Yamaha EF2800i (Discontinued)
The Yamaha EF2800i 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)
This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.
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Description
SMART POWER. 2800 maximum watts of output in a compact 66‑lb package equals exceptional power output to weight ratio.
Zoom on the Yamaha EF2800i
To sum up, the Yamaha EF2800i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator tailored for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The Yamaha EF2800i
With a 171 cc (5.5 hp) Yamaha MZ175 OHV 4-stroke engine, the Yamaha EF2800i operates on gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 2,500W and a starting wattage of 2,800W.
With a noise rating of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than background music), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a conventional pull-start mechanism.
This generator features Yamaha's Smart Throttle™. This load-sensing feature automatically adjusts engine speed to match its load in order to offer greater fuel efficiency and noise reduction.
The EF2800i's fuel tank, boasting 2.6 gallons, allows it to operate for up to 14.7 hours with a full tank (with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.18 GPH).
Featuring a <2.5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the EF2800i delivers a clean sine wave, guaranteeing the safety of your sensitive electronics plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
Moreover, it comes equipped with 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.
Despite not meeting the 'RV Ready' criteria, this Yamaha generator grants the advantage of simple RV compatibility via its L5-30R receptacle, enabling you to conveniently power your RV by using an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
At L19.2 x W15.6 x H16.7 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Yamaha EF2800i ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The generator is designed for outdoor use and demanding environments.
As the EF2800i's weight is only 68 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. Moreover, the open frame structure of this generator makes it easy to grab and relocate.
Features
The EF2800i's control panel
When the oil level is too low, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
Equipped with a built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator facilitates swift gas level checks.
In terms of security, the generator features an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Watch system) and an overload protection (circuit breaker), ensuring peace of mind during its use.
Yamaha's Oil Watch warning system gives you an extra peace of mind. This feature enhances long-term durability by preventing engine damage and costly repairs. Once the oil begins to run low, the generator automatically shuts off and cannot be re-started until oil is added.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Yamaha EF2800i's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which will help you start your generator promptly.
Product Videos
The Yamaha EF2800i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Yamaha EF2800i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2000 and 3000 W).
- At 68 lbs in dry weight, the Yamaha EF2800i fits well within the typical weight bracket for inverter generators producing 2000 to 3000 rated watts. If weight is an important consideration for you, the WEN 56280iX stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 41.9 pounds.
- This inverter generator, with its lowest noise level at 65 dBA, is noisier than most generators of comparable running wattage. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU3000iS with only 50 dBA.
- In terms of run time, the EF2800i surpasses similarly powerful inverters, boasting one of the higher run times at up to 14.7 hours. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Honda EU3000iS could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching up to 20 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This inverter generator is somewhat less fuel-efficient than devices of comparable output: its estimated fuel consumption reaches 0.18 GPH at a 25% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen2800c, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.
The bottom line
- GFCI Outlets
- Inverter
- High run time
- Decent weight (68 lbs)
- No data center
- No electric start
- No parallel ports
- On the noisy side (65 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Yamaha EF2800i 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 | 171 cc Yamaha MZ175 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,500 W |
| Starting watts | 2,800 W |
| Running amps | 20.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 23.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 14.7 h |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 10A receptacle |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | Metal, 2.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 68 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 19.2 x 15.6 x 16.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 65 dBA |
| THD | < 2.5% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | No |
| UPC | 799530396645 |
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 Yamaha
With a rich history of over 130 years, the Japanese based Yamaha Corporation, founded in 1887, has tipped its fingers in every industry imaginable, most notably motorcycles, musical instruments and electronics. The company boasts with a wide range of products, including many of the top rated portable generators. However, many of their models were made in China, rather than Japan. In 2023, Yamaha transfered its Power Products business to Willbe Co., Ltd. Yamaha generators are now no longer manufactured, with sales limited to existing stock.
Warranty Information
The Yamaha EF2800i 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 Yamaha generators, please consult Yamaha's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-962-7926.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Electric fry pan | 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 |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 1650 W | 2750 W |
