Forum Discussion

BPRescue's avatar
BPRescue
Explorer
Aug 21, 2017

Generator experience Honda EU2000i&EU2000ic vs. EU3000is

Hi All,

I do a lot of boondocking and will be supplementing Solar with a 3000+ watt generator. I'm not looking for cheap. In my years I have learned that in certain applications, splitting pennies will almost always leave you spending more later, or just wishing you had. In that regard, while I believe you should be frugal if it is the difference in getting you into an activity vs., sitting on the sidelines, but if there is wiggle room to just bite the bullet and do it right. At the same time, one must still be reasonable and Want to stay below $3K including boxes to store it in...

As for my usage, it has to be quiet, dependable and last; which I believe pushes me towards Honda. While I do want the ability to run a 13.5K AC unit during some days, most often I won't need that since I typically go into the high country. At the same time, one of the reasons for purchasing what I am almost sure will be an Outdoors RV Black Rock 23BKS, is to potentially open my range and hit some warmer climates as well. I would rarely use it at night, instead relying on multiple batteries to operate lights, the furnace where applicable, and the occasional pump for washing hands and bathroom business. If I need anything else, I can pop the generator on/off quickly.

I was looking at two different setups in the Honda EU2000i & EU2000ic companion in parallel, or the EU3000iS. I like the 2000 watt package, because most of my usage would be below 2000 watts, though I would also be able to bump it up to more power than I could achieve with the 3000 when I do run the AC. I also plan on purchasing some form of box like the nice diamond plate boxes at RVGeneratorbox.com. This will allow me to transport, lock and run the generators while inside also protecting them from the elements. One factor is I do not want to store, or transport the generator inside the TT, so I do like the solution of a box.

The above said, I am looking for your experience with generators; especially if you utilize the models above where you could provide a review or comparison of sorts. The 2000 option is where I am leaning now per the ease of moving them around, most usage being quieter per the single/smaller unit operation, added power when needed to ensure my AC is at peak levels, and finally affording me a bit of redundancy in terms of failover. It appears both models get excellent ratings, so it comes down to usability.

Also, any experience with generator boxes would be great as well. As I indicated, I want a generator box to pop on the rear of the TT, and especially if I get the 2000 combo, would consider one of the wider truck type tool boxes rather than stacking. I am also considering a supplemental gas tank, but at this point that is not a requirement unless it makes sense.

Thanks in advance!