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The Yamaha EF4500iSE is a quiet inverter generator with a rated wattage of 4,000 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Yamaha EF4500iSE
In short, the Yamaha EF4500iSE is a quiet portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- 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 hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
The Yamaha EF4500iSE
The Yamaha EF4500iSE's engine, 357 cc Yamaha MZ360 OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 4,000W and reaches a peak wattage of 4,500W.
Rated for 58 dBA (less noisy than a conversation at home), the inverter generator's starting mechanism relies on a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included).
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 EF4500iSE's fuel tank, boasting 4.5 gallons, allows it to operate for up to 15.2 hours with a full tank (with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.3 GPH).
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the EF4500iSE produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
Even though this Yamaha generator isn't quite RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle allows an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
The Yamaha EF4500iSE is an inverter generator and features an encased design with the following dimensions: L30.7 x W24.3 x H27.2 in. This design enhances aesthetics and helps minimize noise levels, distinguishing it from conventional, open frame products. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
Though weighing 209 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its set of 4 wheels and its double handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.
Features
The EF4500iSE's control panel
Included in the control panel of the EF4500iSE, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the lifetime run hours and power output.
In addition to this info, the device’s light indicators will display if the generator is ready, the oil level is too low and the generator is overloaded.
The built-in fuel gauge of the inverter generator ensures simple and quick gas level assessments.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off (Oil Watch system), providing peace of mind during operation.
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.
It also includes a carbon monoxide sensor. This sensor is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the generator will automatically shut down.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Yamaha EF4500iSE'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.
Product Videos
The Yamaha EF4500iSE versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Yamaha EF4500iSE compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- Weighing 209 lbs, the Yamaha EF4500iSE is one of the heaviest inverter generators within the 3500-4500 rated wattage bracket. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM4600iAEFIC, weighing just 58.4 pounds.
- Delivering a rated noise output as low as 58 dBA, this inverter generator is has a quieter operation that most units of similar type and power. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen5000DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- As the EF4500iSE offers up to 15.2 hours run time on a full tank at a 25% load, it falls within the average autonomy range among the inverter generators of a similar power. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Firman W03661OF, which is able to run for up to 25 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. Compared to similar devices, this inverter generator is less fuel-efficient than most: it burns around 0.3 gallons of gasoline per hour at a 25% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Champion 201319, with a fuel consumption of 0.16 GPH could be in your good books.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W inverter generators, the Yamaha EF4500iSE 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
- CO Sensor
- Electric start
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
- Made in Japan
- Decent run time
- On the expensive side
- No recoil back-up
- No remote start
- No parallel ports
- On the heavy side (209 lbs)
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 357 cc Yamaha MZ360 OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 4,000 W |
| Starting watts | 4,500 W |
| Running amps | 33.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 37.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 15.2 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Power output and lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | Plastic, 4.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 209 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 30.7 x 24.3 x 27.2 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 58 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Battery |
| Country of origin | Japan |
| Other model numbers | EF45ISEZ |
| UPC | 765053833196 |
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 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 are made in China, rather than Japan.
Warranty Information
The Yamaha EF4500iSE 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 |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Total | 3192 W | 4192 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Total | 3190 W | 3780 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 3160 W | 4260 W |
Is it made in China? (Asked November 10, 2020)
The EF4500 is made in Japan.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
