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Description
Zoom on the Honda EU3000iS
In a nutshell, the Honda EU3000iS is a quiet portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- 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 hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
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 Honda EU3000iS
The Honda EU3000iS is powered by a 196 cc Honda GX200 OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 2,800W as well as a peak wattage of 3,000W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (Honda parallel cables (opens in a new tab) not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.
Enjoying a low noise rating of 50 dBA (just as noisy as a refrigerator) which earned this unit its place in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators, it can be started thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism, but also to a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).
With a full tank, the EU3000iS can operate for up to 20 hours (fuel consumption around 0.17 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 3.4 gallons.
The EU3000iS generates a clean sine wave: providing <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
While this Honda generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
The Honda EU3000iS is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L25.9 x W17.6 x H22 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
Since the generator weighs 130.7 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). To enhance the generator's mobility, it is worth considering purchasing an official wheel kit (opens in a new tab).
Features
The EU3000iS's control panel
When the generator is overloaded, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
The inverter generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Alert®) and an overload protection (circuit breaker), allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Honda EU3000iS's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which will help you start your generator promptly. 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.
Emissions
The Honda EU3000iS is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.
However, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.
In addition, the unit meets the ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 safety and performance requirements.
Product Videos
The Honda EU3000iS versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Honda EU3000iS compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- Considering its dry weight of 130.7 pounds, the Honda EU3000iS is one of the heavier inverter generators producing between 2500 and 3500 running watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, standing at just 46 lbs.
- Since this inverter generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 50 dBA, it can be considered as one of the most quiet of the products generating similar power.
- The EU3000iS provides a higher run time than similarly powerful inverters, reaching up to 20 hours at 25% load. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Champion 200914, with up to 22 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. As this inverter generator uses an estimated 0.17 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Energizer eZV3500P, 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:
- Honda EU3000iS vs Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart
- Honda EU3000iS vs Champion 75531i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Cummins Onan P4500i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Generac GP3000i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Generac GP3300i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Generac iQ3500
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EB2800i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EG2800i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EU2200i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EU3000i Handi
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EU3200i
- Honda EU3000iS vs Honda EU7000iS
- Honda EU3000iS vs Predator 3500
- Honda EU3000iS vs Westinghouse iGen4500
- Honda EU3000iS vs Yamaha EF3000iS
- Honda EU3000iS vs Yamaha EF3000iSEB
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W inverter generators, the Honda EU3000iS is on the expensive side of the price range.
While certainly not the cheapest of its kind, purchasing it would most likely also mean enjoying the reliability of a high-end product.
The bottom line
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- CO Minder
- Quiet for its power (50 dBA)
- High run time
- Made in Japan
- Decent fuel efficiency
- On the expensive side
- No data center
- No remote start
- Not CARB-compliant
- On the heavy side (130.7 lbs)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 196 cc Honda GX200 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,800 W |
| Starting watts | 3,000 W |
| Running amps | 23.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 25 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h |
| Run time @25% load | 20 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 | 3.4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 130.7 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 25.9 x 17.6 x 22 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 50 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Battery |
| Country of origin | Japan |
| Series | Super Quiet |
| Other model numbers | EU3000iS1AN |
| UPC | 786102007320 |
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 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 EU3000iS 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 | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Total | 1992 W | 2992 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2230 W | 2650 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1730 W | 2830 W |
What is the difference between the EU3000iS and the EU3000iS1AN?
These model numbers refer to the same unit, but simply include more or less information regarding its specs, production batch, etc. Read how Honda name their generators.
Is there a wheel kit for the EU3000iS? (Asked June 15, 2020)
The unit does not come with a wheel kit. However, a third party all terrain wheel kit does exist. See it on Amazon (opens in a new tab).
How much oil does it hold? (Asked July 07, 2020)
Maximum oil capacity is 18 oz.
What is the difference between a 3000iS and a 3000iSC3 (Asked October 23, 2020)
No significant difference. The final characters are usually just production codes (e.g. country of manufacture), or references to the target market (US, CA). You can read more about it in this article. In this case, the "C" only means "For the canadian market". The 3 is highly likely just an internal code referring to a county of manufacture.
What’s the major differences between the EU3000iS generator and the EU3000 (no “iS”) (Asked February 09, 2021)
None. EU3000 is not an existing model. It's nothing more than a short name for EU3000iS.
Is this unit a bonded or floating neutral? (Asked February 22, 2021)
Neutral is floating.
What is eco throttle (Asked March 26, 2021)
The Eco Throttle system automatically reduces engine speed when loads are turned off or disconnected. When appliances are turned on or reconnected, the engine returns to the proper speed to power the electrical load.
What type oil should use when changing (Asked September 22, 2021)
For general, all-temperature use, SAE 10W-30 is recommended.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
I own a Honda EU3000is. I’ve had several previous generators and also currently own an Onan 12.5k in our motorhome.
The Honda is a great generator. But like the others said you cannot leave cheap gas sitting in it for any length of time. It has a gas on/off switch and I usually turn the gas off and let it run until it runs out of gas. With this procedure it will start first time every time.
The small start battery doesn’t last more than a year or two.
My largest problem is loading it. It weighs 130# and I have to use a hoist to load it.
Also, it has a hard time starting my small DeWalt 120V portable air compressor. I’ve tried connecting it with the 30a RV twist lock as well as with a 120v 10-gauge extension cord. It just doesn’t like it. The compressor sounds like it’s struggling at a very low rpm until either circuit breaker pops. I have to release all the air from the tank and then it will start the compressor and run fine until it needs to restart.
Another plus for the Honda EU3000is is one tank of gas will run up to 20 hours!
I just wish it didn’t weigh so much and had a higher surge rating!
All around great generator that produces clean quiet energy at a low fuel consumption rate. Its very reliable and starts on 2 pulls of the recoil almost every time. The only problem that i have ever had mechanically is having to adjust the valve clearance. But the dealership was very helpful and walked me right through it. And will also provide the service if your not a do it your selfer.