Model 201273Champion Power Equipment 4,000W Dual-Fuel Generator Review
The Champion Power Equipment 201273 is a 5500W dual fuel electric start inverter generator, offering reliable power with the flexibility of using either gasoline or propane.
At a Glance
- Running Watts4000W
- Starting Watts5500W
- Fuel TypeDual-Fuel
- Runtime (25%)20h
- Noise Level61 dB
- Weight121.5 lbs
Where to buy
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Is this the right generator for you?
Here's the quick tradeoff view — what this model does well, and where it may not fit.
Pros
- Dual Fuel capability: operates on gasoline or propane
- Electric start for easy operation
- Inverter technology for clean power output
- RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV outlet
- Quiet operation suitable for various applications
Cons
- relatively heavy weight at 121.5 pounds
- no mention of RV-specific outlets
Summary
The Champion Power Equipment 201273 is a dual-fuel generator that pairs 4000 running watts with 5500 starting watts. That combination gives it enough headroom to handle devices that draw extra power when they first switch on, while still providing a steady output for ongoing loads.
Because it is dual-fuel, the 201273 offers flexibility in how you keep it running, which can be valuable when you want options for fueling without changing the generator itself.
Power & Runtime
With 4000 running watts and 5500 starting watts, this generator is built to support continuous use while also accommodating higher startup demands from certain equipment. Its inverter design is backed by a 3 percent THD rating, which speaks to cleaner power delivery for electronics that benefit from tighter power quality.
Noise is rated at 61 dBA, helping set expectations for how present the generator will sound while operating. For runtime, it is rated for 20 hours at 25 percent load, and it carries a 3.7 gallon fuel tank, which ties directly to longer stretches between refueling when you are operating at lighter demand.
Portability
At 121.5 lbs, the Champion Power Equipment 201273 is a substantial unit, and that weight is an important consideration if you plan to move it frequently. Its physical footprint is 24.6 x 19 x 20.9 inches, which helps you plan for storage space and placement when running it.
Features
Starting is handled through both recoil and electric systems, giving you two ways to get the generator running depending on preference and situation. The unit also includes indicators, which can make it easier to monitor operation at a glance while you are using it.
On the compliance side, it lists EPA and ANSI/PGMA G300-2023, and it includes a spark arrestor. Practical protection features include covered outlets, and it also includes AVR for automatic voltage regulation. For expandability and specific use cases, it is parallel capable and RV ready. Champion backs the 201273 with a 3-year warranty.
Recommended Audiences
- RV owners needing RV-ready power
- Users who want to scale output via parallel operation
- Owners of sensitive electronics seeking clean inverter power
- Buyers wanting fuel flexibility with dual or tri-fuel capability
- Homeowners needing emergency backup for essential circuits
- Users who value push-button or remote start convenience
Score Breakdown
- Inverter+1
- Dual-Fuel+1
- Electric Start+0.6
- Parallel Capable+0.4
- Watts/$
- Surge/$
- Runtime/$
- Warranty
- THD (lower=better)
- Build Quality
- Noise (lower=better)
- Portability
- Outlet Variety
- Feature Points
What this generator can power
At a Glance
- Continuous:4,000W(recommended usable: 3,200W)
- Surge:5,500W
- Output:120V only
- Inverter:Yes (clean power for electronics)
Big-item compatibility
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Needs 240V output
Example setups
Essentials
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- Furnace Blower
- Sump Pump (1/3 HP)
Est. running: 1,800W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Essentials + Comfort
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- TV + Entertainment System
- Microwave
- Window AC (10,000 BTU)
Est. running: 2,900W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Jobsite / Tools
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Circular Saw (7 1/4")
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.
About Champion Power Equipment
Champion Power Equipment is a leading manufacturer of portable and standby generators, known for their reliability and affordability in both domestic and commercial markets.
Warranty
Power by fuel
| Fuel | Running | Starting | Runtime @50% | Runtime @25% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 4000W | 5500W | — | 20h |
| Propane | 3600W | 5500W | — | 15h |
Full Specifications
Power
| Running Watts | 4,000 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 5,500 watts |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 5,500 W |
| Starting Watts (Propane) | 5,500 W |
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 4,000 W |
| Running Watts (Propane) | 3,600 W |
Engine
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 224 cc |
| Engine Oil | 10W-30 |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 0.6 Qt |
| Spark Arrestor | Yes |
| Emissions Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
Electrical
| Voltage (DC) | 12 |
|---|---|
| Voltage (AC) | 120 |
| Peak Amps | 45.8 A |
| AC Frequency | 60 hz |
| GFCI Outlets | No |
| Neutral | Floating |
| DC Outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| AC Outlets | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R); 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 3 % |
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 19 x 20.9 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 121.5 lbs |
Other
| Automatic Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
|---|---|
| Emissions Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulator | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | Yes |
| Commercial Warranty | 3 years |
| Covered Outlets | Yes |
| Display Type | Data center |
| Electric Start | Yes |
| Fuel Gauge | No |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3.7 gallons |
| Included Accessories | Oil, funnel, propane hose, and battery |
| Indicators | Yes |
| Inverter | Yes |
| Noise Level | 61 dBA |
| Overload Protection | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Parallel Capable | Yes |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| RV Ready | Yes |
| Starter Type | Recoil, Electric |
| Starting Components | Recoil, Electric |
| Starting System | Recoil, Electric |
| UPC | 817,198,026,626 |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Wheels | Yes |
Core
| Fuel Type | Dual-Fuel |
|---|
Runtime
| Runtime @ 25% | 20 hours |
|---|---|
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Gasoline) | 20 hours |
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Propane) | 15 hours |
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