Model 201513Champion Power Equipment 5,000W Gas Generator Review
The Champion 6500-Watt Inverter Generator with CO Shield® offers 6500 starting watts and 5000 running watts, featuring quiet operation at 64 dBA, extended run time up to 18 hours at 25% load, and clean power suitable for sensitive electronics.
At a Glance
- Running Watts5000W
- Starting Watts6500W
- Fuel TypeGasoline
- Runtime (25%)18h
- Noise Level64 dB
- Weight102.1 lbs
Where to buy
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. Specs and comparisons are never hidden.
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
- 6500 starting watts and 5000 running watts
- Ultra-quiet 64 dBA operation
- Up to 18 hours run time at 25% load
- CO Shield® Carbon Monoxide Auto-Shutoff
- Clean Power (less than 3% THD) for sensitive electronics
- Intelligauge with Power Meter
- EZ Start Dial and Economy Mode
- Foldaway handle and never-flat wheels for portability
- 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support
Cons
- Heavy weight of 102.1 pounds may limit portability
- No electric start feature
Summary
The Champion Power Equipment 201513 is a gasoline generator that delivers 5000 running watts with 6500 starting watts. That combination gives it a clear split between steady output for ongoing loads and extra headroom for the initial surge when certain equipment kicks on.
Because it runs on gasoline, it pairs its wattage with a familiar fuel choice while keeping the focus on straightforward, practical power delivery from a conventional generator format.
Power & Runtime
With 5000 running watts and 6500 starting watts, the 201513 is built to handle both continuous demand and short startup spikes, which is useful when loads do not all behave the same way at turn-on. Noise output is rated at 64 dBA, giving you a concrete expectation for how loud it is during operation.
Runtime is listed at 18 hours at 25 percent load, supported by a 4.5 gallon fuel tank, which translates into longer stretches between refueling when you are operating at lighter demand. Power quality is also quantified: 3 percent THD, paired with an inverter design, signals cleaner output for devices that benefit from steadier electricity.
Portability
At 102.1 lbs, the 201513 is a substantial unit, and its physical footprint of 25.2 x 20.5 x 22.6 inches helps set expectations for where it can be stored and how much space it will take up when deployed. Those dimensions make it easier to plan placement in a garage, shed, or RV storage area while accounting for clearance around the generator during use.
Features
Starting is handled by a recoil system, keeping operation simple and direct. Day-to-day monitoring is supported by a fuel gauge and onboard indicators, which help you track fuel status and basic operating feedback without guesswork.
For use cases that demand specific compatibility and safety considerations, it is RV ready and includes a spark arrestor, along with covered outlets for added protection at the connection points. Automatic voltage regulation is built in to help maintain steadier output as conditions change. Compliance is listed as EPA and ANSI/PGMA G300-2023, and the generator is backed by a 3-year warranty.
Recommended Audiences
- RV owners needing RV-ready power
- Owners of sensitive electronics seeking clean inverter power
- Shoppers who prefer gasoline-powered generators
- Homeowners needing emergency backup for essential circuits
Score Breakdown
- Inverter+1
- 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:5,000W(recommended usable: 4,000W)
- Surge:6,500W
- Output:120/240V
- Inverter:Yes (clean power for electronics)
Big-item compatibility
May struggle with startup surge
Exceeds capacity
Exceeds capacity
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)
- Furnace Blower
Est. running: 3,500W
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")
- Air Compressor (1 HP)
Est. running: 3,100W
Peak surge (single motor): 4,500W
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 | 5000W | 6500W | — | 18h |
Full Specifications
Power
| Running Watts | 5,000 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 6,500 watts |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 6,500 W |
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 5,000 W |
Engine
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 224 cc |
| Engine Oil | 10W-30 |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 0.8 Qt |
| Spark Arrestor | Yes |
| Emissions Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
Electrical
| Voltage (AC) | 120/240 |
|---|---|
| Voltage (DC) | 12 |
| Phase | Single |
| AC Frequency | 60 hz |
| Current | 41.7/20.8 amps |
| 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) 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 3 % |
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 25.2 x 20.5 x 22.6 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 102.1 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 |
| Covered Outlets | Yes |
| Electric Start | No |
| Fuel Gauge | Yes |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4.5 gallons |
| Included Accessories | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and dual port USB adapter |
| Indicators | Yes |
| Inverter | Yes |
| Noise Level | 64 dBA |
| Parallel Capable | No |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| Remote Start | No |
| Residential Warranty | 3 years |
| RV Ready | Yes |
| Starter Type | Recoil |
| Starting System | Recoil |
| UPC | 817,198,028,729 |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Wheels | Yes |
Core
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|---|
Runtime
| Runtime @ 25% | 18 hours |
|---|---|
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Gasoline) | 18 hours |
Questions & Answers
Ask a question
Compare this generator with…
Generators worth considering based on similar specs and popular comparisons
Owner Reviews
Write a review
Describe your ownership experience. No links, prices, or retailer mentions.