Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel (201393)
Electric start and two fuels at a price most single-fuel units can't match.
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Specs
| Running watts | 3,800 W |
| Starting watts | 4,750 W |
| On propane | 3,420 W run · 4,275 W start |
| Type | Open frame |
| Fuel | Dual fuel (gas + propane) |
| Weight | 133 lb |
| Noise (mfr figure) | 68 dBA |
| Fuel tank | 4.7 gal |
| Runtime (mfr claim) | ~14 h on gasoline at 50% load |
| Outlets | 120V 30A locking (L5-30R), TT-30R (RV), 20A 125V duplex |
| Start | Electric |
| CO safety shutoff | Varies by version — check the listing |
| Typical street price | ~$550 (as of July 2026 — check listing for current price) |
Figures are the manufacturer's published specs; dashes mean the maker doesn't publish a number. Verify against the current datasheet before you buy.
What can it actually run?
Checked with the same math as our calculator: total running watts, plus the single largest motor surge on top. “Tight” means it technically fits but the load sits above 80% of rated output — fine briefly, not where you want to live.
- ✓ runs itFridge, Wi-Fi, and lights730 W running · 2,230 W peak
- △ tightStorm essentials (fridge, freezer, furnace fan, sump pump)3,080 W running · 4,630 W peak
- ✗ too muchEssentials plus a 10,000 BTU window AC4,280 W running · 6,680 W peak
- ✗ too muchMost of the house (well pump, central AC, laundry)13,680 W running · 19,680 W peak
The installer's take
The budget dual-fuel formula, executed well: propane on the shelf for outages, gasoline when you need every watt, and push-button start so anyone in the house can get it running. The 4,750W gas surge covers a furnace fan and a sump pump starting together, which is the exact winter-outage scenario. Same 68 dBA open-frame racket as every conventional unit in this class.
Pros
- Dual fuel plus electric start under $600
- 4,750W surge starts most sump pumps and furnace fans together
- RV-ready outlet set
Cons
- Loud
- 122 lb without integrated lift points