which Honda generator to get?

[username2]

In general, I am a big fan of buy the SMALLEST generator that will get the job done ! A 2000W-2500W generator is adequate for most residents. The big problem is well pumps, which require 240V. Two ways to solve this problem.

I completely agree. Low fuel usage, portable, cheaper (you can even have a backup!). Supply power to the things that actually matter.

What I'd like to see is a self-starting 2kw generator with a downstream battery + inverter. In that case, you are dealing with the real problem, the <2kw (typically much under 2kw) average use, while the battery handles the peak loads. With sufficient power saving measures, it would be turned off most of the time. The Chevy Volt generator.

 

[rustedgoat]

I've posted this before, most of the food trucks and vendor carts in NYC seem to use the honda 2 or 3K inverters. If there was a cheaper or more reliable way of doing it they would be doing it. Can't imagine how many hours are on their units, funny thing is you don't see too many used ones for sale.

 

[mngundog]

The 30A outlet on a Honda Companion does NOT have a circuit breaker ! Overload it, and something is going to go up in smoke !

This is off the Honda website Q&A section:
Q:
If you parallel a EU2200i and a EU2200i companion and just use the 30 amp outlet, can you draw more than 30 amps through the outlet? How come there is no breaker for the 30 amp outlet ?

A:
All outlets on Honda generators are circuit protected, so you cannot draw more than 30 Amps from a 30A outlet.

 

[cgv69]

I don't see many 68/69 station wagons up for sale, but I don't have to look far to find camaros.. was one built that much better then the other, or did more people just make an effort to keep the camaros around simply cause they wanted to?

Op should enjoy this..

Well to stick with your analogy...

If you wanted to restore a 69 wagon, how hard/easy would it be to find parts compared to a 69 Camaro?

Same thing with cheap no name generators compared to a Honda. In 5, 10 or 15 years if you have issues with your Honda genny, it will be easy to find parts and support. Good luck doing the same with you bargain basement model.

In the end, its really this simply... Some see the benefit in a product that is well engineered and designed to be best in class with support and service to match. Others are fine with "good enough" if the price is right knowing full well that when it does break, you will throw it away and buy a new one. Personally, I prefer quality and longevity over cheap price and am willing to pay for it.

Regardless of which camp you are in, if you really believe there isn't a quality difference between a cheap generic genny and a Honda, you are kidding yourself, plain and simple. The only real question is; is that higher level of quality worth the higher price? Ultimately that is something each person has to decide for themselves regardless of your opinion or mine.