02981 is convenient, ensuring it can be taken wherever power is needed. Furthermore, once placed on the floor, simple displacement is possible thanks to its set of 2 wheels (⌀5") and its folding handle.
Features
The W02981's control panel
The W02981's status and activity may be monitored conveniently via the control panel, as it features a convenient meter, showing voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours metrics.
In addition to this info, the generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded.
In terms of security, the generator features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during its use.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Firman W02981 also comes with several accessories, including: 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 a weight of 84 pounds, the Firman W02981 places in the expected weight range of the inverter generators in the 2500-3500 rated wattage range. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO with only 46 pounds.
- With noise levels starting from 58 dBA rating, this inverter generator stands out as one of the quieter options among products of similar type and power. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the Honda EU3000iS is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 50 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
- Concerning its runtime, the W02981 provides up to 10 hours at a 25% load, indicating that it falls on the lower side compared to other generators of its type and power range. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Champion 200977, as it provides up to 22 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. With a fuel usage of about 0.18 GPH at a 25% load, this inverter generator falls within the typical gasoline consumption range observed in comparably powerful products. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.14 GPH, the Honda EU3200i is a device you could look out for.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 2500-3500W inverter 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
- Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
- Decent weight (84 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- 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
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 171 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke, cast iron sleeve |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,900 W |
| Starting watts | 3,200 W |
| Running amps | 24.2 amps |
| Peak 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% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables |
| Country of origin | China |
| Series | Whisper |
| Other model numbers | W3200i |
| UPC | 840876129814 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 | Electric fry pan | 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 | |
| Water heater (10 gallons) | 1000 | 2000 | |
| Total | 2190 W | 3190 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Paint sprayer | 600 | 600 | |
| 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.
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.
