Lifan ESI 2000i-CA Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA

In summary, the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:

• Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• Amateur DIY lovers

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 Lifan ESI 2000i-CA

The Lifan ESI 2000i-CA is powered by a 105 cc Lifan OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 1600W as well as a peak wattage of 2000W.

The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 60 dBA (just as noisy as a normal conversation). Its starting mechanism is based on a conventional pull-start mechanism.

With a full tank, the ESI 2000i-CA can operate for around 3 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.33 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1 gallon.

Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the ESI 2000i-CA generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <2% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 3A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.

Portability

Since the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA is an inverter generator, its closed design (L19 x W11 x H17 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.

Since the ESI 2000i-CA weighs only 48 lbs, it can be labeled as a portable lightweight generator. As it can be moved by a single person without much effort, the generator and its power can be enjoyed on-the-go. In addition, a handle (molded in the case) lets you carry it easily and further increases its convenience.

Features

The ESI 2000i-CA's control panel

Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is overloaded, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready.

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA also comes with some accessories: battery charging cables and tool kit are included.

Emissions

The Lifan ESI 2000i-CA is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

The Lifan ESI 2000i-CA versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA compare to generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).

• As for its weight, the Lifan ESI 2000i-CA weighs only 48 pounds, making it one of the lighter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Champion 200949, standing at just 38.6 lbs.
• This inverter generator, with its lowest possible noise rated at 60 dBA falls into the more noisy category, compared to other devise of a similar running wattage. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Honda EU2200i. With just 48 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
• As far as autonomy is concerned, providing around 3 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 50% load, the ESI 2000i-CA falls into the low end in comparison with other devices of a comparable power output. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse WGen2000, as it provides around 20 hours.
• The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator is somewhat less fuel efficient than devices of comparable output: its estimated fuel consumption reaches 0.33 GPH at a 50% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.12 GPH, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is a device you should look out for.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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 Lifan

LIFAN, or rather LIFAN Power USA, is a rather small and new company, based in Arizona. LIFAN’s range is comprised of engines and related products, such as pressure washers, water pumps and of course, generators – of which there is a surprising variety, including inverters, portable generators, but also high output, standby home generators. The company admirably admits that their primary (and most likely only) manufacturing facilities are located in China and their goal is to provide affordable products above all.

Warranty Information

The Lifan ESI 2000i-CA 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 Lifan generators, please consult Lifan's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-866-471-7464.

Questions & Answers

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