Model 201255The Champion Power Equipment 201255 is a 4000-watt inverter generator featuring a 224cc engine, providing clean power with less than 3% THD, and includes CO Shield® carbon monoxide auto shutoff system.
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. Specs and comparisons are never hidden.
Here's the quick tradeoff view — what this model does well, and where it may not fit.
The Champion Power Equipment 201255 is a gasoline generator rated for 4000 running watts with 5500 starting watts. That combination gives it a clear split between steady output for ongoing loads and extra surge capacity for equipment that needs a stronger push at startup.
Because it is gasoline-fueled, it pairs its wattage with a familiar refueling routine, keeping the focus on straightforward power delivery from a compact fuel source.
Running at 4000 watts with 5500 starting watts, the 201255 is built to handle both continuous demand and short startup spikes, which is useful when loads cycle on and off. Its noise level is listed at 70 dBA, setting expectations for audible operation while it is producing power.
Runtime is rated at 16 hours at 25 percent load, and that figure ties directly to longer stretches of lighter, steady use without frequent refueling. Power quality is supported by a total harmonic distortion rating of less than 3 percent, which aligns with the goal of cleaner electricity for devices that benefit from tighter waveform control.
With a listed weight of 81.6 lbs, the 201255 lands in a range where moving it is a deliberate task rather than a grab-and-go lift. Its dimensions of 21.3 x 17.9 x 17.9 inches help define how much floor space it occupies in storage or when set up for use, and the near-square footprint makes its placement easy to visualize in a garage corner or alongside other equipment.
Starting is handled through a recoil system, keeping operation direct and mechanical. A built-in fuel gauge supports quick checks on remaining fuel, and the presence of indicators adds at-a-glance status feedback while the generator is running.
This model is parallel capable, which opens the door to scaling output by pairing it with another compatible unit, and it is also RV ready for setups that call for that compatibility. Practical protection details include a spark arrestor and covered outlets, and automatic voltage regulation is included to help manage output stability. Compliance is listed as CARB, EPA, and ANSI/PGMA G300-2023, and the generator is backed by a 3-year warranty.
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Est. running: 1,800W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Est. running: 2,900W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Est. running: 1,600W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,800W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
These are estimates using typical wattage assumptions. Real appliances vary. Startup surges can be 2–6× the running wattage for motor-driven loads. 240V loads require a 120/240V generator and proper connection. Use a transfer switch or interlock kit; never backfeed a panel.
Champion Power Equipment is a leading manufacturer of portable and standby generators, known for their reliability and affordability in both domestic and commercial markets.
| Fuel | Running | Starting | Runtime @50% | Runtime @25% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 4000W | 5500W | Not available | 16h |
| Running Watts | 4,000 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 5,500 watts |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 5,500 W |
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 4,000 W |
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 224 cc |
| Spark Arrestor | Yes |
| Emissions Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Voltage (AC) | 120 |
|---|---|
| Voltage (DC) | 12 |
| Phase | Single |
| Running Amps | 33.3 A |
| Peak Amps | 45.8 A |
| AC Frequency | 60 hz |
| Current | 33.3 amps |
| GFCI Outlets | No |
| Neutral | Yes |
| DC Outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| AC Outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R); 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | <3% % |
| Dimensions | 21.3 x 17.9 x 17.9 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 81.6 lbs |
| Automatic Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
|---|---|
| Emissions Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulator | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | Yes |
| Commercial Warranty | 3 years |
| Covered Outlets | Yes |
| Electric Start | No |
| Fuel Gauge | Yes |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.9 gallons |
| Included Accessories | Oil, funnel, and tool kit |
| Indicators | Yes |
| Inverter | Yes |
| Noise Level | 70 dBA |
| Overload Protection | Low oil and overload protection |
| Parallel Capable | Yes |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| Remote Start | No |
| RV Ready | Yes |
| Starter Type | Recoil |
| Starting System | Recoil |
| UPC | 817,198,027,944 |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|---|
| Runtime @ 25% | 16 hours |
|---|---|
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Gasoline) | 16 hours |
Describe your ownership experience. No links, prices, or retailer mentions.
