The Champion 100263 is an impressive 3400-Watt Champion dual fuel inverter generator that can be used in a wide range of applications, including : RVs, tailgating, Camping, or backup power for your home.
We’ll be reviewing two Champion inverter generators. One is a Champion dual fuel inverter generator, the other a gas-only generator. Both are quiet, portable and fitted with outlets for an RV. When using the Champion dual fuel inverter generator on propane, it delivers less power than the Champion 75531i gas-only unit. Which one should you buy?
Intro | Champion Dual Fuel inverter generator
Normally people view dual fuel inverter generators as gas units that can also run on propane. I tend to look at it as a propane generator that can also use gas. I base my preference on the advantages offered by propane as a fuel. It’s especially relevant when using it with an RV or for other occasional uses.
RV Ready : (Champion 100263) : Start/Run two 15K BTU RV air conditioners
Disappointingly, the power outlets on the Champion 100263 does not have rubber outlet covers (like the Briggs & Stratton Q6500). It may seem like a minor annoyance but it truly is a practical feature to have. It’s perplexing as to why more manufacturers don’t include them on all of their generators because they would be very inexpensive to add (how much does a small piece of rubber cost?).
The outlet covers are essential to keeping your outlets clean by keeping debris out, including the rain. They are also an additional safety feature. A small child will not be so easily tempted to (or able to) put something into it when it is covered.
The outlets on the Champion inverter generators are GFCI protected. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is used to reduce the risk of electric shock. It shuts off electric power when it detects a current flowing through water or a person. It is therefore a great feature on any electrical supply, including generators.
I find the control panel to be well-equipped and easy to use, designed with your safety in mind. The layout is clean and appealing.
How do the two generators compare when looking at the fuel consumption? Both the Champion Dual fuel inverter generator and the Champion gas-only generator have a 1.6 gallon fuel tank. The engine of the Champion dual fuel is a 192cc OHV unit and the gas-only model has a 171cc OHV engine. To compare the fuel consumption of the two, we need to look at the kilowatt-hours per gallon. For generators, kilowatt-hours per gallon can be interpreted in the same way as you would miles per gallon with a car.
VIDEO — Get a Practical Overview of the Champion 100263
It turns out the Champion Dual fuel inverter generator gives you 3.77 kilowatt-hours per gallon of gasoline compared to 3.88 kilowatt-hours per gallon for the Champion gas-only generator. Pretty much the same consumption, as can be expected. On propane, the Champion Dual fuel inverter generator gives you 2.36 kilowatt-hours per gallon. It’s because the motor is less efficient on LPG than on gas, but it will run for 14.5 hours on a 25% load, double the time it will run on a tank of gas.
Because propane has excellent shelf life, it’s always ready for use, unlike gasoline which has a limited shelf life. You don’t need to worry about having fresh gasoline on hand during an emergency. It is the ideal fuel for a generator that is not used that often. When used to power dual fuel inverter generators, propane delivers less power, and therefore it may be considered a disadvantage. It simply means that you should be aware of the power output that the generator will deliver on propane and plan accordingly. Hence my preference to call it a propane generator that can also run on gas.
The noise levels of these generators are very reasonable at 59dBa from 23 ft. It’s the same as a conversation in a restaurant, office, or background music. I’m sitting in a quiet library and the noise level is 44dBa. What it boils down to is that you will comfortably have a conversation while the generator is running in the background.
Champion 100263
Champion dual fuel inverter generator : RV Ready, 3400 Starting Watts, Dual fuel Inverter generator, with Electric start.
Features:
- Dual Fuel Champion inverter generator
- Low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch. Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather.
- Battery included
- Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
- Perfect for RVs, camping, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home,
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics (˂ 3% THD).
- Easily switch fuels with a quick turn of the fuel selector dial.
- Gas : 192cc Champion engine produces 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts,
- Will run for 7.5 hours at 25% load.
- Propane : 3060 starting watts and 2790 running watts
- Will run for 14.5 hours at 25% load (20-pound propane tank)
- Smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy.
- Outlets : 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter, plus a propane hose with a built-in regulator.
- Operates at 59 dBA from 23 feet – about the same noise level as normal conversation.
- Optional Champion Parallel Kit provides a quick clip-on connection which allows you to increase output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverters. Also included is a standard 50-amp RV outlet with power to start and run two 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners.
- Fully assembled with foldaway handle for easy storage and built-in handles and never-flat tires for easy transport.
- EPA certified and CARB compliant Champion dual-fuel inverter generator
- 3-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support.
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Champion dual fuel inverter generator (model: 100263).
NOTE : Use only standard 20 or 30 pound capacity LP tanks with Type 1, right hand Acme threads.
