The Honda EU2000i is dead, replaced by the Honda EU2200i.
Yes, it’s true. Honda has made a great generator even better. How? — Specs : Honda EU2000i vs Honda EU2200i
Table of Contents...
- 1 Honda EU2000i | Best 2000 Watt Generator
- 2 Did you Know About?
- 2.1 Honda EU2000i | Discontinued Model
- 2.2 Generators | The Beginning
- 2.3 Honda Power Equipment Company Overview
- 2.4 Honda EU2000i | Comprehensive Product Review
- 2.5 Product Features | Honda EU2000i
- 2.6 Power Output | Honda EU2000i
- 2.7 Case Study 1 : At Home
- 2.8 Case Study 2 : Camping
- 2.9 Controls | Honda EU2000i
- 2.10 Initial Setup | Honda EU2000i
- 2.11 Connection Steps | Honda EU2000i
- 2.12 Safety Tips | Honda EU2000i
- 2.13 Maintenance | Honda EU2000i
- 2.14 Product Comparison | vs Honda EU2000i
- 2.15 Honda EU2000i vs. WEN 56200i
- 2.16 Honda EU2000i vs. Generac 6719 IX
Honda EU2000i / 2000W
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*NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
- Engine : Honda GX100 (download engine manual)
- Displacement : 98.5cc
- AC Output : 120V 2000W max. (16.7A) 1600W rated (13.3A)
- Receptacles : 20A 125V Duplex
- DC Output : 12V, 96W (8A)
- Starting System : Recoil
- Fuel Tank Capacity : .95 gal
- Run Time per Tankful : 3.4hr @ rated load 8.1 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Dimensions : (L x W x H) : 20.2″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
- Noise Level : 59 dB(A) @ rated load 53dB(A) @ 1/4 load
- Dry Weight : 45.6 lb.
- Warranty : 3 Years
Honda EU2200i / 2200W
- Full model name : EU2200ITA
- Engine : Honda GXR120
- Displacement : 121cc
- AC Output : 120V 2200W max. (18.3A), 1800W rated (15A)
- Receptacles : 20A 125V Duplex
- DC Output : 12V, 100W (8.3A)
- Starting System : Recoil
- Fuel Tank Capacity : .95 gal
- Run Time per Tankful : 3.2hr @ rated load 8.1 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Dimensions : (L x W x H) 20.0″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
- Noise Level : 57 dB(A) @ rated load 48 dB(A) @ 1/4 load
- Dry Weight : 46.5 lb.
- Warranty : 3 Years
The Honda EU2000i is easily one of the best inverter generators ever made — a wonderful product born from great engineering and thoughtful design BUT it has been replaced by the better ✓ Honda EU2200i (read full review)
There’s a lot of information online about the Honda EU2000i but we decided to put together the definitive guide that will tell you everything you want to know and so much more.
We’ll keep this article around as reference. The first section points out the differences between the two inverter models.
Honda EU2000i | Best 2000 Watt Generator
NOTE : I want to inform you that the Honda EU2000i has since been updated and improved. The new model is the Honda EU2200i. It’s quieter, more powerful and costs about the same. Although the EU2000i has been an amazing generator, it’s now even better. This article focuses on the older model. We recommend the newer model as it truly is a better generator.
Which Model is Better?
- Delivers 10% more power than the EU2000 – enabling you to power more of what you need, in the same lightweight, compact package. Whether it’s an extra refrigerator at home, a larger saw on your construction site, a larger TV at your tailgate party, the EU2200i gives you the power to get more done.
- Powered by the Honda GXR120 Commercial Series engine. The GXR120 delivers exceptionally quiet, smooth, fuel-efficient performance in a small, lightweight package. The size of a generator’s engine directly correlates to how much power it can produce. At 121cc, the GXR120 is at the top of its class – ensuring the EU2200 always produces the power you need to get the job done. Originally developed for heavy duty construction equipment, the GXR120 also delivers superb durability and reliability
- Operates at 48 to 57 dBA, which is less noise than a normal conversation. This makes it ideal for camping, supplemental RV power, and any other activity that requires quiet operation.
- Weighing less than 47 pounds, the EU2200i is incredibly lightweight and portable. Thanks to Honda’s inverter technology, it’s easy to transport and store.
