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Description
Zoom on the Predator 1400
In summary, the Predator 1400 is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
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 Predator 1400's engine, 54 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 1,100W and reaches a peak wattage of 1,400W. In addition, the device is parallel capable (parallel kit not included) and thus, can be linked to a similar or compatible unit for added power.
The inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 60.4 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation).
With a full tank, the 1400 can operate for up to 7.3 hours (fuel consumption around 0.1 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 0.74 gallon.
The 1400 produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Additionally, it features 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports with which you may charge electronics, for example mobile phones or tablets, conveniently and a 12V 5A receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
Portability
The Predator 1400's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L18.5 x W10.7 x H15.5 in), provides an esthetical advantage over any ordinary, open frame product. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
The 1400 is a lightweight, portable generator, as it only weighs 33 lbs. A single person should not have any problems moving it around and thus, enjoy power availability on-the-go. In addition, a handle (molded in the case) lets you carry it easily and further increases its convenience.
Features
When the generator is on overload, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.
The unit also benefits from the Predator's CO SECURE™ carbon monoxide detection. This system monitors the accumulation of CO gas while the generator is running and will shut off the engine if the levels become dangerously high.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Predator 1400 also comes with several accessories, including: oil, battery charging cables, funnel and tool kit.
Emissions
The Predator 1400 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 unit also meets the ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 safety and performance requirements.
Product Videos
The Predator 1400 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 1400 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1000 and 2000 W).
- As far as its dry weight is concerned, the Predator 1400 weighs just 33 pounds and thus, it is one of the lighter 1000 to 2000 rated wattage inverter generators. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the Pulsar PGD16iSCO, with a dry weight of just 24 pounds.
- This inverter generator, with its lowest possible noise rated at 60.4 dBA falls into the more noisy category, compared to other devices of a similar running wattage. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU2200i, whose lowest noise levels reach just 48 dBA.
- Autonomy-wise, with up to 7.3 hours on a full tank at a 25% load, the 1400 is on the low end when compared to other inverter generators of a similar power output. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, as it provides up to 13 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 an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.1 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse iGen1500c. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.07 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1000-2000W inverter generators, the Predator 1400 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- CO SECURE™ technology
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (33 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- No electric start
- Weak warranty
- On the noisy side (60.4 dBA)
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
Inverter | Yes |
---|---|
Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
RV ready | No |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 54 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil |
Warranty | 90 days |
Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
---|---|
Running watts | 1,100 W |
Starting watts | 1,400 W |
Running amps | 9.2 amps |
Peak amps | 11.7 amps |
Run time @50% load | Unknown |
Run time @25% load | 7.3 h |
GFCI outlets | No |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port 1x 12V 5A receptacle |
Data center | No |
Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
Fuel tank | 0.74 gal |
Fuel gauge | No |
Weight | 33 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 18.5 x 10.7 x 15.5 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 60.4 dBA |
THD | < 3% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 |
Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and battery charging cables |
Other model numbers | 59186 |
UPC | 193175459077 |
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 Predator
Predator portable generators are solely distributed by the Harbor Freight Corporation, which has an impressive list of over 200 trademarked products. The Predator brand is one of their newer lines of outdoor power products. As with many other makes and models of power equipment sold by Harbor Freight, Predator generators are manufactured in China.
Warranty Information
The Predator 1400 is covered under a warranty for up to 90 days. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Predator generators, please consult Harbor Freight's warranty policies stated in the user manual (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support : 1-800-444-3353.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
---|---|---|---|
At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
Desktop computer | 200 | 200 | |
Total | 392 W | 1392 W | |
For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
Total | 875 W | 1295 W | |
For work | Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 810 W | 1040 W |
What is on off switch on fuel cap for?? (Asked July 04, 2021)
It's the vent switch. It should be OFF for storage or transport, and ON to run the unit.
I have a old school swamp cooler AC unit in my home and during summer time my electricity gets shut off. Will the predator 1100 power this kind of unit? It's a small 120v unit mounted inside my home. Not the big ones on roof tops (Asked July 27, 2021)
It is unfortunately not feasible to answer the question accurately without more specifics. The unit can output a maximum of 9.2 running amps and 11.7 starting amps. You'd have to look at your AC power requirements (rating plate).
Is this generator waterproof (Asked October 04, 2021)
The unit is not waterproof and should be properly sheltered. We recommend reading our article on generator operation in bad weather.
How much oil do I mix in the gas (Asked February 23, 2023)
None. The unti has a 4-stroke engine that does not require an oil/gas mixture.
on the predator 1400 how to access the air filter (Asked August 13, 2023)
Air filter maintenance is detailed page 20 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
So far so very good powers all I need when camping, it allows me to stay in tent sites when electrical sites are all booked.
I love this predator inverter generator 1400/1100 watts. Best little generator. Does everything I need it to do. I highly recommend buying one. I plan on buying a 2nd one so I can put them together and have double the power.
You get what you pay for. Cost low reliability even lower when it runs its does what it supposed to do Frustrating shut downs for no reason oil level is good fuel is new and absolutely will not start again for hours. Possibly vapor locking Zero stars
So far I’m loving it but day one and the thunder and lightning started right off the bat so I really need to know is this generator waterproof