The Champion 100263 is a 3000-watt dual fuel portable inverter generator that can run on either gasoline or propane.
Introduction
Most people would prefer to buy a 3000-watt Honda inverter generator to provide portable power for their camping trips. However, few people can afford to pay more than $2000 to own such a Honda generator. So, they keep searching for a cheaper alternative.
In addition, they also want the flexibility of a dual fuel portable generator that can run on either gasoline fuel or liquid propane gas. The Champion Power Equipment 100263 offers 3400 starting watts at an affordable price. I review its features to see if it is a champion or not.
Champion 100263 Has 4-Stroke Engine
The Champion 100263 portable inverter generator gets power from a four-stroke, single cylinder, 192cc air cooled engine. A low oil shut-off feature protects the engine from running without oil by accident. This generator is both EPA certified and CARB compliant.
The generator’s engine can be started by pulling the recoil starter rope, although most people prefer pushing the electric starter ignition button. The ignition button has three positions. The battery that provides power for the electric starter is included with the generator. A small battery on/off switch is situated on the control panel.
Runs On Gasoline Or Propane
The best feature of this engine might be its ability to run on either gasoline or propane right out of the box! The generator is shipped with its own propane hose and regulator for attaching a propane tank. Turn the fuel selector dial on its control panel to switch between fuel sources.
The big disadvantage of using propane as a fuel source is that the engine is less powerful: as a result, it can only produce up to 2790 running watts. In comparison, the engine and inverter system puts out 3100 running watts when using propane as a fuel source. The maximum starting watts this generator can produce for a very short period of time is 3400 on gasoline and 3060 on propane.
How long might the generator run on gasoline and gas? Champion Power Equipment states on its website that this dual fuel portable inverter generator can run on gasoline fuel for 7.5 hours at 25% load. In comparison, the generator can run on propane (LPG) for 14.5 hours at 25% load. This figure is achieved when using a 20-pound propane tank as a fuel source.
Inverter Provides Clean Power Quietly
The inverter system provides clean electricity with less than 3% THD, hence it should be safe for sensitive electronic equipment.
An inverter generator is normally less noisy than an open frame portable generator. The Champion 100263 is said to operate at a noise level of 59 dBA from 23 feet away.
The generator also has an economy mode switch, which reduces engine speed when very low power loads are connected to the receptacles. The economy mode not only reduces noise, but also saves fuel. However, if you turn on an appliance that draws a lot of power, then the engine speed will have to adjust to its full revolutions to generate enough current. Therefore, the economy mode has its limitations.
Outlets Uncovered
The Champion 100236 has 120-volt 60Hz outlets, yet they are not covered to provide protection against the elements. The following outlets are available:
- 30A RV outlet (TT-30R)
- 20A duplex household outlets (5-20R)
- 12V DC outlet
- parallel connection outlet
Generator Has Parallel Capability
The Champion 100263 portable inverter generator is capable of parallel connection with another Champion inverter generator. The optional parallel connection kit is sold separately. It might be used for connecting two Champion inverter generators of 2800 watts or higher in parallel.
Portable Power For Work Or Play
The Champion 100623 portable inverter generator weighs almost 96 pounds. It has built-in carry handles, a foldable handle and two small wheels with never-flat tires. The only complaint is that the wheels are quite small and leaves very little space between the generator and the ground.
Will it start the air conditioner?
This depends on how much surge watts and amps your specific air conditioner needs to start. It can start a 13500 BTU RV air conditioner, but you might have to install a hard start capacitor to provide extra power for starting the compressor. It probably won’t start the air conditioner if you are running it on propane because the generator will produce less starting watts. You can forget about trying to start a 15000 BTU unit with this generator. Be that as it may, your experience might differ from what other people have experienced.
Conclusion
The Champion 100263 might be a versatile choice for camping trips in your RV or travel trailer. Nonetheless, it seems that a few owners have complained about it not being able to start the air conditioner in their recreational vehicle. You should check the wattage and amp requirements of your air conditioner to be sure that this Champion inverter generator can start the compressor. Remember, its maximum starting watts on gasoline and propane is 3400 watts and 3060 watts, respectively.
Is the Champion 100263 a better quality product when compared to a Honda 3000-watt inverter generator, such as the EU3000iS? Of course not. Is it more affordable than a Honda generator? You can bet your bottom dollar on that.
Its main selling points are its affordable price and its ability to use either gasoline or LPG as a fuel source. Other notable benefits are the economy mode and electric start button. Overall, this 3400-watt Champion dual fuel inverter generator runs like a champ (check price on Amazon).