Champion 100692 Portable Inverter Generator Review

Should You Buy It?

A definite yes, providing the power outputs are all you need, and your use will be mainly for recreational activities, such as casual camping and tailgating. It's affordable, well-made, and the vast majority of owners have had few problems. Though it's not recommended by the company as a backup for your house, it can power some very basic essentials during short-term emergencies and blackouts. And with a 3-year guarantee, free lifetime technical support and a nationwide network of dealers, this could be a top candidate for your shortlist.

Key Points about the Champion 100692

Overview of the Generator

The 100692l is described by Champion as ideal for camping, tailgating, powering items around the RV, or providing backup for a few basics in the home. They do not recommend it for emergency home backup. 

It's a small, well-built, light in weight and low powered portable inverter generator. It's one of the quietest around and is comparable to the WEN 56203i Super Quiet in terms of noise levels.

Controls and Features

This model has neither an hour meter nor a fuel gauge. However, it does include warning lights for low oil level and overload, plus one to indicate that the unit is ready to operate. When the oil warning appears, the engine will either stop or won't start until the right amount is added.

For connections, it has two covered 120v 20 Amp household outlets (5-20R) and a covered 12v DC socket for charging automotive batteries.

This generator is EPA Certified and is CARB Compliant so can be used in all 50 states.

Although no electric start is provided, Champion's Cold Start Technology makes it easier to get going in cold weather using the manual pull cord.

The manual for the 100692 can be found here. 

The generator does not have a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor.

Power Output

This model has a 79cc Champion engine with a manual recoil pull starter mechanism. It delivers 2000 watts of starting power and 1700 watts of running power. It can run for up to 11.5 hours at 25% load. Fuel efficiency can be improved and noise/emission levels reduced by using the Economy Mode, which automatically adjusts the engine speed according to the load.

With inverter technology this generator delivers clean power allowing you to safely connect sensitive electronics.

The unit is parallel-ready, meaning you can double the outputs by connecting to another identical generator using an optional clip-on parallel kit. However, be warned when connecting to an older model that the voltage and frequency must match.

If you intend to operate the generator at higher altitudes know that Champion offer a high-altitude carburetor main jet. You will need this because engine power and generator output diminish by about 3½ percent for every 1000 feet above sea level. Champion's Technical Support Team are able to provide you with instructions on how to install it.

See here for some more information on portable generators and altitude because, depending where you live, this could have a big impact on your choice of generator.

Weight

Weighing only 39.5lbs, its compact size and comfortable handle make it one of the easiest portable generators to move around.

Noise Level

How we hear noise is quite subjective and depends on various factors. There are also no norms set by the authoritied which manufacturers are obliged follow when taking noise measurements. For this reason, some manufacturers (such as Generac) don't publish sound levels. Most, however, take a measurement from around 23 feet. But noise levels are affected by how  and where the generator is placed. For example, if the exhaust is facing away from the measuring device, the recorded level is reduced.

Nevertheless, owing mainly to its closed frame, the 100692 is a relatively quiet model with a published level of 53dB. This is about as loud as light traffic or a refrigerator. Put another way, it's about 25% as loud as a 70dB generator, such as the open frame DuroMax XP5250EH dual fuel.

What Most Buyers Like

Most buyers give this model 5-stars. They really like it because it's easy to set up, has a practical interface and is dependable. They say it's a reliable and robust generator and great value for money compared to some of the more expensive competitors.

They also appreciate the rubberized feet that help to reduce vibration.

It's good for some of the newer RVs which have more sophisticated electronics because the power output is clean and won't do any damage. Though it's not as quiet as the Honda, when operating in in Economy Mode it isn't loud at all.

What Some Buyers Like Less

A couple of negative points: there is neither a fuel gauge nor a fuel shutoff. The latter helps ensure no fuel remains in the carburetor when storing the generator which can complicate operation on taking it out for use again. Many owners of portable generators recommend the use of a fuel stabilizer to keep gasoline from breaking down.

A very few examples have not met buyer expectations, and these chose to return them. While customer service is well regarded by most buyers, a few others say they are not so impressed.