Last updated on August 30th, 2021
Honda EU2200i Review & Buyers Guide
Table of Contents
Honda EU2200i Review & Summary
Product Name: Honda EU2200i
Product Description: Inverter generators already have a lot of advantages over regular portable generators but once in a while we come across a model that deserves some extra attention. The impressive specs of the Honda EU2200i caught our eye so we thought it deserves an in-depth research and review.
-
Noise Level
-
Reliability
-
Value vs. Cost
-
Ease of Use
Summary
The 56235i is the best WEN inverter generator in the range. It has the best balance between fuel efficiency, noise level and weight – all of the most important features in a camping generator.
Other advantages of this model include an automatic fuel shutoff, eco-mode and variety in receptacles. Unless you need the extra power of the WEN 56380i, the WEN 56235i is the right choice.
Check Current PriceInverter generators already have a lot of advantages over regular portable generators but once in a while we come across a model that deserves some extra attention. The impressive specs of the Honda EU2200i caught our eye so we thought it deserves an in-depth research and review.
The Honda EU2200i is already featured on a few our top generator lists so you may have seen the model before. Here we take a closer look at the specifications, advantages and disadvantages of this portable inverter generator.
Its 2200 watts power is quite standard for an inverter generator so what sets this model apart? Also, since it is the follow-up to the Honda EU2000i, what are the differences and similarities?
Read on to find out whether the Honda EU2200i is truly an upgrade and the better investment for your portable generator needs.
About the Honda EU2200i
The look of the EU2200i is similar to the older generation design with the signature red and black housing and thick carrying handle that runs along its length at the top. The small fuel tank takes up most of the space in this compact design.
The Honda EU2200i is designed to be a user-friendly portable generator. It has a four step color-coded system that guides the user through starting the machine with the manual recoil.
Other user-friendly features are the fuel shutoff, larger parts dedicated to oil control and a very low noise level. Its noise level is published at only 48 decibels at a quarter load and 57 decibels at rated load.
More power is another upgrade with the EU2200i model. It has 2200 watts surge power and 1800 watts running power which is 200 watts more than the EU2000i model.
Inverter generators are known for housing less power than regular fuel-powered portable generators which is why many newer models now have parallel capabilities, including this Honda design. The EU2200i is parallel capable with any other EU2200i model but also the EB2200i and even the older EU2000i model.
The design also includes an eco throttle system. Basically, this means that it is energy efficient with a maximum run time of 8.1 hours at a quarter load on a full fuel tank.
The fuel tank is small, just under one gallon. Considering the efficiency it has on such a small fuel tank, you would expect this inverter generator to also be affordable to run.
Honda also advertises the EU2200i as being an even more durable model thanks to its improved manual recoil system, electronic circuit breaker, increased ventilation and the new stator/rotor. The new stator uses magnets which results in cleaner electrical output.
EU2200i Specs
Product Information Detail
Running Watts 1800
Surge Wattage 2200
Fuel Gasoline
Tank Capacity .95 Gallons
Run Time 8.1 Hours at 1/4 load
Weight 46.5 lbs
Noise Level 48 dB at 1/4 load
Let’s take a look at the specs of the Honda EU2200i. At first glance, the specs appear quite standard for an inverter generator in the 2000 watts category. It is a reasonably portable design with a carrying handle and weighing less than 47 pounds.
The EU2200i has 200 watts more power than the EU2000i. This difference of 200 watts allows for the connection of extra appliances like a television, blender or coffee pot for home use or to power an electric saw for work site use.
The generator has a 120 volt AC output and a 12 volt DC output. However, to use the DC output you will need to purchase additional accessories so that you can hook up the Honda EU2200i to for example, your car battery.
This inverter generator can only be powered by gasoline. It features a small fuel tank of 0.95 gallons that you can refill through the screw top.
Usually, a small fuel tank means a shorter run time for generators. Thanks to the energy efficiency of the EU2200i, this model has a decent run time of 8.1 hours at a quarter load.
This run time is made possible by the 121cc GXR120 engine that was originally designed for heavy duty industrial equipment. It is a lightweight and quiet engine but still delivers decent power.
[wpsm_promobox background=”#ffffff” border_size=”2px” border_color=”#fb7203″ highligh_color=”#000000″ highlight_position=”left” title=”Did You Know?” description=”Honda reports a very low noise level of 57 decibels at a rated load, and 48 decibels at a quarter load. For comparison, an average conversation produces noise at around 60 decibels, which means that this inverter generator makes about as much noise as people whispering.” ]Honda has chosen not to include a push start for this model but instead worked on improving the manual recoil system. Starting the engine supposedly requires less arm strength thanks to the automatic mechanical de-compressor.
Honda has also though of other user-friendly features for this upgraded model. All these features were included to prevent damage to the inverter generator and make its maintenance easier.
One example is the low fuel shutoff. This means that the inverter generator automatically switches off when it is running on low fuel which protects the engine from getting damaged.
Another damage preventing feature is the automatic circuit breaker which switched off the inverter generator when there is the danger of overloading or unstable electricity. However, this is quite a standard feature for generators.
A more interesting user-friendly feature is the design changes for the oil control. The Honda EU2200i has a larger opening for the oil but also a larger spout and oil drain gutter which makes the entire process of changing the generator’s oil less of a hassle.
