Champion 3500 Watt Generator Review – Load, Runtime & Noise Tests
After spending 3 days we have done noise, capacity, run time, and outlet tests 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.
Champion 3500 Watt Generator Review
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 Built 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 a 3.4-gallon 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 the load; however, on a 25% load, I managed to get 12 to 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 or 3500 running watts on gasoline; however, on LPG, you will get 3950 starting or 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 that 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 feet away, which is not true at all. You will get about 71–74 dBs from 25 feet away with a 75% load, but the noise levels will reduce drastically if you lower the load.
Humble Suggestion: Keep this unit at least 40–50 feet 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, follow this: generator sizing guide to calculate the wattage needed in an instant.
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, or do carburetor cleaning (tune-up). The bottom line is that you have to take care of this. Follow this guide to maintain your generator.
The champion provides a 3-year limited warranty with lifetime technical support, and they have nationwide service centers where you can easily replace your faulty unit.
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, or the environment.
What I Like
What I don’t
Who Should Buy a 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 15000 BTU’s air conditioners, a space heater, and a microwave, you still can’t operate them simultaneously.
Overall, the Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is pretty reliable with an affordable price tag, greater efficiency, a dual fuel option, and an RV-ready outlet.
Alternatives Of Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
| Parameters | Champion 3500-Watt | Generac iQ3500-3500 Watt | Briggs & Stratton S3500 3500W |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
Frequently Asked Questions About Champion 3500-Watt
Can Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator run a house?
Yes, if you want to operate some low power-hungry devices, like lights, LEDs, Vacuums, microwaves, dishwashers, etc. however if you want to operate central air condition, water heaters, etc. you should go for bigger units
How long will a Champion 3500-watt generator run on a tank of gas?
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.
Will a 3500-watt champion unit run a window air conditioner?
Yes, a 15000btu air conditioner will only consume 1500 watts it is not a big deal for a 3500-watt generator.
How many amps is a Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator?
Champion provides 35.4 starting and 29.2 running amps on gasoline.