HONDA EU3000is Generator Review – [Best Machine Of 2024]
With the success of the Honda EU2200i, which quickly became the customer’s favorite, how about the stronger, larger, and more convenient inverter generator, the Honda EU3000is? It is a bit costly compared to competitors with the same power output, but is it really worth the price?
The Honda EU3000is is one of the best 3000-watt inverter generators in terms of power output, reliability, runtime, harmonic distortion, built quality, customer service, and noise.
In this article, we have given a solid Honda EU3000is Generator review based on load tests, noise tests, runtime tests, fuel efficiency, reliability, customer reviews, and overall usability.
Our team has independently conducted many noise tests, load tests, and runtime tests to give actual data to help the buyer make a purchasing decision.
HONDA EU3000is Generator Review
There was no electric start feature in the Honda EU2200i and I was happy about that because we were paying a lot of money for 2000 watts. In the Honda EU3000is, there is an electric start feature. It also has a recoil start as a backup.
Although the dimensions make it compact, it is pretty heavy due to the solid steel frame, which guarantees high-level durability in any weather situation.
I would have liked it to be a bit lighter, and a set of wheels would have been nice too. I hate dragging or carrying it around. You would have to purchase an extra set of wheels.
Firstly, the HONDA EU3000 also features highly advanced inverter technology to produce clean and safe power with less than 3% harmonic distortion.
The power is as stable as you get from your home. Directly plug in an extension and charge your cell phones, laptops, and other power-sensitive devices without any worry.
Secondly, it is also parallel connection capable, like other Honda models. Connect to identical models and generate double power.
Moreover, it is outfitted with two 20amp plugs, one 30amp 125V locking household plug, and a 12V DC outlet to charge your automotive batteries.
Lastly, it has an eco-throttle, overload alarm, oil alert, and output indicator. Now let’s get to the business and conduct a noise and load test.
Noise Test Of HONDA EU3000is Generator:
- So from 10 feet away with no load, the noise levels were between 67 and 68 dB.
- From 20 feet away with no load, I was getting 58 to 60dB which is also good.
- From 30 feet away, between 54 to 56dB
- From 40 feet away, between 53 to 54dB
After turning ON my 15,000 BTU AC in the trailer:
From 40 feet away, the noise was between 55 to 56dB which is excellent.
I compared the noise levels of HONDA EU3000is with Generac 5000W side by side, and the result is mentioned below:
| Generator | 10 feet | 20 feet | 30 feet | 40 feet | 40 feet with AC ON |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HONDA EU3000is | 67 to 68dB | 58 to 60dB | 54 to 56dB | 53 to 54dB | 55 to 56dB |
| Generac 5000W | 84 to 85dB | 76 to 77dB | 73dB | 70 to 71dB | 72dB |
HONDA EU3000 is an inverter generator that is about 15dB quieter than Generac. I understand Generac is rated at 5000W so it has to be louder, but Honda generators are super quiet compared to their competition.
Load Test Of HONDA EU3000is
Right off the bat, I gave it a load of 2700 watts, which included a microwave, my AC, and some lights. I was careful with the peak watts as well.
It ran everything like a champion without triggering an overload alarm, and the sound pattern didn’t change as well.
On ECO-MODE, fuel efficiency is higher and noise levels are lower, but if you are using multiple high-power-consuming tools at a time, turning off the ECO-MODE would be a smart choice.
Runtime Of EU3000is:
HONDA EU3000 uses a smaller motor to increase fuel economy. With higher power output, efficiency tends to decrease, but this is not the case with this inverter generator.
Using non-ethanol fuel on a full tank, it will run for 7 to 8 hours on a 95% load. I tested it by giving it 94% of my trailer, and the generator lasted for 7 hours and 40 minutes.
On a 25% load, it is expected to last 20 hours. I know it will last for 20+ hours, but I would not suggest running it continuously for more than 5 to 7 hours at a time, especially in the summer.
Internal friction causes massive heat, which leads to a shorter lifespan.
What Can I Run With The HONDA EU3000is Generator?
If you calculate the running and peak watts, HONDA EU3000is should run the following equipment.
| Appliance | Quantity | Peak watts | Running watts |
|---|---|---|---|
| A fridge | 1 | 1200 | 200 |
| Microwave oven | 1 | 1000 | 1000 |
| Coffee maker | 1 | 600 | 600 |
| AC (10,000) BTU | 1 | 2200 | 1500 |
| Electric blanket | 1 | 200 | 200 |
| Computer | 1 | 250 | 250 |
| Incandescent lights | 5 | 300 | 300 |
| Sump Pump | 1 | 800 | 1500 to 300 |
| Well pump | 1 | 1000 | 2000 |
Which Tools Can I Run With My HONDA EU3000is Inverter Generator?
| Appliance | Running watts | Surge watts |
|---|---|---|
| Circular saw | 1400 | 2300 |
| Electric drill | 600 watts | 600 watts |
| Portable air compressor, ½ HP | 1000 | 1600 |
| Chainsaw | 1500 | 1500 |
| Bench grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
Should You Buy It? My Verdict
Absolutely YES. If you are a trailer guy, camper, RV owner, or just an outdoor enthusiast, the HONDA EU3000 is for you.
The biggest selling point of this inverter generator is its high power output without decreasing fuel efficiency due to the smaller motor it is using
It produces clean power, which is essential for power-sensitive equipment such as cell phones, TVs, laptops, etc. It is also CARB-compliant.
It will power all of your large electrical appliances in the 3000-watt range.
So if you are looking for a 3000-watt generator, HONDA EU3000is should be on your priority list.
What Are The Cons Of HONDA EU3000is?
The design of the EU3000is is pretty similar to the Generac IQ3500, they both didn’t have a mobility kit, so you have to struggle a bit to move it around.
HONDA should at least provide a wheel kit and a handle in future models for the heavy price we are paying. No hour meter is installed or provided with the package. No hour meter with an expensive generator—what a bummer.
Customer Reviews:
Honda EU3000is is maintaining 4.6/5 stars based on 346 ratings with 85% 5 stars.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
How Long Will HONDA EU3000is Last?
Using non-ethanol fuel, on a full tank and 100% load, it will last for 20 hours. On 100% load, it will last for 7+ hours.
Will a 3000-watt Honda Generator Run RV AC?
Yes, It will easily run a 10,000 BTU AC with 2200 surge watts and 1500 watts.
Are Honda Generators Made in China?
Honda generators are manufactured in many countries, including China, India, Thailand, the U.S., JAPAN, and France.
Does HONDA EU3000is Have an Hour Meter?
NO. You have to install it separately on your own.
Alex Black is a seasoned electrical engineer with a remarkable 8-year track record specializing in appliances, generators, and transfer switches. With extensive hands-on experience in the field, Alex possesses a deep understanding of electrical systems and their intricate workings. Throughout their career, Alex has consistently demonstrated expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining various electrical appliances.