- Runs 3.2 to 8.1 hours on a single tank, depending on the load.
- Two identical models can be paralleled with an optional cable for up to 4400 watts of power. The EU2200i will also parallel with EU2000iK1/T1 models.
- A bigger oil filler opening, longer spout, and larger oil drain gutter make for easier and cleaner oil changes.
- The “Fuel Off” position allows the engine to continue to run until the majority of the fuel in the carburetor is consumed and the engine shuts off. This helps prevent stale fuel issues and is useful when storing the generator.
- Better overall durability : Stamped metal recoil rope insert on the EU2200i – reducing potential damage to the body of the generator. Or the increased ventilation area, resulting in improved cooling of key components. Or the improved stator/rotor configuration, using some of the highest quality and most powerful magnets available.
- Meets USDA standards for areas where spark arrestors are required for operation.
- 3 year residential and commercial warranty
Did you Know About?
►Industrial-Grade Honda Generator : GFCI Outlets — Honda EB2200i
How is this model better? All of the outlets are GFCI protected, which means, the generator will automatically cut off power if it senses an imbalance between incoming and outgoing current, preventing harm or even death, especially when working near water. I don’t know why all generators don’t have this requirement. It seems to me that it should be mandatory. This generator is OSHA worksite compliant – meets job site emission and safety requirements.
Honda EU2000i | Discontinued Model
Before we get into all of the details regarding the Honda EU2000i portable generator, let’s start with a brief overview of this model so you have a frame of reference for the remainder of the article.
Features:
- Eco-throttle system increases overall fuel efficiency. Engine runs only as fast as the load dictates.
- Clean, stable power means you can run all of your sensitive electronics safely.
- Powered by a Honda 98cc OHC engine.
- Two 20 Amp, 120V outlets.
- Starts fast and easily thanks to an electronic ignition and automatic decompression.
- Automatic shutdown if the oil level drops too low.
- Whisper-quiet at 53 to 59dB. It’s quieter than a regular conversation.
- 2000 surge watts, 1,600 rated watts. 120 Volts.
- Can operate from 3.44 to 8.1 hours on single tank.
- Equipped with circuit breakers, USDA-qualified spark arrestor mufflers and automatic voltage regulators.
- CARB compliant; Can be used and sold in California.
Tech Specs:
- Engine : Honda GX100 (download engine manual)
- Displacement : 98.5cc
- AC Output : 120V 2000W max. (16.7A) 1600W rated (13.3A)
- Receptacles : 20A 125V Duplex
- DC Output : 12V, 96W (8A)
- Starting System : Recoil
- Fuel Tank Capacity : .95 gal
- Run Time per Tankful : 3.4hr @ rated load 8.1 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Dimensions (L x W x H) : 20.2″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
- Noise Level : 59 dB(A) @ rated load 53dB(A) @ 1/4 load
- Dry Weight : 45.6 lb.
- Warranty : 3 Years
View or download the MANUAL for the Honda EU2000i portable generator.
Generators | The Beginning
It’s been almost 200 years since the first generator prototype came into existence, from the hands of one of the greatest minds in history, Michael Faraday. In 1831, he devised the first ever homopolar generator. By exploring the — largely unknown — magnetic field properties, this device could spin a disk around its own axis, transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Before we move any further, let’s clear some fog out of a very common misconception, the discovery of electricity. First of all, electricity is just one of many forms of energy in the universe. Think of it as a natural occurrence, which is why it wasn’t invented, it couldn’t have been — it has always been there since the very beginning. As for its discovery, most people will try to link it back to Benjamin Franklin and his famous kite-flying venture.
However, this experiment only established an existing bond between bolts of lightning and electricity — something we would later associate to different polarities. Once again, the Greeks came first. Circa 600 BC, they found out that if they rubbed a piece of animal fur against amber, both would become attracted to each other — we know this event as static electricity. Now, back to the Franklin age. By the time of his experiment in 1752, we already knew what electricity was, but we still could hardly understand its origins, let alone the means to control it.
