Honda EG2800i - 2500/2800W Open Frame Inverter Generator
The Honda EG2800i is a compact and lightweight open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,500 W and a starting wattage of 2,800 W. (Read full specs)
Get this unit while retailer inventory lasts, as Honda no longer produces this model.
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Description
Zoom on the Honda EG2800i
In a nutshell, the Honda EG2800i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
The Honda EG2800i
The Honda EG2800i is powered by a 186 cc Honda GC190LA 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 2,500W as well as a peak wattage of 2,800W.
With a noise rating of 62 dBA (just slightly more noisy than background music), the inverter generator's starting mechanism is centered around a conventional pull-start mechanism.
The EG2800i's fuel tank, with a capacity of 2.1 gallons, supports uninterrupted operation for up to 11.9 hours when fully fueled (fuel consumption at an estimated 0.18 gallons per hour).
As the EG2800i produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Though it may not be labeled as 'RV Ready,' this Honda generator offers the benefit of hassle-free RV connectivity through its L5-30R receptacle, allowing you to easily power your RV with the assistance of an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
At L16.9 x W17.6 x H18.9 in, the standard open frame design of the Honda EG2800i delivers stability alongside easy maintenance access to components and good air cooling. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.
With a dry weight of 67.5 lbs, the EG2800i is manageable, ensuring it can accompany you wherever you need power. Furthermore, the generator's open frame construction allows for easy grabbing and movement.
You also have the option to purchase the official wheel kit (opens in a new tab) to aid in the easier transportation of the EG2800i.
Features
The EG2800i's control panel
Light indicators on the device will signal if the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded.
The inclusion of a built-in fuel gauge in the inverter generator streamlines gas level checks for quick and convenient assessments.
In terms of security, the generator features an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Alert®) and an overload protection (circuit breaker), ensuring peace of mind during its use.
Besides the features previously mentioned, accessory-wise, the Honda EG2800i comes with the usual documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) needed to get you promptly started. An official storage cover is available, as a separate purchase.
CO Minder
CO Minder monitors the ambient CO concentration
Honda's CO Minder is a system that monitors the ambient carbon monoxide concentration, and automatically stops the engine if the sensor detects a CO level of or exceeding 800 parts per million (ppm) at a given time, or an average of 400 ppm for 10 minutes.
A CO alarm indicator will flash for about five minutes, during which it will be impossible to restart the engine.
Product Videos
The Honda EG2800i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Honda EG2800i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2000 and 3000 W).
- As its weight is 67.5 pounds, the Honda EG2800i falls in the expected weight range of the inverters in the 2000-3000 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the WEN 56280iX, standing at just 41.9 lbs.
- This inverter generator, with its lowest possible noise rated at 62 dBA falls into the more noisy category, compared to other devices of a similar running wattage. If you value reduced noise levels, the Honda EU3000iS could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 50 dBA.
- The EG2800i, falls within the average autonomy range compared to inverter generators of a roughly same power, with a run time of up to 11.9 hours at a 25% load and a full tank. If you wish to prioritize autonomy, the Honda EU3000iS shines as one of the top contenders, offering one of the highest run times among generators with similar power output, totaling up to 20 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank's capacity and thus, doesn't say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. Among generators of similar output, this inverter generator ranks somewhat poorly in fuel efficiency, with an estimated consumption of 0.18 GPH at a 25% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.08 gallons per hour.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
The bottom line
- Inverter
- CO Minder
- Decent weight (67.5 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- No electric start
- No parallel ports
- On the noisy side (62 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Honda EG2800i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 186 cc Honda GC190LA 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,500 W |
| Starting watts | 2,800 W |
| Running amps | 20.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 23.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 11.9 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 2.1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 67.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 16.9 x 17.6 x 18.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 62 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | No |
| Series | Economy |
| Other model numbers | EG2800iAN, EG2800iAG |
| UPC | 786102007399 |
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 Honda
Founded in 1948, the Japanese Honda Motor Company has gained notoriety for consistently producing top quality engines, motor-powered vehicles and devices. Over the years, the company has gained a strong reputation in the motorcycle, automobile, but also power tool industry. Honda’s power tool division has been producing power tools since 1953, including tillers, mowers, blowers, sprayers and of course, power generators. While the company has expanded globally and moved a majority of its production out of Japan into other Asian countries, Honda is to this day known as a legend among the generator manufacturers.
Warranty Information
The Honda EG2800i 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 Honda generators, please consult Honda's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-770-497-6400.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 1792 W | 2792 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 1990 W | 2580 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 1650 W | 2750 W |
What is the difference between the EG2800i, the EG2800iAN and the EG2800iAG?
The final "G" in "EG2800iAG" indicates that the unit is CARB-compliant. The final "N" in "EG2800iAN" indicates that the unit cannot be sold in California. Regarding the rest of the model names, as a rule of thumb, they refer to the unit itself, but simply include more or less information regarding its specs, production batch, etc. Read how Honda name their generators.
You state that the generator "is not quite RV ready". What would be necessary to make it ready? (Asked March 22, 2021)
You may read our definition of RV-Ready. But basically, for a unit to be considered "RV-Ready", it needs to feature a TT-30R outlet. For the EG2800i, an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter could do the trick!
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