Honda EU2000i vs Honda EU2200i
Looking at the technical specifications of the EU2200i, you see a few upgrades compared to the older generation EU2000i.
The newer model has the same look and dimensions as the older model but is 1 pound heavier. This slightly heavier model does offer you more power though, with an increase of 200 watts compared to the EU2000i model.
Unfortunately, the extra power of the EU2200i does not mean that there is a longer run time. In fact, Honda reports a reduction of 0.2 hours in run time at the rated load in the EU2200i but the expected run time at a quarter load remains the same at 8.1 hours.
The engine in these models are different which makes the newer Honda EU2200i quieter. There is a difference of about 5 decibels which is much appreciated when you want to use this inverter generator for camping trips.
A final difference is in the starting system. The Honda EU2200i still only has a manual recoil for starting the engine but it now requires less force.
Honda EU2200i vs Comparable Inverter Generators
The Honda EU2200i is comparable to the Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart Series and the WEN 56225i 2250 watts portable inverter generator. However, when you look at all the technical specs next to each other, the Honda EU2200i does not lose to either model.
The WEN model only has 50 watts more surge power but the running power is the same as the Honda EU2200i. Compared to the Briggs & Stratton model the Honda EU2200i has 100 watts more running power.
The run time of the Honda EU2200i is very similar to the Briggs & Stratton model. Both of these inverter generators have a longer run time than the WEN 56225i by 2 hours at a quarter load.
The Honda EU2200i is the most lightweight model of the group. It weighs 2 pounds less than the WEN 56225i and 8 pounds less than the Briggs & Stratton 30651.
The biggest difference between these models is the price range. While the Briggs & Stratton and WEN models are in the same price category, the Honda EU2200i is more expensive.
Why is the Honda model more expensive? It really has to do with the better total package of technical specs, durability and reliability of Honda generators.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The main advantage of the Honda EU2200i is the added 200 watts of power in practically the same lightweight design. It is also energy efficient which is proven by the 8.1 hours of run time at quarter load and small fuel tank of 0.95 gallons. The Honda EU2200i has parallel capabilities, even with different Honda models which makes this a great option for when you need more power. Parallel capable inverter generators don’t compromise on portability while still providing enough electricity to power all the essentials. Though the is only a manual recoil starter, we appreciate the effort by Honda in making the starting process clearer. The four gray indicator lights that guide the user through starting the inverter generator is a smart solution for people that are new to handling portable generators. Maintenance of this model is also made easier by how the oil control center is designed. Every part is bigger which makes the entire oil changing process (which is a common issue with generators) less finicky. Honda has also further improved the durability of this generator by upgrading the stator/rotor and the ventilation system. The first allows for better control over the electrical output quality and the latter prevents all the different parts from overheating.
The Honda EU2200i is a reliable model and a good upgrade of the Honda EU2000i. However, there are still a few aspects that we think could be better. Firstly, an electrical push start is far easier and more user-friendly than a manual recoil system. We would like to see a model that includes both kinds of starting systems. We can guess that the argument for a manual recoil is that it is less prone to faulty parts since we often read about generators with a defunct push start. However, we believe that with Honda’s quality control and reliable design that they are capable of creating a dependable push start. We were also expecting an improvement on the run time of this inverter generator but there is barely any difference between the older and newer model. The question is whether the added 200 watts is more important to you than having an inverter generator that longs longer.
Conclusion
Overall, we would describe the Honda EU2200i as a reliable inverter generator with above standard features. However, it is not a revolutionary design but more an upgrade of an already good quality and trustworthy model.
There is no technical aspect of the Honda EU2200i that is surprisingly unique compared to other inverter generators in the same category. The difference is that the Honda EU2200i includes all the basic technical features that you want from an inverter generator while other manufacturers choose to only include a few of these features.
Though we tried to look for disadvantages to this model, it is quite hard. The disadvantages of the Honda EU2200i are merely points of improvement for the next generator but none of its aspects are deal breakers.
In other words, it is difficult to dislike the Honda EU2200i since it has all the features that you want from an inverter generator. Yes, the technical specs don’t blow you away but they are more than sufficient and as good as or even better than comparable models.
So, why is the Honda EU2200i a good option for an inverter generator? Well, the price is an indication of its quality.
The Honda EU2200i is a high end inverter generator design. It is lightweight, has good run time using an energy efficient quiet engine and is parallel capable.
If you are looking for a dependable and easy to use inverter generator in the 2000 watts category, there are none better than the Honda EU2200i. The 3 year warranty offered by Honda is a testament to their confidence in design and engineering.
Yes, you can opt for a less expensive inverter generator model but this also means that you are trading in on reliability. Sometimes a generator has a few winning qualities with other mediocre specs while the Honda EU2200i is more an overall winner.
- This popular model can operate a wide variety of appliances, making it perfect for portable use at home, camping, on the...
- So quiet, your neighbors will thank you. The EU2200i operates at 48 to 57 dBA, which is less noise than a normal...
- Add a second EU2200i for additional power. Two identical models can be paralleled with an optional cable or cord for up...
- Thanks to our exclusive Eco-Throttle System, the EU2200i offers great fuel efficiency. Runs 4.0 to 9.6 hours on a single...
Last update on 2024-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API