However, roughly 80 years later and for the first time in history, we could finally harness the power of electricity, and we owe it all to this not-so-popular device — the Faraday Disk. This homopolar generator, much like all first-time designs, was still highly inefficient in terms of practical applications, but it most definitely paved the road for every little piece of innovation which would come afterward – dynamos, alternators, internal combustion engines, and so on.
To put things in perspective, if you live in an urban or suburban area, chances are that your house gets energy from those external power lines — either aerial or subterranean ones. We can track those lines all the way back to a power station, which in turn, functions on one of many different kinds of energy generation — fuel combustion, hydrodynamic flow, nuclear fission, heat generation at solar panels, you name it.
Honda EU2000i | Can be run in parallel
All these power stations have one thing in common, though, they transform one kind of energy into another, in this case, electrical energy. In order to do that, they make use of huge alternators – which are basically generators that transform a mechanical effort into an electric alternating current (AC). Just think about it, every little step we take in this explosive tech race, all of our innovations and social improvements, and everything we will still conquer along the way. All of this is possible thanks to one, largely underappreciated, basement experiment — a metal disk spinning around in place.
That’s just the beginning. Of course, we’re always trying to outsmart our predecessors with new and innovative ways to keep on growing, and that’s usually when we face a problem in need of a solution. For example, what would happen if your central power source shuts down all of a sudden, maybe because of severe weather or some other unplanned emergency? You, as well as your entire neighborhood, would go back to the dark ages — in only a matter of hours, all batteries would discharge and you’d find yourself ransacking the house upside down looking for candles — something you thought you’d never need again.
Unless, of course, you’re a well-prepared homeowner, always with a backup plan. In this case, you can just wait for the main power to be restored, while still having an energy source of your own to resume your normal activities. You know it’s better to be safe, than sorry, and that’s why you’re one of the millions of people in possession of a portable generator.
In this buying guide, we’re going to discuss gas-powered portable generators, and more specifically inverter builds. We know you probably have a lot of questions, so we’ll try our best to be as thorough as possible. We’re going to cover everything about this kind of device.
First of all, we want to talk about gas-powered portable generators as a whole, just a quick overview of how they work and what they’re good at, as well as their most common features and a list of pros and cons. This is important because we can then talk about inverter generators and establish a difference between them. Depending on your specific needs, you might prefer a standard portable generator or an inverter one, which is why we’ll cover the exact same features when talking about both designs.
If you’re already somewhat familiar with these generators, you probably have the same product in mind, the Honda Power Equipment EU2000i. When it comes to gas-powered inverter generators, this one is arguably the king of the hill, since thousands of people are regularly looking for it all over the Internet as well as in the retail market, on a monthly basis. This generator is also one of the reasons why Honda sits comfortably as a top player in the industry, in the United States, with roughly 29 percent of market share – about 10 percent more than its closest competitor.
Here’s where we hit the core of our buying guide. We want to dissect absolutely everything there is to know about this gas-portable inverter generator. Why is it so popular? Why is it a leading product in the market? Why is Honda the most respected and trustworthy company in the United States when it comes to gas-powered portable generators? How does it compare to other top-notch generators? What are some of the most common applications for this generator? As we progress through this article, we’re going to be answering all these questions while still being objective and basing everything on facts, not opinions.
Our main goal is to give you enough information so that you can pinpoint the most suitable generator for your specific needs. Maybe the Honda EU2000i is by far the best choice for your requirements, maybe it isn’t. If that’s the case, then which one is, and why? The best way to help you decide that is by listing all the pros and cons, along the most common features, accessories, and statistics. We’re also going to discuss a couple of other products in the same way. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be completely confident about making a smart, objective, and fact-based purchase.
Conventional Generators Vs. Inverter Generators
A lot of times when you hear a generator is an inverter model you don’t quite understand why and maybe the explanations you get from those sales representatives just makes everything more confusing. Well, simply put, an inverter generator protects your more sensitive electronics from sudden power surges which could potentially overcharge their circuits and render them useless. There are many excellent inverter generators for you to consider and although there are variations in their underlying technology, in truth, they all produce clean power for you to run any electronics without fear of being damaged. This is an important distinction over convention gas generators.