Overview
This is a dual fuel inverter generator, it runs on propane or gas. Running on gas the power output of this generator is 3,400 watts for short periods like when starting a motor. It will run all day at 3100 Watts. On propane, it delivers 3,060 starting watts and 2,790 running watts. Therefore the output on propane is 10% less than running on gas. Using gas, it has enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner. So on propane, you should be able to run a 13,500 BTU unit.
Close up of the Control Panel : Champion 100263
The Champion dual fuel inverter generator is ideal for use with an RV. It’s fitted with a 120V 30A RV outlet (TT30R), and it has two 120V 20A (5-20R) household outlets. Being an inverter generator model, it delivers clean electricity (less than 3% THD), so you can safely plug in your cellphone and other devices to any of the outlets. This portable generator features a built-in Volt Guard to protect your devices from sudden voltage spikes and power surges.
The Champion dual fuel inverter generator also has a 12V DC outlet which is not regulated, but Champion supply a dual USB automotive style adapter with the machine that can be used to charge devices. This outlet can also be used with a cable that’s included in the kit to charge a battery, but the battery must be disconnected. Confirm your accessory input voltage range is at least 12-24V DC. When using the DC outlet turn the Economy mode switch to the “OFF” position.
Champion claims that the generator will run at 25% load for 7.5 hours on a full tank of gasoline or 14.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank. That does not mean it will power the air conditioner for that long, it only serves as a guideline to enable us to calculate real consumption and compare machines.
Well Worth the Money : Champion 100263, dual-fuel inverter generator
When using the Champion dual fuel inverter generator with the economy switch on to power the RV air conditioner only, you will notice that the generator will cycle between idle and full power to save fuel. The smart Economy Mode can determine exactly how much power is needed, slowing down the engine when applicable. When the electrical load is reduced, the engine speed automatically lowers to reduce noise, extend engine life, and improve fuel economy.
But be aware, the manual warns that for periods of high electrical load or momentary fluctuations, the Economy Control Switch should be turned OFF. It’s a pity that this confusing statement is needed, I’d expect the machine to be capable of deciding for itself.
Two Champion model 100263 dual fuel generators can be operated in parallel to increase the total available electrical power. A Champion parallel kit (optional equipment) is required for parallel operation. It’s a great feature that enables you to add to the power output with a second inverter generator. Yes, it’s expensive and not something most of us will do. But it’s great to know that the feature is available.
While running at normal speed, the noise level is rated at 59dBA at 23 feet. It’s perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project, or backup power for your home. And when the load drops, the engine idles to cut the noise even more.
This Champion dual fuel inverter generator is equipped with an automatic battery charging circuit. The battery will be charged when the engine is running. The battery will receive a proper charge if the unit is used on a regular basis (about once every two weeks).
The Champion dual fuel inverter generator is heavy, mostly because it delivers a lot of power. It weighs 95.7 LBs, and the weight combined with rather small wheels make it difficult to handle in the rough. Fortunately, the two grab handles make it a lot easier to lift.
Excellent Value : Customer Satisfaction is Very High with this Generator
Selecting between gas and propane cannot be more simple and clear. The ¼ Turn selector between gas and propane covers the propane line connector when selecting gas. To use propane the selector must first be switched to the propane position, and only then can the supply hose be connected. Even though it’s this simple to select the fuel source, I strongly recommend that you read the user manual before you use your generator. Propane and gas can be dangerous if used incorrectly, please be safe.
An overload protector is no surprise on a generator, and even the low oil cutout and indicator is a common feature. But I’m surprised that a fuel level indicator is not fitted to the unit, even a WiFi enabled sensor that alerts you on the phone is not an overkill.
The Champion dual fuel inverter generator is known for its reliable 192cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine. Maintenance on this unit is easily done by the user, and the procedure is clearly explained in the excellent manual. A full parts listing and circuit diagram are also supplied.
Your generator must be properly connected to an appropriate ground to help prevent electric shock. On the power panel, you will find a ground terminal connected to the frame of the generator. It’s used to connect the unit with a heavy gauge copper wire to a copper rod driven into the ground. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified electrician to ensure compliance with local electrical codes.
I genuinely recommend the Champion dual fuel inverter generator as a great addition to your camping equipment. It will serve you well when using it with the RV, on a building site, during an emergency, tailgating, etc. Remember that it’s an inverter generator, which means that you can safely use it as a backup, as long as you do not exceed the running watts.
Learn more by reading our guide on Champion generators or our guide to purchasing a dual-fuel generator.
Champion 75537i
3100 Starting Watts, Gas only inverter generator with remote start
Features:
- 171cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine
- 3100 starting watts / 2800 running watts — can handle your essentials during an outage.
