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Honda EU3000iS - 2800/3000W Inverter Generator With Electric Start

The Honda EU3000iS is a quiet inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,800 W and a starting wattage of 3,000 W. (Read full specs)

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Honda EU3000iS
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Price history for the Honda EU3000iS

Current price is in the mid range.
Lowest price $1,999
Highest price $2,964
Current price $2,399

Description

Zoom on the Honda EU3000iS

In short, the Honda EU3000iS is a quiet portable inverter generator adequately designed for:

  • Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
  • Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
  • Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
  • RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle

In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.

Power & Run Time

The Honda EU3000iS in use

The Honda EU3000iS

The Honda EU3000iS's design includes a gasoline-fueled 196 cc Honda GX200 OHV 4-stroke engine with cast iron sleeve. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 2,800W and also a peak wattage of 3,000W. Moreover, the parallel capability (Honda parallel cables (opens in a new tab) not included) enables doubling of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and versatility for a wide range of needs.

Presented in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators for its low noise rating of 50 dBA (just as noisy as a refrigerator), the inverter generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism, but also a user-friendly and efficient electric starter (battery included).

The EU3000iS can operate for up to 20 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.17 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 3.4 gallons.

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the EU3000iS produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

This Honda generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. However, it is still not quite RV ready.

Portability

As the Honda EU3000iS is an inverter generator, its encased design (L25.9 x W17.6 x H22 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.

Despite its 130.7 lbs, the generator falls under the category of 'portable,' signifying its movability, although its weight may hinder easy portability. For improved mobility, the official wheel kit (opens in a new tab) purchase can be beneficial.

Features

Panel of the Honda EU3000iS

The EU3000iS's control panel

Some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and its oil levels are insufficient.

The fuel level of the inverter generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.

In terms of security, the generator features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Alert®), ensuring peace of mind during its use.

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 of the Honda EU3000iS

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 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).

  • With a weight of 130.7 lbs, the Honda EU3000iS is notably on the heavier side among inverter generators in the 2500-3500 rated wattage range. Weight-conscious users may find the Pulsar PGD40iSCO appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 46 pounds.
  • 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.
  • As the EU3000iS features an autonomy of up to 20 hours at 25% load, it has a higher run time than an average generator of its type and power range. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Champion 200977, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting 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 a better fuel efficiency than other units in the aforementioned output range, consuming approximately 0.17 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Honda EU3200i, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.14 GPH.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Electric start
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • CO Minder
  • Quiet for its power (50 dBA)
  • High run time
  • Fuel efficient
  • Made in Japan
WEAKNESSES:
  • On the expensive side
  • No data center
  • No remote start
  • On the heavy side (130.7 lbs)

Do you own the Honda EU3000iS 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 readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine196 cc Honda GX200 OHV 4-stroke, cast iron sleeve
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts2,800 W
Starting watts3,000 W
Running amps23.3 amps
Peak amps25 amps
Run time @50% load10 h
Run time @25% load20 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank3.4 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight130.7 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)25.9 x 17.6 x 22 in
Noise (lower limit)50 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceEPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedBattery
Country of originJapan
SeriesSuper Quiet
Other model numbersEU3000iS1AN
UPC786102007320

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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?
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 size calculator.
Item Running Watts Starting Watts
At home Microwave (1000 watts) 1500 1500
Refrigerator (energy star) 192 1192
Slow cooker 270 270
Cell phone charger 20 20
Total 1982 W 2982 W
For camping RV AC (11,000 BTU) 1010 1600
RV refrigerator 180 600
Toaster oven 800 800
Mixer 200 200
Pair of small speakers 45 45
Total 2235 W 2825 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.

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Honda EU3000iS
7.5 Total Score
2 reviews
Add your review
Price
3.5
Value
8.5
Quality
10
Performance
8

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 3.5
    Price
    40
    Value
    80
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    60

    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!

    + PROS:
    • Quality
    • Super quiet!
    - CONS:
    • Heavy!
    • Difficulty starting small DeWalt air compressor
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 4
    Price
    30
    Value
    90
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    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.

    + PROS:
    • It is a very quiet dependable inverter/generator. I especially like the 12 volt DC charging capability. Which is possible through the provided cord that simply plugs right into the control panel.
    - CONS:
    • Since the cost of this inverter is at the top of all its competitor's and as is its weight that honda should supply a wheel kit free of charge if the customer prefers it. I know some would wrather not use them but many would and would be more inclined to purchase one if they did.
    Helpful(17) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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