VIDEO | Honda Basic Operating Procedure
First of all, why are certain electronics such as HDTVs and computers more delicate than, for example, radios and ovens? Some electric circuits require very accurate voltage, amperage, and wattage readings to perform safely over time. Any sudden changes in those readings can damage their circuits, and in extreme cases, fry them completely. Anything with a LED or LCD display, or with an electronic panel, can fit into this category.
As technology advances, this trend is only getting more and more popular, since most modern electronic circuits are designed to save on energy consumption while still delivering a high-end performance. The bottom line? As time goes by, conventional electric circuits are getting rapidly replaced by the more modern electronic ones. So, it’s only natural that the market follows this trend – as we all should, too.
Wherever your central power source comes from, it probably has all these protections and shields set in place, so that the resulting energy comes out as cleanly as possible, without any sudden jumps or variations. But when you need to feed your own energy source through a gas-powered generator, their designs might not be as thorough. What this means is that a standard generator will most definitely have variations in the resulting voltage, and here’s why.
A conventional gas-powered portable generator transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy. It does so by connecting an alternator to the internal combustion engine, which spins at a regular interval over time, known as RPM (revolutions per minute). The resulting energy comes out in the form of an alternating electric current. However, this AC, as the name implies, is constantly switching values over a fixed period of time, called a frequency – expressed in Hertz (Hz). In the United States, we have a 60Hz frequency, which means this value oscillates in the form of a sine wave equation, 60 times per second.
As you can see, getting constant values over such a rapid window of time can get very difficult without a proper setup. Normally, a portable generator will have several jumps in the resulting voltage, which can be harmless to some equipment, but threatening to others. But, how can inverter generators solve this problem? An easy way to explain this is because they use high-tech magnets along 3-phase electric circuits.
Instead of just transforming mechanical energy directly into an AC, an inverter will do just that, plus, it will invert that AC back into a DC which the magnets can control. These magnets regulate the engine’s revolution speed to match the required electric parameters at the exit.
An inverter generator is constantly reading the electric parameters that it needs to deliver, it feeds that information back to its inner circuit which then regulates the engine’s spinning cycles. From a mechanical effort to an AC, back to a DC, and then back again to a clean and steady AC. By having a reliable source of AC energy, you can power even the most sensitive equipment, without any worries.
Honda Power Equipment Company Overview
We don’t usually review specific companies, for objectivity, if nothing else. But when it comes to small engines and portable generators, we must make an exception about Honda Power Equipment. First of all, they’re the company with the largest gross revenue in power equipment tools, in the United States, with roughly $2.5-billion. More specifically, talking about small engines and portable generators, they’re also ranked first with 29 percent of market share, $1.4-billion in revenues, and about six million units sold every year.
Additionally, you might have one piece of Honda Power Equipment tool in your possession without even knowing it. Their engines are very commonly used by these manufacturers: Husqvarna, Snapper, Toro, Craftsman, Karcher, DeWalt, PowerMate, and several others. We give you these numbers because we have a commitment to quality and factual information.
While it’s true that we can’t guarantee that your next power tool from Honda will be a complete success, chances are it will most likely be. With a history of reliability and top-quality products, even if your next purchase is not exactly what you thought it would be, you can rest assured you’ll have the support of a serious company, ready and willing to help you out with anything you need.
Honda EU2000i | Comprehensive Product Review
As we hit the very core of our guide, we would like to do things a little differently. Usually, we list the features and characteristics first, and then we discuss the pros and cons. But since we’re focusing mainly on the EU2000i, we thought it would be best to go the other way around. So, before we dive into the specifics, here’s a summary of what you can expect about this highly popular inverter generator.
Pros.
There are quite a few to name, after all, the Honda EU2000i is one of the most wanted gas-powered inverter generators in the market. First of all, it’s very light, easy to operate, much quieter than most gas-powered generators, and it has a higher-than-average estimated lifespan thanks to its excellent design and unmatched manufacturer’s warranty. Additionally, this generator has a very high fuel efficiency, which makes up for its relatively higher cost, in the long run.
Cons.
No product is perfect, and the Honda EU2000i is no exception to that rule. We can think of two major downsides – price and performance. This portable generator is a bit more expensive than most other products, for very good reasons, but it’s still something to consider. Also, when talking about performance we have two sides of the spectrum – underwhelming and overkill. For some people, a starting wattage of 2,000 with a running wattage of 1,600 might not cut it. For others who just want to power some very basic appliances when going out on a camping or fishing trip, the inverter technology might be a bit overkill.