- Up to 8 hours of run time at 25% load when the 1.6-gallon tank of gasoline is full.
- Noise : From 23 feet, this inverter operates at 58 dBA (same noise level as normal conversation). Perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home,
- Clean Power (less than 3% THD), you can connect your sensitive electronics
- Wireless Remote Start : Included key fob allows you to start and stop your generator from up to 80 feet away
- Electric start with 3-position ignition switch
- Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
- RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
- 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
- Smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy.
- Fully assembled with hassle-free set up, the foldaway U-shaped handle makes it easy to store, while the built-in carrying handles and never-flat tires in the included wheel kit.
- EPA certified and CARB compliant.
Overview
The Champion 75537i gasoline generator is the second Champion inverter generator on review. This one differs in that it only runs on gas, it’s not a dual fuel model. In addition to the electric start of the Champion dual fuel inverter generator, it also has a wireless remote start. A key fob, supplied with the unit allows you to start and stop your inverter generator from up to 80 feet away. It’s a popular feature with RV owners because it negates the need to walk to the generator to start it.
The electric start 3-position ignition switch is convenient and effortlessly starts the generator. For that purpose, a battery is needed, and I appreciate that the manufacturer includes a battery with the machine.
The Champion inverter generator delivers clean power that’s safe with sensitive electronics. It’s also RV ready with a 120V 30A RV outlet, plus two 120V 20A household outlets. Like the dual fuel inverter generator, it also has the same unregulated 12V DC outlet. The DC outlet can be used with an automotive style dual USB adapter that’s supplied with the unit for charging cell phones and tablets, a 12V battery charging cable is included.
Another difference is that this generator delivers 3,100 starting watts and 2,800 running watts with up to 8 hours run time at 25% load. It delivers enough power to start and run a 13,500 BTU AC.
The 3-year limited warranty is the same as offered for the Champion dual fuel inverter generator.
Generator Accessories
Champion 48034
Accessories you may want to consider for the Champion generators are a Champion 25-Foot 30-Amp 125-Volt fan-style generator extension cord (L5-30P to three 5-20R) for camping, etc. Or, you may decide that having two generators is a fantastic solution for emergency backup power. Then the Champion 50-Amp RV ready parallel kit that links two 2,800-watt or higher inverter generators is a great choice.
Features:
- Converts a 30-amp locking outlet (L5-30R) to three 20-amp household outlets (5-20R)
- The cold and heat resistant, 10-gauge wire stays flexible in extreme temperatures and is rated for 125-volt use
- Extend your power up to 25 feet away, protecting you and others from hazardous generator exhaust
- 1-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
- Service grade, abrasion and weather-resistant insulation, plus the included dust covers keep your outlets clean and clear
Propane Advantages
Like I mentioned in the introduction, the greatest advantage of using propane may be that the generator can be stored for a year without any special precautions. When running only on propane, the gas fuel line of the generators will not gum up during storage, unlike gasoline.
Gasoline must be handled carefully and stored equally carefully. It is highly flammable and produces flammable vapors that can easily ignite and cause an explosion. When decanting the gas from its container to the generator it sometimes happens that some gas is spilled. An open flame or nearby spark can then ignite the fuel. Propane is purchased in a sealed tank and is used directly from the tank. It’s therefore safer to handle than gas.
The dual fuel engines have to run on gas as well, so it’s not optimized for propane like engines that are designed exclusively for propane. It’s less effective on propane than gasoline as shown by the consumption figures given in the generator specifications. But due to the storage containers used for propane, a lot of energy is packed into a small container. The advantage being that the generator runs double the time that it runs on a tank of gas
VIDEO | Generator Safety Tips
Customer Complaints | Champion Generators
Everyone is more than satisfied with their Champion generators. Though it seems that not everyone is clear on how the electric start feature works. One customer even commented that the only downside to the Champion inverter generator is that the motor doesn’t charge the battery.
Both models have the same type of battery ON and OFF switch. When using the electric start or the remote start function, the switch must be in the ON position. You also have to leave the battery in the ON position while the generator is running in order to charge the battery. The purpose of the switch is to isolate the battery for storage purposes. If you switch it off while using the generator it cannot charge the battery.
One complaint is that the wheels are a little small and should be a bit bigger with more clearance. The generator weighs 95 pounds so you’ll need help to carry it over even slightly rough terrain. Bigger wheels will make it possible for one person to handle the machine in the rough. Unfortunately, the design is such that it is not easy to replace them with bigger wheels.
Apart from these complaints, the general feedback is very positive, and because of the advantages propane offers, we recommend the Champion dual fuel inverter generator as the most flexible solution.