Champion 3500 Watt Generator Review – Load, Runtime & Noise Tests
After spending 3 days we have done noise, capacity, run time, and outlets test of the Champion 3500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator to ensure that this machine is either useful or not for a normal Rv and homeowner.
Well, the machine is pretty decent with impressive runtime and capacity also comes with an Rv-ready outlet and dual fuel option to spend long winter nights.
Without further wasting time lets go to the details of champion 3500 – watts;
Unboxing Experience:
The generator comes in pretty good protective packaging, lots of cart boards and foams are there for added protection. Since I have purchased a dual fuel unit I got a user manual, a propane hose, engine oil, and an oil funnel.
Design And Build Quality:
The design of this machine is pretty decent with a touch of yellow and matt finished black, the built quality is also impressive but the only flaw I got is, there is no availability of the wheel kit, which is strange for a user like me; wheel kit is a lifesaver for transporting the machine. You can purchase it separately I think it should be included in the box.
Outlets And Essentials:
Fuel Tank Size, Fuel Options, And Runtime:
The Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator comes with 3.4 gallons of fuel tank and the option to attach a propane tank for a longer run. Well, as per my tests I operated it for about 9 to 10 hours on a full tank of gasoline with 50% of load, however, on 25% load, I manage to get 12 – 12.5 hours.
This is a machine good for long nights but not excellent since modern units have a bigger fuel tank and can provide more runtime on gasoline. Thankfully you have the option to attach your huge propane tank for an uninterrupted run.
The Capacity Of The Unit With Load Test
Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator comes with a 224cc 4-stroke engine that can provide 4375 surge / 3500 running watts on gasoline, however on LPG you will get 3950 starting/3150 running watts.
Well, I have never believed in the manufacturer’s statement I have run the following power-hungry appliance for confirmation.
| Appliance | Surge Watts | Running Watts |
|---|---|---|
| 15000 Btu’s Rv air conditioner | 3500 | 1500 |
| coffee maker | 1740 | 1740 |
| ½ Hp air compressor | 1600 | 975 |
| Well ½ water pump | 1000 | 2100 |
| Sump pump ½ hp | 1050 | 2150 |
| Space heater | 1800 | 1800 |
| All of the lights, TVs, etc | 1800 | 1800 |
The above appliances run perfectly on both gasoline and propane. The bottom line is this is an ideal unit for normal power consumers and Rv users. Also, it offers a hassle-free quick start even in harsh winters.
Noise Levels:
As per the manufacturer’s statement, this unit can produce 68 decibels from 23 ft. away which is not true at all, you will get about 71 – 74 dBs from 25 ft. away with 75% load however the noise levels will reduce drastically if you lower the load.
Humble Suggestion: Keep this unit at least 40 – 50ft. away from your home or Rv to get a super silent environment.
Parallel Compatibility
This generator is not parallel-ready you have to go for a bigger unit if you want to operate multiple appliances simultaneously, if you are a newbie and don’t able to calculate your wattage requirement you can follow this guide.
Warranty And Maintenance
Like all other machines this generator needs regular maintenance for a smooth run, you have to change the oil, and air filter, winterize it in winter or do carburetor cleaning(tune-up). The bottom line is you have to take care of this. Follow this guide to maintain your generator.
The champion provides a 3 – years of limited warranty with lifetime technical support, they have nationwide service centers you can replace your faulty unit easily.
Safe For You And Your Environment:
Champion 3500 Watt Generator complies with EPA and CARB safety standards, so you don’t have to worry about yourself, your appliances, and the environment.
What I Like
What I don’t
Who Should Buy Champion 3500 Watt Generator?
This is an ideal machine for a normal house or RV owner who wants to operate several low-power-hungry appliances without spending too much. Though it can operate 15000Btu’s air conditioners, a space heater, and a microwave but you can’t operate them simultaneously.
Overall the Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is pretty reliable with an affordable price tag, greater efficiency, dual fuel option, and with Rv ready outlet.
Alternatives Of Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
| Generator |  |  |  |
| Weight | 104.9 lb. | 109.1 lb. | 115 lb. |
| Starting/Running watts | 4375 / 3500 | 3500 / 3000 | 4375/3500 |
| Noise Levels | 68 - 74dB | 60 - 63dB | 70 - 75dB |
| Fuel Tank Size | 3.4 Gallon | 2.6 Gallon | 5 Gallon |
| Runtime | 9 – 10 hours @ 50% load | 8.9 hours @ 50% load | 14 hrs @ 50% load |
| Fuel Options | Gasoline/Propane | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Dimensions | 23.2 x 19.1 x 20.0 inch. | 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 inches | 25.53 x 21.12 x 21.43 inches |
| Parallel Option | No | Yes | No |
| Rv Ready | Yes | No | Yes |
| Price |
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Champion 3500-Watt
Yes, if you want to operate some low power-hungry devices, like lights, LEDs, Vacuums, microwave, dishwasher, etc. however if you want to operate central air condition, water heater, etc. you should go for bigger units
Depending on how much load you have put, with a full tank on 50% load I got 9 – 10 hours of runtime; however, on propane, you may get way more than this because of the larger tank size.
Yes, a 15000btu air condition will only consume 1500 watts it is not a big deal for a 3500-watt generator.
Champion provides 35.4 starting and 29.2 running amps on gasoline.