VIDEO | Honda EU2000i Maintenance
Product Features | Honda EU2000i
Let’s start with the basics. The EU2000i is very light, portable, and easy to both operate and move around. It weighs only 46 pounds (with an empty tank) and it’s also very compact in size, measuring 20.2 inches in length, 11.4 inches in width, and 16.7 inches in height. This product features a GX100, four-stroke, overhead camshaft, single cylinder, 98.5cc, air-cooled engine. While this generator still presents a pull-start mechanism, it’s a much more refined one, requiring less effort to kickstart it without any hassles. Like all four-stroke engines, it has a separate oil reservoir. The fuel tank can hold 0.95 gallons, and the oil reservoir has a 0.42 quarters capacity.
Gas-powered portable generators are increasingly gaining popularity among homeowners for their versatility and performance. Still, most people hesitate about buying one due to their high noise emission levels. That won’t be a problem with the EU2000i, which records a surprisingly quiet 59dB at 20-feet of distance, that’s like listening to a casual conversation, and much quieter than standard traffic — it’s also noteworthy that since it’s way below the 85dB mark, you’re not required to wear ear mufflers, nor are your neighbors.
Remember when we talked about camping sites? Well, some of them are actually requiring generators to come equipped with inverter technology. Camping sites usually have a very strict noise policy. Some of them limit the maximum decibels at any given moment, somewhat in the range between 60dB-70dB. Others might have a distance-to-noise ratio. For example, after dark, campers are not allowed to have louder-than-average noises which can be heard from a distance of three camping sites, or roughly 120-feet. Whichever the case might be, an inverter generator will always be a safe choice when it comes to noise levels.
Power Output | Honda EU2000i
Now to the most important part, power. The Honda EU2000i offers 2,000 watts of starting power and 1,600 watts of running power. In case you missed our previous article about portable generators, here’s what starting and running wattages mean. Generators, as well as most home appliances, feature these two readings. Starting wattage refers to the power needed to kickstart an electric circuit while running wattage is the power it needs to keep on running once it’s been ignited.
These values tend to differ, and the starting wattage will almost always be much higher than the running one, and here’s why. Some home appliances feature either a small motor or some other starting mechanisms which require a higher torque to break their state of inertia – think of refrigerators, AC units, computers, HDTVs, etc. You can even hear this power surge when you turn these devices on.
Home appliances only require this starting wattage demand for a fraction of a second, but it’s enough to short-circuit your mainframe in the event of a power overload. Luckily, you can find these wattage values on most modern devices, and if not, you can also measure them with a multi-meter. So, in order to know if the EU2000i will meet your requirements, you just need to do a little simple math. Of course, we’ll help you do that with two real-life scenarios.
Case Study 1 : At Home
Suppose you’re highly focused on writing that college essay which is due tomorrow. Or, maybe you’re in a more fun, yet just as tense, situation – an extended raiding campaign which you and your teammates have been preparing for weeks, and you can’t let them down. But just like that, an old tree falls down and cuts the main power line. Fortunately, you’re prepared and you have your EU2000i set and ready to go. But, will it be enough? Let’s find out.
Here’s what you need to feed. A full computer set, an Internet router, a printer, and of course, a couple of light bulbs – the rest can wait. Let’s do the math. Worst case scenario, the desktop computer requires 700 starting watts, the router about 20 starting watts, the printer needs roughly 800 watts, and a couple 60W light bulbs, well, 120 starting watts. As you can see, adding everything up we don’t even reach the 1,800 starting watts mark, which is less than the supported limit. Once everything is turned on, their running wattage requirements lower considerably. So, yes, the EU2000i works just fine in this scenario, even if you turn all those devices at the same time.
Case Study 2 : Camping
When going camping it’s important to set your preferences straight. There are some appliances you simply can’t do without, and those should take priority. For this example, we’re going to include an electric grill and a few electronic chargers, for your smartphones, speakers, laptops, and so on. Just because you’re going out camping to relax and disconnect, it doesn’t mean you can’t use your devices to take pictures and listen to some music, right?
