Honda or Yamaha inverter generator?

[GreysonY]

I'm looking into buying a new generator. Haven't decided between Honda and Yamaha yet. I'm looking for some insight to help make my decision. One of the models I'm looking at is the Yamaha ef2400ishc. This generator doesn't have the option to turn the eco-mode off. So my question is when using your generator to charge batteries through a G series inverter are you able to charge with the eco-mode on or do you need the generator running full speed To catch the load without losing the inverters lock on the generator.

inverterreview.com

[PhilipB]

We have a 3000 Yamaha and have run lots of hours without issue. I know your post was about smaller ones, but regarding Honda or Yamaha, I see them as equal. Both seem to be class leaders. No experience with HF or Champion. Selling point for 3000 and larger is ability to power A/C and long run times.

[fitznj]

I have the Yammi generator - use it solely to recharge the batteries;
I run it in ECO mode and it will run about 4 hours on 12oz of fuel;
Enough to top of the batteries each day.

[Grit_dog]

Aside from the pure sine wave disclaimer, I've found them to be of about equal quality.
Although we buy Hondas 10:1 over Yamis.
I can conform that Hondas will go close to 1000hours with no maintenance basically unless you count being re filled with oil when they shut down due to low oil, while being left outside, drug through the mud, tossed in and out of trucks multiple times a day and generally abused, overloaded and put away wet.

If theft protection is an issue buy Horrible Freight Predators. Look kind of like a Honda, but half price.
After getting several generators stolen on a recent project, quit replacing them with Hondas and bought a champion and a couple HF gennys. No one stole them! Maybe coincidence or maybe they don't fetch much money at pawn shops and don't cook meth as well!
They did seem to run fine though. But like most small tools, they're disposable and idk where they are or if they are still running.

[Oldcow]

pianotuna wrote:
Hi,

I would buy neither Honda or Yamaha. I would purchase a Champion 3400 with remote electric start. I would consider the Harbor Freight 3500 inverter generator, with electric start.

Can you elaborate why please?

Oldcow

[pianotuna]

Hi,

I would buy neither Honda or Yamaha. I would purchase a Champion 3400 with remote electric start. I would consider the Harbor Freight 3500 inverter generator, with electric start.

[GordonThree]

Owning two Yamaha I can confirm they don't do extended run in a factory config. The mod isn't hard or expensive, but still something to be done.

I originally thought extended run was a big deal but found the internal tank lasts quite a while.

In eco my gen will run all night long running tank heaters and the furnace. In the summer I use 2x 2kw for the rooftop unit normally from dinner until sunset, then it's cooled enough to not need the rooftop any longer.

However I avoid camping on generator when the heat and humidity is oppressive.

[Lwiddis]

Solar is a much better way to charge batteries particularly when in the absorption phase than a generator run for hours.

[SoundGuy]

You haven't indicated just which size of genset you're considering but having previously owned 2 Honda EU2000i gensets I'd give the nod to the new Honda EU2200i which is priced the same as it's predecessor but weighs much less than a Yamaha EF2400isHC. Equip your trailer A/C with a MicroAir Easy Start Soft Starter Kit and your chances of successfully starting that A/C even at 90F and higher elevation are pretty good according to those who have done this mod, obviating the need for a larger, heavier genset.

[GreysonY]

Thanks for providing your views on both Generators. It helps me to pick best generator for me.

[Bobbo]

I know of no drawbacks to the Honda.

I only know of 2 drawbacks to the Yamaha.
1. Since it doesn't have a fuel pump, it is difficult or impossible to use an extended run fuel tank.
2. If you have a Progressive Industries EMS unit, they have this disclaimer on their website (since you are looking at a different model, I don't know if this applies):

Progressive Industries wrote:
Yamaha Generator

Please be advised the Yamaha Generator Model EF2000iS does not generate enough start-up current which causes the unit to overload. The generator then puts out non-true Sine Wave power. Progressive Industries units are designed to operate only on True Sine Wave power.

For this reason, The Progressive Industries Warranty is hereby void if an EMS Unit is used in conjunction with a Yamaha Generator Model EF2000iS. Any damage sustained to the EMS unit are the sole responsibility of the customer.