So, down to your power requirements. You’re going to need about 1,600 starting watts for the grill, which is going to be your largest demand, by far. Let’s suppose you need to recharge a laptop and a few smartphones. The laptop charger will need, at most, about 80 starting watts, and those smartphone chargers won’t need more than 20 starting watts, each. Even if you bring five smartphones and two laptops, your total power demand will be of just 1,860 starting watts. Will the EU2000i be enough? It most definitely will, and since it’s equipped with inverter technology, you can take it to any camping site in the country, knowing you’re well within the standard noise regulations.
Controls | Honda EU2000i
Here we want to walk you through a quick rundown of all the controls and switches available in the EU2000i. First, we have the engine switch, which will be in the off position by default, so switch it on before kickstarting the generator. Right above this switch, you’ll find the starter grip. Facing the generator, draw the grip gently towards you until you feel the initial resistance. Once you do, you’ll need to make a brisk pull to start the engine – remember to not release the grip, but rather place it back carefully.
Next, we have two kinds of levers – the fuel tank cap vent lever and the choke lever. The first one seals the fuel tank, mostly to prevent leaks while moving the generator around, so whenever you’re not running it, keep this lever closed. Secondly, there is the choke lever. You can switch it manually to the closed position, to enrich the fuel/oil mix for an engine cold-start.
There are three indicator lights that you should take into account. First, we have the output indicator light — set to green under all the right running conditions. Then, we have the overload indicator light, which is set to red. This light will turn on whenever the generator finds a power overload (any value higher than 2.0kW) or if there is a short circuit in one of the appliances connected to it. For shielding measures, the generator will shut the power supply off after four seconds in an overload state, the red light will remain on, and the green light will go off.
Lastly, we have the oil alert indicator light, also set to red. This light will go on whenever the oil level at the crankcase is insufficient for the engine to keep on running. It will also stop the generator to prevent any further damage to the motor – note that all switches will still be on after this event.
Wrapping up this segment, we have two very unique features which really make the EU2000i stand out from the competition — the Eco-Throttle switch and the Parallel Operation Outlets. The Eco-Throttle system automatically regulates the engine’s rotation speed, so that it produces only the exact amount of power required by your appliances, not a single watt less or more. This is a remarkable feature for a couple of big reasons. First, by reducing the RPM, you can get an optimal fuel efficiency, up to 40 percent more than with conventional generators. Secondly, since the engine can run at lower speeds, it’s also considerably quieter than other non-inverter generators.
Last, but not least, we want to discuss the parallel operation system. We already know that the power supply caps at 2.0kW, but what if you need more? Say, twice as much? Well, Honda Power Equipment is always one step ahead, and that’s why this generator features parallel capability. If you have access to a second EU2000i generator or to an EU2000i Companion, you can connect both devices with an external parallel kit or a single parallel cord, respectively.
This will allow you to get twice as much power from that system, up to 4.0kW. The difference between the Companion and the Standard versions is that the first one comes with a built-in 30A receptacle, which is why you’ll only need one power cord to set up the system. Just remember, the Companion model is designed specifically to work in parallel with a Standard EU2000i, not by itself. Either way, for those times you’re in need of a little extra drive, the parallel operation system will get you there without having to spend on a bigger Genset.
Setting up the Generator | Common Tips for Safety and Maintenance
Initial Setup | Honda EU2000i
If you got this far down our guide, chances are you’re almost set that this generator is the best choice for your needs. But before you go on and buy one, or if you’re way ahead of us and already bought it, there are still some tips and tricks we want to share with you. The EU2000i comes as is, so to get it up and running you’ll need a gallon of fresh gasoline (not the E85 kind or any type of fuel with more than 10% of ethanol), along with a quarter of SAE 10W-30 motor oil. So, the first thing you need to do is to fill up both the fuel and oil tanks. Quick notes about refilling, NEVER refuel the generator while it’s still running, and as a rule of thumb, always refill the oil reservoir every time you refuel it – even if it doesn’t seem to need it.
Now that the generator is filled up and ready to go, here’s a quick checklist to overview before kickstarting it. Close the choke lever, set the fuel lever on, the Eco-Throttle switch off, and the engine switch on, before pulling the cord – on the very first time you do it, you might need several pulls to start the engine, this is absolutely normal. Once the motor is running, open the choke and let it rest for a few minutes before connecting anything to it — turning the Eco-Throttle switch on is optional, as it’s not needed for the Genset to operate normally. Once you’re done using the generator, make sure all appliances are disconnected before turning off the engine, otherwise, you risk damaging their circuits and potentially shorten the generator’s desired lifespan.
Connection Steps | Honda EU2000i
This generator comes with two 120V, 13.3A, AC receptacles along with one 12V, 8A, DC receptacle (this is ONLY suitable for jump-starting car batteries, nothing else). The EU2000i can only support the maximum output of 2.0kW at 16.7A for roughly 30 minutes, it’s not designed for continuous use at these ratings. For ongoing use, make sure the maximum load does not exceed 1.6kW at 13.3A. The DC outlet is not regulated in the same way as the AC ones, so whenever you want to recharge your automotive battery, make sure the Eco-Throttle switch is off.
Basically, there are two ways you can use this generator to power up your appliances – by using extension cords or by using a transfer switch. The first one is the easiest and most straight-forward option, you just need to turn the generator on, turn your appliances off, link them to the extension cords, plug them into the generator, to then turn the appliances on, as simple as that. However, there are two downsides about extension cords. First of all, you’ll be limited to power appliances with a built-in power plug – no lights and no embedded electric systems. Secondly, there is always going to be a safety issue about long extension cords lying around in the presence of small children or pets.
Both of these constraints can be solved by installing a transfer switch – an independent electrical device which connects whole circuits to an outer power source, in this case, the EU2000i. If you intend to use this generator as a power backup for your home, a transfer switch is the only way to go. Not only is it required by the National Electric Code for all residential power backups, but it’s also the safest and most versatile choice – trust us on this, it will pay itself off in the long run.
You can go with a Manual Switch or with a UTS (Universal Transfer Switch), which is electronic and has many programming options – it’s also recommended to use a UTS with all Honda Power Equipment Generators. Either way, for residential purposes, go for a transfer switch, and for outdoor trips, extension cords will work just as fine.
Safety Tips | Honda EU2000i
Since we have a serious commitment to your safety, we can’t skip these recommendations. The EU2000i, just like all gas-powered portable generators, emits carbon monoxide as a byproduct of the running engine. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless silent killer. That’s why you should never run any kind of gas-powered tool within closed quarters. These gasses can quickly build up to noxious, and even deadly, levels. Gasoline is also highly flammable and explosive. When refueling, make sure to wipe out any residual spills from the generator and keep it away from all fire sources, at all times.
Even though this generator features several protective shields from electrical overloads, you should still run it within its safe limits. For a single generator, do not exceed 30 minutes of running time at a full 2.0kW power demand, but feel free to use it continuously for loads equal to or lower than 1.6kW. For a parallel connection, just double those numbers – 30 minutes at 4.0kW, and as long as the fuel efficiency goes at 3.2kW.
View or download the SAFETY TIPS for the Honda EU2000i.
Maintenance | Honda EU2000i
By following this preventive maintenance schedule, you’ll make sure your EU2000i keeps running smoothly for several years to come. Each and every time you want to use your generator, check the oil level as well as the air cleaner. After the first month or initial 20 hours of use (whichever comes first), perform a complete oil change.
Every 90 days or after 50 hours, change the air cleaner system. Every six months or after 100 hours of use, check the spark plugs, clean the spark arrestors, clean the fuel tank, and change the fuel filter. On a yearly basis or after 200 hours, change the spark plugs and check the valve clearance – this is also a great time to check and clean the combustion chamber, as well as the fuel line.
Product Comparison | vs Honda EU2000i
In this final segment, we want to put things into an objective perspective, like we said earlier, the Honda Power Equipment EU2000i might be the best generator for your needs, but just in case you’re still thinking about it, here’s how it stands out against three of the most popular inverter generators in the market – quick reminder, they’re all slightly more economical options.
Honda EU2000i vs. WEN 56200i
Features:
- Extremely quiet operation is comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.
- EPA III and CARB Compliant 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts.
- Great for campgrounds, construction sites, tailgates and power outages.
- Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets, televisions and computers.
- Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle and one 5V USB port.
View or download the MANUAL.
These two products are fairly similar. They have the same power ratings (2.0kW max/1.6kW normal), they are just as quiet (below the 60dB mark), they are just as compact and lightweight, and they both have roughly the same fuel efficiency rate (approximately 4-6 hours with a full tank, at half-load capacity). The WEN 56200i features one USB port on the front panel, which comes in handy.
Easy to carry around, wherever you need power
However, it doesn’t have any kind of technology similar to the Eco-Throttle, which regulates the motor’s RPM. What this means is that this generator will always run under maximum conditions, even if it doesn’t have to. In the long run, you will spend much more on both gas and oil, and you can expect a much shorter product lifespan. Additionally, the WEN 56200i does not have any parallel connection capability.
Honda EU2000i vs. Generac 6719 IX
This product is No longer available. For reference only.
Features:
- Inverter technology creates quiet, clean power.
- FlexPower Mode saves fuel and reduces noise.
- Clean, stable power with less than 3% total harmonic distortion.
- At-a-glance LED status lights indicate system status.
- Lightweight and compact design with built in handle for easy portability.
- Low-oil level shutdown automatically safeguards engine from damage.
- Durable, fully enclosed case for added durability and strength.
- Circuit breakers provide electronic overload protection.
- 12 VDC outlet with battery charging cable included.
- Push button primer makes engine start-up easier.
View or download the SPEC SHEET or Generac Generator BROCHURE.
The Generac 6719 IX features a bigger engine, so it can support higher power loads (2.2kW max/2.0kW normal). This generator comes with FlexPower technology, which is similar to the Eco-Throttle system, but more limited. It allows you to choose between two power modes – high and eco. However, it’s not an automatic process. Even with a 127cc engine, the average running time is still the same at half-load. Granted, the additional wattage is nice, but FlexPower is not as versatile as the Eco-Throttle.
Unlike the EU2000i, this product does not have a built-in muffler, which means is a much noisier generator. It also does not come with parallel connectivity, so you’re limited to the given power loads.
Honda EU2000i vs. Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Features:
- Type : Inverter
- Maximum AC Output : 2000 watts
- Rated AC Output : 1600 watts
- Rated / Maximum AC Current : 13.3 / 16.7 amps @ 120V
- Engine : OHV, air-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke
- Displacement : 79cc
- Size : (L x W x H) 19.3 x 11.0 x 17.9 in
- DC Output : 8 amps @ 12V
- Dry Weight : 44.1 lb
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 1.1 gallons
- Continuous Operation at 25% Rated Load : 10.5 hrs
- Noise Level (25% Load – Rated Load) : 51.5 – 61 dBA
- Warranty : 3 Years Limited Warranty
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 vs Honda EU2000i :
This is a fierce battle. While both of these generators present some slight differences, they really have a lot in common, so let’s start with all those shared features. Same power output (2.0kW max/1.6kW normal), same warranty time (3 years), same inverter technology, same dynamic RPM (Yamaha with the Smart-Throttle and Honda with the Eco-Throttle), same parallel connectivity feature, and roughly the same dimensions and weight.
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 has a few pros over the EU2000i. It’s slightly quieter with a 51dB-61dB range at 20-feet against Honda’s 53dB-59dB measured at the same distance. It also comes with a fuel gauge and with a DC power cord for automotive battery recharging (the EU2000i does not come with those). Lastly, its fuel tank is a bit larger, at 1.1 gallons versus Honda’s 0.95 gallons – so you can expect it to run longer.
VIDEO | Noise Level — Honda EU2000i vs Yamaha EF2000iS
The Honda EU2000i has a portability kit which you can buy separately, something Yamaha does not offer. Lastly, since it has a bigger engine (98.5cc against Yamaha’s 79cc) you can expect it to be more versatile when it comes to certain power loads. Like we said, this is one tough comparison to make. However, there are far more positive reviews from both customers and professionals alike about the Honda Power Equipment EU2000i.
As our final words, we just want to be clear that both of these inverter generators are absolutely great options with close to none major downsides – whichever one you choose, it will stay with you running as good as new for several years
Learn more on the Honda site.